Verse in Everyday Life

Poetry has long been a daily companion, offering moments of reflection, inspiration, and connection. From the rhythmic verses of the Fireside Poets, shared in the warmth of family hearths, to the poignant lines of newspaper poets like Sam Walter Foss, poetry has shaped cultural identity and values in profound ways. Today, this tradition continues in new forms, including my own journey into AI music—a modern evolution of sharing verse that reflects the concepts of everyday life and faith.

The Influence of the Fireside Poets

In the 19th century, the Fireside Poets brought poetry into the mainstream, creating works that resonated deeply with American families. Writers like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, John Greenleaf Whittier, and Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr. crafted verses that were morally uplifting and richly evocative of the American experience.

Consider Longfellow’s “A Psalm of Life”, which encourages perseverance and purpose:

“Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us Footprints on the sands of time.”

Or Whittier’s “Snow-Bound”, which paints a nostalgic picture of family unity amidst a winter storm:

“Shut in from all the world without, We sat the clean-winged hearth about.”

These poets’ structured rhymes and accessible themes made their work a source of comfort and reflection, passed down through generations and recited in schoolrooms. They demonstrated how poetry could become part of the fabric of everyday life, shaping a shared cultural identity.

Newspaper Poets and the “Daily Dose” of Verse

As the 19th century gave way to the 20th, poetry found a new home in the pages of newspapers. Poets like Sam Walter Foss became household names, democratizing literature with verses that spoke to common experiences and values. Foss’s “The House by the Side of the Road” exemplifies this:

“Let me live in my house by the side of the road And be a friend to man.”

These simple yet profound lines encapsulate a spirit of kindness and community, offering readers a moment of contemplation amidst the hustle of daily life. Newspaper poetry bridged the gap between high art and everyday experience, ensuring that verse was accessible to all.

Verse in the Digital Age: Connecting Past to Present

In our modern era, technology has created new avenues for sharing poetry and verse. My journey into AI music reflects this evolution. Inspired by the Fireside and newspaper poets, I’ve experimented with writing verses that explore universal themes like hope, resilience, and faith, setting them to music in genres that enhance their emotional resonance.

For example, I’ve written songs that echo the introspective tone of Whittier and the communal warmth of Foss, paired with melodies that range from acoustic simplicity to upbeat electronic rhythms. These experiments allow me to connect with listeners worldwide, much like the Fireside Poets and newspaper poets connected with their audiences in their time.

When I started looking back at 40 years of verse and rhyme, I felt the need to express these concepts out loud.

The Importance of Verse in Building Societal Fabric

Poetry, whether shared by the fireside, in a newspaper, or through a digital platform, serves as a mirror for society’s values and struggles. It weaves individual experiences into a collective identity, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. Short, reflective works—a well-placed line of poetry, a memorable lyric—can leave lasting impressions, much like a favorite song or cherished family story.

As Foss reminds us in another of his works, “The Coming American”:

“Bring me men to match my mountains; Bring me men to match my plains.”

These lines call for greatness and vision, urging us to rise to the challenges of our time. My goal has been simple- have fun while blending timeless themes with contemporary forms to inspire and uplift.

The enduring power of verse lies in its ability to connect us across time and space. From the rhythmic lines of the Fireside Poets to the relatable musings of newspaper poets, and now to AI-generated music and poetry, the tradition of sharing meaningful, reflective verse continues to thrive. It’s a tradition I’ve enjoyed to be a part of, using modern tools to contribute to the ongoing dialogue of life, faith, and human connection.

Let us all keep finding ways to bring verse into our lives—whether as creators or consumers—and cherish its ability to illuminate the everyday moments that shape who we are.

My experiment in SoundCloud has allowed me to write multi-genre, multi-generational verse concepts and I have been intrigued by the reception- including love and hate. And to date, there have been over 60,000 listens- with the largest listening country being Vietnam- that is crazy to me.

Feel free to check out songs, playlists, and albums here- just having fun with the fabric and substance of life

Jayopsis on Sound Cloud

Front Lines on Christmas Eve- 1939 and 1969

December 24, 1939

My dearest love,

As I write this by the dim light of a lantern, snow softly blankets the camp. The air is biting, but I feel warmed by the thought of you and the little ones gathered around the tree back home. I imagine the smell of pine, the glow of the ornaments, and your voice as you hum a favorite carol.

Tonight, a few of us shared a quiet moment, listening to carols over the wireless. Someone even managed to find a tin of cocoa to pass around. It wasn’t much, but for a moment, it felt as though we were all back home with our families.

The world feels uncertain now, more than ever, but the thought of Christmas with you brings me hope. Hold the children close for me and tell them their father will be home to tuck them in again someday. Until then, I will carry the memory of your smile and the sound of their laughter in my heart.

With all my love,

Robert

Winter of '39

December 24, 1969

Hey Babe,

It’s Christmas Eve, but it doesn’t feel like it here. No snow—just heat and the hum of the jungle. The guys and I tried to make the best of it. Someone strung lights on a palm tree, and we even had a radio playing holiday tunes. It’s strange hearing “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” when I’m sitting here in boots full of mud, but it made me think of you.

I can picture you by the tree, maybe wearing that red sweater I love, with the smell of cookies baking in the kitchen. It’s little things like that that keep me going out here. The nights are the hardest—they’re quiet but not peaceful, you know? Still, I count every day as one closer to being back with you.

I hope you’re not worrying too much. I’m doing okay—just missing you more than ever. Kiss the kids for me, and save a little mistletoe for when I get home.

Love always,
David

Winter of '69

Isaiah 60:6 and the Christmas Story: The Coming of the Nations

In Isaiah 60:6, we read a beautiful prophecy that foretells a time when the nations will bring gifts and praises to God’s glorious presence:

"A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall bring good news, the praises of the Lord." (Isaiah 60:6)

At first glance, this verse might seem like a distant, ancient image, with camels, frankincense, and lands we may not be familiar with. But as we look closer, we realize that this verse connects profoundly to the Christmas story and the birth of Jesus Christ.

Geography of Prophecy

Isaiah mentions several places:

• Midian and Ephah are regions in the Arabian desert, home to nomadic traders.
• Sheba, associated with modern-day Yemen, was a land known for its wealth and luxury.

These were the distant nations that would one day bring their treasures to honor the Lord. In ancient times, camels were the transport vessels of the wealthy and powerful, symbolizing the long journeys of the nations coming to recognize God’s glory.

The Gifts: A Foreshadowing of the Magi

Now, think about the gifts brought by the wise men, or Magi, in the Christmas story. They brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh (Matthew 2:11), gifts fit for a king and a deity. Sound familiar?

Gold represents kingship, frankincense symbolizes divinity and priesthood, and myrrh points to sacrifice and death. In Isaiah 60:6, we already see these offerings being brought by distant lands in anticipation of the One who would be born in Bethlehem. The Magi’s journey is not just an incidental detail in the Christmas narrative—it is the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy that people from all corners of the earth would come to worship the Messiah.

The Light to the Nations

Isaiah 60 begins with a powerful declaration: "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you" (Isaiah 60:1). This light is Christ, the Savior, whose birth we celebrate at Christmas. The Magi saw His light, literally and figuratively, in the star that guided them to the child in the manger. They came from the East, following the star, just as Isaiah predicted that the nations would come to see the glory of God.

The Global Reach of the Christmas Story

Isaiah’s prophecy about nations bringing gifts to Jerusalem is not just about physical treasures—it’s a message about the universal scope of God’s plan. The birth of Jesus was not a moment just for Israel but for the entire world. The Magi’s visit shows us that Jesus came for all people, regardless of their background or nationality. His light shines in every corner of the earth, and the Christmas story invites us to reflect on how Christ is the hope of the nations.

A Call to Worship

Isaiah 60:6 reminds us that the coming of Christ is a reason for all people to worship. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded that we, too, are invited to bring our praises, just like the nations of old brought their gifts. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh may not be our offerings today, but our worship, our gratitude, and our lives given to God are the true treasures we can offer to Him in response to His gift to us—Jesus.

As we reflect on this prophecy, may it deepen our understanding of the significance of Christ's birth and inspire us to join with the nations in praising the Lord for the coming of the Savior.

Your Tree and Christmas Tidings

One dark morning this week, I sat down with my Bible to prepare for a Sunday School lesson on the light of Christmas. 

I turned to Isaiah 60, a prophetic passage that promises the culminating kingdom of Christ: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you” (Isaiah 60:1). As I read about the glory, light, and hope of this promised kingdom, I turned on my Christmas tree. The room was suddenly filled with the soft, warm glow of its lights, and I couldn’t help but think: what a beautiful picture of what I was reading. The tree before me seemed to echo the themes of Isaiah 60, and I began to see it as more than just a decoration; it was a symbol full of profound gospel truth.

The Christmas tree has an interesting history, one that includes pagan roots. Long before the birth of Christ, ancient peoples used evergreen boughs during the winter solstice to symbolize life and renewal. Yet, in the beauty of God’s redemptive plan, these old pagan customs have been exchanged for new hope, meaning, and truth. Just as early Christian hymns adapted melodies from tavern songs to proclaim the gospel, the evergreen tree has been redeemed to tell the story of Christmas and point us to Christ.

Look closely at your tree this year, and you might see how it beautifully fits into the overarching theme of the Bible:

1. The Evergreen Life: The tree’s evergreen nature points to eternal life—life that never fades, just as Christ promises to those who trust in Him.

2. The Triangle and the Trinity: Its shape reminds us of the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The God who sent His Son into the world to bring light into our darkness is the same God who walks with us every day.

3. The Lights of the World: The twinkling lights remind us of the Light of the World. Isaiah 60 speaks of a time when “the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory” (Isaiah 60:19). Christmas lights echo the promise that darkness will not overcome the light.

4. Ornaments and the Joy of Life: The ornaments reflect the beauty and joy of life in Christ. Each one can represent the years, the memories, and the stories of our lives made meaningful through Him. If you have a star on the top- think of the Bethlehem star!

5. The Gifts Beneath the Tree: The presents under the tree point to prosperity and blessing, like the gifts brought to the Christ child: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Yet they also remind us of the greatest gift of all: Jesus Himself. God in the flesh, Emmanuel, “God with us.”

As you enjoy your Christmas tree this year, let it remind you of the glorious gospel message. The tree tells the story of God’s redemptive work: exchanging old, empty traditions for new hope, meaning, and truth. From the promise of light in the darkness to the joy of life and the ultimate gift of salvation, the tree embodies the themes of Scripture. It proclaims the great story of God’s covenant: “You will be my people, and I will be your God.”

Message in the Tree- Song

This Christmas, let your tree be more than a decoration. Let it be a reminder of the beauty and truth of the gospel, a picture of light triumphing over darkness, warmth over cold, and forgiveness over sin. And let it fill your heart with hope as you anticipate the fulfillment of Isaiah’s promise: the kingdom of Christ in all its glory.

More Christmas Devotionals below:

As we enter these last few weeks  before Christmas, I wanted to share some devotionals that continue the theme of ‘Christmas in Isaiah’ These are very informal and typical of my blog…. full of flaws and awkward rambling at times.

Not all of these devotionals are ‘candy canes and cocoa’- there are some pretty challenging and hard things about Christmas. This world is a violent and cruel place. Sin has really sad consequences.

May we all stay ‘child-like’ as we contemplate the mystery of “The WORD became flesh and dwelt among us”.

The Comfort of Christmas

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/christmas-in-isaiah-comfort-of-christmas.html

The Only Government with Hope

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/the-only-government-and-only-hope.html

The Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Christmas

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/the-terrible-horrible-no-good-very-bad.html

Christmas Green

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/christmas-green-christmas-in-isaiah.html

Christmas Red

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/christmas-red-christmas-in-isaiah.html

Why Christmas Includes Sorrow

https://www.jayopsis.com/2018/12/why-christmas-includes-sorrow.html

A Christmas Feast Worth the Wait

https://www.jayopsis.com/2015/12/christmas-in-isaiah-feast-worth-wait.html

Finally, I have published some music to convey these ideas as well.

Playlist on Soundcloud- Christmas Sorrow, Joy, and Hope

https://soundcloud.com/jay-mathews-3/sets/christmas-sorrow-joy-and-hope?si=c56bb8dac8c84d70bc798d90f564c66c&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

The Last Action Star?

It feels like we’re living in a fascinating moment in cinematic history, where the larger-than-life action stars who once dominated the silver screen are now stepping into elder statesman roles. 

The likes of Sylvester Stallone, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Harrison Ford, Kevin Costner, Tom Cruise, and Billy Bob Thornton still captivate audiences, but they’re no longer the young, unstoppable forces they once portrayed. 

Instead, they’re older, weathered, and often wrestling with themes of legacy, mortality, and wisdom—a reflection of their real-life journeys as well as the audiences who grew up idolizing them. 

This isn’t just a shift in casting; it’s a cultural moment that invites the question: Are we witnessing the end of an era?

The enduring appeal of these icons speaks volumes. Their names still draw audiences, whether through nostalgic franchises like Indiana Jones or the Mission: Impossible series, or through gritty, modern explorations of their classic personas. They embody a sense of continuity in a world increasingly marked by change and uncertainty. But as they age, there’s a noticeable absence of younger actors rising to fill their boots. Hollywood seems to be struggling to anoint a new generation of singular, iconic male action stars. Is it that no one today can measure up to the Stallones and Schwarzeneggers of yesteryear? Or is something deeper at play?

One reason might lie in how Hollywood and broader society have been reevaluating traditional ideas of masculinity. The archetypal action hero—stoic, hyper-masculine, and often emotionally detached—has come under scrutiny in an era more attuned to the complexities of human behavior. The term "toxic masculinity" has become a buzzword, critiquing traits historically associated with male heroes, such as dominance and emotional suppression. While this critique is necessary and valid in many ways, it has also shifted the cultural landscape. The lone wolf action hero, solving problems with his fists and a one-liner, doesn’t align as easily with contemporary sensibilities. Instead, we see male characters who are more vulnerable, collaborative, or emotionally open.

This cultural shift has coincided with changes in the way stories are told. Blockbuster franchises no longer hinge on a singular hero. Instead, they rely on ensembles, where the spotlight is shared among diverse casts. Marvel’s sprawling universe, for instance, features a rotating roster of heroes, each contributing to the larger narrative. While this approach has its merits, it’s harder for any single actor to rise to the level of cultural icon that Stallone or Schwarzenegger achieved in their heyday. The focus has moved away from the singular figure standing tall in the face of adversity to teams, legacies, and shared victories.

Additionally, the rise of streaming platforms has fragmented viewership. In the past, a single summer blockbuster could dominate the cultural conversation and catapult an actor into stardom. Today, content is consumed in smaller, more personalized doses, making it harder for any one performance or star to gain the universal recognition that was once possible. The ecosystem of celebrity itself has changed; stars no longer loom as large as they did in the monoculture of the ’80s and ’90s.

But there’s also a resistance to letting go of the classic archetypes. Films like Top Gun: Maverick remind us that the appetite for old-school heroism is far from dead. Tom Cruise’s portrayal of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell wasn’t just a nostalgia trip; it was a validation of the enduring appeal of the lone hero, facing impossible odds and coming out victorious. The film’s success proved that while cultural tastes evolve, there’s still room for the kind of heroism that transcends time and trends.

Yet the absence of a younger generation stepping into these roles is striking. Some suggest that Hollywood’s embrace of “wokeness” has contributed, as studios prioritize narratives that challenge traditional gender roles and promote more inclusive storytelling. While these efforts are important and reflect genuine cultural progress, they might also explain the hesitation to embrace the kind of unapologetically larger-than-life male heroes who defined the action genre. There’s a tension between honoring the past and forging a future that feels relevant to today’s audiences.

Perhaps, though, the answer isn’t in recreating the action heroes of the past but in reimagining what heroism looks like for a new generation. 

Will the next great icons might blend strength with vulnerability, action with introspection? They might not wield machine guns or swing from helicopters, but they’ll find ways to capture the same spirit of courage and determination that once defined the genre. As the cultural pendulum continues to swing, there’s every chance that a new kind of action hero will emerge, one who reflects the complexities of the modern world while still thrilling audiences with daring feats and compelling stories.

But I get a feeling it won't connect to the thing that drives revenue.

For now, we can savor the twilight of an era as our older heroes take their final bows, their stories enriched by decades of experience and layered with meaning. 

Whether we’re seeing the end of something or the beginning of something new remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the action hero—in whatever form they take—should be on the endangered species list with a note.... almost extinct.

The Devolution of Society Through the Lens of the Joker Films

Note: I struggled through the latest Joker recently, found it difficult to watch despite powerful acting and stunning cinematic visuals.... We are as Gotham as we have ever been.

Then the LORD God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of us in knowing good and evil. Now, lest he reach out his hand and take also of the tree of life and eat, and live forever—” [23] therefore the LORD God sent him out from the garden of Eden to work the ground from which he was taken. (Genesis 3:22–23 ESV)

The Joker character, as portrayed through various films, offers a striking and evolving commentary on societal decay, mental illness, and the consequences of a fractured world. As we watch the character's development across different portrayals—from the comic antics of the 1960s to the chaotic nihilism of today—it becomes clear that the Joker is not merely a villain but a symbol of a society unraveling. Each iteration of the Joker presents a unique reflection of mental deterioration and cultural collapse, moving from playful mischief to profound

The Early Days: Fun and Folly

The first cinematic depiction of the Joker came in the 1966 Batman: The Movie, where Cesar Romero's Joker was portrayed with campy humor and exaggerated antics. Here, the Joker was a light-hearted villain, more comedic than sinister. His crimes were fantastical, and his character was a far cry from the dark depths the Joker would later explore. This version of the character doesn’t focus on societal issues or the Joker's psychology but rather emphasizes villainous playfulness in a world that still operated within clear moral boundaries.

The Shift to Darkness: Jack Nicholson's Joker

In Tim Burton's 1989 Batman, Jack Nicholson’s Joker began to introduce a more complex, darker version of the character. While still maintaining a certain theatrical flair, this Joker’s motivations were grounded in personal revenge. His descent into madness was tied to his transformation from a failed mobster to a grotesque clown-faced villain, but the societal implications were more surface-level compared to what would come later. Nevertheless, this portrayal laid the groundwork for the more psychologically complex Jokers that would follow.

The Rise of Nihilism: Heath Ledger's Joker

Heath Ledger’s iconic performance in The Dark Knight (2008) marked a sharp turn toward exploring the Joker as a symbol of societal breakdown. Ledger's Joker isn’t just insane—he's a nihilistic force, questioning the very fabric of civilization. His desire to create chaos and dismantle social structures reflects a deeper commentary on how fragile societal norms are and how easily they can collapse under pressure. In Ledger's portrayal, the Joker becomes less of a personal villain and more of an embodiment of societal disillusionment. This iteration reflects a world in crisis, where moral clarity fades, and the Joker seeks to expose the chaos lurking beneath the surface of modern life.

The Cultural Decay: Jared Leto's Joker

Jared Leto’s Joker in Suicide Squad (2016) represents yet another layer in the evolution of the character. While his version is more stylized and criminally eccentric, Leto’s Joker taps into themes of excess, decadence, and a breakdown of traditional values. His portrayal blends mental instability with a dark cultural commentary, where societal norms have eroded, and chaos is glorified. The Joker here isn’t just a man gone mad—he’s a reflection of a corrupt world that celebrates violence, anarchy, and the erosion of moral boundaries.

The Descent into Madness: Joaquin Phoenix’s Arthur Fleck

The 2019 Joker, starring Joaquin Phoenix, is perhaps the most raw and personal exploration of mental illness and societal neglect. Arthur Fleck, the man who becomes the Joker, is a product of a broken society—a world that has failed him at every turn. From his struggles with mental health to his social isolation, Arthur’s transformation into the Joker is a direct result of the societal systems that abandoned him. His descent is painful to watch, but it’s also an exploration of how an individual can spiral into madness when societal structures crumble under the weight of neglect, cruelty, and apathy.

This film’s ambiguity—blurring the lines between fantasy and reality—forces the audience to question not just Arthur’s mental state but also the society that allowed him to fall so far. Arthur’s rise as the Joker symbolizes the breakdown of empathy and the rise of chaos in a world where the vulnerable are often ignored. His story critiques the societal neglect of mental health and the effects of systemic failure on the most fragile members of society.

The Legacy of Chaos: Joker: Folie à Deux

Joker: Folie à Deux (2024) continues the narrative of societal decline, expanding on the themes of isolation, madness, and the consequences of Arthur Fleck's transformation into the Joker. The film delves into his relationships with others, particularly his connection with Lee (Lady Gaga), as Arthur's Joker persona begins to spiral out of control once more. The film’s ending, with Arthur’s death at the hands of a young inmate who idolizes the Joker, suggests that the chaos Arthur unleashed is far from over. In fact, the Joker’s legacy persists even beyond his own life, as others are drawn to the madness he represents. This final twist emphasizes the cyclical nature of chaos in society, and how the Joker’s influence has become a cultural force, with others eager to continue the cycle of destruction he began.

A Social Commentary on Madness and Society

Across all these portrayals, the Joker evolves from a lighthearted villain to a tragic figure—a product of a society that increasingly disregards its most vulnerable. The darker the imagery becomes, the more it mirrors the growing disillusionment with societal structures, mental health care, and cultural values. Each version of the Joker reflects a different aspect of societal decay: from personal revenge to the glorification of chaos, from a crumbling sense of morality to the normalization of anarchy.

Ultimately, the Joker films serve as a chilling social commentary. They illustrate the dangers of societal neglect, the consequences of a fractured world, and the psychological impact of living in a culture that often prizes entertainment over empathy. As each new version of the Joker emerges, it becomes clear that the devolution into madness is not just a personal journey—it’s a collective experience, one that we all have a hand in shaping.

The Generational Divide: A Difference in Perspective

One thing that’s often difficult to measure is the difference in perspective between those who have lived through these societal changes and those who are coming of age in them. As someone who is 60 years old, you’ve had the chance to observe firsthand the dramatic shifts in societal structures and cultural norms. Your memories are rooted in a time that seemed more cohesive, more structured, and perhaps more hopeful. For you, the changes that have taken place represent a clear departure from a time of stability. Your perspective is anchored in this "before" and allows you to apply logic and understanding to what has been lost or broken over the years.

For younger people, however, the experience is fundamentally different. They may not have a tangible "before" to compare to the present. Their developmental years are marked by uncertainty, and they might perceive a world that has always been fractured. This absence of a stable, cohesive past can shape their worldview in unique ways. Disillusionment, anxiety, and a sense of powerlessness might define their experience, as they try to navigate a world where societal structures are no longer as clear or supportive as they once were.

This generational divide is crucial. Older generations, like yours, can reflect on a time when these issues were less visible or more manageable, whereas younger generations must deal with the consequences of these changes as their reality. The difference isn’t just in how society has changed—it’s in how these changes are experienced and internalized. This gap in understanding may make it harder for both generations to relate to each other, but it also presents an opportunity to bridge the divide by sharing perspectives and fostering a deeper conversation about what kind of world we are creating and how we can move forward.

Gospel Hope:

The interesting thing about the message of the gospel - it is as good as ever! Base human nature hasn't changed since the fall. And the offer of forgiveness through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus can accept any contrite heart. However, the darker our society, the deeper the decay, and the scars are real. However, the light still shines!

Three Men and A Car (A Parable)

There was once an old car, abandoned in a forgotten barn, its metal frame rusted and its engine silenced by decades of neglect. Yet, even in its disrepair, it spoke to those who saw it: a promise of something that once was and could be again.

The first man discovered the car during a solitary walk. A lover of history and craftsmanship, he saw in the car a relic of a bygone era. Determined to honor its original glory, he began an exhaustive quest to collect every part needed to restore it.

Years passed as he scoured junkyards, attended auctions, and bartered with collectors. Piece by piece, the car came together. Every detail was authentic, every bolt true to its era. Finally, the day came when the car rolled out of his workshop, gleaming as if it had just left the factory decades ago. The man drove it with pride, cherishing every mile, until the ravages of time once again claimed it. No matter how meticulous his care, the car was bound by the same laws of entropy that had left it rusting in the barn.

The second man found the car not long after. Unlike the first, he had little patience for a perfect restoration. Instead, he set about rebuilding the car with practicality in mind. Using modern materials and tools, he repaired the frame, installed a new engine, and upgraded its systems. The car emerged transformed—not a replica of the past but a reflection of the present. It was reliable, efficient, and stylish in a way that paid homage to its origins while embracing progress. He drove it proudly for years, but even his upgrades could not withstand the relentless march of time. Eventually, the car grew old, its new parts aging just as surely as the original ones had.

The third man came across the car in a much-altered state. It had passed through many hands, its original form a distant memory. Yet this man saw something different in it—not just what it had been or what it was, but what it could become. Armed with technologies that didn’t exist when the car was first built, he reimagined it entirely. He replaced the internal combustion engine with an electric motor, integrated advanced materials to make it lighter and stronger, and added features that would have been unthinkable to its original creators.

The car was reborn, not as a relic or a hybrid of old and new, but as something entirely different. It no longer bore the limitations of its time; it was a creation for a new age. The third man drove it not only as a vehicle but as a statement of possibility, a testament to transformation.

Years later, the three men's grandsons met by chance, each sharing the story of their grandfather's time with the car. Though they marveled at one another’s work and they still debated which builder was the greatest.

The first man said, “My pop  honored the car’s soul, preserving its history for future generations.”

The second man said, “My granddaddy brought it into the modern age, making it useful and practical once more.”

The third man said, “My grandfather gave it a new life, unshackled by the past and prepared for the future.”

And so the debate raged on and on. Each man made his case, each passionately arguing the merit of his approach. The discussion grew louder and spilled out into the streets, where others joined in. Soon, the world was consumed by the question: Which man was greater? Each person’s answer reflected their own values, their own view of what it meant to create, to restore, to transform.

And the mass of humanity argued over the answer to that question for eons, each convinced their perspective was the only one.

Toward the end of the age- as the debate raged on - an old man passed by them walking with a cane.

Finally, someone who could possible solve the debate!

This elder stopped, pulled out an old Bible and began reading,

"So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building. According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. So says 1 Corinthians 3."

And the debate ended....... 

for a little while.......

The Hidden Presence- Isaiah 7 and Isaiah 36

The story of Isaiah 7 is filled with layers of history, prophecy, and divine mystery. At its core is a message of hope and reassurance to a terrified king and nation, yet its implications extend far beyond its immediate context. As we unpack the themes of this passage, we uncover profound truths about God’s sovereignty and a prophecy with a dual fulfillment that resonates through the ages.

The Setting: A City on Edge

The backdrop of Isaiah 7 is a city in crisis. Jerusalem, under the rule of King Ahaz, faces the looming threat of the Syro-Ephraimite alliance—a coalition between Aram (Syria) and the northern kingdom of Israel. Ahaz, a king known for his fearfulness and lack of faith, is preparing for siege and survival. The prophet Isaiah, instructed by God, goes to meet Ahaz at a crucial location: “the conduit of the upper pool, on the highway to the Washer’s Field” (Isaiah 7:3).

This setting—the upper pool—is no random detail. It represents the lifeline of Jerusalem, the water source fed by the Gihon Spring. The spring itself, intriguingly nicknamed “the fountain of the virgin,” has connections to Eden through its association with the rivers of creation. Even in this moment of national turmoil, the irony is thick: Ahaz stands at a location symbolizing divine provision and sustenance, yet he refuses to trust the One who sustains him.

The Sign: Immediate and Ultimate

Isaiah offers Ahaz a sign of God’s faithfulness, even inviting him to ask for one. But Ahaz, masking his fear and lack of trust in false piety, refuses. God provides the sign anyway:

“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).

This prophecy, spoken in a moment of political intrigue, holds a dual fulfillment. In its immediate context, the “virgin” (Hebrew: ‘almah) refers to a young woman of marriageable age, likely someone in Ahaz’s court. The child to be born, called Immanuel (“God with us”), would serve as a tangible sign of God’s presence and deliverance. By the time this child could discern right from wrong, the immediate threat of Aram and Israel would be neutralized (Isaiah 7:16).

Yet, as with much of Isaiah’s prophecy, the ultimate fulfillment lies in Christ. The Gospel of Matthew explicitly connects Isaiah 7:14 to the virgin birth of Jesus:

“All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’” (Matthew 1:22-23).

In Christ, the prophecy transcends its original context. The ‘almah—rendered as parthenos (“virgin”) in the Greek Septuagint—points to Mary, whose miraculous conception of Jesus underscores the divine nature of the ultimate Immanuel, God truly with us.

Hidden in Plain Sight

The dual fulfillment of this prophecy reveals God’s intricate plan, woven through history and scripture. The word ‘almah itself carries layers of meaning. While it typically refers to a young woman of marriageable age, its association with virginity in the cultural context, and its translation into Greek as parthenos, hints at something more. This layered meaning is one of the ways God embeds deeper truths within His word—truths that unfold fully in Christ.

Moreover, the location of this prophecy—the conduit of the upper pool—adds another layer of divine humor and irony. The spring that fed this pool, the Gihon Spring, bears a name connected to Eden, the beginning of God’s redemptive story. According to legend, Mary washed Jesus’ swaddling clothes at this same spring. Here, we see a symbolic thread tying the prophecy of Immanuel to its ultimate fulfillment, as if God were leaving hints throughout history.

The Hidden One Revealed

The “hidden” nature of this prophecy reflects a broader truth about God’s work in the world. At first glance, the sign given to Ahaz might seem ordinary, even mundane: a young woman will have a child. But within this sign lies the promise of God’s presence and deliverance, a promise that would reach its crescendo in the birth of Jesus Christ.

In the same way, much of God’s work in our lives is hidden, visible only through the lens of faith. The story of Isaiah 7 reminds us to look beyond the immediate circumstances to see the greater work of God—a work that often unfolds in ways we cannot fully grasp until the time is right.

A God Who Is With Us

The name Immanuel encapsulates the heart of the Gospel: God is with us. In times of crisis, like Ahaz’s Judah, we are tempted to rely on our own strategies or to give in to despair. Yet, God’s promise remains. He is present, weaving His purposes through the fabric of history and the details of our lives.

A Contrast in Faith: Hezekiah and the Destruction of Sennacherib

Approximately 35 years later, the same setting—“the conduit of the upper pool”—appears in Isaiah 36, but the narrative takes a drastically different turn. This time, King Hezekiah faces the might of Assyria and the taunting threats of Sennacherib’s envoy. Unlike Ahaz, Hezekiah responds with faith. Instead of seeking alliances or relying on his own cunning, he turns to the Lord in prayer, laying the blasphemous words of the Assyrians before God in the temple (Isaiah 37:14-20).

God’s response is swift and decisive. Through the prophet Isaiah, He promises deliverance, and in one night, the angel of the Lord strikes down 185,000 Assyrian soldiers (Isaiah 37:36). The same location that once highlighted Ahaz’s faithlessness now becomes a stage for God’s power and faithfulness to a king who trusts Him.

This contrast underscores the central message of Isaiah: faith in the Lord brings deliverance, while reliance on human schemes leads to ruin. The “hidden one”—God’s presence—is revealed in both stories, but it is faith that determines whether His presence brings judgment or salvation.

May we, like Hezekiah, respond to challenges with unwavering trust in the God who is always with us—Immanuel.

Seeing Through the Fog of Faulty Thinking: Lessons from A Beautiful Mind

Sadly, I can create a lot of misery in my life being weighed down by neurotic and mis-guided thinking. How do we accurately help ourselves.... and maybe others (though I need to spend 90% of this advice ON MY brain.... not others!

In the film A Beautiful Mind, we witness the brilliant mathematician John Nash grapple with a harrowing realization: some of the people and scenarios he’s deeply invested in are figments of his imagination. For Nash, recognizing that his perceptions were flawed wasn’t merely an intellectual challenge; it was a fight for his very sense of reality. His journey of learning to question his own mind offers a profound lesson: even the sharpest intellects are not immune to faulty thinking.

This begs the question—how can we, as flawed humans, recognize when our perceptions are leading us astray? How can we cultivate a healthy skepticism of our own thoughts without succumbing to self-doubt or paralysis? Let’s explore how to identify and address the faulty thinking that can quietly wreak havoc in our lives.

Faulty thinking often masquerades as truth because it aligns seamlessly with our biases, assumptions, or emotions. 

Confirmation bias, for example, drives us to unconsciously seek information that supports our existing beliefs, while ignoring evidence to the contrary. 

Overconfidence bias can lead us to overestimate the soundness of our reasoning—a trap that intelligent people are particularly prone to. 

Emotional reasoning, where we take feelings as evidence of truth, also clouds judgment. For instance, we might assume, I feel anxious, so something must be wrong.

These distortions skew our decisions, strain relationships, and even derail our sense of purpose. And the more invested we are in our perceptions, the harder it becomes to step back and question them.

 Recognizing and addressing faulty thinking requires deliberate effort and practices that encourage clarity and self-awareness.

Before I move on- I cannot stress enough the need we have to include Scripture in our process. God's Word is especially equipped to break through these barriers!

But there are tools and techniques that help......

A powerful tool is reflective questioning. By asking ourselves why we believe something, what evidence supports or contradicts it, and how another person might interpret the situation, we can uncover assumptions that might not hold up under scrutiny. Reflective journaling is another practice that helps bring distorted patterns to light. Writing down thoughts, feelings, and assumptions creates the space to analyze them objectively, revealing recurring traps over time.

Feedback from others is also invaluable. No matter how sharp we are, our blind spots remain invisible to us. Trusted friends, mentors, or colleagues can provide perspectives that challenge our biases and reveal flaws in our reasoning. This requires cultivating intellectual humility—acknowledging that being wrong is not a weakness but a strength. Mistakes are opportunities for growth, as Nash’s journey in A Beautiful Mind demonstrates. Recognizing the fallibility of his own perceptions enabled him to regain control over his life.

Mindfulness complements these practices by fostering awareness of our thoughts without judgment. Observing our mental patterns helps us identify when emotions or biases might be influencing reasoning. For example, noticing a thought like, I’m terrible at this task, mindfulness invites us to pause and ask, Is this thought factual, or is it my frustration speaking?

Convincing others to question their thinking is equally challenging, particularly when they’re highly intelligent or deeply invested in their perspective. Demonstrating open-mindedness is key. Share your own willingness to challenge your beliefs, perhaps by recounting a time when you realized you were wrong and how it transformed your perspective. Asking thoughtful questions rather than pointing out flaws can guide someone toward clarity. For instance, you might ask, What evidence would it take to convince you otherwise? Creating a safe, respectful environment where they feel unjudged fosters curiosity and understanding rather than defensiveness.

Healthy skepticism, however, does not mean doubting everything. It’s about finding balance. Holding fast to core principles, like honesty or kindness, can ground us while we remain open to revising specific beliefs about people or situations.

John Nash’s story reminds us that seeing through the fog of faulty thinking is not an admission of failure—it’s a courageous act of self-awareness. By building habits of reflection, humility, and openness, we can navigate life with greater clarity and resilience. The truth may not always be comfortable, but it is ultimately liberating.

This post inspired a song- you can hear it here:

Disillusioned Mind

A Post on Prayer and a Rooster's Crow

Have you ever heard of the novel The Book of the Dun Cow by Walter Wangerin Jr.? It’s a richly allegorical story about good and evil, sacrifice, and community, featuring Chauntecleer, a rooster who rules his domain with both pride and care. One of the book’s most memorable elements is Chauntecleer’s crows—those bold, resounding calls that mark the morning, the evening, and other significant moments.

 His crows aren’t just duties; they’re woven into the rhythm of his existence, calling out not only to his domain but to the heavens themselves.

"It was the crow of Chauntecleer. The morning crow, the waking crow, the beginning crow, the opening of the day to the powers of Heaven.
It was the crow of joy, the shout of birth, the proclamation of life against nothingness. It was the beginning."

This passage highlights the profound nature of his crows—they’re not just sounds but declarations of life and meaning, filled with intentionality and purpose. 

Similarly, later sections describe his other crows, such as the evening crow, as fulfilling a different role, marking time and offering order amidst the chaos. These rhythms of crowing reflect not just duty but a profound connection to the divine and the natural order.

This imagery ties beautifully to prayer, where structured, intentional moments mark our days, connecting us to God and proclaiming life, faith, and hope against the backdrop of the world’s uncertainties.

I am NOT a great person of prayer. I do have a running conversation with God almost everyday, very casual... you might say "shallow" and I have never been good at a routine of prayer, it feels ritualistic to me at times.

But I forget that routine is discipline, it is good. And scheduling prayer for more than trivial interactions allows for deeper discussions.

Unfortunately, I'm the same way with my wife. I'm with her often, I love being with her, but my conversations can be trivial and not intentional.

Recently, I was challenged about this in thinking through the prayer of Moses and his interactions with Yahweh.

The dialogues between God and Moses about the Israelites' stubbornness reveal a remarkable relationship between divine justice, mercy, and human intercession. 

In these exchanges, particularly in Exodus 32 and Numbers 14, we see Moses stepping into the role of mediator, often advocating for the very people who test his patience. These moments are more than dramatic stories—they offer profound insights into prayer, leadership, and the dynamic nature of God’s relationship with humanity.

Take the golden calf incident in Exodus 32. God, angered by the Israelites' idolatry, speaks to Moses of destroying them, calling them “your people, whom you brought out of Egypt.” It’s as if God distances Himself from their failure, yet Moses boldly counters, appealing to God’s promises and reputation. He pleads for mercy, invoking God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and urges Him to “relent” from judgment. Similarly, in Numbers 14, after the Israelites refuse to enter Canaan, Moses again steps forward to intercede, reminding God of His steadfast love and reputation among the nations.

What’s striking is how the roles seem to reverse at times. 

Moses, often exasperated with the people, becomes their advocate, while God expresses righteous anger. Yet, this is no divine tantrum—it’s a moment where God invites Moses into the tension between judgment and mercy, teaching him (and us) the depth of covenant love. Moses doesn’t deny the people’s sins but prays for their restoration, embodying a leadership rooted in compassion and persistence.

These dialogues also highlight the mystery of prayer. 

In passages where God “relents” from judgment, such as Exodus 32:14, the Hebrew word nacham (translated as “repent” or “relent”) suggests a God willing to engage with human appeals. This doesn’t mean God changes His nature or ultimate purposes; instead, He invites human partnership, allowing prayer to influence His actions within the framework of His sovereign will. Moses’ prayers, grounded in God’s character and promises, show that bold, intercessory prayer is not about changing God’s mind but aligning ourselves with His heart.

For us, these exchanges teach profound lessons- especially about prayer.

Prayer can be bold, honest, and persistent—like Moses, we can bring our frustrations and fears to God while interceding for others, even those who frustrate us. Leadership, too, is illuminated here: true leaders, like Moses, bear the weight of their people’s struggles and seek their good, even when it’s hard. And ultimately, these moments foreshadow the ultimate mediator, Christ, who fully embodies advocacy, atonement, and the tension between justice and mercy.

The dialogues between God and Moses remind us of the transformative power of prayer—not just to ask for change but to align our hearts with God’s purposes, drawing us deeper into the mystery of His unchanging love.

I need to schedule some time to just pray....... how about you?