Consumer Spirituality (part 1 "Spoiled Rotten")

Information and services have never been so accessible to humanity in all of history. Perhaps seen in previous generations under the guise of something else, we now have a new breed of mutant evangelicals who feed their conference junkie, virtual responsibility, shallow spirituality, realistically immature souls. Men no longer want to be men, women no longer want to be women with men who don't know how to be men, people don't want to be people, fathers don't want to be fathers, husbands don't want to be husbands, pastors don't want to be pastor . . . we can pay to "just pretend." Go to this conference, attend this boot camp, go to that workshop, go to this seminary. People who aren't called to be fathers, husbands, or pastors and pretend to be fathers, husbands and pastors. Justification for fornication, justification for identification, justification for ordination? What seems to be missing here? God? Jesus Christ? At the most basic level, submitting one's life to Christ/the gospel, God's word and His grace - completely and utterly absent. If we can pay for it, we deserve it and damn it we will have it. The overkill of information and services has created so many micro-levels of confusion and blur that even the village idiot can now get up to the pulpit and preach. We have migrated far from being "sinner's saved by grace through faith" (historical orthodoxy) to "good people - since I paid for the premium product labeled 'goodness' - who need to mine out our potential and self-deserved privileges and status" (neo-humanistic, post-evangelical, neo-liberal heresy).

Matt Chandler, a Jesus loving prophet and leader from within the movement, has this to say to a generation of IPOD carrying, MAC identifying, Facebook twitting, wifi hunting, expensive food & coffee slurping, branding infatuated, fabricated identity creating, 21st century evangelicals . . . essential a pack of spiritual posers who identify with each other and reinforce the pack mentality.

"I think that what we are doing here is a little dangerous . . . not in the 'save the world for Jesus' dangerous . . . dangerous in terms of a constant gathering of information with no real effort or ability to apply that information. So then you create this weird Christian subculture where you got your heroes, you got your preachers, you got your . . . and everyone keeps coming to the same conferences over and over and over again . . . and it kinda reminds me of the Old Testament somewhere where God says 'I hate your gatherings.'" (Matt Chandler, Advance '09 from his intro "Preaching the Gospel to the De-churched")

"Stop bringing offerings that do not mean anything to me! I hate your incense. I can't stand your evil gatherings. I can't stand the way you celebrate your New Moon Feasts, Sabbath days and special services. I hate your New Moon Feasts and your other appointed feasts. They have become a heavy load to me. I am tired of carrying it. You might spread out your hands toward me when you pray. But I will not look at you. You might even offer many prayers. But I will not listen to them. Your hands are covered with the blood of the people you have murdered. So wash your hands. Make yourselves clean. Get your evil actions out of my sight! Stop doing what is wrong! Learn to do what is right! Treat people fairly. Give hope to those who are beaten down. Cheer them up. Stand up in court for children whose fathers have died. And do the same thing for widows. 'Come. Let us talk some more about this matter,' says the Lord. 'Even though your sins are bright red, they will be as white as snow. Even though they are deep red, they will be white like wool. But you have to be willing to change and obey me. If you are, you will eat the best food that grows on the land. You must follow me. You must obey me. If you do not, you will be killed with swords.'" (Isaiah 1.13 - 20 NIV).

"But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6.20 NIV).


God, have mercy on me.

"Christ the Only Way" (Dr. R.C. Sproul)

Comments on the Future

"Evangelical angst about its current state and future prospects. Evangelicals are trying to figure out who they are and who they should be. We see that in the 'Evangelical Manifesto,' the Gospel Coalition, in This We Believe. There are all these movements trying to define who evangelicals are and what evangelicals should be. Since evangelicalism is the only growing segment of American Christianity, its angst and future will matter deeply to the church in North America."

Ed Stetzer, editor, president, LifeWay Research

"A widespread abandonment of Christian doctrinal commitment — even doctrinal knowledge. Forget the rising number of people with no religious identity; the news to me is the vast number of self-identified Christians who have no real knowledge of, or deep commitment to, a specific Christian faith. You could say they were watering down Christianity's teachings, but I question if they even know those core teachings."

Cathy Lynn Grossman, religion reporter, USA TODAY

Truly remarkable, truly uncensored, truly prophetic words for the church of Jesus Christ to digest.

The Prosperity Gospel

The Prosperity Gospel from The Global Conversation on Vimeo.

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Chuck Norris is Cool

The world of Chuck Norris info just keeps growing and I can't get enough of it! For example, did you know:

. . . Chuck Norris can kill two stones with one bird.
. . . Chuck Norris doesn’t need a weapon. He is one.
. . . When Chuck Norris does push-ups, he isn’t pushing himself up. He’s pushing the earth down.

Sometimes, I really want to be like Chuck.

Grade 1 Fun

"One for all and two for one . . ."

"No sweetheart, its 'one for all and all for one'"

"No Daddy, that's how my friend taught me."

So I overheard my kids playing and attempted to correct them on their obvious misuse of the phrase made popular by the Three Musketeers . . . but apparently I was wrong. I guess this is what happens when East Indian and Chinese kids start playing together . . . the collision of centuries old cultures "activate" the deep rooted cheapness in their genes.

Sowing & Reaping

Some bad late night television . . . very bad late night television . . . oh so bad . . . (yes, I'm talking televangelist). This was a segment done by an Australian show highlighting the "worst of late night tv." Good grief.

I will never forget . . .

What I'm listening to . . . and wish had more time to . . .

Not enough time in the world for everything, but in my ideal world I would make time to audibly digest the following artists:

Adrian Gruning (Ibanez Signature artist - Argentinian jazz bassist)
http://www.myspace.com/adriangruningmusic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1J9LSFb6Y6E (yes I have a SR300 as well)

Gabriela Montero (Venezuelan Concert Piano Diva - Improvisation Specialist)
http://www.gabrielamontero.com/

Lenny White (freaking Jazz drummer extraordinaire)
http://www.lennywhite.com/
http://www.drummerworld.com/Videos/lennywhitereturnforever.html (Clark, Di Meola, Corea & White - make me soil myself)

Gregory Charles (the music man)
http://www.gregorycharles.com/
Was my Sunday morning drive talk show guy . . . until CBC 2 Radio pulled him ("In the Key of Charles"). Read here for the CBC layoffs and cuts. Guy would be on the piano doing "live hosting" playing and singing whatever the show's theme was. Crazy amount of musical knowledge and actual chops that were legit! Always the man in my book, always gonna be.

How Bing bankrolled Bill's Korean mission

Amidst the emotion and tears of the return of Laura Ling and Euna Lee . . . there seems to be another story. Not the one about American celebrity host Lisa Ling going on television to leverage the American public - something the North Koreans are sure to love. Not the story about how two employees of Al Gore's Current TV Cable television outlet somehow ended up in the custody of the North Korean border patrol. Not the story about former President Bill Clinton's ability to get the job down of securing the release of Ling and Lee. Not the story of Clinton's wealthy friend, Steve Bing ~ the guy who owned the "white jet" the girls stepped off of ~ financing the "rescue" mission. Not the story about how an American private jet carrying a former US president, a team of US Federal Secret Service agents, and members of Clinton's staff could even land in North Korea without being shot down . . . those stories would be worth researching.

No, the other story that got to me was the reminder of those who intentionally bring the gospel subversively into lands that are hostile to Jesus. The ones who don't just report across the river of danger, but cross over then journey deep into the land of danger. As followers of Christ, the reality of our faith is suffering . . . not comfort, not convenience, and certainly not copping out. I am reminded to pray for those who suffering, being tortured, even killed daily for the gospel . . . even American missionaries die for Jesus . . . that's expected.

A hint of this suffering can be found at "The Voice of the Martyrs" ~ a global perspective of the persecution of God's children. Open Doors ~ a ministry which serves the persecuted church worldwide ~ also has a word ("No Pardons for Thousands of North Korean Prisoners") for the church of Jesus Christ amidst the release of Ling and Lee, it can be found here.

Jesus once said this, "Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5.10 NIV). This is the story I am reminded. God's peace and grace to you Laura Ling and Euna Lee . . . God's mercy to all of us.

Christopher Yuan's Testimony

The testimony of a former homosexual, HIV-positive, passionate follower of Jesus Christ.



For anyone who has chosen to hate others, to hate God, and even themselves. This is the word of the Lord for you, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me" (Galatians 2.20 NIV). This is the hope and confidence we can have only through Jesus Christ. Repent of your sins and have faith in Jesus Christ.

Gender Wars

Does the Bible have anything to say about gender or gender roles? I thought Genesis 2 was sufficient - man and woman, man created as incomplete and in need of help; equal nature and likeness but distinct in gender roles (man is neither more/pig or less/spineless).

One recent argument I read pits the doctrine of the trinity against itself: a hierarchial view of the trinity VERSUS a mutuality view of the trinity. On top of this would be the less than sola scriptura hermeneutic which presupposes certain 1st century Palestianian household codes (as found in Ephesians 5, Colossians 3 and 1 Peter 2) were used to structure family businesses for maximum profitability. Hence, lateral movement of such principles would violate biblical principles - family as business? Also, to superimpose such principles would simple reflect the fallen nature of humanity; hence, egalitarianism.

I know, I'm the dumb guy . . . here it goes. God is the Father - the Son refers to Him as such and relates to Dad as such (hierarchy?). Nowhere in the Bible do I see a conspiracy theory where the Holy Spirit takes lead in the Trinity either . . . that I know of. Aside from the fact that the Son is okay with the knowledge of certain events known exclusively only by the Father. Just as a note, I am not a subordinationist (members of the trinity are less than one another in nature and essence - this heresy would suggest that God is the nose tackle, Jesus is the linebacker, the Holy Spirit is the free safety ~ in terms of power structure) . . . I hold to what Millard Erikson describes as "economic subordination" ~ one godhead existing eternally in three persons, all three persons (hypostasis) of the trinity are equal in substance (ousia) but distinguished by their roles (economic).

As far as the family household code/family business protocol . . . yikes. Husbands are to be the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church. Isn't Paul just reflecting on the headship as taught in Genesis 2? Is that analogy a business model? Is Jesus the CEO/CFO of the "biz"? What the freak? So Paul's take on wives and husbands, children and parents, slaves and masters . . . not unpacking a certain power structure that needs to be maintained in order for harmony to occur? I'm seriously confused. If anything, this is a good example of prima scriptura . . . starting point is something in addition to the bible, not just the bible itself. A different kind of fidelity - faithfulness to the bible . . . kinda . . . and a bunch of smart dudes with degrees . . . and views that can only be afforded by a western nation that finances it's institutions towards neo-radical liberalism. I think.

JI Packer Gets the Boot

"From that time on Jesus began to preach, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near'." (Matthew 4.17 NIV)

JI Packer was recently kicked out of the Anglican Church of Canada when he told his denomination to repent of their sin of condoning same-sex marriage. Because they did not repent, Packer went on to call them heretics. Now, for some of us, this is a big and weighty word with power behind it. Mark Driscoll asked Packer, “Why did you call them heretics?” This is Packer’s response (paraphrased by Driscoll):

“Heretics don’t call people to repent of sin . . . all you need to do to be a heretic is accommodate sin, tolerate sin, bless sin, sanction sin, excuse sin, not oppose sin . . . the first word of the gospel is ‘repent’ that is what Jesus preached. Anyone who does not call their people to repent, does not love them, does not love the Lord, does not love the word.”

John Piper's Panel Quotes

Some great insight and wisdom from Pastor John Piper's response to Stephen Um's question "How do you apply/emphasize a word-based ministry in your local church besides merely preaching?" (ala The Gospel Coalition 2009 Conference).

"[speaking to preachers] lead by teaching . . . I'm breaking my back not to be the authority in this church . . . get your nose in this book [the Bible] . . . don't hover over text [e.g. drawing attention constantly to yourself, your stories, your authority, your analysis, your insight, your psychology, etc.], land in the text."

The authority of God is found and established in God's word . . . nothing else (e.g. narrative, current events, stupid jokes, blather, etc.) . . . hence, the primacy of God's Word - sola Scriptura.

Kim Jong IL - E Harmony

"you throw and then in the hole . . ."

Evangelism Without Proclamation

William Booth the founder of the Salvation Army "insightfully remarked" (prophesied) of a false gospel that would be preached in the twentieth century. He warned of "a generation that would accept a gospel that preached a faith without repentance, religion without the Holy Spirit, a salvation without Lordship and a Christianity without Christ." Unfortunately, that description fits most of the churches I know. God help us . . . Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me.

"There is a tendency in some quarters today to promote a kind of evangelism without proclamation. Acts of service done or people are invited to experience Christian worship. But without words of explanation these are like signposts pointing nowhere or, worse still, signposts point to our good works. The gospel is good news - a message to be proclaimed, a truth to be taught, a word to be spoken, and a story to be told."

(page 54, "Total Church" by Tim Chester and Steve Timmis)

When in doubt, "TAP OUT!"

Not to be confused with Sensei Gene Lebell's mantra, "When in doubt, choke 'em out!" The following is a tribue to bad boy PK at UPenn. You will forever be "That Freak of Nature"! I don't even remember what happened. I think it was an arm bar . . . or Kimura . . . or Americana . . . don't remember much since you were beet red in freaking pain. Anyhow, here's the 411 in case that ever happens again. Call it BJJ gone bad, I was careful. And, for reals, I'm sorry mang. Peace.

Chris Botti - When I Fall in Love

Botti 'da freak and 'da mang!



His "Live in Boston" is off 'da hook and too schweet to pass up - very musical and tasteful.

WARNING: "Illiterates Are Not Welcomed"

Well, they are welcomed here . . . but in the leadership of the local church they do tend to spoil the food. Here's a humbling post by Dr. Ligon Duncan III:

"Here's a quote to chew on (even more relevant in an internet age than when its sentiments were uttered in the nineteenth century).

Philip Schaff observed, with dismay, the popularity in America of self-educated theologians, unexposed to the traditions of the academy, who presumed to establish themselves as authorities in matters of religious truth. He lamented that 'every theological vagabond and peddler may drive here his bungling trade, without passport of license, and sell his false ware at pleasure.'

E. Brooks Holifield, Theology in America: Christian Thought from the Age of the Puritans to the Civil War (Yale University Press, 2003). Quote is on page 17, in the introduction."

Yes, in my "youthful" arrogance (though not as youthful anymore) and impetuousness I do agree with Dr. Duncan ~ here is the original post. Lord, have mercy on me.

"Listening to the Beliefs of the Emerging Church" Quote #1

In response to Doug Pagitt's chapter "The EC and Embodied Theology", Mark Driscoll writes the following:

"If both doctrine and practice are constant, the result is dead orthodoxy, which Pagitt is reacting against. If both doctrine and practice are constantly changing, the result is living heresy, which Pagitt is contending for. But if doctrine is constant and practice is constantly changing, the result is living orthodoxy, which I propose is the faithful third way." (page 147, "Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches)

I am still processing Pagitt's assumptions regarding the theological endeavor, there are a few thoughts that intrigue me. However, the big MD shooting from the hip somehow always nails the bullseye.

Good Eats - not all that "cheaps"

Some good eats . . . but not particularly cheap . . . but still good. Alright, this is just my own list of where's to go when jonesin' fo' some eclairs and choco-ssaints.

Le Moulin de Provence (Ottawa, ONT) - located in the ByWard Public Market. Francais pastries? Provence? Yeah. Grab a cafe while you are there.

Le Panier (Seattle, WA) - across the street from Pike Place Market (across is where the foodies hang . . . not in).

La Baguette et L'Echalote Vancouver Bakery and Pastry Boutique (Vancouver, BC) - Granville Island's ultimate French pastry experience. When here, I go to Blue Parrot for a cup of java . . . and even the occasional raspberry mocha.

Pacific Institute of Culinary Art's bakeshop (Vancouver, BC) - I keep hitting "La Baguette" but PAICA is the bomb.

Draeger's Markets (Bay Area, CA) - I know, you say "what the?!?!" Hey, this is the Dunkin' Donuts of low end pastries . . . and my what a nice selection of wine they have.

Balthazar Bakery (Lower Manhattan, NY) - Mo' betta' butter babee!

Munus Triplex

Props to John Calvin for the concept of the mediatorial three-fold offices of Jesus Christ:

- Christ as Prophet
- Christ as Priest
- Christ as King

Something that we men might want to listen up and pay attention to (cf. 1 Timothy 2.5; Ephesians 5.25 - 26). As prophet, Jesus represents God before the people. As priest, Jesus represents the people before God. As King, Jesus rules by the authority of God. Men need to learn to lead well - in true Christ-likenss, as prophet, priest and king of our families. We don't lead separate from Christ, we are able to lead because of what Jesus did for us.

Wonder Working God

Toon with Andy Park doing their new song "Wonder Working God." Check sit out . . .

Currently I-tuning . . .

"Songlines" - The Derek Trucks Band (2006)

Gov't Mule-ish, Allman Brothers-ie - southern blues rock with a soul groove and twist. To describe this album as being musical is an understatement . . . Derek Trucks is one of the foremost masters of the slide (haunted by Mississippi bluesman Robert Johnson).

Here's a youtube of "Joyful Noise" . . . ah soulful riffs . . . "can I get a witness?"

My Top Bible Translations

Being Chinese this somehow makes more sense to me. I don't know where I learned this from, but essentially when looking at the endless number of bible translations available there are two things to consider. In the realm of translations there are a myriad of factors to consider when going from the original manuscript language (i.e. biblical Hebrew, Aramaic, or Classical Greek - none of which are used or spoken today; see? Just like Chinese) to whatever language you are translating to. Who is doing the translating? What theological persuasion do they represent? Are they just "hard-core ancient text geeks" or "diehard into Jesus"?

The two main considerations would be which translation would you require? The two main approaches to bible translation are "formal equivalence" and "dynamic equivalence". "Formal" would be your "word for word" or literal approach while "dynamic" would be your "thought for thought." I would argue that both approaches are quite useful for the serious bible student - "serious" would mean giving great care to being faithful to the original meaning and thought. Having said that, here are my picks for bible translations that I would use for bible study and sermon preparation:

Formal Equivalence:
English Standard Version
New American Standard Bible

Dynamic Equivalence:
New Living Translation (2nd Edition)
New International Version

I also keep a New Revised Standard Version around because my bible school professors prefer using it, while the "CEV - Contemporary English Version" would be the NRSV's "thought for thought" wingman which also maintains "gender sensitive" language. I also like the readability and flow of Eugene Peterson's "paraphrase" "The Message".

My music has slipped . . . and faded . . .

Here's Theo Chou, "pal-o-mine" from the early 90's ~ we played together back in the day. He has since graduated from Berklee and moved onto better things . . . like session work in Taiwan (c'mon, who goes there?).



Notice Theo's white Strat Yamagishi custom ~ I believe so. Back in the day, Jimi was Yoda to all the aspiring musicians . . . all the SoCal Asian Christian pop bands, how I dread the memories. But then, God did some hard love hooking me up with my crew. "Thank you Lord for love and fellowship, guitar strings that sing out to you . . ." (ala AACF Terasaki fame).

Some of my peeps who can stir me to motion ~ local BC/Ottawa flav:

Stephen Toon or here
Vania Levans or here

Post-script note - props to Yoda Yamagishi, "Nippon Hendrix Axe Grill Marinade Master." For a lighter shade of LA, check out my "dai low's" tunes here.

For the record, I still prefer Paul Reed Smith (electric) and Taylor (acoustic) guitars . . . I really can't stand anything else but the Kurzweil PC-2X (weighted 88 key with B-3 options) . . . I just can't get away from the Ibanez Soundgear look and feel (2 MK1's and that light ash or mahogany bod) . . . and some day I will enjoy either the Mesa Dual Rectifiers or that psycho Bogner amp with the 11 setting. "Some day" when I learn to play.

If I Was Back in LA . . .

If I was back in LA, I'd be doing this every night . . . Koreanz BBQ meets Taquería!





Check out Kogi here and for their next "truck stop" here.

The B-I-B-L-E

"This week I happened to be in the fellowship room of an A.M.E. church in Philadelphia and there was a Bible on one of the tables, so I opened it instinctively. I discovered that it was the pastor’s Bible, and on the cover page I saw scrawled vertically the word 'B.I.B.L.E.', written as an acronym: Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.

It’s possible that I got overly excited about that. Maybe it’s a trite and hackneyed play on words old as the hills that I just never happened to come across before. I hope the man made it up himself."

Props to Sister Andrée Seu for that delightful insight. I believe there are roughly 24 AME churches in the greater Philly area.

Say What You Need to Say (ala Mayer)

Arrogance of Youth

One "pomo" take on the "pomo" generation . . . or the whatever they are called this second.

"There's just an arrogance to youth because life hasn't got a chance to beat it out of you yet" (Matt Chandler).

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Favorite Movies of All Time . . . so far

For my own records, these are my favorite movies of all time . . . so far (in no particular order):

Kelly's Heroes (1970)
TRON (1982)
The Karate Kid (1984)
The Last Starfighter (1984)
Red Dawn (1984)
The Goonies (1985)
Ran (1985) - Akira Kurosawa on 'roids
Hoosiers (1986)
Top Gun (1986)
Heartbreak Ridge (1986)
The Mission (1986) - Jesuits versus Portuguese slave traders
Glory (1989)
Die Hard 2 (1990) - John McClane versus top-of-the-food-chain "spec-ops gone bad"
The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Patriot Games (1992)
Rudy (1993)
Tombstone (1993) - "I'll be your huckleberry . . ."
Clear and Present Danger (1994)
The Rock (1996)
Armageddon (1998)
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Les Misérables (1998)
Three Kings (1999) - Kelly's Heroes remixed
The Patriot (2000)
Remember the Titans (2000)
Gone in Sixty Seconds (2000)
Cast Away (2000) - "Wilson!!!!"
Pearl Harbor (2001) - with the exception of Alex Baldwin's appearance at the end.
Blackhawk Down (2001) - 5 Stars
We Were Soldiers (2002)
Windtalkers (2002)
My Big Fat Greek Wedding (2002) ~ ethnic connection
Tears of the Sun (2003) - Bruce Willis, Navy SEAL Commander
The Last Samurai (2003)
King Arthur (2004) - Clive Owne's best "Gerard Butler" impression
Batman Begins (2005)
300 (2006)
Transformers (2007)
The Dark Knight (2008)
Kung Fu Panda (2008) - by far the best kung-fu flick for local-borns

Anything by Pixar is also quite entertaining and thoughtful; for the record I choose Star Trek over the Star Wars franchise.

Gun Safety Technology

Here are 10+ ways/methods of making guns more safe. These would include both the traditional locking mechanism and the newer technologically saavy fingerprint scan and radio frequency proximity sensor. Click here. "Gun safety" is an oxymoron on par with a perpetual "brain fart".

#1 Defensive Team in the NCAA

I never thought that watching football in HD (though it was still 1080i) would ever be that gratifying. Yesterday was an incredible experience of visual proportions. The Trojans stomped the Nittany Lions ~ yes, PAC-10 all the way! Mark Sanchez and his giant receivers (think average NBA shooting guard height) dominated in the 2nd quarter . . . as they say, "the rest was history." Sanchez even read the D during a pass rush and ran in for a TD! C'mon, USC has got to be in the top 3 - Big 10 was not even the same caliber.

Back in the day . . .

I used to hear this over the system at the local arcade back in the day . . .

Traveling with a Same-Sex Spouse

According to the 2008/2009 pamphlet put out by "Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada" entitled "Essential Information for Canadian Travellers" on page 9 is the following:

"Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, they are not recognized in many countries, apart from Belgium, the Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, and the U.S. state of Massachusetts. Same-sex civil unions are more widely recognized, for example, in Denmark, France, Iceland, and the United Kingdom. Attempting to enter another country as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. In addition, homosexual activity is a criminal offense in certain countries and could result in a prison or death sentence. Counsult our Country Travel Reports or the destination country's embassy or consulate in Canada for specific information."

Wow, liberalism does exist within a bubble within the elitist industrialized world. When popped, the liberal emerges to only see that they are not only the minority, but they are in fact on the opposite side of natural law . . . sometimes punishable by death by the majority of the world's nations. Somehow, there is something present even in this federal document that warns against cultural relativism . . . the same type that Obama seemingly embraces in stating "we need to talk and dialogue with Iran, North Korea, etc." Yeah, it's all nice and idealic . . . until you get your a@@ handed to you in a sling.

In Glory with Our Lord Jesus

Remembering all the saints whom I've witnessed pass onto glory over all these years . . .

"And he said, 'Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.'" (Job 1:21 ESV)

"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28 ESV)

"He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away." (Revelation 21:4 ESV)

The grace of God weighs heavily upon all people, Isaiah would remind us that the love of God pursues mankind relentlessly ~ but only for those who repent, will the fullness of God's love and grace be revealed to them. Only for those who repent and have faith in Jesus Christ . . . they will see God.

The "Historical Drift" Has Begun

Within my denomination (the C&MA), one of our past Canadian presidents - Dr. Arnold Cook - wrote an interesting book entitled "Historical Drift." Needless to say, the book addresses the issue of losing the anchors of biblical doctrine and the results of the shift that occur in the aftermath. Though Dr. Cook had a prophetic word to share, I believe that "drift" has already begun. Here are perhaps a few (bright men to say the least) who may be a sign of the things to come:

David Fitch (pastor/author, "The Great Giveaway" book endorsed by Brian McLaren)
Skye Jethani (pastor/author, "The Divine Commodity" book also endorsed by Brian McLaren)
David Collins (third culture kid turned social concern advocate)
William Young (C&MA dropout turned pomo fiction author, "The Shack" book endorsed by Bart Campolo)

Does "social concern" or the "social gospel" really stand on par with the proclamation of the gospel? Does Christocentric belong in the metaphor/allegorical category or perhaps the type/example category? Is any of this a throwback to liberal theology? Is the C&MA a "friend of emergent" or a "friend of missional" or maybe just "friend of sinners"? Obviously can't be the last one since "pyromaniacs" are freaking Calvinists - prevenient grace won't be out boxed by saving grace in the C&MA. I wonder if anytime soon there will be a need to start a "confessing movement" within the C&MA?

The Dawn of a New Age

"Divided we stand, united we fall." The privilege of living in a democratic capitalist society is that liberalism thrives . . . alongside with conservatism (those who are not in the industrialized elite tend to be autocratic, totalitarian, or authoritarian). Tonight was memorable, the first African-American man to be elected president ~ one who repeatedly stated that race was not an issue . . . but then again every other liberal American media outlet is quoting the now infamous "Booker T." invite to the White House. C'mon, would America cared if Obama was a white man? If some young, liberal, urban, social activist, white politician from Chicago with the same credentials ran . . . I don't think anything would have happened. Just to remind us of his stunning credentials of color, Obama (in probably the "dryest" Obama-cliched speech I've ever heard from him up to date) just had to tell the story about Ann Nixon Cooper. Yes, let's not play the race card now. It's one thing to attack the establishment and an entirely different thing to be the establishment. I pray that "president elect" Barack Hussein Obama will consider doing some McLaren-esque "deep shifting" soon . . . because contrary to what the TVoid is telling us, the country has not made some definitive statement on their choice for Congress or President tonight . . . the country is deeply divided.

"Samurai Mike" Rampage

Singletary apparently dropped his drawers during a halftime rampage ~ this is the post-game aftermath. As he showed his backside to the players, Samurai Mike described "It's just sharing my heart with them." Holy Crow! In that case, please don't share anymore anything.



For the record, "a 49ers spokesman clarified how far Singletary actually went with the halftime show, confirming the coach kept his boxers on during the demonstration." Phew, I sure feel better knowing that ~ thank you Chronicle for solid media coverage.

'Zo says: "BTW I'm Voting For McCain / Palin"

"When does the line between gospel proclamation and a social gospel get blurred?"

Thanks to D.A. Carson's interview with Peter Cha . . . good clarification for us Asian-American reactive types ("what middle? we don't need no freaking middle!").



I think many Asian-American Christian leaders unknowingly/knowingly are being drawn towards either the "emergent/increasingly historical liberal" flavour, the "corporate/attractional" flavour, or the "doctrinal/usually reformed" flavour. Are there safetys or mentors in place to better guide and prophetically navigate the Asian-American Christian landscape? Or do we continue to just drift further into our theological marinades?

Jim Wallis' "Abortion Reduction" Plank

Is a "plank" the same as a "platform"? Or is it a less sturdy version of the latter? Whatever it may be, left-winger Jim Wallis is suggesting that this ought to be apart of Obama's plank to the Democratic platform. Alright, Tony Campolo, Sojourning Wallis, B-Mac (from "A New Kind of Tension" fame) . . . you boys bet the farm on protecting Darfur - which has been witness to genocide and atrocities. Okay, I'm trekking with you this far. But when it comes to abortions . . . "reduction"? Two words - "what the?" According to the CDC, there are an average of 850,000 "legal abortions" carried out each year. To be consistent and beyond reproach would we then suggest a UN "genocide reduction"? What the freak? At one point in time, it seemed quite nice that Brian Mclaren was suggesting a "middle ground" between the liberal fundamentalists and the conservative fundamentalists (yes, I believe they are both "fundies"). But come on B-Mac, you just sold out Costco size to the "leftys" - where's the middle in that? It is equally ridiculous to suggest a "genocide reduction" as it would be to suggest a "abortion reduction" ~ if you are still wondering, I do not believe the "rape victim's" baby is required to pay the penalty of death for the rapist's sins. I firmly believe that Jesus died on the cross for that. Yes we all have a choice . . . "to follow me, pick up the cross and deny yourself" . . . Jesus chose to die for us.

ICBC to "Gift" Immobilizers to F Series Truck Owners

Now if you own a Ford F-Series truck . . . and you live in the Greater Vancouver Area. You should be receiving a notice in the mail very soon encouraging you to use your $160 ICBC sponsored credit towards the purchase of a electronic auto immobilizer. For those of you unsure of this extraordinary turn of events, refer to the video posted above. According to our evening news broadcaster from Global TV ". . . auto thieves high on crystal meth . . . driving Ford F series vans . . . feel powerful while driving . . ." Note the repititious use of the word "oncoming!" by the crystal meth, Ford lovin', auto thief in the video courtesy of baitcar.com. Click here for the news update.

The Jedi Master "Tim Keller: Divine Impluses"

Lower Mainland Real Estate Tipping?

Is this the beginning of what "they" (i.e. bankers, mortgage lenders, real estate foolios, developers, etc.) call the "soft landing"? After more than a decade's worth of time spent in this most recent cycle, we are officially preparing to bottom out ~ no thanks to my homies south of the border (props and shout outs to the SEC). According to the official numbers that came out, the Vancouver Real Estate Board has announced that sales have dropped 42% since last year. However, the number of listings have increased since a year ago . . . by 28.8%. Can you say "buyer's market"? Can we say "real estate bubble"? Can we say "about to burst" like a bad appendix?

Must flag David Watt's (President of the above mentioned "Board") comments:

"Although the economic situation in the United States has affected consumer confidence globally, the consensus view remains that our local housing market is underpinned by solid economic fundamentals . . . After five years of unprecedented increases, housing prices are beginning to realign."

Yes Watts, we've all heard the same blah, blah, blah the past few days. "Canuckians, don't be scared, we have a different regulatory structure in place than the US" (in regards to sub-prime mortgages and the like)! Yeah right, since the entire freakin' US economy is "putz" or headed towards "putz" - right Watts, "underpinned by solid economic fundamentals." What? The same fundamentals that are about to knock you upside the head! Yes, I'll have no local confidence when the global fundamentals are gone. Please let's not invade Iran just to boost consumer spending . . . no more, please?

"Jesus is My Friend" by Sonseed

Props to "MP" for the ska'lin, ska'listic, ska'frolicious, sounds of the "Sonseed".

Tainted White Rabbit Candy

This is the decade of the "Chinese Food Recall" . . . uh make that, the "Chinese Recall" . . . the collapse of the Chinese Economy. Everything is tainted, the Olympic Opening Ceremony, Thomas the Tank Engine, anything "made in China", and now the "White Rabbit Candy." Question: Why is Western media so surprised by all this breach of ethics from the manufacturing industry of the PRC/Chinese government? Answer: None of the western media giants had parents who remember running from the Communist ["Gung-chaan-dong"] . . . then the Japanese ["yup-boon-jai"] . . . then the Communist ["die-look"]. . . then what? If you're Cantonese you'll understand the phonetics and probably the politcs.

May We Never Forget

A Response to the Materialism Rant

I found a great article that thoughtfully articulates my anger and frustration towards many Asian-American ministries that I come across . . . including my own temptation to "sell out" to the consumers.

Skye Jethani over at Christianity Today posted a insightful article entitled: "How consumerism undermines our faith and community." This is by far one of the most succint and simple-to-read articles that I have come across to address theologically and critique consumerism within the church thoughtfully.

Click here for the down low.

RIP Kenny

Rest in peace Kenny ~ may the Lord have mercy on your soul. You always a good boy to me.

RANT: The Infatuation with Material & Technique

As an Asian-American/Canadian ~ yes a "dualie" (not the truck kind) ~ I've observed the subtle and obvious changes that have occurred within the North American Asian church over the past decade or so. I can't help but see the connection between our local-born addiction to technology and the lateral movement of it (in a Costco wholesale kind of way) into our spirituality. Is it just me or do local-born Chinese (in particular) still carry issues of identity into the 21st century? For instance, why are we so suspicious of the intentions of others? Why are we either too serious or too slack? Why are we either socially integrated or socially segregated? Why aren't there any "in between" to this madness? (i.e. local-borns either running in boatloads to the right or the left; Wallis liberalism vs. MacArthur fundamentalism). Perhaps, we ~ the benefactors of great wealth passed down to us from our hard working immigrant parents ~ are compensating by repeating the cycle taught to us from previous generations. Love = money, Security = material wealth? I don't know. The reason why I would point out the spirituality thing is that our theology - in particular because we are so affluent - is so similar to the same type of Southern Baptist WASP-ish tendencies that many of us grew up coping with (Chinese call you "gwai", White folk call you "those people"). As Ed Stetzer might ask, "how would we maintain biblical fidelity and faithfulness to the mission of God?" As a North American sub-culture, we are just so market-driven and crazy ~ we've sold out to middle-classism and the Southern Californian lifestyle. I feel like throwing up right about now.

What is required in a presidential candidate?

"We can change, yes, we can change" ~ crazy words of inspiration. But, is the character of a candidate revealed in their policy-making? Or lack thereof? Are we so commercialized as to believe that candidates have no "personal voice" of their own? Are they so "spun" that they are just the byproduct of the US Democratic Market-criven political machine? Today, we've got two candidates who are either consistently liberal OR consistently "inconsistent". One candidate is awe-inspiring, youthful and hopeful - but underneath, questionable values when looking at their political record. The other candidate is experienced, has tenure & the temper to go with it, but not someone I would trust to teach Sunday school to my kids (and in all fairness, the younger guy with his idealistic views probably wouldn't qualify as a teacher either). What is required nowadays in a presidential candidate? Does it matter whether or not a guy can hold done a marriage and really prove his toughness (which apparently can break even the hardness former Vietnam POW; the former POW returned to a loving wife who survived a life-threatening car wreck that left her "less than" perfect)? What about adulterous tendencies? Do we care about things like that? Do we sell out and choose the lesser of two evils? Does it really matter that a potential leader of a global superpower care about the right of a woman to abort a child growing within her womb? Or for that matter, care about the rights of unborn children?

I'm sorry Obama, "we can change, yes we can change" (McCain, you too) - the only changing that we must experience is sanctification.

What is Multi-Level Marketing?

Otherwise known as "MLM" or "Network Marketing", what is "Multi-level Marketing" anyways? I have heard it described as "the business concept: burn friends for business partners." Recently I found a insightful article revealing the "gospel-like" qualities of MLM and it's practitioners.

Four issues (called "problems") are dealt with:

- Market Saturation
- Pyramid Structure
- Morality and Ethics
- Relationship Issues

Click here for the "deal on the schpeal."


Why am I giving airtime to MLM? Simply because there is an increasing number of those from within my social network who are now double dipping their wage earning potential by hobby horsing on the side as MLM disciples. This grieves me deeply . . . 12 Gauge deep, not the Cheney bird shot type . . . I'm dreaming "slugs".

Obama ~ Jackson

I am so frustrated with this whack, try-hard, political b@$#&%$t! Okay, as an Asian Christian man trying to understand what the Rev. Jesse Jackson is trying to pull . . . now first of all, if he belonged to any Christian denomination of repute, he would have already lost his title "Rev." He also recieved his M.Div back in 2000 after years of putting it off - I wonder, what the hell did he learn in seminary? Come on already, has everyone already forgotten Karin Stanford, the former Rainbow/PUSH Coalition staffer who had an affair with the Rev. Jackson - the result of which was a daughter?

Let me get this straight Rev. - do you really think that Obama is speaking down to black people? Or do you think that he's speaking down to you? Or are you just so overwhelmed with guilt and depravity that you cannot even own up and "man up" to you own vices? Is this transference of denial in the form of anger projected upon another man? Perhaps, a good man (Obama) who actually cares about making good solid moral decisions and choices as a black man. Perhaps, because Obama experienced life without a Daddy - a young black man who grew up fatherless, raised by his white grandmother, only to end up as a strong black man deeply rooted in his faith (a black liberation theology kind - unfortunately, not the biblical Jesus kind).

I appreciate how the NY Times quoted the Rev. "In a statement, Mr. Jackson said, 'My appeal was for the moral content of his message to not only deal with the personal and moral responsibility of black males, but to deal with the collective moral responsibility of government and the public policy which would be a corrective action for the lack of good choices that often led to their irresponsibility.'" Click here for the NY Times post. Yes, it's "Mister" rather than "Rev" - thank you NY Times. Also, note how Mr. Jackson would like to further perpetuate the racist power structure by giving the responsibility back over to government and public policy VERSUS "young black males just need to 'man up'!" (paraphrase from Obama speech).

Why is it, that when a good black man, who (so far, up to this point . . . we'll see) makes good choices, makes a successful run at a race that no other black man has ever succeeded at, gets this close . . . brother just don't got no support from the higher ups. Is this what "black-on-black crime" looks like in the upper echelon? I am so sick of this, it's like a throwback to the East versus West Coast crap back in the day (ala. Biggie Smalls & Tupac). Can't we all just get along?

Jesse, please retire, go home, find another job in another line of work, you embarrassing your peoples. Find another job and support that extra-marital affair daughter of yours . . . get yours and get some child support sent to Cali. Quit hating and perpetuating fatherlessness. Please, just be a good black man (whatever that may mean nowadays).

Fortunately, the son is wiser than the father.

The Emergent Rock of Orthodoxy

"assurgent, convergent, divergent, emergent, resurgent . . . detergent, insurgent, preemergent" . . . current and future names of cool "pomo" or "po-pomo" or "po-po-pomo" movements. "Yee-ahh boyeee" (ala Flava Flav). Epic, just remember I thought of it . . . second.

Currently Playing on the Sansa E260

Each day I drive an average of 70 km (43.5 miles) round trip to church. Because of the side streets and location of our home to the highway, the average one way drive lasts 45 minutes. As a result, I have taken the opportunity to pack my MP3 player with tons of material for the drive (gargabe in, garbage out). I've spent an average of 36 hrs./month on the road or sitting in traffic ~ as a result, my richest learning so far in life has occurred.

Here's a shortlist of what's gone down so far:

- "The History of Christianity I" taught by Dr. Frank James III of Reformed Theological Seminary (33 classes)
- "Humanity, Christ, and Redemption" taught by Dr. Robert Peterson of Covenant Theological Seminary (38 classes)
- Various talks gathered from Together for the Gospel, Acts 29 Church Planting Network, Desiring God Conferences, etc.

Most recently and currently playing on the Sansa E260:

- "Old Testament History" taught by Dr. V. Philips Long (36 classes), formerly of Covenant Theological Seminary and currently at Regent College in Vancouver, BC
- One of the most incredible sermons on "the Holiness of God" that I have heard yet, preached by C.J. Mahaney ~ kudos to Adrian Warnock for reposting "old sermons" (though I sure don't think it's that old)
- Maria Kliegel playing J.S. Bach's Cello Suite No.1 in G Major (BWV 1007)

My Sansa's my new best friend . . . until my FM transmitter begins to act up.

NT Wright on the Colbert Report

Bishop Wright of Durham was talking new heaven and new earth with Stephen Colbert (6/18/08), click here.

"I'll see you in the afterlife and we'll settle it there . . ." (Colbert on Wright).

Signs & Wonders: John Piper Style

Back in the 80s, during my high school days, my sister - who was at Biola University at the time - had to attend worship services of differing styles for a class she was enrolled in. So we decided to go down to Anaheim Vineyard for an evening service one Sunday. All I remember was the Kansas City prophet Paul Cain - strange & weird (apparently, Cain has since been booted by Mike Bickle and Jack Deere). Don't know which was weirder, the testimonies themselves or the fact that 2,000 or so people sat through it with me. He shared about how Jesus showed up in his bedroom of his second story home - which was surrounded by a chain linked fence that was high enough to prevent climbing. Jesus showed up and sat down by his bed and the weight of the second person of the Trinity caused Cain to turn over in bed. Yep, we sang a few of the Vineyard classics that night too . . . feeling weird just thinking about it (80s Praise & Worship Charismatic EMO?).


There were the Kansas City Prophets, the Toronto Blessing, the Brownsville Revival, and now the Lakeland Revival (the last two being from Florida). I admit I had that one weird experience that I just can't shake . . . especially when I hear people sing "I Believe in Jesus" or "Refiner's Fire". But for real, how on earth am I to celebrate with the entire body of Christ?

I'm glad you are with me this far, 'cuz I gots to give props to Pastor John Piper for his opening prayer back in February of 1990 (not too long after my Vineyard experience).

"Oh, Lord, if there is a wind of true, biblical, spiritual power blowing in our day with signs and wonders and healing and prophecy, forbid that I should stand in the way! Don't pass Bethlehem by. Make me the leader you want me to be for the greatest blessing of this church, and the greatest missionary effectiveness. But then, on the other hand I pray, Oh, Lord, forbid that we should lose our biblical bearings; forbid that we become trendy or faddish and begin to substitute the sand of experience for the rock of revealed truth. Show us the fullness of the power of the gospel, Lord, and keep us from preoccupation with secondary things, no matter how spectacular."

For the entire sermon, click here.

Apparently, this guy was in Anaheim that night too. Gheesh, go figure?

What is good theology?

"Being God-centered in one's life is essential to being God-centered in one's thoughts. This God centeredness is the 'sine qua non' of good theology, for, without it, it is impossible to think our thoughts after God, which is what defines good theology."

Taken from the essay, "The Nature & Function of Theology" by Dr. David F. Wells

Good theology versus bad theology is a theocentric approach versus a anthropocentric approach to God, His Word (Scripture), Salvation (therapy/technique versus "gospel power"), Jesus (good teacher or 2nd person of the Triune godhead), etc. If Jesus Christ is not front and center in "the church", who the hell then is that guy we see every week?

"A church without theology and a theology without God are simply not options for the Christian faith. One can have religion without God or theology, but one cannot have Christianity without them." (R.C. Sproul quoting David Wells who in turn quoted Ian Ramsey)

"For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power . . ." (The apostle Paul)

WOW! I sure feel good.

Pastor John Piper said "If I tried to be like him [Mark Driscoll] . . . I would spiritually evaporate . . . I read slow, if I tried to read as many books as you [Mark Driscoll] did, I wouldn't be able to read the Bible . . . [in regards to being relevant] work real hard to feel this [Bible]."

Click here for the actual blurb.

I read real slow.

The Evolution of Dance

Examining Two Enemies of the Gospel

"I am Republican!"

And guess what? Brothers got my supports ~ subports ~ sub-worts! Ahem, yes, I am well aware that pastors ought not to be political ~ "we can change, yes we can." Peace. Honestly, I like him solely becuase he is black . . . not because he is not qualified, nor because of his differing values and theological convictions . . . I just like him because he's a brother. Is that really fair?



Postscript: Another video was made by will.i.am & company . . . "we are the ones" ~ google this video and you'll find an incredibly wide spectrum of opposing responses.



The last president who spoke like this was JFK ~ charismatic, a master "wordsmith". I wanna see where Obama takes us (think "Obamanation"). Unfortunately, someone who would rather speak and open "more" dialogue with the likes of Iran and North Korea might end up bringing it down to the line. I think that's what happen when JFK "talked" to the Soviets . . . we had nukes parked offshore from Florida. Yeah I know, that was a different time . . . but it sure feels the same today. Am I the only one who recognizes that liberalism flourishes in the industrialized nations? How then would the Obama negotiate with the fundamentalist regimes of N. Korea and Iran . . . with his liberal rhetoric? Supporting Obama is like supporting the slow death of our nation . . . "go ahead wit'cho selves."

Men Who Have Made a Profound Impact on Me

I have spent a considerable time the past year wondering "how in the heck did I come to be this way?" Well, with some reflection and thought, I felt that it would be good for me to put forth a short list (I hope) of names that I find myself either quoting or referencing (i.e. benchmarking or compare/contrasting and against/from):

- Rev. Bob Wiebe (retired, pre-Charter RCMP 25-year veteran, 2nd career minister with the C&MA, worked "homicide" among the toughest Indian Reserves in Canada, my mentor and former regional developer of the Western Canadian District of the C&MA, the toughest man I know)

- My Father (an old school Chinese church planter/pastor who "walks slowly and carries a big stick", God-fearing, well-versed in the old ways of the motherland, grew up fatherless, attended Alliance Bible Seminary in HK; Canadian Theological Seminary in Regina, SK, currently running with the name "Ambrose Seminary"; Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL; International Theological Seminary in Los Angeles, CA)

- Uncle Jack Yee (my god-father, a "man's man", taught me to "roll with the punches", self-made, self-taught, from GED to University he pushed himself, from sweat shop to one of the "O.G." supers at BART, taught me the ways of the Giants and Niners, a pillar at SFCAC - deacon for life, though we don't see each other as often now when we do there is always "the nod of acknowledgement")

- Rev. "Uncle" Louie Mar (my 2nd Dad, retired ATF special agent, 2nd career minister/missionary/church planter, taught me to love people and repent, showed me the value of transparency in leadership and accountability, softened my heart to see things "with the eyes of Jesus")

- Brian McLaren (helped me re-locate Jesus and re-imagine my journey with Jesus, gave me words to articulate my frustration, taught me the value of existing and embracing liminal space, introduced me to systems thinking)

- Dr. Stanley Grenz (rescued me from the Gen-X confusion and exposed the seismic postmodern shift in culture, connected with me using Star Trek Next-Gen speak, taught me to graciously appreciate different theological positions, introduced me to theological thinking, passed on the mantle of "post-everthings" to me ~ Leslie Newbigen, Frost & Hirsch)

- Dr. Tim Keller (taught me the gospel and the pastoral task of finding Jesus in everything, introduced me to biblical theology, passed on the wisdom of Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones to me, taught me "generous humility", taught me how to preach)

- Dr. John Piper (taught me God's sovereign grace, passed on the wisdom ~ "religious affecftions" ~ Jonathan Edwards and the Puritans to me, taught me pastoral authority and pastoral humility in ministry, taught me why I should preach)

- Dr. R.C. Sproul (taught me to think deeper theologically - systematically and biblically, connected me with the early church fathers, taught me the importance of doctrine and orthodoxy, taught me weird Latin terms, made me passionate about "doctrine and life", taught me the weight of a sermon, passed on the wisdom of Augustinian Orthodoxy, John Calvin and the reformers to me)

- Dr. John C. Maxwell (taught me that Wesleyan-Ariminians do truly love Jesus, set the standard and bones of organizational management and leadership, the ebb and flow of trajectory-oriented leadership, the art of "keeping it together", passed on the wisdom of UCLA's Coach John Wooden to me)

- Mark Driscoll & Company (taught me to love the Bible, to love Jesus, to love my wife, to love my family, to love the people Jesus would love, to love the handful of "!@#$%*@#$@s" at my previous church, contextualized pastoral boldness and prophetic ministry, taught me the spirituality of the UFC ~ which I've always been acutely aware of, gave me clarity and direction in the ambiguity and blur that the Pacific Northwest culture is so fond of embracing and espousing)

There are definately other names that I could add to this list: my current senior pastor (a leadership guru), Rev. Daniel Cheung (my sifu/mentor/guide/Yoda figure), Dr. David Wells (who taught me the difference between technique and theology), Dr. Samuel Ling (who clarified my Chinese/American confusion), Rev. Jack To (my homeboy and sounding board currently in San Diego), and Mr. Chuck Johnson (my grade 8 social studies, softball coach, and pro "tough love" advocate).

Canada's 10 most dangerous cities include 5 in B.C., says Maclean's

Maclean's has come up with a list of the 10 most dangerous cities in Canada (pop. 50,000 or more) based on 2006 per capita crime rates. It might surprise you. Five of the top 10 cities are in B.C., although Vancouver comes in at a surprisingly low No. 9. The others are Prince George (4), New Westminster (6), Chilliwack (7) and Victoria (8). Regina tops the list, although it was in a virtual dead heat with Saskatoon and Winnipeg. Only one eastern city, Halifax, made the top 10. The study took into account six types of crimes: murder, sexual assault, aggravated assault, robbery, breaking and entering, and auto theft. According to Maclean's, the break-and-enter rates in Chilliwack and Victoria would put them among the top 10 per cent of all American cities.

What? No mention of Surrey? Gheesh! Actually, I must admit that Surrey is quite the pleasant place to live ~ currently the reigning "Culture Capital of Canada."

Here's the top 10:

1. Regina
2. Saskatoon
3. Winnipeg
4. Prince George
5. Edmonton
6. New Westminster
7. Chilliwack
8. Victoria
9. Vancouver
10. Halifax

What do you think?

The summary of the article is here and the orginal Maclean's link is here.

"A Good Soldier" by Mark Driscoll

8 Simple Rules for Dating My Teenage Daughter

Something for me to look forward to . . . in the distant future. Thanks to search engine archives that save info for eternity, whoever comes looking for trouble in 10 to 15 years, watch your six! Like they say, "great minds think alike."

Written by columnist W. Bruce Cameron, click here for the original article.

Rule One: If you pull into my driveway and honk you'd better be delivering a package, because you're sure as heck not picking anything up.

Rule Two: You do not touch my daughter in front of me. You may glance at her, so long as you do not peer at anything below her neck. If you cannot keep your eyes or hands off of my daughter's body, I will remove them.

Rule Three: I am aware that it is considered fashionable for boys of your age to wear their trousers so loosely that they appear to be falling off their hips. Please don't take this as an insult, but you and all of your friends are complete idiots. Still, I want to be fair and open minded about this issue, so I propose this compromise: You may come to the door with your underwear showing and your pants ten sizes too big, and I will not object. However, In order to assure that your clothes do not, in fact, come off during the course of your date with my daughter, I will take my electric staple gun and fasten your trousers securely in place around your waist.

Rule Four: I'm sure you've been told that in today's world, sex without utilizing a "barrier method" of some kind can kill you. Let me elaborate: when it comes to sex, I am the barrier, and I WILL kill you.

Rule Five: In order for us to get to know each other, we should talk about sports, politics, and other issues of the day. Please do not do this. The only information I require from you is an indication of when you expect to have my daughter safely back at my house, and the only word I need from you on this subject is "early."

Rule Six: I have no doubt you are a popular fellow, with many opportunities to date other girls. This is fine with me as long as it is okay with my daughter. Otherwise, once you have gone out with my little girl, you will continue to date no one but her until she is finished with you. If you make her cry, I will make YOU cry.

Rule Seven: As you stand in my front hallway, waiting for my daughter to appear, and more than an hour goes by, do not sigh and fidget. If you want to be on time for the movie, you should not be dating. My daughter is putting on her makeup, a process which can take longer than painting the Golden Gate Bridge. Instead of just standing there, why don't you do something useful, like changing the oil in my car?

Rule Eight: The following places are not appropriate for a date with my daughter: Places where there are beds, sofas, or anything softer than a wooden stool. Places lacking parents, policemen, or nuns. Places where there is darkness. Places where there is dancing, holding hands, or happiness. Places where the ambient temperature is warm enough to induce my daughter to wear shorts, tank tops, midriff T-shirts, or anything other than overalls, a sweater, and a goose down parka zipped up to her chin. Movies with a strong romantic or sexual theme are to be avoided; movies which feature chainsaws are okay. Hockey games are okay.

Copyright 1998 W. Bruce Cameron

Life Imitating Television

Okay, especially with recent events (shootings at Virginia Tech), the thoughts regarding "how much does media impact and influence?" begin to swirl. On a lighter note, I found this article light-heartedly comparing a disgruntled wife with the dark televsion series "Desperate Housewives." This woman put dog poo in her now divorced ex-husband's curry, check out the article here.

P.S. Is it just me or does Cho Seung-Hui fit the profile of the majority of the guys in your typical North American Asian local church, evangelical college/career group? The same type that attends church but somehow does not fit in with the more culturally savvy and popish "Asian Invasions" at Intervarsity, Crusade or AACF? And to put more pain on shame, Cho's own grand-aunt calls him an "idiot" on international media! Food for thought: how do we meet the needs of the "socially-challenged" & "socially-marginalized" Asian-americans in our midst? How can we biblically deal with Asian shame? Somehow, after reading the Cho family press release, I felt that the sorrow, pain, and shame expressed by Cho's sister was exponentially greater than if a non-Asian wrote the statement. Why is that?

God, have mercy and grace on the Cho family . . . have mercy and grace on the families of the fallen of Virginia Tech . . . have mercy and grace on all of us.