When You Look at the World - Chris Linebarger's Blog

True Terror

2006-03-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

Landmines are something I think of fairly often. Visiting the Balkans can do that to you. It is very common to see many people throughout the day either missing limbs or injured in some fashion due to landmine explosions. I was reminded once again, while wathcing the film "Turtles Can Fly" (see below), of the tragedy of landmine victims; many of whom are children. Listen to this:

"Afghanistan, Angola and Cambodia have suffered 85 per cent of the world's land-mine casualties. Overall, African children live on the most mine-plagued continent, with an estimated 37 million mines embedded in the soil of at least 19 countries. Angola alone has an estimated 10 million land-mines and an amputee population of 70,000, of whom 8,000 are children. Since May 1995 children have made up about half the victims of the 50,000-100,000 anti-personnel mines laid in Rwanda."

In the former Yugoslavia, where we are headed to do mission work in a couple of months, the situation is also grim. There are thousands of mines unaccounted for, just waiting to go off. More will die. How can we help? There are a number of ways to get invloved. Go to these websites.

We can also pray that:

New technology will be developed to demine rapidly and without the use of people.
God will protect people all over the world from stumbling upon these mines.
More landmine bans will be passed and inforced.

Whistle, Snap, Whistle, Snap

2006-03-10T01:28:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, when I can, I watch the Andy Griffith show with my daughters when they get home from school. They refer to the show as "Opie." I grew up watching it and I must say that it was and may still be the best family show to ever air. I am not one for overt nostalgia (ask my wife how much I love to get out the old family photo albums to stroll down memoery lane :), but Andy and the whole Mayberry gang have a way of making me feel good. In fact, for 30 minutes, it's 1961 and I am swept away to a magical place in the Carolinas. Don died the other day and it made me think of this one thing Hollywood got right.

Turtles Can Fly

2006-03-09T19:23:00.000-06:00

The next time you are at Blockbuster (albeit most of you probably rent your movies online), check out Turtles Can Fly. This is an Iranian/Iraqi made film about the refugee children of Iraq. It takes place in the present and shows the harsh realities of what it is like to be a child during war and in its aftermath. The film is not anti-American, which is refreshing, but it is heart-wrenching.

MOL Hicks

2006-02-28T17:01:00.000-06:00

It's what we all were thinking, but only his wife was bold enough to post.

Me and Bob Costas

2006-02-27T21:36:00.000-06:00

Chris Linebarger. Sports. Those words aren’t exactly synonymous. For those of you who know me well, you are more than aware that I’m not even a mild fan of watching professional sporting events. I grew up playing soccer, tennis (table and court), baseball and especially basketball. You would think that because I enjoy playing sports that it would naturally transfer over to a love of viewing them. It’s not like I haven’t tried to participate.
On several different occasions I gave it my all to dive into full-fledged viewership of pro basketball, but to no avail. So I have to ask myself, what’s the deal then when the Olympics roll around? I am like a completely different person! During these last winter games in Torino I discovered why I become a changed man. What is it that I love about these games?

It’s the world coming together in a decent, respectful way for something good and noble (not unlike a U2 show).
These are the best athletes competing to be considered the best at what they do and they only get one shot at it, and this allows for the underdog to occasionally rise to the top in a matter of seconds.
Especially in the winter Olympics with figure skating, sport is married with artistic creativity and beauty and that cuts to the heart of my very soul.
The whole two weeks play out like a Greek tragedy. There are characters who are supposed to win but end up losing in some horrible fall or accident. Then there are the “nobodies” who come up from behind and are destined for greatness. In all of this we are allowed the privilege of entering into the pain of the fallen while shedding tears of joy with the victors.
All of the ceremonies (opening, medal and closing) are terribly moving.
And maybe mostly importantly, the games just feel like something special to me. Wonderful memories have been formed from Leslie and I huddled around the Tele (with a nice fire blazing) watching Shizuka Arakawa, Irina Slutskaya and Sasha Cohen go head to head.

These past two weeks were like a special holiday. As Andrea Bocelli’s voice soared over the crowd of athletes during the closing ceremonies, I felt a sadness welling up inside. But Vancouver is only four years away and I will be there (via a large, black box in my living room) to experience it all!

The ENTIRE 1988 music collection of J. Mezgez

2006-02-27T11:03:00.000-06:00

Ahh..... revenge is sweet!

For Lance & Lock

2006-02-27T08:31:00.000-06:00

Circa '85

2006-02-21T18:13:00.000-06:00

= the life of a junior high school kid named "Blogbarger"

Speaking of look-alikes

2006-02-16T22:49:00.000-06:00

I'm a fan of the winter olympics. I watched Evgeni Plushenko take the gold tonight in the men's free skating. It's hard not to love that guy especially when he looks like Adrian Brody.

Fight the Good Fight Ministries

2006-02-10T13:10:00.000-06:00

This has been a video-laden week. Watch this and tell me what you think. In my eyes, there is no difference between Robert Tilton and Pastor Joe Schimmel (the narrator in this video).

Video: "They sold their soul to the devil for rock and roll."

Terrorism has a new face (or make that three)

2006-02-10T10:24:00.000-06:00

2006: Beards make a comeback.

Who wouldn't love to be an uncle to this kid?

2006-02-09T00:08:00.000-06:00

What a night, what a show, aye Zooropa!

2006-02-08T23:28:00.000-06:00

Three of my favorite artists/bands are playing within the next few months. Let me know if you're interested in joining me for any or all of these shows:

February 24
Pedro the Lion
Denton, TX

March 31
Death Cab for Cutie
Grand Prairie, TX

April 1
Derek Webb
Tyler, TX

The reason I fell in love....

2006-02-02T19:32:00.000-06:00

Bono led the National Prayer Breakfast at Washington D.C. this morning. This is long but worth it. He's passionate, funny, inspirational, and convincing.
National Day of Prayer led by Bono

Somewhere in Afghanistan....

2006-01-31T20:56:00.000-06:00

Courtesy of EL MOL. Beware... this is low-down but funny: Osama.

I went to her basketball game today, but I remember when....

2006-01-28T17:25:00.000-06:00

Oh Israel

2006-01-26T14:41:00.001-06:00

"The Islamic militant group Hamas swept to victory over the long-dominant Fatah party on Thursday in Palestinian parliamentary polls, a political earthquake that could bury any hope for peace talks with Israel soon."

When I heard the news today I was saddened but not shocked. The Palestinians have now officially elected the party of terrorism to lead them. May we be blessed with more leaders in our country who are willing to defend Israel - for it looks as if her darkest hour may be looming on the horizon.

Our House

2006-01-24T08:43:00.000-06:00

Last night....

Everyone: Ummm.... this dinner sure is good, mom.

Grace: Are these the mashed potatoes that have nuts in them?

Sadie: Grace, mashed potatoes don't have nuts in them.

Grace: I know, but are these the mashed potatoes that have nuts in them?

Chris: No, but I think I know someone who does have nuts in them. Grace, where in the world did you come from?

Grace: England.

And that, in a nutshell, about sums up the evening meal at our home. Really... you're welcome anytime.

Emerging?

2006-01-18T18:25:00.000-06:00

Last week a friend invited me to lunch to meet and ask questions of a prominent leader within the emergent church movement. There were probably close to 40 people there, so this leader moved from table to table asking us if we had any questions for him. Several at our table did and we got the discussions rolling. It has taken me over a week to mull over all of the thoughts and emotions pulsing through me as I contemplate this movement. Over the past few years I’ve developed a keen interest in the current trend of the Evangelical (primarily those ranging from 20 – 40 years of age) flight from traditional protestant or Evangelical churches to Catholic, Orthodox or Emergent type churches. Since a family member recently converted to Orthodoxy, this faith tradition has been my primary focus of study. However, God has recently been bringing others who have an Emergent leaning and I have been seeking to understand.

Obviously (if you’ve read any of my posts), much of my curiosity with the flight of Evangelicals has stemmed from a deep, dissatisfaction with my own walk of faith within the past several years. So, here is a brief synopsis of my view of the Emergent movement, drawing from my limited experience and study (admittedly most of my study is of Brian McLaren’s works).

Positives:

I think the Emergent folks are asking the right questions. I also believe they are justly frustrated. For at least the past two decades a culture of American Christianity has been brewing that seeks to polarize everrything as Christian or secular. This has done great harm in our churches as we have created people who equate Christianity with conservatism, Republicanism with morality, and American capitalism and democracy with godly living. Sometimes this demonstrates itself outrageously (i.e. Pat Robertson) and sometimes it is more subtle (conservative talk radio and individual conversations). I see Emergents reacting to this and asking questions like, “Is this really what Jesus had in mind for His church?” and “Why do I have to fall into one of two political camps in order to be a godly Christian?” and “Isn’t there something better than this?” I think these questions are healthy and I applaud the Emergent effort here.
The Emergent church is also bringing out the importance of the narrative aspect of the Gospels (and the Bible as a whole) with an emphasis on the Jesus we find within the Gospels.
There is a common emphasis on authenticity within the movement.
The Emergent embraces people who would not otherwise avail themselves to the Church. People are genuinely finding love and acceptance with Emergent communities and finding a relationship with the living God through Jesus Christ.
There is once again (LOUD APPLAUSE) a return to the values of Jesus as seen in the Gospels: the destruction of racial and cultural boundaries, dealing with social justice and poverty, attending to the homeless and afflicted. These are things that, overall, the evangelical church has failed at miserably.
Emergents also emphasize a focus on the creativity of our Creator. He has endowed us with this same creativity. This has led the Emergent community to emphasize artistic license in using all of the senses to worship and experience God (much of this is due to the rediscovery of the Eastern traditions of Christianity).

Negatives:

As with most groups which seek to distance themselves from Evangelicals, there is, at best, an arrogance that exudes from the Emergents. They have somehow found something the rest of us are missing.
Since there is no solid authority structure within Emergent churches (and I know I am speaking generally here, but I do so because I have found no definitive answer to this issue) - attractive, powerful, dominant, relational, influential types are the primary ones leading the churches. I dare you to find ordinary, average folks who are leading these churches.
While the narrative aspect of Scripture is rightfully emphasized, the metanarrative aspect is rejected. There are no strong doctrinal statements and belief in inerrancy is all but lost. Without diving into this much farther, I find this position precarious. We must be able to hang our hats on something at the end of the day (regardless of interpretative difficulties). I cannot imagine not completely trusting in the words of Scripture.
Regardless of how adamently they will disagree with this, the Emergent church exists for like-minded Gen X & Yers. How many people over 50 could we find at a typical Emergent church? How many blacks or Hispanics would we find there? How many poor, seemingly unsophisticated folks would we find there? Which ever way you slice it….. it feels like a clique. How is the Emergent church diverse? How can we learn from those we disagree with if we don’t fellowship with them?

This short summary of my initial perspective on this movement is certainly too brief. My feeling is that this is a fad or at least some kind of growing pain of the American church. Having said that, I don’t wish to dismiss it or ignore the fact that God is working among His people in profound, dynamic ways. In my opinion, these just seem like the wrong answers to the right questions.

Prayer

2006-01-08T18:01:00.000-06:00

I've debated whether or not it is appropriate or constructive to post a personal prayer request for my tiny blogging community to see, especially when those outside of the community occasionally drop in to see what's going on. But my heart is heavy and in this particular instance I believe it is fitting to bare my soul. Most of you know that for a good portion of my adult life I have been a missionary. Due to life circumstances, I stepped out of missions and full-time ministry altogether. It has now been almost three years since I left. God has been working on both my wife and me. We believe it is time to return to missions. The process of coming to this belief has been arduous. My heart is pulled toward Eastern Europe. My wife's is pulled back toward Mexico. And still both of us are also drawn to Japan where we might possibly be able to work with some friends of ours who have been missionaries there now for years. Would you consider praying for us (if you aren't already)? We need some financial, spiritual and emotional barriers to be destroyed by God before we can feel completely free to move forward with any plans. And I would love to feel free again.

The Chronicles of Narnia (Rap)

2006-01-05T21:54:00.000-06:00

This is too good: Chronicles of Narnia Rap

Medical Insurance Explained (From the AARP legal dept)*

2006-01-05T16:22:00.000-06:00

Q. What does HMO stand for?
A. This is actually a variation of the phrase, "HEY MOE." Its roots go back to a concept pioneered by Moe of the Three Stooges, who discovered that a patient could be made to forget the pain in his foot if he was poked hard enough in the eye.

Q. I just joined an HMO. How difficult will it be to choose the doctor I want?
A. Just slightly more difficult than choosing your parents. Your insurer will provide you with a book listing all the doctors in the plan. The doctors basically fall into two categories--those who are no longer accepting new patients, and those who will see you but are no longer participating in the plan. But don't worry, the remaining doctor who is still in the plan and accepting new patients has an office just a half-day's drive away.

Q. Do all diagnostic procedures require pre-certification?
A. No. Only those you need.

Q. Can I get coverage for my preexisting conditions?
A. Certainly, as long as they don't require any treatment.

Q. What happens if I want to try alternative forms of medicine?
A. You'll need to find alternative forms of payment.

Q. My pharmacy plan only covers generic drugs, but I need the name brand. I tried the generic medication, but it gave me a stomach ache. What should I do?
A. Poke yourself in the eye.

Q. What if I'm away from home and I get sick?
A. You really shouldn't do that.

Q. I think I need to see a specialist, but my doctor insists he can handle my problem. Can a general practitioner really perform a heart transplant right in his/her office?
A. Hard to say, but considering that all your risking is the $20 co-payment, there's no harm in giving it a shot.

Q. Will health care be different in the next century?
A. No, but if you call right now, you might get an appointment by then.

* I just finished re-watching "The Rainmaker", so this seemed funnier that it actually was.

"A King & A Kingdom" (or "Chris' New Year's Resolution")

2006-01-01T21:55:00.000-06:00

who's your brother, who's your sister
you just walked passed him
i think you missed her
as we're all migrating to the place where our father lives
'cause we married in to a family of immigrants

my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country, or a man
my first allegiance is not to democracy or blood
it's to a king & a kingdom

there are two great lies that i’ve heard:
“the day you eat of the fruit of that tree, you will not surely die”
and that Jesus Christ was a white, middle-class republican
and if you wanna be saved you have to learn to be like Him

my first allegiance is not to a flag, a country, or a man
my first allegiance is not to democracy or blood
it's to a king & a kingdom

but nothing unifies like a common enemy
and we’ve got one, sure as hell
but he may be living in your house
he may be raising up your kids
he may be sleeping with your wife
oh no, he may not look like you think

(by Derek Webb)

Best Picks of 2005: Music

2005-12-22T11:39:00.000-06:00

A little disclaimer: these are not bands that came out this year. These are just my personal favorites for the year.

U2 – Who could have guessed? I saw the boys twice this year (Chicago & Dallas). Musically they were better in Dallas, which is actually quite astonishing. They usually don’t rock as hard in Texas. Overall, however, the Chicago concert was a better experience.
Keane – Keane is another band I have a love/hate relationship with. There are moments when I think to myself, “This is really cheesy music that sounds like a throwback to the 80’s.” And there is truth to this. But there is no doubt about it, these guys are talented.
David Gray – Josh and Rob introduced me to David Gray’s “White Ladder” back in 1999. I fell in love with it instantly. His new album is called “Life In Slow Motion” and I think it is one of the best albums of the year.
Lori Chaffer – Lori Chaffer (from Waterdeep) also does some solo work. Her voice moves me.
Kings of Convenience – You will find a remarkable resemblance to Simon & Garfunkel (whom I’ve never really cared for). When I am in the mood for mellow, I put these guys on.
Travis – I’m not really sure why I discovered this band so late. I especially enjoy the album, “The Man Who.”
Derek Webb – His music is growing on me but his lyrics are profound. He is the Bob Dylan of the post-modern world.
Bob Dylan – And speaking of Dylan…. I couldn’t possibly leave him off the list. I can’t go one week without hearing a little Dylan.

Best Picks of 2005: Software

2005-12-20T11:11:00.000-06:00

Foobar2000 (Free) – This is hands down the best audio player I’ve used. I have a threefold criterion for a good player: it must load quickly, hog very little system resources, load and play songs almost instantaneously. This does all of that. I think even the most diehard Winamp users could make the switch… it’s that good.
Yahoo! Music Engine (Monthly Fee) – I have never loved and hated a piece of software so much. For a small monthly fee (which gets even smaller if you pay annually), you basically get over 1 million songs at your finger tips. You can download any song to your computer or IPOD-ish player or you can just stream it. If you want to burn to CD you have to pay .79 cents per song. Also included is the unbeatable high end version of LaunchCast (a customizable/personal internet radio station). The actually software is buggy, sluggish and can only get better over time.
Firefox Web Browser (Free) – There is no reason anyone should be using Internet Explorer any longer. Enough said. This is the best browser out there.
Mp3tag (Free) – I’ve used a lot of tag editors – some good, some bad. This is probably the best one I’ve tried. If you need a quick editor for both mp3 and wma files and you need batch support, this is the editor for you.
Zuma (Free to try - $20) – This is a highly addictive arcade game that I have not been able to put down now for over two years. It’s worth the 20 bucks.
Covenant Eyes (Small monthly fee) – Internet viewing security. All of your surfing habits are recorded and sent to the accountability partner(s) of your choice. A wise purchase in this day and age.
Yahoo! Widget Engine – Another Yahoo idea that I love. Use other users’ widgets for your desktop (calendars, clocks, games, etc.) or create your own. It’s buggy due to the fact that it's still in its infant stage but I already don’t what I would do without it (I use three everyday: a PIM viewer, weather forecast viewer, and calendar).

You are welcome here

2005-12-17T12:37:00.000-06:00

Andy Scates (a friend of a friend whose blog I enjoy reading), pointed out a web site that has real church signs with sayings much funnier (and more awful) than those I recently posted. It's worth a look. Church Signs

Finally.... A Good Coffee House

2005-12-14T10:12:00.000-06:00

Lookout. Another plug. Get your cold weather clothes on and run to this place. Except for the psychic readings with Amanda on Wednesday evening, there is nothing I don’t like about the Gachet Coffee Lounge. This is a semi-new (7 months) coffee joint my friend took me to the other evening. It’s exactly what I’ve been looking for in Dallas: good coffee, an aesthetically pleasing environment (especially in the evening – low lit room with candles), soft jazz (that doesn’t suck) playing on the stereo, tables not cramped together, plenty of couches and at the moment it doesn’t seem to get too crowded. And….. drum roll….. free wi-fi. It’s located on lower Greenville almost across the street from Taco Cabana. Call me up if you’re going and I’ll join you.

A (Not-So) Shameless Plug for Mozilla's Firefox

2005-12-09T01:20:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine (who happens to be using Internet Explorer) goes to read my blog yesterday. Little do I know that the whole thing is messed up on Internet Explorer. And I would never have known this had he not told me because I use Firefox as my browser. For my readership that is HTML savvy, I had one tag that wasn't closed and IE would not accept the code. Fine. But the worst part is that it wouldn’t even tell me what the problem was. I spent two arduous hours trying to locate the problem. Of course, Firefox automatically detects my error and compensates and nobody knows the difference. I finally was able to fix my mistake but the real problem is (once again) Microsoft. Here's to the mother of all browsers. If you haven't already, make the switch.

A New Ecclesiology: Part 2

2005-12-08T17:21:00.000-06:00

Someone in my family called me this morning and said, “Reason 43 why I am contemplating joining the Orthodox Church….. a few prominent evangelical churches in the Metroplex have decided not to have services on Christmas day.”

Is this not just outrageous? If ever there were a time for God’s family to come together and celebrate and sing and commune over the Lord’s Supper and pray with thanksgiving….. it’s the day we celebrate Christ’s birth! Yep, a new ecclesiology is on the horizon.

P.S. – The only reason I posted the picture was because I like it.

The Unforgettable Fire

2005-12-07T08:36:00.000-06:00

People do all kinds of creative things to remember events. Personally, I have a U2 album for just about every occasion. I listen to The Unforgettable Fire album to commemorate three separate events: MLK's assassination, the bombing of Hiroshima, and the attack on Pearl Harbor. Therefore, my song of the day is "The Unforgettable Fire” (written specifically about the Hiroshima bombing). So here's to the brave men and women who died on this day, 64 years ago, while serving our country.

The Dispensation of Bad Church Signs

2005-12-06T13:51:00.000-06:00

Every once and a while the leadership team at my church discusses putting a marquee up on our sign. Enough of us groan to put an end to that bad idea quickly. For your Protestantal reading pleasure.... some of the worst church signs I’ve discovered.

"O Come All Ye Faithful...and Not So Faithful."
"Come Worship At the Side Door: Contemporary. Casual. Cool."
"Dusty Bibles lead to dirty lives."
"Got Jesus?"
"Jesus pain is your gain."
"Don't get depressed, come get blessed!"
"Jesus should be your steering wheel, not your spare tire."
"Backsliding is the biblical term for the summer slump."
"Go to church or the devil will get you."
"Abortion: Hitler would have loved it."
“Git-R-Done Fer God.”
“Staying in bed shouting, ‘Oh God!’ Does not constitute going to church.”
“Free Trip to heaven. Details Inside!”
“Try our Sundays. They are better than Baskin-Robbins.”
“Searching for a new look? Have your faith lifted here!”
“Have trouble sleeping? We have sermons - come hear one!”
"When down in the mouth, remember Jonah. He came out all right."
"Fight truth decay-study the Bible daily."
"How will you spend eternity-Smoking or Non-smoking?"
"Do not wait for the hearse to take you to church."
"If you're headed in the wrong direction, God allows U-turns."
"If you don't like the way you were born, try being born again."
"If you can't sleep, don't count sheep. Talk to the Shepherd."

Chesterton's Elfland

2005-12-04T22:14:00.000-06:00

"Grace, it's the name for a girl
It's also a thought that changed the world
And when she walks on the street
You can hear the strings
Grace finds goodness in everything"

"But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.'"

My youngest daughter, Grace, lights up my world daily (as do Leslie, Callie and Sadie). But today she was on a role. We are preparing for communion at church today and Grace leans over and asks me if she can partake. About two months ago she affirmed to us that she does indeed believe in Jesus and His sacrificial death and resurrection and everything that entails for her in her 5 year old mind. So I am completely comfortable with this being her first communion, but out of curiosity I want to know what she is thinking. So I ask, “Do you think you’re ready, Grace?” She stares me down with the most serious look I have ever seen and replies, “Daddy, I believe in Him. I do.” And I am cut to the quick. I smile at her, my eyes tearing up, and we remember Jesus together. I say this with complete sincerity: it was magical.

And then several hours later we set up “Christmas” at our house. We go all out because I believe in creating a spirit/mood of Christmas. Grace is sucking the marrow out of this experience. It was an afternoon of wonder for her. Right before bed, Grace takes one last satisfied look at the garland, the lights, the candles, the tree, she glances at me and asks, “How many more days till Santa comes?” There was not a hint of sarcasm in her voice. This is real stuff to her. This is the good stuff. With a smile, I reply (offering no sarcasm of mine own), “In 20 more days, honey.” The discussion about the reality of Santa has occurred several times over the past couple of years.... but it doesn’t seem to faze Grace.

All in one day Grace affirms her belief in Jesus and Santa and the goodness and wonder of the season and the cold weather. I put her to bed; she kisses me and says, “I love you, Daddy.” She closes her eyes and smiles. My heart slowly makes its way up to my vocal chords and I softly utter, “I love you, too, Gracie. I love you, too.”

A New Ecclesiology: Ecumenicalism May Be Key

2005-11-30T13:36:00.000-06:00

Issues concerning community have been resurfacing as of late (in my own world at least). The topic has attacked my heart and mind with aggressive force over the past few months. It has done so through personal study, talks with friends, conversations in our leadership meetings at church and other various gatherings. At the very heart of these conversations is the issue of ecclesiology. What is the Church? What is the universal Church supposed to look like and what should it be doing? What should our individual churches look like and what activity should they be involved in? My position is this: our evangelical churches are struggling with community because we have failed in developing a deep, grounded, Biblical, ecclesiology. Rather than point out all of the flaws in our current ecclesiology and because we have yet to develop one that is developed and relevant, I would merely like to point out that it may serve us well to begin looking at other Christian faith traditions, in so long as there is true faith and health in those traditions, so we might grow in our understanding of what the local church should look like and the business it should be about. I have read some on the subject and know fairly well one Eastern Orthodox church in Chicago that is a shining example of a community of believers who meet together OFTEN for prayer, meals, story-telling, Scripture readings, liturgy, and sermons, not only to encourage one other in the faith but also to remind each other of the very faith they hold to. To be sure, all of the evangelical churches I have attended throughout my 33 years, including the one I attend now, offer much of these key elements of a community of faith. But are we missing something? Are we even missing the main thing? Do we need to regroup and see a different vision of the local church? Do we really need a new, more strongly developed ecclesiology? Yes. More to come.....

Lemmy from Motorhead

2005-11-30T10:19:00.000-06:00

And today he may just slide right off the list.

Rock N' Roll Doggies, Everything You Know is Wrong and F@#! The Revolution

2005-11-28T16:28:00.000-06:00

Hardcore bloggers don't throw out links and call them blogs. It shows laziness and it's highly annoying for the readers (of which I think I am down to three - I hope). Occasionally I make an exception to that rule. Bono is just as good an exception as any. If you are a fan or have every wondered where he stood on critical faith issues or just want to read something fascinating about a famous rock star, check this out. This is an interview from a recent issue of Rolling Stone. It's long but worth the read.
Bono - The Rolling Stone Interview

Giving Thanks

2005-11-24T09:28:00.000-06:00

In keeping with the theme of this day (and following in the footsteps of friend’s blogs), here are the top 41 things I am thankful for (in no particular order):

1. Salvation and my relationship with Christ
2. Leslie
3. Callie
4. Sadie
5. Grace
6. Dad
7. Mom
8. Dianne Mezger
9. My 5 best friends (Matt Linebarger, Alan Mezger, Scott Bean, Josh Mezger, Rob Mezger)
10. Todd Malone
11. Tim McKenzie
12. My good friends
13. My church
14. Scripture
15. The ministry of missions God has allowed me to participate in thus far
16. Good music
17. Good films
18. Good coffee
19. Bono
20. The Edge
21. Larry Mullen Jr.
22. Adam Clayton
23. Derek Webb
24. Bob Dylan
25. Waterdeep
26. Those special moments when I am with my whole family, we are all connecting in great conversation and all is right in the world
27. Watching my wife lead her gospel choir
28. The music ministry God has blessed my wife and I with
29. Men’s breakfast on Monday mornings (the highlight of my week)
30. Passive Momentum (the band I’m in)
31. The beautiful people and land of the former Yugoslavia
32. Winter
33. My MP3 player (and it’s not even an IPOD)
34. My house
35. My running car
36. High-speed internet & hot spots everywhere
37. Thick, juicy, medium-rare steak
38. Diet Pepsi
39. One-on-one conversation at Starbuck’s and/or Snuffer’s
40. Randal Arthur's books
41. Christopher Guest films

Jane Austin in the 21st Century

2005-11-17T13:15:00.000-06:00

I'm a sucker for Jane Austin. Well, the film versions really. My wife is the real enthusiast of the novels. But we both love that time period. Last weekend we went on an incredible double date with my in-laws, where we went to dinner and a show. "Pride and Prejudice" was a delightful film. In our culture, we are now bombarded with concepts such as: hot, sexy, babe, fine, etc. It was refreshing to once again be taken to another time and place where people not only innocently fell in love, but showed deep admiration and respect for their lovers, exemplified by the simple phrase "I love you." Is it just me or have we lost the art of dignified, public and private, expressions of love and romance? Today, I long to see couples show their love publicly in an honorable fashion. Every once in a while I will see it and when it does happen, I get a sense that all is not wrong with the world.

Carolyn Rodgers & The Lost Art of Loyalty

2005-11-10T23:16:00.000-06:00

Carolyn Rodgers has worked for me as a contract employee for over two years. When others came and went, she stood by me. Never questioning her pay and never complaining, she always rearranged her schedule to help make my life a little bit easier. She was loyal in a time when loyalty is a forgotten concept. Yesterday, I lost this dear friend to cancer. Carolyn walked with Jesus and her body and mind are now completely restored. In our mourning we rejoice for her gain. Here's to Carolyn and to the loyalty she so graciously displayed.

Calling It Quits

2005-10-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

Like a true American, I have let myself become extremely overworked and overstressed. I have decided to end my blog for an indefinite period of time. Any free time I do have these days would be wisely spent elsewhere. Also, the creative juices are just not flowing like they used to (again, probably due to work and stress). When my juice machine does kick in I want it to be used for other things besides blogging. I will read all of your blogs as I am able.

Sincerely,

Blogbarger

6:00 PM and it's 70 degrees

2005-09-29T17:49:00.000-05:00

I don't think of myself as a moody person, but dang it, when it's hot (90 - 100) I get cranky. Yesterday it was 100 degrees in Dallas. Today it never got above 75. I felt so alive. It's fascinating to me that when it is hot outside I complain and lose all perspective. When it's cool and pleasant and especially when it's very cold, I am aware of all that is living. I see my breath in the air, I smell the cold, my body needs protection from the elements and I am suddenly aware that God is alive and near.

Bob Dylan & My Wife

2005-09-28T14:57:00.000-05:00

We all have heroes. Hung on a cork board next to my desk are the pictures of most of mine. Some of them I know personally and others I haven’t even met. To name a few: Jay Custer, Derek Webb, Bono, Bob Dylan and my wife. They have all been elevated to hero status for different reasons. But interestingly enough (and the main subject of this post), Bob Dylan and my wife are both heroes of mine for roughly the same reason.

Both Dylan and my wife are extremely confident. It’s not just that they are unswayed by what others think about them, they simply don’t care. They know what they want and they do it. They have an air of being arrogant but they are really quite humble. Their true humility allows them to be secure in their own person which in turn exudes confidence which most people don’t have and therefore interpret as pride. In a similar way, this characteristic also allows them to be distant or mysterious even when well known.

I am a people pleaser. Though everything in my soul rebels against man-made authority, I almost always end up being a yes-man. I simply cannot stand for others to dislike me or think poorly of me. These two are my heroes because I long for this quality which they possess with grace. It’s not about telling people off or saying “no” just because I can. It’s about living securely in this body and soul God gave me.

I have moments where I am so inspired by my wife that I am actually able to suppress my fear of being unloved for as long as a whole day. In these moments I am able to speak and write and create music and love people wholeheartedly. The rest of the time, well, I just struggle.

Tired

2005-09-13T22:15:00.000-05:00

Tired. This is the definitive word for my life right now. My job has me going anywhere between 15 to 18 hours a day. It would help if I enjoyed the job. And I am truly thankful for a job that provides for my family. But it's hard to shake the feeling that I need a change. Even more, I need strength. I need help. I need encouragement and I need prayer.

Maybe it's my mood and I know it's cheesy, but if you get the chance, check out Paul McCartney's last song "Anyway" on his new album (Chaos & Creation in the Backyard). It fits my life in this moment.

Passive Momentum

2005-09-12T00:02:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of the summer I left the last band I was in. Something was missing. It was probably me. The timing wasn't right and my depression with the whole thing kept growing. So I decided to take a leave of absence from the music scene. Then over the past several weeks this new project has developed. I am working with two other guys (perhaps a third this week). We are called "Passive Momentum." We're writing songs and will soon be recording. Be looking real soon in my music section for samples. You can also go to www.passivemomentum.net in about a month to learn more about us and hear the music we're making.

Divine Hours

2005-09-06T06:57:00.000-05:00

Almost since the beginning of Christianity, believers have practiced fixed-hour prayer. This has been referred to as "The Liturgy of the Hours" or "keeping the hours" or "saying the offices" or "praying the hours". Phyllis Tickle has compiled selected readings, Psalms, and prayers and has put these in a three part series simply entitled, "The Divine Hours". I checked one of the volumes out at the library almost two years ago and then received the series as a gift for my birthday last year. I have been quite lazy in my faithfulness to using it. But I recently reintroduced myself to the discipline of praying during these fixed hours. Sometimes I read a little and let that be a catalyst to embarking on a different train of thought and prayer. Other times I just let the reading stand. There are four fixed times of prayer throughout the day (as the church has had for centuries).

The discipline alone is difficult for me but I am already seeing its fruit in that I am meditating on Scripture again rather than hurriedly rushing through a passage just so I can check off "Bible Reading" on my to-do list. I highly recommend something like this.

Jay & Linda

2005-08-26T15:51:00.000-05:00

When I was young, a lot of people my parents knew developed cancer and passed away. My grandmother also died of cancer when I was young. So when my dear friend Jay Custer developed colon cancer several years ago, I thought I was prepared. I wasn't. Cancer is ugly. It saps energy and life out of its victims. In December of 2003 Jay passed away but only after months of agonizing pain, helplessly watching his body waste away. This morning another dear friend passed away from cancer. Linda Davis was a faithful member of our church. Tonight me and some of the guys from church are going to get together with Mel, who has been Linda's faithful companion over the past several years. Mel took care of Linda right until the end. Today his heart is breaking. Tonight we will eat pizza, watch some movies he picked out, play guitar and sing some songs, and drink a toast to our dear friend Linda. Tonight, while we do this, Linda is in heaven. She is dancing and singing with our Jesus who has taken away all of her suffering and pain. Oh how I wish I could be there for that reunion!

So today, while still in mourning, I am thankful. I am thankful for my two friends who are now with their Savior. I am thankful for these friends who've taught me how to be faithful right up to the end; how to live and die with grace and dignity and hope. Wherever you are tonight, please join me in raising your glasses high. Here's to Jay and Linda.

"Now we see things imperfectly as in a poor mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God knows me now." ~ 1 Cor. 13:12

I'm ready to be inspired

2005-08-25T18:59:00.000-05:00

Derek Webb
7:00 PM Saturday
Alvin,TX
Only 48 hours to go

Road Trip

2005-08-25T16:53:00.000-05:00

The last time I took a road trip with the guys was with EL MOL to see Roger Clyne in Austin (good friend + good show = good night). This post is more of an invitation for all of the fellas living in the Dallas area or if you plan on being in the area this weekend. We are a taking a good old fashioned Texas road trip to Houston to see Derek Webb at a free concert this Saturday evening. Give me a call or drop me an email if you want to come. It should be a lot of fun.

SPAM never tasted so bad

2005-08-23T18:39:00.000-05:00

I have noticed that over the past month all of us who use blogger have been getting nailed with spam. What a sorry life one must lead to actually think it's fun to do this sort of thing. Anyway, until we host our own blogs there is really only one measure we can take to ensure safety from this menace. There is a feature you can turn on which makes anyone wanting to leave a comment have to type in a code they see on the screen. This automatically blocks all automated spamming. It is a bummer though because it creates one more step people have to take to leave a comment. It's hard to complain when this whole endeavor is free but it does sadden my heart to have to do this. Oh well. The blog must go on.....

Here's to a great life!

2005-08-20T19:57:00.000-05:00

When you’re a kid, you daydream about what your life will be like someday. One day you will grow up to be a doctor or astronaut or president or rock star. But it almost never turns out the way you had it all planned. That is unless you are 100% driven from birth, no obstacles deter you from your path and God has either planned your life to go that way or He is at least cool with your plan. My dream from fairly early on was to marry a beautiful woman, have some kids, be a rock star and a youth pastor. While most of these have come true, none of it happened according to my measly plan.

The reason I mention this is because I find myself pondering (once again) what I deem to be my sorry life. I struggle with pessimism, depression and general self-abuse. But just the other day I was looking at a picture of my wife and my three daughters and I realized (once again) that I am a fool to think that in any way God has not used me for His glory. My wife is the embodiment of all that is mysterious and incredible and exhilarating and good and beautiful in this world. And the idea that God would allow me to wake up everyday next to this stunning woman is a testimony to His loving compassion for me. As if that were not enough, He goes ahead and gives me three wonderfully unique and gorgeous daughters to love, cherish, honor, protect and tell the story over and over and over of this Jesus who loves them to death. Wow. I am dumbfounded at His goodness. Once again I am humbled and repent of the sin of the pride of thinking my life worthless. Here’s to the Author of this great life I live!

Srebrenica Remembered (Part 2)

2005-08-11T13:42:00.000-05:00

This is a "must read" article from USA Today on the massacre in Srebrenica in 1995.

Srebrenica - time to own up

Radio Limited

2005-08-11T10:31:00.000-05:00

Dallas, TX is a great place to live. I even like the weather most of the year. But I have three things against this wonderful city. First, despite the new Dart rail system, our public transportation system is cumbersome and inefficient. Second, downtown Dallas is a bore. Ever since I moved here in the early 90's Mayors Kirk and Miller have been promising revitalization projects but they have remained empty promises (unless you count one new Starbuck's in the middle of downtown progress). Finally and most importantly (and the main topic here), Dallas radio is horrible. Thanks to Viacom and Clear Channel every station is almost the same. I can hear the same top 40/oldies tunes over and over and over and over all day long. I realize that this is happening all over the country but Dallas is particularly bad. There is simply no choice. Now because of this and the fact that I have a MP3 player and can listen to what I want, I turn to talk radio.

But my choices there are limited as well. I can turn my AM dial to a handful of stations and hear annoyed, bigoted, pompous, right-wing conservatives preach all day about how left-wing, Democratic nuts are destroying our country and we must fight them at all costs. Or I can turn on NPR/PRI and listen to proud, intellectualist left-wingers preach on about how they are for the common man and how conservatives are destroying the very fabric of our country. Some choice, eh? In the end, I go with NPR. Why? NPR covers a wide-range of topics and it is interesting. Conservative radio is fueled by anger and more importantly: it is boring as all get out.

Jesus calls me to love everyone. Not to be angry with those who don't see eye to eye with me. I am easily annoyed and angered. So I don't need others to rile me up. And just because someone is affiliated with a certain political party doesn't make them any less of a human being (or Christian). So, my dial is permanently set (for now) to NPR. And you've got to love the BBC news at night which actually covers world news outside of Iraq.

It's official.... Garth didn't make anyone's list

2005-08-05T01:18:00.000-05:00

Yet another fine list - this one from my brother-in-law Josh Mezger. Josh has always had great taste in music. Especially ever since a certain someone introduced him to U2 over 15 years ago. Thanks Josh.

Baby Fly

2005-08-02T13:49:00.000-05:00

There are actually contests like this. People actually enter their kids in them. Okay, maybe I'm not the biggest fan in the world.

Hermit Basin

2005-07-28T13:06:00.000-05:00

Our family went to Hermit Basin for church camp last week. It has become tradition over the past few years for our church, Skillman Bible Church, to join up with Town North Bible Church at this wonderful church camp sandwiched between Pueblo and Colorado Springs. I love everything about this place - the breathtaking views, the meals, the incredible staff, the luxurious accommodations, ping-pong, billiards, swimming, relaxing with my family, etc. But all of that is just a bonus. The real reason this has become a tradition not only for Skillman but for my family, is because it renews my vision and love for God's people in my church and the church. Spending quality time with the Boyles, Duvalls, Goughs, Turneys, Dianne Mezger, my parents and many others made me just wish that our whole church could have been there. I fell in love all over again with these folks. What a love God puts in our hearts for our brothers and sisters in Christ. I need to be reminded of this love daily because I am a cynic and pessimist. I am grateful for God's provision in sending us to Hermit Basin.

"I give you a new commandment - to love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. Everyone will know by this that you are my disciples - if you have love for one another."
~ John 13:34-35

And yet more (ongoing) results of the "22 All Time Greatest Songs" Poll

2005-07-23T13:06:00.000-05:00

Recent adds: Aaron Turney & Rob Mezger (scroll to the bottom for Rob's)

You can click on the the comments section of this post to see the current results. If you still want to post your list please leave it in this comment section. Blog/rock on!

The Eye of God

2005-07-14T00:18:00.000-05:00

This photo was taken by NASA with the Hubble telescope. They are calling it "The Eye of God."

"You alone are the LORD. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you."

Nehemiah 9:6

Srebrenica Remembered

2005-07-12T19:18:00.000-05:00

In the Bosnian silver-mining town of Srebrenica in July 1995, one of the most notorious modern acts of genocide took place. While the international community and U.N. peacekeepers looked on, Serb forces separated civilian men from women and killed thousands of men en masse, or hunted them down in the forests. Approximately 8,000 Muslim men and boys were killed. Hundreds of women and children were tortured, raped, and/or killed. In 1995 I was 23 years old and a Bible college student. I didn't have a clue what was going on in Bosnia. I'd never even heard of the place. Today I stand with the rest of the western world in shame of our ignorance and apathy as we commemorate those who perished.

Come as you are, as you were, as I want you to be

2005-07-04T02:28:00.000-05:00

About twelve years ago I made a conscious decision to embrace postmodernity. For at least a year it was just about all I studied. Convinced that modernity had run its full course and had failed us miserably, I sought to redefine my Christian faith with a practical, postmodern theology. What I thought would be an exciting new journey actually took me down a treacherous path. The result was almost a 5 year “dark night of the soul.” I have made some startling discoveries which may seem obvious to many (and probably should have been obvious to me, but indeed I am slow learner). Modernity and postmodernity are ambivalent. They are merely words used to describe the overarching mood and belief system of our culture past (modern) and present (postmodern).

Postmodernity is difficult to define because almost no two people can agree on a definition. I like this one: “A rejection of the sovereign autonomous individual with an emphasis upon anarchic collective, anonymous experience. Collage, diversity, the mystically unrepresentable, Dionysian passion are the foci of attention. Most importantly we see the dissolution of distinctions, the merging of subject and object, self and other. This is a sarcastic playful parody of western modernity and the ‘John Wayne’ individual and a radical, anarchist rejection of all attempts to define, reify or re-present the human subject.”

In one sense, postmodernity is real because it exists in the hearts and minds of so many. To deny that our culture is in a state of postmodernity one would have to close their eyes and ears. It’s everywhere. But just like modernity, it is an expression of a belief system. And just like modernity it contains tenets which ring true and others that crumble under their own weight. And just like modernity it will unravel over time.

Rereading Chesterton’s “Orthodoxy” has reminded me what I love about postmodernity and what I find despicable about it. This may sound paradoxical and that is precisely because it is. I am willing to live with this tension. Postmodernity has destroyed modernity’s chief false god: reason. For this I am grateful. Postmodernity (for many) has restored lost elements of the Christian faith including mystery, imagination, simplicity, and wonder. The incessant need to explain all sound Christian doctrine through scientific method is slowly ending due to the influence of the new culture. This is a good thing…. to an extent. What I am now seeing, however, are Christians who don’t know what to believe. Reason has been thrown out. If we believe something too strongly, it becomes dogma, and we simply cannot have that in our enlightened, postmodern culture. If you don’t believe me, simply do a Google search for postmodern Christian blogs (or ask me and I can throw you some links) and see for yourself. In an effort to reject modernity and all churches which continue in that modus operandi (which is 98% of all Protestant churches), they have thrown the baby out with the bath water. If one rejects the tenets of a faith tradition, how can one say they are still part of that tradition?

(For now) I leave you with a rather lengthy excerpt from Chesterton. He was truly a prophet in that he knew what was coming almost a century before it arrived.

“What we suffer from to-day is humility in the wrong place. Modesty has moved from the organ of ambition. Modesty has settled upon the organ of conviction; where it was never meant to be. A man was meant to be doubtful about himself, but undoubting about the truth; this has been exactly reversed. Nowadays the part of a man that a man does assert is exactly the part he ought not to assert himself. The part he doubts is exactly the part he ought not to doubt -- the Divine Reason. Huxley preached a humility content to learn from Nature. But the new skeptic is so humble that he doubts if he can even learn. Thus we should be wrong if we had said hastily that there is no humility typical of our time. The truth is that there is a real humility typical of our time; but it so happens that it is practically a more poisonous humility than the wildest prostrations of the ascetic. The old humility was a spur that prevented a man from stopping; not a nail in his boot that prevented him from going on. For the old humility made a man doubtful about his efforts, which might make him work harder. But the new humility makes a man doubtful about his aims, which will make him stop working altogether.
At any street corner we may meet a man who utters the frantic and blasphemous statement that he may be wrong. Every day one comes across somebody who says that of course his view may not be the right one. Of course his view must be the right one, or it is not his view. We are on the road to producing a race of men too mentally modest to believe in the multiplication table. We are in danger of seeing philosophers who doubt the law of gravity as being a mere fancy of their own. Scoffers of old time were too proud to be convinced; but these are too humble to be convinced. The meek do inherit the earth; but the modern skeptics are too meek even to claim their inheritance.”

I just couldn't do it

2005-06-18T14:07:00.000-05:00

So I'm meeting with a friend at Starbucks. And we both agree that a top 11 list of all-time greatest songs is nearly impossible. I really did try and please continue to persevere with your list, if you are able. So I went from an arbitrary 11 to 22. Still it was hard, but not so impossible. When I concluded my list, I was shocked by a few things. First, the Beatles didn't make it. Second, Jimi Hendrix did. Third, more good music came out of the 90's than I thought. Without further ado... here's my (current) top 22 songs of all time (in no particular order). And please remember that the deal was I couldn't include U2 songs. Also, to see other's lists, please check out the comments section where I originally posted this challenge . If you already posted a list and feel cheated, please feel free to revise your list to 22 songs.

• With God on Our Side - Bob Dylan (1964)
• That Particular Time - Alanis Morissette (2002)
• Ghost in This House - Alison Krauss (1999)
• The Luckiest – Ben Folds (1999)
• To Make You Feel My Love - both Bob Dylan & Billy Joel versions (1997)
• Pictures of You - The Cure (1989)
• Wedding Dress - Derek Webb (2003)
• At Seventeen - Janis Ian (1975)
• I Was Brought to My Senses - Sting (1996)
• Voodoo Child (Slight Return) - Jimi Hendrix (1968)
• Rose-Colored Times - Lisa Loeb (1994)
• No Room for Us - Lost Dogs (1993)
• Ring Them Bells - Bob Dylan (1989)
• It’s a Mistake - Men at Work (1983)
• Be Thou My Vision - Ancient Irish hymn; Mary Byrne & Eleanor Hull (1912)
• Time Enough for Tears – The Corrs *Bono co-wrote this song (2003)
• Coming Back to Life - Pink Floyd (1994)
• Sail to the Moon - Radiohead (2003)
• C’Mon People, We’re Making It Now - Richard Ashcroft (2000)
• You Made Me the Thief of Your Heart - Sinéad O'Connor (1993)
• On Fire - Switchfoot (2003)
• Real, Real Gone - Van Morrison (1990)

I'm curious

2005-06-14T13:38:00.000-05:00

If you have the time, I am really curious to know two things:

1) What are your 11 favorite U2 songs?
2) What would you consider to be the top 11 songs of all time (any artist, any genre,
any time period)?

This could be interesting.

The Best of......

2005-06-14T13:31:00.000-05:00

A good buddy of mine asked me what I believed to be U2’s top 5 songs. Of course I thought I’d better share this with everyone. I had to do the top 11 however, because there are too many great songs to choose from. “One” and “Where the Streets Have No Name” didn’t make it on to the list because they’re miles above every U2 song ever created. They fit in the “top 5 songs of all time - period” category. So here they are:

1. Bad (Unforgettable Fire)
2. Acrobat (Achtung Baby)
3. I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For (Joshua Tree)
4. Until the End of the World (Achtung Baby)
5. Heartland (Rattle & Hum)
6. Yahweh (How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb)
7. Beautiful Day (All That You Can’t Leave Behind)
8. Zooropa (Zooropa)
9. Rejoice (October)
10. When I Look at the World (All That You Can’t Leave Behind)
11. Like a Song (War)

I chose each of these songs because (a) the lyrics and the music mesh perfectly (b) they are the songs I return to again and again. I’m anxious to hear from all of the fans out there how you agree or disagree with me.

Here's to G.K.

2005-05-31T16:14:00.001-05:00

You love him or you hate him. The picture says it all. If you've never read Chesterton try "Orthodoxy."

Two More Songs

2005-05-30T16:36:00.000-05:00

Here are the other two U2 songs I promised to post. Both of these are from Chicago.

Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own
Bad

Follow up on the concert

2005-05-21T21:34:00.000-05:00

I am just about over my "U2 concert" high. Which means very soon on this blog I will once again be rambling on about things I have no business discussing (primarily because I usually don't have a clue what I'm talking about). An unfortunate character trait my poor brother and I inherited from our dad. This post is dedicated to 5 special men in my life: Matt Linebarger, Rob Mezger, Josh Mezger, Scott Bean and James Burkhalter. These are my best U2 buds. Here are some MP3s from the show Leslie and I saw in Chicago. Due to limited space, I can only post two out of the four songs I wanted to post. So, I will post two this week and two next week. "40", "Yahweh" and "Bad" are three songs Rob and Josh were longing to hear at their show and didn't get to. So this is especially for you guys. I will throw in "Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own" next week for good measure. These MP3s are excellent quality (and I never say that). Enjoy and let me know what you think.

Your welcome - Chris

Yahweh
"40"

Leslie, Chicago and U2

2005-05-11T10:08:00.000-05:00

I had to give it a few days to let it settle in. My friends, last Saturday's concert was the best U2 show I've been to. I know, I know. Right now you are thinking, "C'mon, Chris. You're just still reeling after the excitement of it all. You don't really mean to say that the Vertigo concert was better than ZooTV, do you?" I can't believe it myself. I always thought that no show could top that glorious night in Tacoma, WA in 1992. But our show was phenomenal. It was definitely a combination of things. First, my wife was with me. It was a night of harmony and unity for the two of us. Second, Chicago is the ideal place to see these guys. Third, the setlist:

Love and Peace or Else
Vertigo
Elevation
An Cat Dubh - Into the Heart
City of Blinding Lights
Beautiful Day
Miracle Drug
Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own
New Year's Day
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Bullet the Blue Sky
Running to Stand Still
Bad
Pride
Where the Streets Have No Name
One
Zoo Station
The Fly
Mysterious Ways
All Because of You
Yahweh
40

Highlights: (1) "Bad" - This is Leslie's favorite U2 song and I was shocked that we got to hear it. (2) Bono's voice was on (clear and high) all night. This was especially a treat on "Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own" and "Yaweh." (3) Bono beating the bass drum on "Love and Peace or Else." (4) Hearing "An Cat Dubh" and "Into the Heart" live for the first time. (5) After waiting almost 20 years to hear "40" live, I got to sing it with thousands of other fans in the dark.

Low Points: (1) Bono's lame little speeches. For example: "Chicago. We love Chicago. Chicago is the city of the future." Now wait a second, I thought Sarajevo was the city of the future, or wait, was it New York. Bono sure has a lot of cities of the future. Also, right before "Miracle Drug" he said, "We have faith in science. We have faith in scientists. We have faith in doctors and nurses." Then a long pause.... "And, um, we also have faith in God." Lame, lame, lame. (2)"Where the Streets" and "One" sounded old and dried up. (3) Weed smoking, drunk guys sitting right in front of us (4) Bad acoustics at the United Center muffled Bono's voice a bit (which wasn't a bad thing when he was speaking).

Only 5 months to go for the Dallas show!

It’s a beautiful day. Don’t let it get away. Touch me; take me to that other place.

2005-05-07T13:10:00.000-05:00

And it is. And I won’t. And it will. It’s Saturday morning, May 7th. I am writing this from the second floor of my luxurious room at the Sheraton Suites in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, right outside of Chicago. Last night we had a great evening with Josh & Jennie (my brother and sister in-laws), eating outside on a perfect night at Moody’s Pub. I am overcome with joy because in little over an hour from now I will see my new nephew, Simeon Mezger (Rob & Janet's son). This is my first time to be an uncle and I couldn’t be more thrilled! I’m sure he can’t wait to meet me as well. Ah, but alas. As if all this weren’t enough. Tonight, I take my beautiful bride of 13 years to encounter the praise and worship celebration of a lifetime. U2 – Vertigo. We will sing, we will scream, we will hold onto each other while we gaze in awe at the lights, video, and the four men on stage playing near-perfect music. We both anticipate that the evening will be magical. I’ve seen three U2 tours now: Zoo TV in Tacoma, PopMart in Dallas, Elevation in Houston, and I almost saw them in Tempe for the Joshua Tree Tour (missed it by that much). But Chicago…. this is the place to see them! The only better place to catch the band is in Dublin (and we almost did that too). What a day. I am truly blessed.

Blogging - What it could and should be

2005-05-04T09:56:00.000-05:00

I removed my last post for good reason. I owe it to my three readers, my friend in Nebraska, and myself to refrain from being a commercial for other's blogs. I won't do it twice. But I guess I'm cheating here. I have to direct you to my friend's blog yet again. Therefore the removal of the first admonition to visit his blog. I challenge you to take a look at his most recent post for three reasons (1) his blog is better than mine (2) he describes the resaon why I love U2 (3) it is an excellent example of what blogging was designed for (in my humble opinion) and it might encourage you in your own writing.

Ist hier zu Morten
A Plain View

6 Days......

2005-05-01T15:59:00.000-05:00

OK. I know that all of you have probably lost complete hope that I would ever write another post for my blog. I just get so darn busy. But I'm back for a while. At least long enough to let you know that in 6 glorious days I will be sitting at a very packed United Center in Chicago for U2's Vertigo show. There are several reasons I'm stoked about this (does anyone say "stoked" anymore?): (1) Uh... it's U2. (2) My wife has never seen them and her first time will be with ME in CHICAGO. (3) They will have had a week's rest which will hopefully put them at the top of their game for our concert. (4) Strong rumor has it that our concert will be taped for a DVD coming out next year which means... (5) The band will do their best to play and sing well and (6) the crowd should be a rowdy one. This is one of those experiences that I just wish I could have with all of my friends. But that can't happen in the world of rock bands these days. I know many of you will see them at another show this year though. Rock on.

And then there were three.....

2005-04-03T10:17:00.000-05:00

Last Friday we spent the evening with friends in Ft. Worth seeing Derek Webb in concert. If you’ve never been to the FROG in Ft. Worth, it’s a great venue for an intimate show. There were mixed feelings among our group as to Derek’s performance (most of us agreed that there is just no excuse for 3 opening acts). My wife and I, however, are still reeling over Webb’s portion. The man can rock. I had no idea! He performed songs off his new album which I don’t even care for that much and I ended up loving them live. He had passion without being over the top (see Bono in Zoo TV). Besides the fact that I felt him drawing me into a place of desire and worship, there were two songs that just made the night unforgettable. First, he actually did the unthinkable - he opened with a Bob Dylan song. And not just any Dylan song…. “The Times They Are A Changing”. Nobody does this any more because it was such a trendy thing to do in the 80’s and early 90’s. His rendition was the best live version of this song I’ve heard. Then he put that sweet, fun-fetti icing on the cake and played a Billy Bragg tune (Wilco) with Woody Guthrie’s lyrics, “Blood of the Lamb”.

And then there were three….. Bono, Dylan, Webb.

T-minus 16 hours

2005-03-28T01:08:00.000-06:00

It's finally here. The moment that some of us have been waiting for. This moment comes around only 5 years or so. The U2 Vertigo Tour begins in San Diego today. I will warn you, if you are a U2 fan... I am about to give a spoiler. And I will be giving away more in the days to come. Here was the final setlist they played for dress rehearsal last night:

City of Blinding Lights
The Electric Co.
An Cat Dubh / Into the Heart
Beautiful Day
Miracle Drug
Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own
Love and Peace or Else
Elevation
Stuck in a Moment You Can't Get Out Of
Yahweh
Bullet the Blue Sky
Running to Stand Still

(break for human rights video)

Zoo Station
The Fly
Vertigo

(break)

Pride
Where the Streets Have No Name
One
All Because of You
40

Some critics are calling it the Joshua Tree Tour, Zoo TV Tour and the Elevation Tour all rolled into one. Pure genius. It's a musical journey. My wife and I have tickets for the Chicago show on May 7th. Of course, more to come.....

God help us

2005-03-23T14:35:00.000-06:00

I am a patriotic American. Today I am ashamed of this great country. The U.S. Court of Appeals 11th Circuit denied the petition to reinsert Terry Schiavo's feeding tube. The same liberal judges who continue not only to allow the killing of babies but encourage it, now seek to have the right to kill the disabled. And make no mistake about it: the elderly are next. All of the issues that are making the mainstream news headlines make up one giant smokesreen for the real issue. This is one disabled woman who merely needs a feeding tube to live - she has not been proven to be in a complete vegetative state, she responds to people in a limited fashion (click on the title of this post for an example), and she is not on life support. ABC's latest poll just completely lied claiming that Terry was on life support. So the real issue. The liberal population of this country not only want the power to define life but they also want the power to kill whomever they choose. Where are all those courageous groups who fight for the oppressed and the downtrodden? Where are you now ACLU? Where are all you feminists? Where are you Reverend Jesse Jackson? Where are you Hillary Clinton? Where are you John Kerry? Where are you Bruce Springsteen? Where are you Green Day? Where are you Bono? Your collective silence speaks volumes. When will we truly be a democratic society again? When will liberal judges listen to the people rather than push their own politically and economically driven agendas? Who will rescue Terry Schiavo? What a sad, pathetic day.

I See Things Upside Down

2005-03-19T16:04:00.000-06:00

There are few song writers who I just seem to connect with. Derek Webb is one of those artists. For those of you who don't know who he is, for over a decade Derek was a part (the integral part, in my opinion) of Caedmon's Call. A few years ago he went solo. He now has two albums: "She Must and Shall Go Free" and "I See Things Upside Down". Musically, I don't dig everything he does but he is progressing and he is finding his own style. I'm not sure what Derek is like live but Les and I and a few friends are about to find out. April 1 he is playing at the FROG Theater in Ft. Worth. If your night is open, why don't you come and join us. Tickets are $10 at http://www.itickets.com/events/109950.html or you can buy them at the door for $12 if he doesn't sell out. Let me know if you're planning on coming so we can try to sit together.

Sometimes You Make It

2005-03-17T09:21:00.000-06:00

The rock and roll hall of fame is a lot like the academy awards: colleagues patting themselves on the back in the most arrogant fashion. U2 is no exception. But who cares? I love them and they are deserving of this award. And for those who are unaware, they were inducted into the hall of fame as early as a band can be - 25 years after it's conception. As I ponder why I still love these guys, in spite of their quasi-state-of-sellout-ness, 6 good reasons come to mind. First, their music is always relevant. Second, their music and lyrics touch my soul. Third, their music progresses with their age in a graceful manner. Fourth, they never sound like anyone else. Fifth, Bono has raw passion while still being cool, introspective, reverent, irreverent, and able to mock himself. Sixth, Bono, Edge, Larry and Adam remain friends... true brothers. As a friend would say...

viva la U2!

Manipulative Worship

2005-03-16T14:52:00.000-06:00

Rick, a friend of mine, just started a blog and posted an interesting piece on “seeker sensitive vs. believer sensitive worship”. I encourage you to check out his post: http://www.gministry.net/blog1/. I have some thoughts on worship that I have wanted to write about and Rick has helped put some coals on the grill.

Worship is a hot topic these days, actually for the last decade or so. Questions of style, theological soundness, and audience base have been at the core of these conversations. Quite frankly, these are all secondary issues for me. As each day goes by, I care less about these things. Worship is reverent love to God. It is giving of myself to bless Him. It is experiencing Him within the context of community. We can do this by singing or by standing still. The point is: anything that moves me in the direction of worship, I should view as a blessing. This is a freeing notion. I can worship in a devout Orthodox community as well as a fundamental Southern Baptist congregation. Wherever I am, I can worship; and if I am with brothers and sisters… that’s all the better.

Having said that, there is a trend in worship which frightens me. I call it “manipulative worship”. Worship leaders are now becoming worship authorities. As a worship leader myself, I am ever cognizant of the difference between leading people into the worship of God verses trying to manipulate people into an experience. This is evident in many churches where there is no silence in the service. Incessant talking and constant music (even during prayers) mark this type of worship. This does not lead me into worship. In fact, it does the opposite. It puts me on edge and I become defensive, closing myself off to the people of God. I suppose I should be able to worship even in these situations. This is something I pray for. I really hope that the future of worship moves away from this trend so that we may come together to worship in spirit and truth. More thoughts on this subject to come…

BBC NEWS | Technology | Gamer buys $26,500 virtual land

2005-03-05T11:27:00.000-06:00

BBC NEWS | Technology | Gamer buys $26,500 virtual land

Last night, I was thinking through several current events and then I asked myself, "Is our country going insane?" From Harvard demanding a formal apology from Jada Pinkett Smith for offending gays and lesbians while giving a speech about being dedicated to her husband to the city of Santa Barbara installing transexual bathrooms in all public areas so that bisexuals, crossdressers and transexuals don't have to feel uncomfortable on any given day deciding which bathroom to use. This is insane. Then I read this article in the tech section of BBC news online. Online gamer buys virtual island for $26,500! Read it; it' a short article. Oh my gosh! Our country is completely out of control.

New Format

2005-03-04T17:28:00.000-06:00

I have changed the format a little bit (again). All the various sub-blogs were a headache and I don't write enough to warrant such blogs. All my book/music/film reviews are now under the media section. Everything else is in my regular blog. Thanks!

Fatherhood

2005-03-02T14:31:00.000-06:00

I've been contemplating fatherhood lately. Several things have sparked this contemplation for me. First, the back cover of U2's latest single (shown here). Second, a recent movie that me and Les took the kids to see called "Because of Winn Dixie (you can read my review soon in the "Films" section of my blog). Third, I've been working my tail off and haven't seen my own kids in what seems like over a year.

Fatherhood is a weird thing for me because I have a father and I am one. As I get older (32 but feeling 50+), I am becoming more critical of the way I father my children. At the same time, I am growing more sympathetic to the way in which my dad raised me. My dad and I are alike in many ways (as most dads and sons are). We believe in so many of the same things. We have similar habits, similar quirks. As far as our interests and "wiredness" are concerned, we couldn't be more opposite. The way this plays out in our relationship is complex. At times, our differences have provided us with rich conversations. At other times, it has caused grief and heartache. I am fully aware that all of this chemistry is now happening with me and my own children.

Fatherhood is a great thing. I wouldn't trade it for the world. The love I have for my kids fills my heart; it's overflowing. Today I feel a strong sense of gratitude. One thing I know for sure, as I get older I enjoy spending more time with my dad and my kids. This summer my dad and I are planning a father/son fishing trip in Colorado. And we're hoping to take the kids to Disney World by the end of the year. I love family time! Oh, and try to guess who's dad is who's in the picture!

Blogodoxy

2005-02-13T22:20:00.000-06:00

I have been on yet another blogging sabbatical. And I hate to return to the field with this ongoing orthodoxy/evangelical debate, but I can hardly resist. First of all, to my friends at blogodoxy: nice looking blog but get a life. I know that your site is designed to discuss Christendom in an ecumenical forum but lighten up. Can't you guys ever discuss anything light-hearted and fun? Everything is really dry and tiresome to read. Having said that, I will probably drag on a bit here.

The discussion is good but I have to say that all of you guys who have converted to Orthodoxy have turned into arrogant buggers. And I must say, whether you like it or not, your speech is hurtful. I consider all of you as brothers in Christ. And you have nothing, absolutely nothing, which binds you tighter to Christ and saints past or present, than I. For the moment, I only wish to touch on the issues already on the table. I am fully aware that the issues at hand are far more complicated and important than any of us realize. But here we go.

1. Orthodoxy assumes apostolic succession. Show me in Scripture where this is iron clad.
2. I am growing weary of the belief in the quasi-infallibility of the church fathers and the early church. Brandon, you wrote, “’Where there is no bishop, there is no church.’ That was St. Ignatius of Antioch somewhere around the turn of the 2nd century. He was a contemporary to some of the Apostles and probably was instructed by them. If he was teaching something that was heresy then he would have been disciplined.” You speak of this as though it were a common fact. How you could possibly know something like this. There were thousands of Christians and many bishops. There were disagreements all of the time and the apostles themselves were fallible (the Scripture the Holy Spirit inspired them to write, however, is not).
3. There is a romantic notion that exists in Orthodoxy (which is why I personally believe that all of you joined the church) that after Christ came and established his church; everything that happens in the church would be set in stone, reliable and infallible. I know you will all try to argue with me on this point but this is the way you live. It is how you talk.
4. Brandon, you also spoke on the issue of authority. The lack of discipline in evangelicalism is due to sin in the church not an error in theology. And surely you are not suggesting that throughout church history the discipline performed in the Orthodox Church has always been fair and just, are you?
5. Clay, you wrote, “that if one begins with Christ and the apostles and studies the history of the Church from then until now, then you will have a completely different perspective on the world and our lives as Christians than if you start from now and progress backwards with all of our modern philosophical, sociological, and ecclesiastical influences.” First of all, it is impossible to begin in the first century. We live in the now. We don’t live in a vacuum. It is impossible to read Scripture and history without seeing it through the lenses of our own and others bias. When you first encountered Christ and you gave your life to Him (and your life was already His), that was in the here and now (humanly speaking in the time-space continuum). And I also must add that both Rob and I have gone to fine theological institutions where we were taught church history and the Scriptures. No matter how much you assure us that you don’t mean to come across as condescending, you continue to use a tone which suggests that we are, at best, disinterested in church history and, at worst, bumbling idiots in the field.
6. We differ theologically, and I am fine with that. But you all have the audacity to say that you belong to the one true church. This sounds like the protestant heresies Brandon was speaking of (Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witness, etc.). You are on shaky ground, fellas, shaky ground.

Well, I am tired and like the rest of you, working too many hours. So, before I get any more emotional on this subject, I bid you a fair good night.

World Tribune.com -- Media's coverage has distorted world's view of Iraqi reality

2005-01-23T18:31:00.000-06:00

A friend sent me this article. It is powerful and after reading it, more than ever, I am not afraid to say I am a conservative, Republican to the core. Please read it and pass it on. It is lengthy so if you grow weary just skip to the postscript.

It's a musical journey

2005-01-23T18:20:00.000-06:00

Ever since I was 16, the main thing I wanted to do in life was sing in a rock and roll band. I went through stages where it almost became a reality to the "it's-just-not-the-practical/responsible-thing-to-do-at-this-time-in-my-life" syndrome. The last time when I actually thought it would happen was almost 11 years ago. Well, it's happening again. We've got rhythm guitar, bass and drums. We're writing material. It's fun. We're going to work hard. We suck right now. And it's great! I have a lot of goals and desires in life: raise my kids, love my wife, missions, work to get paid.... but this dream I have had for so long looks like it might finally happen. Here we go....

The Vertigo Tour

2005-01-23T01:41:00.000-06:00

It's almost here! U2 will begin their "Vertigo Tour" at the end of March in San Diego. This means that they should be in Dallas by April or May. We'll know for certain this Monday when they release all of the cities and dates. You can begin purchasing tickets this Tuesday at 10 am..... if you are a paid U2.com member. If you have never been to a U2 show, this may be your last chance for a good one. I guarantee it will be one of the best concerts you will ever see!

New Links

2005-01-23T01:24:00.000-06:00

Just a reminder that I now have several different blogs which all have links on this blog (see above: Books, Music, Films). This blog is devoted to everything else that doesn't fit in any of those categories: like Styper and Rod Stewart (maybe I'll make another link entitled "CRAP"). Anyway, don't forget to check those links as well.

Auf Wiedersehen für jetzt

Why all of us who grew up in the 80's are psychologically disturbed

2005-01-15T15:05:00.000-06:00

I received a lot of grief for the Rod Stewart photo I posted. But how about this one fellas. Ran across this baby on the net and I couldn't refuse. I was a quasi Stryper fan in 1987, though I really couldn't stand their outfits. Looking back, this band - their makeup, clothes, posture, chest hair, lack of facial hair, voices, guitar riffs, lyrics, intros, basically every freakin' thing about them - represents all that was unholy in the 80's. We would have been totally lost without the moral/music compass of Vox and the boys to guide our paths. And about posts... ain't a guy allowed an occasional blog sabbatical?

When siblings go off the deep end

2005-01-07T16:35:00.000-06:00

I'm sorry. I feel like such a jerk. I have let my younger brother down. I thought that the years of my instruction on tasteful music had sunk in. But apparently I was wrong. After calling it quits on music piracy, he downloads a Rod Stewart song - that he paid money for!!! I am dumbfounded.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2005-01-01T11:24:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year everybody! The fam and I went to a fun New Year's progressive dinner party last night. Then we came back home, settled in and enjoyed the final count down with a few close friends. Nothing magic, but cozy and intimate. I wanted to also mention a link that I have (to your right) called the Prayer Labyrinth. If you've ever done this live, this is the next best thing. It is an online journey where you will be guided through different areas of your life. At each stop, you can reflect, contemplate, meditate, listen to God and talk with Him. I had the opportunity to go through this at a local convention. It was an incredible experience. I have walked through the online version a couple of times and if in the right state of mind - it can be rewarding. It is definitely a good New Year's Day thing to do. Love you all!

What was it you wanted

2004-12-31T11:10:00.000-06:00

There are two kinds of people. There are those who can try something and move on. Balance. Then there are those of us who try something, get hooked, and have to have it until we are so sick of it we can't stand the sight of it any longer. I've done this my whole life. U2, mint chocolate chip ice cream, Van Gogh paintings, etc. It has held me back artistically. That and demanding perfection in the music I write (which is why I hardly ever finish a song), but we'll save that one for another post.

I bring all this up for two reasons. First, it is my New Year's resolution to write new songs, whole songs, and one's that I wouldn't usually write. Second, I am inspired to do this as a result of reading Bob Dylan's autobiography. I've always been a fan of Dylan's. But it has only been pretty recent that I've moved from appreciation to love. He is a fascinating man. Not in the way most people think of him. The media has totally made him out to be something he is not (which they do unilaterally with all celebrities). They have called him savior and the European buddha. He is actually a very normal guy. He was just born to perform and later developed a desire to express himself through poetry via music. It is uncanny how much I can relate to his life. But his story has also given me hope in my gifts and aspirations... let me stop now before I usurp Mitchell from his MOL throne. Check out the book - it's a good read (even if autobiography is not your brand of java). I have a link to it on your left. Hope everyone has a great night tonight. And if you are attending the Slobberbone concert to usher in the new year.... my deepest sympathies.

Letting it set in

2004-12-30T09:58:00.000-06:00

After giving the new U2 album a chance to settle in and dusting off the covers of their older material, I have decided to revise my list of U2 albums from greatest to least (it would take an act of God to rearrange the top 4). Here's my final answer, for now.

Achtung Baby
The Joshua Tree
The Unforgettable Fire
Rattle & Hum
War
October
Boy
All That You Can't Leave Behind
How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb
Pop
Zooropa

And a very Merry Martin to me!

2004-12-27T14:24:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a very merry Christmas. As far as the gift thing goes, this may have been the best Christmas for me personally. Not only was the gift I received something I have always wanted, but I had no clue what I was getting (two essential ingredients for a fab gift). So what did I get? A brand, spankin' new Martin DC-1E acoustic guitar! This is the type of guitar one dreams of owning but knows all too well that it's out of reach. But, hmmmm... now I own it! I played it publicly for the first time at my church yesterday and people told me they could hear a huge difference between my Fender and the new Martin. I am very thankful to the Lord for this wonderful surprise. And a huge thank you goes out to my immediate and extended family who all went in on this gift to make this Christmas exceptional for me. If you live near DFW or you're passing through, you'll have to drop by for an evening of music!

To war or not to war?

2004-12-21T09:43:00.000-06:00

I am in a pensive mood. The news I awoke to this morning was of a rocket attack on a crowded dining hall at a U.S. base in Mosul, leaving 22 troops dead and many more injured. This war is perplexing. On the one hand, in my mind the war is justified. Given the nature of EL MOL (I am speaking of Sadaam Hussein and not Jason Mitchell), it was completely necessary to usurp his power. We have a moral obligation to help the powerless and afflicted. I believe that rebuilding Iraq and setting up the skeleton structure for democracy is of utmost importance. But here's the catch: it won't and can't happen. The area is just too volatile. As soon as we leave, all hell is going to break loose. No, not the hell that our blessed media portrays on the nightly news. Real destruction and suffering will ensue after our departure from the region. Then what? Sure, the average Iraqi citizen desires safety and freedom. But the insurgents will build and overpower the government when we're gone. So, do we just stay put for the long haul? I have never been in such a position before. I am truly anti-war and pro-war all rolled into one. Ever heard of a prolibertarepublican?

I promise it won't all be about U2!

2004-12-20T01:42:00.000-06:00

Though I must admit that it's pretty sad that 2 out of my first 3 posts are U2 discussions. I do have other things to write about... no, really. I wanted to lay down my list of U2 albums: greatest to least. Take my poll to see if we agree on the best album.

Achtung Baby
The Joshua Tree
The Unforgettable Fire
Rattle & Hum
War
October
Pop
Boy
How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb
All That You Can't Leave Behind
Zooropa

Da' Bomb: The Definitive Album Review

2004-12-18T13:36:00.000-06:00

So.... U2's "How to Dismantle an Atomic Bomb" has been out in the stores for roughly a month now. Some of us were fortunate enough to have a listen a couple of weeks before the release date. That will be a discussion in and of itself for another day. Here is my full review of the album:

VERTIGO
This is the one we all heard first. It's the "Elevation/Even Better Than the Real Thing" song of the album. It's catchy, it's got a groove. But it's a contrived grunge sound. It just isn't something U2 does very well. There are too many looped sounds from the early days. Thanks to Steve Lillywhite. Also, I find the lyrics shallow. ~ C-

MIRACLE DRUG
Second track but first one I enjoy. As with most of the tracks on the album (but unlike most U2 songs over the past 25 years), the lyrics are straightforward and to the point. Bono seems to be shouting in my face throughout the whole album, save the last track. With Miracle Drug, Bono gives us a snippet into the hardship of a friend of his in high school. The lyrics and music give the sense of personal triumph over tragedy as well as the need for depth in relationships. ~ B+

SOMETIMES YOU CAN"T MAKE IT ON YOUR OWN
Ties with "Yahweh" for best song on the album. Bono wrote this for and about his dad while he lay dying. One has to be pretty shallow not to be moved by this song. The direct/in-your-face lyrics are justified in this one. Will be a crowd-pleaser at the shows! ~ A

LOVE AND PEACE OR ELSE
This song took a while to grow on me, but I find myself returning to it more than other songs. It is gritty, anti-war, and almost unpleasant to listen to. That's why I love it! The lyrics can get on my nerves but the Edge's creativity override that. ~ B

CITY OF BLINDING LIGHTS
At first I hated this song. Then I loved it. Now I like it okay. It has the feeling of a great song that just doesn't quite deliver. The keyboard and guitars are cool and classic U2 sounding, but in a 80's sort of way. I feel like the band is trying to create some sense of nostalgia for me. That makes me want to puke. This is a post 9-11 song about NYC. The lyrics are good but the track just doesn't seem to fit with the theme of the album. I find that I like the song better if I listen to "New York" on ATYCLB first. ~ C+

ALL BECAUSE OF YOU
A good praise song. Bono lays out his personality - the good and the bad - and admits he is in need of God's grace. The end of the song is one of the highlights of the album where Bono goes into a Jaggeresque vocal and ends it with a bursting scream. I loved it so much the first time I heard it that I began laughing with joy! Having said that, while the guitar riffs are driving they are somewhat predictable. I expect more from the Edge. ~ B

A MAN AND A WOMAN
This song seems like it represents the future of U2. Is that a good or bad thing? I like the song. It fits Bono's vocals at this time in his life. It is Latin in feel, a song Crooner the Great would sing if (God rest his soul) he were still around. But the song peters out until it finally dies at the end. Lyrically, it might be one of the best tracks on the album. Bono has some great insight into marriage here. ~ B-

CRUMBS FROM YOUR TABLE
This song is one of illusion. The lyrics sound poetic. However, when the smoke clears, we are left with a rich man's bemoaning of America's wealth. This is when I want to stand up and shout... "GO BACK TO IRELAND!!!" Musically, it might be my favorite song on the album. It has a "Until the End of the World" sound to it. ~ C+

ONE STEP CLOSER TO KNOWING
What a wretched song! I wouldn't buy a great single if this were the B-side to it. That's how bad it is. Musically, it sound as if it might deliver but then it never goes anywhere. And the words are so unpoetic and melodramatic. Ugh. Bad, bad, bad. This is what happens when Bono writes a song from an idea Noel Gallagher gave him. ~ D-

ORIGINAL OF THE SPECIES
Occasionally, a song comes along that appears too simple, too popish for a rock band. I was tempted to believe that about this song. In context though, it is absolutely beautiful. Written for his daughter Eve, Bono sings this lullaby with passion and love. I am looking forward to this one live. ~ B+

YAHWEH
Musically and lyrically, the boys deliver! It's about time... it's the last track! A song of searching and questioning, but with reverence and thankfulness. It is the "40" of this decade. Another great one for the concert! ~ A+

Some closing thoughts.....
What does one do with this album??? It it simply not a great album for U2. There are many others that beat it. It is a good effort and it is better than "All That You Can't Leave Behind." "Yahweh" and "Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own" will be the only memorable songs off this album.

Welcome

2004-12-12T16:57:00.000-06:00

I would like to officially welcome you to my blog. At first, I was terribly against this whole concept of blogging. But like my closest friends, I have been sucked in. So, get ready for some interesting thoughts and lively discussion in the days to come.