Bondage of the Will-Part 2

Here is the last installment of the Bondage of the Will series on Issues, Etc. It is a really good one-I plan to listen to it again! What stands out to me after listening to it is that God, perfectly righteous and having every reason to condemn us, is so merciful. He does not require us to contribute in any way to our salvation, nor do we have to fear that He does not desire to give us His salvation. He loves to show us His mercy in Christ. Thanks be to God!

Happy Birthday John!

We celebrated John's 12th birthday twice-once with a peanut butter cake at a church meal, and once with our friends who came over and had supper with us (this time it was chocolate cake!). John even got another chocolate cake from his Aunt Jean when we recently went to Kansas City! Lots of food for a growing boy, what more can you ask for?

Waiting

Today marks the new year in the church calendar: Advent. It is the only time that I actually enjoy waiting for something, or in this case, Someone. During Advent, we not only wait for the remembrance of His coming that first Christmas, but look forward to His second coming.

And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. Luke 21:28

Lo! He comes with clouds descending,
Once for every sinner slain;
Thousand thousand saints attending
Swell the triumph of His train:
Alleluia,alleluia, alleluia!
Christ the Lord returns to reign.
-verse 1, Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending, LSB 336

Bondage of the Will, Part 1

This an Issues, Etc. program that goes more in depth about Luther's book, "The Bondage of the Will". Specifically, this show discusses Luther's comments in his book regarding predestination and God's foreknowledge, and Luther's later expressed concern that his writings in this book would be misunderstood. Very interesting.

Creation Museum

We recently had the privilege of going to the Creation Museum in Kentucky during their "Homeschool Days" (they offered a special rate). John's description: "Awesome!" Other kids' reactions: "Thank you, Mom, for taking us here!" The exhibits were very well done and informative. I highly recommend it!

We were also able to spend the night with our dear friends we met at the seminary last year, and now are living in Kentucky. I managed to keep this a secret from the younger two until we were done looking around the museum. Squeals of delight followed, and a wonderful time was had by all!