The First Official Officious Blog

Keller on Isaiah 6.

2011-12-28T14:16:00.003-05:00

Check this out.

The first 45 seconds contain the most moving reading of scripture I think I've ever heard.

Carry on.

Quote of the Christmas Season

2011-12-22T13:07:00.002-05:00

If God had perceived that our greatest need was economic, he would've sent an economist. If he had perceived that our greatest need was entertainment, he would've sent us a comedian or an artist. If God had perceived that our greatest need was political stability, he would've sent us a politician. If he had perceived that our greatest need was health, he would've sent us a doctor. But he perceived that our greatest need involved our sin, our alienation from him, our profound rebellion, our death; and he sent us a Savior.

- D.A. Carson, A Call To Spiritual Reformation, 109.

Happy Advent.

What Then Shall We Say?

2011-12-07T13:20:00.008-05:00

Welp...

So, I came across this video last week, and I've been thinking about it ever since. I've wanted to have a response, even if it was simply my own private debate in the shower. Yet, I decided to write it out. Let it be the occasion for me to blog seriously on something after more than a year of silence and small, officious gestures of wit.

Here were my initial thoughts:

I always want to see what I can learn when I come across something like this. I'm a sucker for reason, so I would be amiss to not appreciate strengths and well-played points when I see them. I like this video, and Zach Wahls is clearly very gifted, educated, articulate, and someone I'd love to have a beer with (root beer, of course). He's no doubt very successful, and I'd hire him to do some engineering any day of the week. His Iowan drawl also makes him a captivating speaker.

He makes a great and compelling point: A lesbian couple can indeed raise a child just as competently as a heterosexual couple, and in some cases, probably better. No debate. Furthermore, it seems as though he has more of a promising future than most, period. He's definitely smarter than me--my ACT scores were, well, not in the 99th percentile. I will be the first to say that I agree with him that if I were to raise a son with similar accomplishments, I would indeed be very proud. As he mentions, I personally would never "independently" come to the conclusion that he was raised by a gay couple. So, does he have a point?

Yes, and no.

Yes, because he's right. Gays can raise competent, successful children. Successful in terms of becoming educated, morally upright (generally defined), influential, and outstanding citizens. And gays, no doubt, can have functioning relationships that are complete with affection and sacrifice and commitment. I would go a step further and say that those who hold a traditional view of marriage should not use poor examples of homosexual relationships as reasons against gay marriage, unless of course, we are free from hypocrisy.

Yet...

No, because successfully raising children in the context of a loving relationship is no more a compelling argument for the legalization of gay marriage than to argue for the legalization--or mere commendation--of any other relationship (polygamy, incest, co-habitation, extra-marital affairs, etc.). This is a classic example of a red-herring fallacy--an argument that makes irrelevant and rhetorical points that distract from the essential issue. Basically, when I first watched this video, I was intimidated. As I've thought through it, I think I see why Mr. Wahls' argument doesn't fly for me. I'm ultimately unpersuaded by this well-articulated presentation because I don't think it really gets to the heart of why gay marriage should remain illegal. I have different notions of love, success, marriage, and overall relationships that are rooted in a worldview that Mr. Wahls and I do not share. Fair to him, I think we'd get along, but I have to part ways with his reasoning on this issue.

Now, I don't want to get in over my head. There are a number of issues here that deserve mentioning that I simply don't have the time or expertise to flesh out. I've left a few important things unaddressed, namely his huge statements regarding the law how family derives its definition and sense of worth from commitment and "the love that binds us." Frankly, that logic opens the door for all kinds of immorality--things Mr. Wahls would fire his employees over. If there were anything worth taking the time to address, it would certainly be that! I still may, depending on how the shower debates go.

For now, Keller is always helpful. Have fun thinking.

Family.

2011-12-04T18:30:00.002-05:00

Christian hope turns the church into something far more profound than a club or interest organization. Gospel beliefs and experience create a bond between Christians that is stronger than any other connection, whether it be blood relationship or racial and national identity. The experience of deep repentance and salvation by grace through the cross of Christ means that my most foundational beliefs about the world and myself now align with those of other Christians. I love my biological siblings, my neighbors, and the other members of my ethnic or racial group, yet we no longer share in common our deepest instincts and beliefs about reality.

- Tim Keller, The Meaning of Marriage, 199.

Pretty sure that's cash.
E

Well Played.

2011-11-25T01:46:00.002-05:00

Stay Thirsty, My Friends.

Thanksgiving 2011.

2011-11-02T22:55:00.004-05:00

This is so happening.
Luke 14:12-14.

Superstars.

2011-10-28T20:51:00.001-05:00

"There was somebody sleeping in that car." But, who is Eron "Plevana."

Fame.
Ep

Why Can't I Think of These Things?!?!

2011-10-22T21:58:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween.

Ep.

30 is the New 20!

2011-09-28T12:14:00.012-05:00

The dirty thirty.

What to think? What to think? What to think?

So, folks today I've officially been breathing oxygen for 30 straight years.

Thirty. Oxygen.

Man, I'm no longer in my twenties. What do I make of this? I've been bracing myself for this day now for a while. About 2 years ago, I reluctantly started disclosing my age only to people I like. The less fortunate received a, "Well, how old do you think I am?" which I never confirmed but left to mystery. It's my way of manipulating people's interest in me. Still, I often reply with a foggy, "Hm. Interesting. Yeah, I'm in my twenties. Good guess." I leave the rest to rumor and judgmentalism. To this day, most people guess early twenties by physical profile alone, and I have to admit, I'm usually flattered. In all honesty, I think I've aged well in comparison to most of my peers, and even some younger. I still have a full head of hair. I'm not graying. My metabolism hasn't shown signs of disinterest. I still work out and have some definition. And no signs of wrinkles just yet. I honestly look and feel younger than my birth certificate would accuse. Usually when I tell people my true age, they are like, "No way! I totally would've guessed..." blah, blah, blah. However, those comment doesn't always encourage. It leads to a lot of introspection for me to hear that I look (and sometimes act) like a 24-year old.

But, 'tis true. I've been around the sun 30 times. It's still hot.

Now, what most people wrestle with (including myself) around this time are age-appropriate roles and expectations. I'm 30, so there are those out there who would expect that I should be well into marriage, well into children, and well into an established full-time job--doing the things "adults" do while suggesting those who do otherwise are immature, selfish, and flighty. Others would suggest that I'm just getting started--that 30 is the new 20. I should be traveling. I should be single and unhindered from doing exactly what I want to do. Full-time jobs? Own a home? Marriage? That's so yester-generation. The former describe the latter as "kidults" or "adultlescants," who are unwilling to grow up and take on true responsibility; to which the latter respond by employing terms like "traditional" and "old-fashioned" to describe folks who appear to still be trapped in the 50s. We live in a different era with different age, gender, and overall life expectations, they say. Get over it.

Suits and ties and houses and families vs. cardigans and Toms and apartments and roomies.

In reality it's both. We do live in different times, and just because someone in their late 20s/early 30s doesn't own a home or isn't married with kids doesn't necessarily mean they are being irresponsible or childish--but it might. These factors don't always indicate someone's competency or desire to take on responsibility as a mature adult--but sometimes they do. Sure, we live in a culture that prolongs adolescence. Sure, more times than not there are ideological and moral pitfalls that are clearly associated with this "new adulthood." And the same is true for the "old adulthood." At the end of the day, it's really case-by-case. Some people need to seriously grow up, get married, buy a house, and have kids--if they can. Other people need to seriously grow up and buy a hookah and some flannel. At 30, my heart is certainly ready to start living out some of those traditional expectations, yet there's no way I'm trading my Toms for dress shoes.

All that to say, these are but one of the things I think about on my 10,950th day alive. In a lot of ways, I do feel like I'm just getting started. It does seem, at least for me, that in my 30s I'll learn a lot of things I should've learned in my 20s. The bottom line is that I can't wait for this new decade known as the "dirty thirties." Wish me luck. If as much happens in my 30s as did in my 20s, I'm pretty confident that I'll look back in gratitude for the way the Lord has ordained my steps (Prov. 20:24). Amidst all the messiness of my life as of late, the one thing is certain: whether you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s, or 50s, there's no such thing as plan B with God.

Deep breath. Time to go get a job.

Dirty.
Ep

Dr. Moore on CNN on Pat Robertson on Alzheimer's and Divorce

2011-09-16T19:51:00.005-05:00

See Pat Robertson's comments on how Alzheimer's can justify divorce--here.

Now see Dr. Russell Moore's response:

Vision.

2011-09-04T11:12:00.002-05:00

Word.

2011-08-27T12:37:00.004-05:00

On Reading the Holy Scripture

Truth, not eloquence, is to be sought in reading the Holy Scriptures; and every part must be read in the spirit in which it was written. For in the Scriptures we ought to seek profit rather than polished diction. Likewise we ought to read simple and devout books as willingly as learned and profound ones. We ought not to be swayed by the authority of the writer, whether he be a great literary light or an insignificant person, but by the love of simple truth. We ought not to ask who is speaking, but mark what is said. Men pass away, but the truth of the Lord remains forever. God speaks to us in many ways without regard for persons. Our curiosity often impedes our reading of the Scriptures, when we wish to understand and mull over what we ought simply to read and pass by. If you would profit from it, therefore, read with humility, simplicity, and faith, and never seek a reputation for being learned. Seek willingly and listen attentively to the words of the saints; do not be displeased with the sayings of the ancients, for they were not made without purpose.

- Thomas Kempis, The Imitation of Christ

I'm Buying One Today!!!!

2011-06-24T09:49:00.003-05:00

You have to full screen this immediately!!!!

Dirt Devil-The Exorcist from MrPrice2U on Vimeo.

LOVE. IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday June 4, 2011

2011-05-30T18:45:00.003-05:00

I'm there.

Peace.
Ep

Eager.

2011-05-21T21:54:00.003-05:00

I Am A Sojourner (Sojourn Community Church 2011) from Sojourn Community Church on Vimeo.

So Freakin True.

2011-05-01T15:45:00.001-05:00

Give it a Good Ol' Listen...

2011-04-26T19:20:00.000-05:00

The Water and the Blood by Sojourn

YES!!!!

2011-04-21T19:12:00.003-05:00

"How Europe Sees the US"

I believe the word you are looking for is "pride."

Ep

I'm Telling You...

2011-04-20T21:32:00.004-05:00

This site nails it every time.
Ep

Once Again...

2011-04-13T19:46:00.003-05:00

Man, I'm telling you, this website is hilarious for some reason. It gets me every time, but maybe it's just me. Could be.

HUGE shout out to Blake for opening me up to this new and wonderful world of clever humor. B-Dub, I owe you one, big time!

Peace.
Ep

My New Favorite Website.

2011-04-07T20:26:00.002-05:00

Peep it here.

Ep

Buble in the 'Ville June 4th!!!

2011-03-30T20:54:00.007-05:00

I just saw in today's LEO that Michael Buble is coming back to Louisville on June 4th to the KFC Yum! Center. Okay, listen, I went to his show back in 09 and it was quite possibly one of the greatest things I've ever been a part of. There are just those moments when you know you're in the presence of something great. I mean, there's nothing quite like hearing a voice as pure as Michael Buble's live in concert. No computer aid. No sound assistance. Just voice and a big jazz band and well-written love songs. I really couldn't believe what I was hearing. I stood in awe the whole time--and I'm not really like that. I play football. I like to shoot fireworks out of season. Getting a shot doesn't make me queezy. I don't cry when babies are born. But, Michael Buble? Love songs? No, listen. Like, it literally took me days to recover! I played his CDs full volume non-stop. Car rides were utilized for perfecting "Me-ee a-and Mrs., Mrs. Jones." I spent hours on YouTube trying to recapture that concert experience. People, this concert changed my life.

All that to say, he's coming back and I haven't decided if I'm desperate enough to buy tickets for just me and go alone. Would that be questionable? Well while you think about it, see a little bit of what I'm talking about. When another man serenades me, I gotta give him props. I chose a video that may capture better what this experience was like. Come to your own conclusions, but I'm sold.

And people, watch the whole thing.

Introducing You to a New One.

2011-03-28T18:33:00.007-05:00

A while back at my church, Sojourn, we sang a new song written by Brian Eichelberger (Mars Hill, Seattle). The song is "Satisfied in You" and is based from Psalm 42. There are no words to convey the affect this song had on my heart. Maybe it was just the moment. Unfortunately, the audio is nowhere to be found online, at least according to Google and YouTube. I searched like crazy before I wrote this. For now, only my memory (and the enhancing acoustics of my shower stall) allows me to enjoy what I recall is the tune. But at this time, enjoy the lyrics in full. If I (or any of you) come across the actual song, I'll be sure to post it here as soon as it reaches my laptop, fo sho. The last verse gets me every time. (And thanks to my boy Tom for digging this up for me.)

"Satisfied in You"

I have lost My appetite
And a flood is welling up behind my eyes
So I eat the tears I cry
And if that were not enough
They know just the words to cut and tear and prod
When they ask me "Where's your God?"

Why are you downcast, oh my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
I can remember when you showed your face to me

As a deer pants for water, so my soul longs for you
And when I survey your splendor, you so faithfully renew
Like a bed of rest for my fainting flesh
I am satisfied in you

When I'm looking at the ground
It's an inbred feedback loop that drags me down
So it's time to lift my brow
And remember better days
When I loved to worship you and learn your ways
With the sweetest songs of praise

Why are you downcast, oh my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
I can remember when you showed your face to me

Let my sights give way to songs that sing about your faithfulness
Let my pain reveal your glory as my only real rest
Let my losses show me all I truly have is you

So when I'm drowning out at sea
And all your breakers and your waves crash down on me
I'll recall your safety scheme
You're the one who made the waves
And your Son went out to suffer in my place
And to show me that I'm safe

Why are you downcast, oh my soul?
Why so disturbed within me?
I am satisfied in You.

There you go.
The whole last verse breaks me down, especially, "You're the One who made the waves, and your Son went out to suffer in my place." Get's me every time, even now.

Call me up and I'll get in my shower and sing it for you.
Peace.
Ep

Today at 850.

2011-03-27T20:54:00.014-05:00

I catered JGumbo's for a small group of friends. JG's was voted by the Louisville's Eccentric Observer (henceforth known as the LEO) as the #1 Cajun Restaurant in the 'Ville. Hey, that's from the annual Reader's Choice Survey. So, people have a year to think about it. Needless to say, I hooked it up with some quality grub.

This is Drunken Chicken. Yes, the name reveals that it's made with some quality brew. However, not to fear. The alcohol turns to grease and settles in small pools on the surface of the dish, giving that intestinal tract an additional boost. But, hey, mi bano su bano.

Ah, here we meet Bumblebee Stew. It's sweet at first, then it gets spicy. Just how Cajuns like it, I guess. Seriously, though. It's one of my all time faves.

Abita Root Beer. Tasty and straight from Louisiana. We went all out N'Oleans style.

And, I'm happy to introduce you to a preview of the new heavens and new earth: Cinnamon Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce. Though calm on the outside, I tempted to use mild profanity with every bite! It's that good. Hey, I said mild profanity. Relax.

@#$%!!!! (translation: "Ridiculous!!!")

Anyway. All this to say: it's wise to be my friend.

Till next episode.
Ep

Random Acts of Cleverness.

2011-03-18T12:35:00.001-05:00

Hilarious.

2011-03-13T17:49:00.007-05:00

This is how you pull a prank. It may take a sec to see what's happening, and it may take a few views. But, once you see what's taking place you'll watch it again and again. Here's a tip: watch the guy on the far left the whole time.

...and good thing it's in a foreign language because there's likely a lot of profanity being uttered. But, I was in tears.

I'll say it again: hilarious. And oh yes, I am going to try to pull this off on someone!

Ep

My Bro.

2011-03-09T17:51:00.002-05:00

Aaron Hale - Ghostly (Official Music Video) from Aaron Hale on Vimeo.

He's all grown up like some elephant love (inside joke...and a killer one at that).

Ep

Taking a Sin-Shattered World Head On

2011-03-04T13:58:00.003-05:00

This powerful song will help you take on the world's issues one...problem resolution at a time.

My next post has big shoes to fill.

EP

Two Birds with One Stone...

2011-03-03T16:06:00.014-05:00

So, there's this kitchen in town called 732 Social that is no less than brilliant. I would eat here every meal if I could, and not just for the food. The environment is great as well as the aesthetics. It's actually an accent restaurant of The Green Building, which hosts art galleries/conferences and lectures/cocktail parties/concerts and anything else that's basically hip. Regardless, it's one of my favorite places to hit up.

So, there's this studio I love called Red Nose Studios that is no less than brilliant (I've plugged his art on my blogs before; see the pic at the end of this post here, but most notably see the Biblio-Files header [the little man standing on the books]). The Green Building is hosting RNS creator Chris Sickels for a lecture about his art and creativity. There will be an exhibit. Needless to say, I'd love to go to this, but won't/can't because, well, of work, I guess. But, I had to post on this because, man, what a combo! Check out the details here. The gallery actually stays open through May, so I'll for sure peep this at some point. But, if anyone lives in Louisville and is remotely cultured in art and food, this would make a good, hip night out. Just saying. Good food. Cool art. Stimulating lecture. I mean, who wouldn't?

While all this brilliance is taking place, I'll be at home being lame. Oh well.

Peace.
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Once Again...

2011-03-03T14:48:00.003-05:00

...SNL has faithfully put things into perspective when it comes to pets.

Thank you SNL. (In case you missed previous brilliant displays of...honesty, see here.)
EP

On the Menu.

2011-02-24T20:45:00.015-05:00

Tonight I hosted our small group from Sojourn. Tonight's menu: Hazelnut Waffels with Berry Compote (with Peach Brandy) and Creme Fraiche Whipped Cream. I know, sounds like the shiz. It was. Not to fret.

Let me tell you about it.

Here's how it all started. All these random ingredients were hanging out. The party was kinda lame because there was no alcohol. Not that a bunch of ingredients needs alcohol to have a good time, but let's be real, it was a dry party (Get it? "Dry" becaus--whatever.) Anyway...

The hazelnuts felt "grated" because vanilla extract showed up. Those two have always been rivals because vanilla has always been more popular than hazelnut...

Okay, I'm stopping with this story time nonsense. It's dumb and no one is getting my puns anyway. I'll make this quick.

Peach Brandy. For cooking only, except when for drinking.

The peach brandy went into this mixed berry compote. Good night it turned out great--so good in fact, no one used the syrup we had. Straight up good. Look at all that...health. It's fruit, people.

Waffle Iron. 20 bones at Target. Expect more, pay less, people. Makes a handsome waffle. Just look at it. Seriously, look.

The setup.

Here's what you get. Two words: "Yes!" and "Do we have milk?"

Evidence that this was a genius recipe.

Evidence, yet again. Notice the empty berry dish and creme fraiche bowl, yet a full syrup thing. Does that tell you anything?

So, right now I have a full stomach and a full sink of dishes. Looks like it's time to pour myself a goblet of brandy (to cook with) and get to work.

Till next episode.
Peace.
E

If Anything, Get This.

2011-02-22T14:20:00.015-05:00

I can't stop listening to track 1, 2, 6, 9, and 10. I just can't.

E

Legit.

2011-02-19T17:39:00.002-05:00

Headed here tonight. Not one to miss.

P

2011-01-31T19:59:00.007-05:00

The Place To Be

2.6.11

Listen Folks, I Take Coffee Seriously. So Should You.

2011-01-26T11:47:00.023-05:00

You need 3 (or at least a few) things:

1 - Legit Beans. None of this Maxwell House nonsense. Got this from a local shop that roasts it's own beans. Meet "Nicaragua La Gloria" which connoisseurs say means something in Spanish.

2 - A Legit Brewing Apparatus. Meet the Chemex, as featured in the video below. Though it looks like something from a meth lab, I assure that in my house it's primarily used for coffee, though I aint gonna lie, it does make some quality meth (I read about it in a magazine).

3 - A Legit Grind. Not too coarse, not too fine. Just right for the Chemex. This grind could be used in a French Press also, but we have no time for that now.

4 - Legit Water. Preferably clear. Preferably hot. Preferably free of meth.
The bubbles mean it's working.

6 - More Tasteful Drapes.

6 - A Legit Pour. Too fast and the velocity could cause the coffee to cool too rapidly in midair, causing it to be ice cold before it reaches your cup. Too slow and you'll need to drink a Red Bull to help you pour faster, negating your need for coffee. Both outcomes are unfavorable.

Handsome.

The moral of the story: Stay away from meth.

Peace.
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Just Bought One of These:

2011-01-22T20:29:00.002-05:00

Intelligentsia Chemex Brewing Guide from Intelligentsia Coffee on Vimeo.

Someone buy me that chrome bottom-spout tea kettle and I'll...make you coffee with it.

Peace.
E

Just Finished Listening...

2011-01-22T18:47:00.003-05:00

...to this.

Tears.

Peace.
E

PS - It's just the Gospel.

Hallway and Art

2011-01-16T22:42:00.008-05:00

Here's some hallway progress:

I chose plumb (not maroon for you Aggie hopefuls out there) because it's middle ground in the color scheme of things.

Here's the art you're seeing on the wall. Still may not be their permanent home, though.

Louisville (Day) - Louisville (Dusk)
Check out Timothy Craig at timothycraigart.com

Coming along nicely.
Peace.
E

Was My Trip to Texas Good?

2011-01-06T10:49:00.008-05:00

Spinach Enchiladas from Margarita's

You be the judge.

Peace.
E

PS - So, okay, I guess I'm using my blog again, but it's on the back burner like studying for a final exam. I will actually proactively procrastinate and put off posting blogs here. But, since I've yet to join Facebook (a rather commendable accomplishment in our day, I would add), I might as well have something that serves as my "trivial info about me and other things that don't matter" outlet. Just keep your expectations low. Either way, hello again from the most officious blog out there.

Pics of the New Heezy

2010-12-29T22:43:00.010-05:00

Welcome...

Exterior

Living Room (before paint)

Living Room (after)

Kitchen (before)

Kitchen (after)Kitchen panoram

Living to Kitchen panoram

These rooms are finished only in terms of paint. The furniture layout has all already changed since these photos. More to come.

Any color/furniture suggestions?

Was the FOOB just resurrected?
Peace.
EP

Couple Things...

2010-05-19T19:10:00.010-05:00

1. Yes, I am laying the First Official Officious Blog to rest. It had a good run with some good memories. Many thoughts, many comments, some occasional controversy, but mostly just a lot of wasted time trying to sound educated about things that are unimportant to most people. Yet, I enjoyed the practice of informal, opinion-based writing, especially on more important issues, and I think having this blog has refined my thinking on some things. It's interesting how you discover the weaknesses, even errors, of your own thinking when you try to argue them through writing. But, the time has come. Yet, having said this, I am not departing from the blogosphere entirely. Because...

2. I have made some changes to The Booked Blog. It is now called "The Biblio-Files," (from the word "bibliophile") as you can see in the top left of your screen. That name may sound dumb to you, but, I mean, it's my blog, and it sounds more sophisticated and well-read than "The Booked Blog." One's vocabulary is supposed to expand through much reading, right? I figure that having a word that people don't know in the title, especially on a blog about books, may win some credibility points. Either way, the link address will stay the same, but the name got an upgrade. Thus...

3. My time will be spent there, writing book reviews and recommendations as I, time permitting, feel like it. And...

4. I will still keep this blog up because of the sidebar links. I use this particular sidebar a lot when I get on the computer. Why do I not just bookmark stuff or save it in my "favorites?" Well, because it looks cooler on a blog. Plus, it's very gratifying to be able to say, "Just Google my name and you can find my blog." So, ultimately, this is all for purely selfish reasons.

Not that you care about any of that, but hey, isn't that the point? This is the First Official Officious Blog. Just deal with it.

Much love to my one or two readers.
Have a good life.
E

...but a loud enough encore might make me reconsider... ;) Peace.