On comments...

David, I think blogs are all about the comments. It is a way to see one another - and hopefully such comments bring about the kind of conversation we have difficulty with in real life. Those who are disruptive - and use Scripture and Christianity like mortar bombs to throw out and destroy - well - the world is filled with such people. One of the big issues over the last 12-15 years is that such people - suddenly have a voice to spew their invective and feel powerful. Several conservative and liberal authors have made a fortune by being reactive, untruthful and by gathering "mobs" to defend their hatred. Free speech says that's ok. However, as I recall, such mobs were necessary to crucify Jesus. Now, these loud and uncivil voices - threaten us - our thoughtful faith. They are so sure they are right - no one else is allowed to talk. They will be drowned out. So, responses are a good thing. I have grown accustomed to scrolling through and skipping certain voices - too loud, too invective filled , too certain they could not be wrong. Thank you for giving us all the opportunity to speak of serious things in a manner that is civil and ultimately a catalyst for conversations in our real life. sometime, by writing here and by reading the thoughtful reflections I see here, I find my voice in conversations with others. I have, on occasion, confronted those who are disruptive - and hope I can learn to do so in a manner that befits the blog.