2022 Baggage
At the start oof 2023 there were issues, questions and challenges worthy of — prayer, writing, study, conversation— for 2023. Below is a list of those issues and commentary on their impacted on 2023.
Spiritual Formation
Challenged by readings, experiences and conversations related to spiritual formation over the past year, the subject remains a high personal priority for 2023.
The subject of spiritual formation was significant in 202 and produced deeper understanding of the nature and character of spiritual formation i.e
Dallas Willard:
Spiritual formation — Christlikenesstrue change of character—which comes from living in relationship to God —
Michael Spencer:
In the midst of life, we “practice the presence of God” by listening and speaking to him in every circumstance. Spiritual formation happens through a life of contemplation. In the midst of our daily activities, we ponder and meditate on God’s words and works. We talk to him in prayer. We listen, we question, we complain. We give thanks, make requests, and express our doubts. We study, analyze, and consider how to apply his teachings. We walk or sit silently with him and enjoy his presence. For a believer the veil between this world and the “heavenly places” is thin and there is constant interaction between the two realms.
Participating in a men’s discipleship group focused on Brother Lawrences’s The Practice the Presence of God was transforming. The presence of God has become a recurring theme in my life. Below are some books that were helpful resources.Last year’s encounters with spiritual formation, in particular, the presence of God, took me to places unfamiliar but wonderful and mysterious. I plan to linger there in 2024.
War on Reality
An essay started in2022 and originally entitled “What is True and Real?” then renamed. “War on Reality” is in my writing cue. Highly relevant to our chaotic culture, I hope to finish it in the 1st quarter of 2023.
“War on Reality” is still in my writing cue. I regularly add notes and references, however, other writing projects have taken preference. I am optimistic 2024 will see its completion.
THE CHURCH
16 posts in this category over the past two years has not diminished my interest and concern for the church.
The Church remains a subject of concern and interest. 2023 continued to present many challenges for churches in America. There are a wide range of issues that I intend to write about in 2024.
Euthanasia
A seldom discussed subject that is increasingly important in our post-modern secular society.
My excursion into the subject of euthanasia was a Segway into a protracted examination of death and dying which has not been exhausted. 2024 will continue that exercise, with end of life, dying well, living wills, ethical wills, advance directives and other relevant subjects.
Conversation as a Spiritual Discipline
“the most loving thing one can do is have a meaningful conversation.”
Heather Holleman
The subject of conversation generated several posts in 2023. Meaningful conversations continue to be a personal challenge and opportunity for spiritual formation. I expect to write more in2024.Some great reads on conversation.
Penal Substitutionary Atonement
A long held faith principle has come under scrutiny and a subject of personal interest.
Examination of penal substitutionary atonement is a segment thoughts on theology. The role of theology in spiritual formation and ecclesiology is on my writing agenda for 2024.
Patriarchy and Masculinity
Critically important subjects for the Church and society.
Women’s role in the church has been and remains an important subject for me. Several books and readings in 2023 primed the pump for some posts in 2024.
Looking forward to 2024.
STILL ON THE JOURNEY
Hi George! I was just studying the issue of women’s role in the church. If you had to recommend 1 book from your list, which one would it be? Thanks!!
Kendra, Thanks for reading. Of the ones listed, How God Sees Women would be my recommendation. There is no absence of writing on the subject. I will share other sources if you are interested. Still waiting for our front porch conversation.? Love you.
George