Been about five years since I first read this, on the English language's *completely universal but totally invisible* adjective hierarchy, and I can honestly say I've thought about it most days since.
Gentleness is not usually one of the first qualities we look for in a pastor. In fact, I think gentleness is one of those Christian virtues that falls through the cracks when we’re evaluating ourselves and others.
I love everyone, just in case, good night."
In the midst of this heartbreaking text was a beautiful story about Orysya realising she needed to be a light, so praying with her unbelieving roommate to comfort her, and in so doing finding great peace herself, surrounded by war.
This is a brilliant example of how to be a Christian in the public square. Notice the witness, but in a form the culture can handle. We should desire to have more Christians in these spaces and give them grace as they operate.
“Don’t join the book burners. Don't think you are going to conceal faults by concealing evidence that they ever existed. Don't be afraid to go in your library and read every book as long as any document does not offend our own ideas of decency.”
Eisenhower at Dartmouth, 1953
Father—
We march west to Missouri to face Kansas City where Ma Homes and his Chiefs await at a place called Arrowhead. So much to process. Ma did say we would meet again. The boys worry not. The hunt is on. Ready the cigars.
—Joe
PS - Tell Mother I have never been better.
With light from their cellphones, members of Mayfield's First Presbyterian and First Christian churches sang "Silent Night" during a joint Christmas Eve service in downtown Mayfield, Kentucky. @heraldleader