A coworker recently asked me, "What is my purpose in life? What if I've missed it? What am I supposed to do?" I tried to answer her (a nominal Christian) as best I could, advising her to live a life of obedience to God for the purpose of bringing Glory to His name. I really don't think I shared anything earth-shattering with her, because I think she already knew the answer, but was still afraid there was something more.
Personally, I sense that desire for something more quite often. There's always that nagging question when you pillow your head at night, "Should I be over there, doing that?" There is a perpetual longing for fulfillment felt by each one of us, which, throughout our lifetime, manifests itself in various forms. Career. Marriage. Children. Hobbies. Academics. Relationships. Money. Entertainment. When these things don't fulfill us like we thought they would, we feel supremely disappointed. We think we should be satisfied, but we're not. And we can't figure out why. Soon, we start looking anywhere and everywhere for purpose and direction - even turning to coworkers!
Several summers ago, while working for Scioto Hills Baptist Camp, I was particularly plagued with these type of "meaning" questions. On August 1st, 2004, I stayed up late into the night with a flashlight, notebook, and Bible determined to gain a greater sense of purpose. Over the next couple of evenings, I developed five purpose statements which I felt encompassed God's plan for my life. Over the past several years I have prayed these purpose statements hundreds of times, and I still pray them almost every day. Again, there is nothing genius or groundbreaking about these statements. The hard part isn't knowing our purpose, but learning to truly be satisfied with God, and God alone.
My Purpose Statements
I desire to...
...Seek God with my heart, that I may develop a Biblical worldview.
(Ps. 1:2; Acts 17:27; Ps. 119:10)
...Study God with my mind, that I may know the truth.
(2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Pet. 2:2; Heb. 5:13-14;)
...Serve God with my will, that I may be obedient to God's Word.
(Rom. 12:1-2; I Cor. 10:31; Josh. 24:15 )
...Show God with my actions, that I may show Christ's love to all.
(Heb. 13:1; John 15:13; Matt. 5:16 )
...Share God with my words, that I may introduce people to Christ.
(Matt. 28:19-20; 2 Cor. 5:19-21)
Friday, January 30, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Speaking of Evil (Part 3 of 3)
The following is the last in a three part series on the topic of, what I've called, "Progressive Depravity".
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part Three
Level Seven- Mockery of Sin
This is probably the most readily observable level in our society today. At the high school lunch table, students joke about cheating on a test. In the work break room coworkers joke about who woke up next to who. In the theater, patrons watch movies which consistently re-draw the line of morality. On T.V., sitcoms make fidelity and compassion in a marriage seem extremist. Late night shows entertain us with sin in skit form. Children’s movies are laced with innuendos. The blurring tears of laughter function as a welcomed distraction from the burdensome task of determining right and wrong.
Level Eight- Antagonism of Righteousness
At this level, not only is there mockery of sin, but there is an attack upon righteousness. The teenager who hasn’t had sex before age 16 is no longer viewed as good, but as gay. The adult who doesn’t smoke or drink is no longer viewed as wise, but as weak. The husband who doesn’t lust after other women is no longer viewed as faithful, but as freakish. The person who doesn’t swear is no long viewed as innocent, but as immature. The person who loves playing with children is no longer viewed as parental, but as pedophilic.
Those at this level, by killing the messenger, have successfully eliminated anyone who would have attempted to help them at this point. This is the extreme danger, and hardness of this level. Anyone who could have brought the truth is picked off by the sniper of antagonism from miles away.
Level Nine- Taboo Experimentation
This level manifests it’s boredom with righteousness and love of evil, not by antagonizing the former, but by experimenting with the latter. This is when normal sin no longer carries with it the same thrill. Perverse forms of sin must be manufactured (e.g. bestiality, genocide, necrophilia) in order to keep up with the demands of a perverse heart.
Fortunately, this level is often viewed by the public as depraved. When we hear of this type of thing in the news we generally use words like sick, twisted, or perverse etc. The fact of unnatural experimentation is recognized by the choice of vocabulary. Experimentation is, in fact, the key word of this level. The seriousness of this level isn’t due to the presence of sin, but rather to the intensity with which it is invented. When you pervert the foundations of reality, oughtness becomes less and less of a tangible reality, and more and more of a distant memory. Depravity cannot help but fill the massive hole created by the vacuum of jettisoned morality.
Level Ten- Publicized Experimentation
This level is merely the broadcasting of the former. What was once done in secret, is now done on stage. (I debated for a long time whether or not to mention a semi-recent event as an illustration of this level. Since I am not sure what age groups may read this, and due to the explicit nature of the topic, I will not include the section I wrote for level 10.) This is the end, there is no greater possible expression of human depravity.
A Step Back
One must pause and take a deep breath after such a long look at the capability of humanity. But is it really all so bad? Is all hope really lost? Where does this evil come from? What is the explanation for these types of atrocities? Who is to blame for these massive human blunders? Is there hope that the evil inside of our hearts will be eradicated through the avenue of human achievement?
A Step Inward
Often times, a "who's who" list of names is brought up as evidence for the depraved nature of mankind. Names like Adolf Hitler, Jim Jones, Warren Jeffs, Joseph Fritzl, Osama Bin Laden, and Ted Bundy are presented as the epitome of evil (and all of these men are examples from just the past 100 years!). Jesus however, speaking on the topic of ethics, took a different approach. He directed one’s gaze away from the gross sins of others (You have heard that it has been said, “Do not murder”), and directed it inward (I say unto you, “Do not hate“.). I'm convinced that simple, honest, observation of ones own heart is all the evidence necessary to establish our depraved nature. We’ve all felt it. That queer propensity within ourselves to do what we know we shouldn’t. The potential for evil is strongly felt in each one of us, and frankly, it is unnerving. It has been said that the depravity of man is one of the most existentially verifiable, and yet most vehemently denied anthropological realities.
A Step of Inquiry
Jesus Christ came to this earth and accused it of sin and evil. Yet, while we were sinners, He loved us, died for us, and provided a way of escape. Could it be that we need a Savior, not at the end of the road of depravity, but at the beginning of the road of life? Could it be that all stages of depravity share the common thread of a heart alienated from God? Is there not a hypocrisy in each one of us that condemns the sin of others, and yet ignores our own pilgrimage into the same? Where do we go from here? Do we need a Savior?
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part Three
Level Seven- Mockery of Sin
This is probably the most readily observable level in our society today. At the high school lunch table, students joke about cheating on a test. In the work break room coworkers joke about who woke up next to who. In the theater, patrons watch movies which consistently re-draw the line of morality. On T.V., sitcoms make fidelity and compassion in a marriage seem extremist. Late night shows entertain us with sin in skit form. Children’s movies are laced with innuendos. The blurring tears of laughter function as a welcomed distraction from the burdensome task of determining right and wrong.
Level Eight- Antagonism of Righteousness
At this level, not only is there mockery of sin, but there is an attack upon righteousness. The teenager who hasn’t had sex before age 16 is no longer viewed as good, but as gay. The adult who doesn’t smoke or drink is no longer viewed as wise, but as weak. The husband who doesn’t lust after other women is no longer viewed as faithful, but as freakish. The person who doesn’t swear is no long viewed as innocent, but as immature. The person who loves playing with children is no longer viewed as parental, but as pedophilic.
Those at this level, by killing the messenger, have successfully eliminated anyone who would have attempted to help them at this point. This is the extreme danger, and hardness of this level. Anyone who could have brought the truth is picked off by the sniper of antagonism from miles away.
Level Nine- Taboo Experimentation
This level manifests it’s boredom with righteousness and love of evil, not by antagonizing the former, but by experimenting with the latter. This is when normal sin no longer carries with it the same thrill. Perverse forms of sin must be manufactured (e.g. bestiality, genocide, necrophilia) in order to keep up with the demands of a perverse heart.
Fortunately, this level is often viewed by the public as depraved. When we hear of this type of thing in the news we generally use words like sick, twisted, or perverse etc. The fact of unnatural experimentation is recognized by the choice of vocabulary. Experimentation is, in fact, the key word of this level. The seriousness of this level isn’t due to the presence of sin, but rather to the intensity with which it is invented. When you pervert the foundations of reality, oughtness becomes less and less of a tangible reality, and more and more of a distant memory. Depravity cannot help but fill the massive hole created by the vacuum of jettisoned morality.
Level Ten- Publicized Experimentation
This level is merely the broadcasting of the former. What was once done in secret, is now done on stage. (I debated for a long time whether or not to mention a semi-recent event as an illustration of this level. Since I am not sure what age groups may read this, and due to the explicit nature of the topic, I will not include the section I wrote for level 10.) This is the end, there is no greater possible expression of human depravity.
A Step Back
One must pause and take a deep breath after such a long look at the capability of humanity. But is it really all so bad? Is all hope really lost? Where does this evil come from? What is the explanation for these types of atrocities? Who is to blame for these massive human blunders? Is there hope that the evil inside of our hearts will be eradicated through the avenue of human achievement?
A Step Inward
Often times, a "who's who" list of names is brought up as evidence for the depraved nature of mankind. Names like Adolf Hitler, Jim Jones, Warren Jeffs, Joseph Fritzl, Osama Bin Laden, and Ted Bundy are presented as the epitome of evil (and all of these men are examples from just the past 100 years!). Jesus however, speaking on the topic of ethics, took a different approach. He directed one’s gaze away from the gross sins of others (You have heard that it has been said, “Do not murder”), and directed it inward (I say unto you, “Do not hate“.). I'm convinced that simple, honest, observation of ones own heart is all the evidence necessary to establish our depraved nature. We’ve all felt it. That queer propensity within ourselves to do what we know we shouldn’t. The potential for evil is strongly felt in each one of us, and frankly, it is unnerving. It has been said that the depravity of man is one of the most existentially verifiable, and yet most vehemently denied anthropological realities.
A Step of Inquiry
Jesus Christ came to this earth and accused it of sin and evil. Yet, while we were sinners, He loved us, died for us, and provided a way of escape. Could it be that we need a Savior, not at the end of the road of depravity, but at the beginning of the road of life? Could it be that all stages of depravity share the common thread of a heart alienated from God? Is there not a hypocrisy in each one of us that condemns the sin of others, and yet ignores our own pilgrimage into the same? Where do we go from here? Do we need a Savior?
Friday, January 23, 2009
Transparency
On January 22, 1986, Jose Angel Moreno (only 18 years old at the time) kidnapped and murdered a man. Moreno, now in his 40's, received the death penalty and is currently on death row in Texas. Moreno was originally scheduled for execution in May of 2007, but received a last-minute stay. The following letter was written by Moreno describing the hours leading up to what he thought would be his death.
I have no agenda in posting this letter. I am not trying to argue for or against capital punishment, nor am I trying to argue for or against the existence of God. I simply hope to provide perspective, and provoke thought. It's a bit long, but it is well worth the read.
~~~~~
This letter is to all the friends I left behind on Death Watch: Leonel Rodriguez, Mangy Dogg, Chino Ruiz, K-loc(o), and Gilberto Guadalupe Reyes.
I haven’t been back from death-house two days yet and already you all have found a way to send me a card with all those touching words in it. One would think that I had died over there. But, you know what, fellas? It was real good to hear from you guys.
Maybe I did die over there. The experience was life-changing, even borderline traumatic. The person that left to the Walls Unit on that day is definitely not the same person that came back. You all knew me, who I was, my beliefs (or lack of) and all the crazy things I did. If we could talk, like the many days and nights we did, you all would know for a fact that something happened to Moreno. Since we can’t talk, hence the letter.
OK, imagining that we were all talking again — which is a possibility, especially since I don’t know what kind of “stay” I received or what is happening with my case — all of you would be asking me questions about what it is like at the Walls Unit. So, allow me to assuage your curiosity.
The drive over is less than an hour because I got my stay around 3, and by 4, I was back. When you finally get to the Walls, the transport vehicles are admitted through one gate after another, all the while driving through twists and turns, around huge buildings, like if you’re travelling through a maze. I felt like I was being swallowed by a huge beast. When they finally turn the van off, you are parked right outside the death chamber.
Let me back up a little, because I forgot to tell you what happens here (Polunsky) before you leave. When your final visit is almost up, the warden (Hirsch) comes to pick you up. From that point on, every officer that has any dealings with you is a sergeant or higher, mostly lieutenants and captains. When you come out of the visiting room, there is a lot of freeworld people there. I didn’t recognize any, except the wardens. From there, you are escorted to a cage where you are searched thoroughly...and given all brand-new clothing and cloth shoes. From there (cage at E-pod) I am escorted back to the front for the metal detector machines. But at that time, I notice that not only is the whole building on lock-down, but they have a full response team all suited up, tucked away in one of the small side hallways, just in case the 20-30 ranking officers and civilians can’t handle the situation. After running both metal detectors over your whole body, you are taken out and to the cramped transport van. The last thing Warden Hirsch says to me is, “Thanks for being a man about all this.”
Now, getting back to the death chamber. Once they get you out of the van and walk you the few feet to the holding area right next to the death chamber, they lock the door and repeat the process of removing the leg irons, belts, handcuffs and hog chain. They strip you right there in front of them (no cage necessary because there’s about 12 built or big rank all around you — a major or two, captains, and lieutenants). After they search you and dress you in their brand-new clothing, they allow you to walk over to the finger-printing booth (two sets of prints) and walk to their holding cell. There’s a new mattress, pillow, sheets and pillowcase. All brand-new. Nothing but first-class treatment. Then you are told by the chaplain (Hart, likely) that we wait for Warden O’Reiley (?). It took about 10 minutes for him to arrive for me, and all during this time there is an officer sitting right in front of your cell and several others in the rest of the room. Off to the side there is a table with all sorts of goodies on it. You know those huge 10-gallon containers they bring our juice/tea to the pods? Well, there’s three of them on the table. One with coffee, one tea, and I think one of juice. Then there’s milk cartons chilling on ice and a BIG silver platter with all sorts of sweets on it: cookies, buns, rolls, pastries, etc.
When the warden shows up, I think he is there to gauge how you are going to behave. He starts off by telling you what is going to happen. At 3 o’clock they will let you walk out of your cell and walk to the next cell where you will be behind a screen so you can visit with your spiritual advisor. The spiritual advisor visit lasts about an hour. Then, at 4, they will bring your last meal. He has a copy of your last meal in his hands and he might ask you something about it, like if you have a lot of food on there (like I did). He might ask if you’re really that hungry? Then he tells you that he is going to leave and you won’t see him no more until 6, when he comes to get you. He will say, “It’s time.” At that point, you will walk out of the cell and directly through that door (you can see it from the cell, it’s only about 10-15 feet), that’s the execution chamber. You will then be placed on the gurney and strapped down. Then two medically trained personnel will stand on each side and inject a catheter into each arm. Then he (warden) will stand behind your head and ask you if you have a last statement. He will give you about two minutes but is flexible, depending on what you are saying.
He has two rules: 1) No profanity or cussing, and 2) It must be in English.
Then he tells you that if you get a stay, the chaplain will come inform you. Finally, he asks if you have any questions. It is at this time you are supposed to ask him to use the telephone and smoke cigarettes as per the instructions you will receive from the chaplain the day before. He tells you that the chaplain will provide the cigarettes and that you can call as many people as you want but the person must be in the continental U.S., and all phone calls will stop at 5.
So the warden leaves and I get right on the phone. I get some very sweet tea, a milk, and wait for him to light me a cigarette. The first person I talk to on the phone is my oldest (longest-lasting) friend, Linda. But I wasn’t doing much talking because I was trying to choke down my sobbing. (Sobbing is uncontrollable crying). It was at this point that it all made sense to me and I was more scared than I’ve ever been in my whole life.
Now, let me tell you what made so much sense to me:
Everything I did as a bon voyage, all the letters I wrote, all the parties we had, all the substances I abused and enjoyed at that moment, my special Sho-out show with all my music, my very special visits, my friends on Death Watch, the cigarettes from the chaplain, the treats on that silver platter, my last meal, and even being able to call anyone I want — none of that mattered. I realized that at 5, I had to stop talking on the phone, then in the execution chamber, no one was going to be there with me except some chaplain I didn’t even know (not Lopez or even Vitela). Even if my family could hold me at the moment, I was making this journey by myself. And it wasn’t dying I was so scared of. It was GOD!
Instead of indulging in these materialistic gifts the state of Texas was using to distract me, I should have been on my knees praying. At about 3, the chaplain old me I got a stay, all my privilges immediately got taken away, and I was still reeling from the shock when Michelle Lyons came in and started asking me questions for the media. On the ride back, I realized that I almost died outside the grace of God.
By now, K-loc (and possibly Reyes too) is thinking that I lost it. But Leonel (and maybe Chino), on the other hand, is probably thinking I gained it. There was a lot of people praying for me. San Fernando Cathedral held a mass for me. My cousin works at Incarnate Word and he got the nuns to pray for me. People from all over sent me letters in those last days. Woody, Rivas, and even Big Tex said they were praying for me. Let’s forget Divine Providence.
Leonel, do you remember how you told me that you should quit doing something for your jefita’s sake but it’s hard, because you enjoy it so much? Remember what Donnie Miller said about it? If, at any time in his life, now is when he needs to be clear-headed. He was right! This situation is very important. The last thing we should do is distract ourselves. What we have to do is focus so that we will be prepared and ready because in the end, nothing else matters. Instead of altering your mind, you need to purge it so that you can mediate, contemplate and figure out what it is you need to do so that you can be at peace on the day of your execution. That way you can face reality. Just in case Divine Providence doesn’t come to your rescue.
I will be praying for all of you and I hope that you all start praying for yourselves. Peace, Moreno.
~~~~~
I found this letter on Anderson Cooper 360, it was originally posted on Deathwatchjournal.wordpress.com.
I have no agenda in posting this letter. I am not trying to argue for or against capital punishment, nor am I trying to argue for or against the existence of God. I simply hope to provide perspective, and provoke thought. It's a bit long, but it is well worth the read.
~~~~~
This letter is to all the friends I left behind on Death Watch: Leonel Rodriguez, Mangy Dogg, Chino Ruiz, K-loc(o), and Gilberto Guadalupe Reyes.
I haven’t been back from death-house two days yet and already you all have found a way to send me a card with all those touching words in it. One would think that I had died over there. But, you know what, fellas? It was real good to hear from you guys.
Maybe I did die over there. The experience was life-changing, even borderline traumatic. The person that left to the Walls Unit on that day is definitely not the same person that came back. You all knew me, who I was, my beliefs (or lack of) and all the crazy things I did. If we could talk, like the many days and nights we did, you all would know for a fact that something happened to Moreno. Since we can’t talk, hence the letter.
OK, imagining that we were all talking again — which is a possibility, especially since I don’t know what kind of “stay” I received or what is happening with my case — all of you would be asking me questions about what it is like at the Walls Unit. So, allow me to assuage your curiosity.
The drive over is less than an hour because I got my stay around 3, and by 4, I was back. When you finally get to the Walls, the transport vehicles are admitted through one gate after another, all the while driving through twists and turns, around huge buildings, like if you’re travelling through a maze. I felt like I was being swallowed by a huge beast. When they finally turn the van off, you are parked right outside the death chamber.
Let me back up a little, because I forgot to tell you what happens here (Polunsky) before you leave. When your final visit is almost up, the warden (Hirsch) comes to pick you up. From that point on, every officer that has any dealings with you is a sergeant or higher, mostly lieutenants and captains. When you come out of the visiting room, there is a lot of freeworld people there. I didn’t recognize any, except the wardens. From there, you are escorted to a cage where you are searched thoroughly...and given all brand-new clothing and cloth shoes. From there (cage at E-pod) I am escorted back to the front for the metal detector machines. But at that time, I notice that not only is the whole building on lock-down, but they have a full response team all suited up, tucked away in one of the small side hallways, just in case the 20-30 ranking officers and civilians can’t handle the situation. After running both metal detectors over your whole body, you are taken out and to the cramped transport van. The last thing Warden Hirsch says to me is, “Thanks for being a man about all this.”
Now, getting back to the death chamber. Once they get you out of the van and walk you the few feet to the holding area right next to the death chamber, they lock the door and repeat the process of removing the leg irons, belts, handcuffs and hog chain. They strip you right there in front of them (no cage necessary because there’s about 12 built or big rank all around you — a major or two, captains, and lieutenants). After they search you and dress you in their brand-new clothing, they allow you to walk over to the finger-printing booth (two sets of prints) and walk to their holding cell. There’s a new mattress, pillow, sheets and pillowcase. All brand-new. Nothing but first-class treatment. Then you are told by the chaplain (Hart, likely) that we wait for Warden O’Reiley (?). It took about 10 minutes for him to arrive for me, and all during this time there is an officer sitting right in front of your cell and several others in the rest of the room. Off to the side there is a table with all sorts of goodies on it. You know those huge 10-gallon containers they bring our juice/tea to the pods? Well, there’s three of them on the table. One with coffee, one tea, and I think one of juice. Then there’s milk cartons chilling on ice and a BIG silver platter with all sorts of sweets on it: cookies, buns, rolls, pastries, etc.
When the warden shows up, I think he is there to gauge how you are going to behave. He starts off by telling you what is going to happen. At 3 o’clock they will let you walk out of your cell and walk to the next cell where you will be behind a screen so you can visit with your spiritual advisor. The spiritual advisor visit lasts about an hour. Then, at 4, they will bring your last meal. He has a copy of your last meal in his hands and he might ask you something about it, like if you have a lot of food on there (like I did). He might ask if you’re really that hungry? Then he tells you that he is going to leave and you won’t see him no more until 6, when he comes to get you. He will say, “It’s time.” At that point, you will walk out of the cell and directly through that door (you can see it from the cell, it’s only about 10-15 feet), that’s the execution chamber. You will then be placed on the gurney and strapped down. Then two medically trained personnel will stand on each side and inject a catheter into each arm. Then he (warden) will stand behind your head and ask you if you have a last statement. He will give you about two minutes but is flexible, depending on what you are saying.
He has two rules: 1) No profanity or cussing, and 2) It must be in English.
Then he tells you that if you get a stay, the chaplain will come inform you. Finally, he asks if you have any questions. It is at this time you are supposed to ask him to use the telephone and smoke cigarettes as per the instructions you will receive from the chaplain the day before. He tells you that the chaplain will provide the cigarettes and that you can call as many people as you want but the person must be in the continental U.S., and all phone calls will stop at 5.
So the warden leaves and I get right on the phone. I get some very sweet tea, a milk, and wait for him to light me a cigarette. The first person I talk to on the phone is my oldest (longest-lasting) friend, Linda. But I wasn’t doing much talking because I was trying to choke down my sobbing. (Sobbing is uncontrollable crying). It was at this point that it all made sense to me and I was more scared than I’ve ever been in my whole life.
Now, let me tell you what made so much sense to me:
Everything I did as a bon voyage, all the letters I wrote, all the parties we had, all the substances I abused and enjoyed at that moment, my special Sho-out show with all my music, my very special visits, my friends on Death Watch, the cigarettes from the chaplain, the treats on that silver platter, my last meal, and even being able to call anyone I want — none of that mattered. I realized that at 5, I had to stop talking on the phone, then in the execution chamber, no one was going to be there with me except some chaplain I didn’t even know (not Lopez or even Vitela). Even if my family could hold me at the moment, I was making this journey by myself. And it wasn’t dying I was so scared of. It was GOD!
Instead of indulging in these materialistic gifts the state of Texas was using to distract me, I should have been on my knees praying. At about 3, the chaplain old me I got a stay, all my privilges immediately got taken away, and I was still reeling from the shock when Michelle Lyons came in and started asking me questions for the media. On the ride back, I realized that I almost died outside the grace of God.
By now, K-loc (and possibly Reyes too) is thinking that I lost it. But Leonel (and maybe Chino), on the other hand, is probably thinking I gained it. There was a lot of people praying for me. San Fernando Cathedral held a mass for me. My cousin works at Incarnate Word and he got the nuns to pray for me. People from all over sent me letters in those last days. Woody, Rivas, and even Big Tex said they were praying for me. Let’s forget Divine Providence.
Leonel, do you remember how you told me that you should quit doing something for your jefita’s sake but it’s hard, because you enjoy it so much? Remember what Donnie Miller said about it? If, at any time in his life, now is when he needs to be clear-headed. He was right! This situation is very important. The last thing we should do is distract ourselves. What we have to do is focus so that we will be prepared and ready because in the end, nothing else matters. Instead of altering your mind, you need to purge it so that you can mediate, contemplate and figure out what it is you need to do so that you can be at peace on the day of your execution. That way you can face reality. Just in case Divine Providence doesn’t come to your rescue.
I will be praying for all of you and I hope that you all start praying for yourselves. Peace, Moreno.
~~~~~
I found this letter on Anderson Cooper 360, it was originally posted on Deathwatchjournal.wordpress.com.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Speaking of Evil (Part 2 of 3)
The following is the second in a three part series on the topic of, what I've called, "Progressive Depravity".
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part Two
Level Three- Passive Disobedience
Person’s at this level also commit acts of disobedience (against a perceived cultural expectation), only in this case it is without the nagging hassle of guilt. This type of person doesn’t seek out evil, but at the same time, "You've got to do what you've got to do." If you’re late to work, speed. If you’re in a bind, lie. If you’re short on money, steal.
These type of people generally go under the radar. Commonality, by definition, doesn‘t make any headlines. In this stage, a vague sense of guilt acts in a restraining sense. In other words, no new sin is sought out, but current sin isn’t eradicated, because, we think, “I‘m no worse than the next guy”. This level is deceptively perpetrated as harmless. Lies are now labeled with adjectives like, ‘little’, and ‘white’, and soon, what was once forbidden is expected. Boredom with universality of experience brings the longing for something new.
Level Four- Rebellion without a Cause
Unlike the previous level, persons in this level seek out sin. The objectivity of the wrong pursued is not as relevant as the pursuit itself of perceived misconduct. On February 20, 2007, an article was posted on CNN.com with the headline, Teen 'sport killings' of homeless on the rise. The article tells of Nathan Moore and two of his teenage friends who beat a homeless man, Rex Baum, to death. This type of senseless evil is baffling. It at least makes sense that someone might ‘rob from the rich to give to the poor’, but this is more like murder the poor to, well, murder the poor.
Guilt in this level is beginning to fade rapidly. The necessary presence of guilt, in order to facilitate morality, cannot be stressed enough. Condemnation by others from without, pales in comparison to the prick of one’s own conscience from within. When the component of guilt begins to fade, morality begins to rapidly fade with it.
Level Five- Vigilante Rebellion
Rebellion in this stage comes in the form of those who claim to be championing the 'rights' of mankind. (e.g. Abortion rights movements) Unlike the previous level of rebellion, which is characterized negatively by the "mainstream", the charismatic zeal displayed by these activists is usually viewed by outsiders with a certain level of respect. It is for this reason that these type of movers and shakers of society are often viewed by the masses with quasi sympathy. Those who would dare to challenge the “rights” of mankind are viewed as exclusive elitists, therefore, society just lets it slide.
This level, though largely tolerated, is inherently dangerous for two reasons. First, it is contagious, thus it is, almost by default, a larger movement. Secondly, those at this level honestly think that they are doing what is best for society. It could be argued that since those in this level think that they are right, it isn't very evil (at least not on a scale of 1-10). On a subjective level, I would be forced to agree (and in all honesty, for most of the previous levels, I have argued from a strictly subjective standpoint). However in this case, the objective depravity of the issue, coupled with the complete absence of guilt forces me to categorize this type of behavior as worse than the previous levels.
Level Six- Apathetic Morality
This level can be summarized in three words, “I don’t care.” Every possible challenge presented before an apathetic mind receives the same rehearsed, “I don’t care.” The ironic thing is that the person in this level might be willing to admit that they are wrong, but the problem is, (surprise, surprise), they don’t care. Apathy saps the energy and feelings necessary to motivate, and activate the conscience.
The sudden switch from zeal and passion (in the previous level), to apathy and passivity seems to be a bit out of place. It must be understood that this level could have been happened upon one of three different ways. First, this level could have simply been chosen by an individual, thus skipping the previous levels (as I mentioned before, these levels are not necessarily chronological).
Secondly, this level could indeed have been the logical outcome of level five. Those who indulge themselves in something that brings ultimately no satisfaction plunge themselves into despair. When something you thought would fulfill you leaves you feeling empty, despair quickly sets in. Chasing after satisfaction in a world devoid of God's design is tiresome. Thus apathy comes as a result.
Thirdly, this level could have come as a reaction to the ‘champions’ of human rights in the level prior. If you scream at a crowd of people, some will listen, others however will cover their ears. This level could be then those who are covering their ears from the noise of liberals and conservatives both yelling at the top of their lungs. Laziness takes over, and, rather than seeking out the truth, individuals who are tired of being oppressed by the standards of others take on an apathetic, “I don’t care.” approach. The danger of this level is that guilt after sin, or knowledge of sin, hold no sway upon an apathetic mind. Apathy is intensely difficult to overcome, from within or without.
~~~~
The third and final part of this series will cover levels seven through ten.
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part Two
Level Three- Passive Disobedience
Person’s at this level also commit acts of disobedience (against a perceived cultural expectation), only in this case it is without the nagging hassle of guilt. This type of person doesn’t seek out evil, but at the same time, "You've got to do what you've got to do." If you’re late to work, speed. If you’re in a bind, lie. If you’re short on money, steal.
These type of people generally go under the radar. Commonality, by definition, doesn‘t make any headlines. In this stage, a vague sense of guilt acts in a restraining sense. In other words, no new sin is sought out, but current sin isn’t eradicated, because, we think, “I‘m no worse than the next guy”. This level is deceptively perpetrated as harmless. Lies are now labeled with adjectives like, ‘little’, and ‘white’, and soon, what was once forbidden is expected. Boredom with universality of experience brings the longing for something new.
Level Four- Rebellion without a Cause
Unlike the previous level, persons in this level seek out sin. The objectivity of the wrong pursued is not as relevant as the pursuit itself of perceived misconduct. On February 20, 2007, an article was posted on CNN.com with the headline, Teen 'sport killings' of homeless on the rise. The article tells of Nathan Moore and two of his teenage friends who beat a homeless man, Rex Baum, to death. This type of senseless evil is baffling. It at least makes sense that someone might ‘rob from the rich to give to the poor’, but this is more like murder the poor to, well, murder the poor.
Guilt in this level is beginning to fade rapidly. The necessary presence of guilt, in order to facilitate morality, cannot be stressed enough. Condemnation by others from without, pales in comparison to the prick of one’s own conscience from within. When the component of guilt begins to fade, morality begins to rapidly fade with it.
Level Five- Vigilante Rebellion
Rebellion in this stage comes in the form of those who claim to be championing the 'rights' of mankind. (e.g. Abortion rights movements) Unlike the previous level of rebellion, which is characterized negatively by the "mainstream", the charismatic zeal displayed by these activists is usually viewed by outsiders with a certain level of respect. It is for this reason that these type of movers and shakers of society are often viewed by the masses with quasi sympathy. Those who would dare to challenge the “rights” of mankind are viewed as exclusive elitists, therefore, society just lets it slide.
This level, though largely tolerated, is inherently dangerous for two reasons. First, it is contagious, thus it is, almost by default, a larger movement. Secondly, those at this level honestly think that they are doing what is best for society. It could be argued that since those in this level think that they are right, it isn't very evil (at least not on a scale of 1-10). On a subjective level, I would be forced to agree (and in all honesty, for most of the previous levels, I have argued from a strictly subjective standpoint). However in this case, the objective depravity of the issue, coupled with the complete absence of guilt forces me to categorize this type of behavior as worse than the previous levels.
Level Six- Apathetic Morality
This level can be summarized in three words, “I don’t care.” Every possible challenge presented before an apathetic mind receives the same rehearsed, “I don’t care.” The ironic thing is that the person in this level might be willing to admit that they are wrong, but the problem is, (surprise, surprise), they don’t care. Apathy saps the energy and feelings necessary to motivate, and activate the conscience.
The sudden switch from zeal and passion (in the previous level), to apathy and passivity seems to be a bit out of place. It must be understood that this level could have been happened upon one of three different ways. First, this level could have simply been chosen by an individual, thus skipping the previous levels (as I mentioned before, these levels are not necessarily chronological).
Secondly, this level could indeed have been the logical outcome of level five. Those who indulge themselves in something that brings ultimately no satisfaction plunge themselves into despair. When something you thought would fulfill you leaves you feeling empty, despair quickly sets in. Chasing after satisfaction in a world devoid of God's design is tiresome. Thus apathy comes as a result.
Thirdly, this level could have come as a reaction to the ‘champions’ of human rights in the level prior. If you scream at a crowd of people, some will listen, others however will cover their ears. This level could be then those who are covering their ears from the noise of liberals and conservatives both yelling at the top of their lungs. Laziness takes over, and, rather than seeking out the truth, individuals who are tired of being oppressed by the standards of others take on an apathetic, “I don’t care.” approach. The danger of this level is that guilt after sin, or knowledge of sin, hold no sway upon an apathetic mind. Apathy is intensely difficult to overcome, from within or without.
~~~~
The third and final part of this series will cover levels seven through ten.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Moral Vacuum
Like it or not, actions have consequences. Sometimes, we only think of this statement within the context of our own little world - "My actions affect me." While that statement is true, it's incomplete. In reality, "My actions affect myself AND others." As hard as we may try to escape from the world, 99% of the time, we can't. To complicate matters, it's often hard to predict the ripple-affect our actions are going to have, and sometimes we don't even fully see or realize the full impact of our decisions.
For example, take the conflict going on right now in the Gaza strip between Israel and Hamas. While this not-so-little skirmish is technically going on between only two parties (Israel and Hamas), MANY different parties have been affected. Civilians have lost their lives, the safety of reporters has been put in jeopardy, the attempted relief efforts of the U.N. have been hindered, international relations within the middle east have been strained (even more than normal) - and those are just a few of the ones we can readily see. Imagine how long this list would become if we had infinite knowledge? When one party sins against another, other parties are inevitably affected. Interestingly, the negative affect a divorce has on the children (Party C) is talked about just as much as (if not more than) the negative affect divorce has on the couple (Parties A and B)!
To expand the illustration, think about the inter-connectedness within the Body of Christ, the Church. When one member strays from the Lord, it adversely affects a specific part of the Body, which in turns affects the whole. Truth be told, I am not acting very loving towards my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ when I sin against God. What a humbling thought. I'd like to live as though my sin is my problem, something that I'll deal with in the privacy of my own world. I'd like to live as though my sin is no one's business but my own. What a sad, selfish (not to mention - incorrect) way of thinking. As much as it pains me to admit it, my sin is other people's business. Kind of puts the concept of accountability in a whole new light, doesn't it?
For example, take the conflict going on right now in the Gaza strip between Israel and Hamas. While this not-so-little skirmish is technically going on between only two parties (Israel and Hamas), MANY different parties have been affected. Civilians have lost their lives, the safety of reporters has been put in jeopardy, the attempted relief efforts of the U.N. have been hindered, international relations within the middle east have been strained (even more than normal) - and those are just a few of the ones we can readily see. Imagine how long this list would become if we had infinite knowledge? When one party sins against another, other parties are inevitably affected. Interestingly, the negative affect a divorce has on the children (Party C) is talked about just as much as (if not more than) the negative affect divorce has on the couple (Parties A and B)!
To expand the illustration, think about the inter-connectedness within the Body of Christ, the Church. When one member strays from the Lord, it adversely affects a specific part of the Body, which in turns affects the whole. Truth be told, I am not acting very loving towards my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ when I sin against God. What a humbling thought. I'd like to live as though my sin is my problem, something that I'll deal with in the privacy of my own world. I'd like to live as though my sin is no one's business but my own. What a sad, selfish (not to mention - incorrect) way of thinking. As much as it pains me to admit it, my sin is other people's business. Kind of puts the concept of accountability in a whole new light, doesn't it?
Friday, January 16, 2009
Speaking of Evil (Part 1 of 3)
The following is the first in a three part series on the topic of, what I've called, "Progressive Depravity". I wrote this article a couple of years ago, and it's current form is the product of numerous revisions.
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part One
Assumptions and Common Ground
The truth is, we all have basic presuppositions concerning morality. When we talk about evil, it immediately becomes complex because of the sheer plethora of opinions. However, universal agreement about the finer details of morality need not be present in order for coherent discussion to take place. The value of human life (in a Christian framework - because that person is created in the image of God), and treating others as you would like to be treated are two basic principles which can be assumed for the sake of dialogue.
Depravity and Progression
Human experience teaches us that one naturally gravitates towards evil. It is easy to become angry, lose your temper, and say something you, in an otherwise normal state of mind, would not usually say. It takes hard work to stay calm, remain in control, and think before you speak. Not only do we gravitate towards evil, we also find ourselves progressing into deeper levels of sin. However, is one sin worse than another? I maintain that the difference is not one of essence, but rather, one of progression. Progression from an involuntarily sensitive conscience to a voluntarily seared conscience. Thus, certain sins, may in fact, be worse than others. Though the fact of evil is present in any sin, the level of depravity varies greatly. For the sake of speculative dialogue, I propose ten 'levels' of hardness experienced during one's progression into depravity. These levels, are not necessarily chronological, that is, one level does not always follow the prior. They are, however, progressive, that is, each level is more depraved than the one before. The (1) intent of the perpetrator, the (2) level of guilt experienced, and the (3) perceived possibility of moral reform are three of the main factors which influenced the formation of the following ten levels.
Level One- Morally Ignorant
At this level are those who are honestly unaware of the rightness or wrongness of a particular issue. Like a tourist, who unknowingly breaks custom in a foreign country, so too is the individual who unknowingly commits evil. Under this level, is a child who, unawares of the danger, touches a hot stovetop. Although it would be unfair to say that the child sinned, it would be equally unfair to say that the child acted in a way consistent with the way things ought to be. Thus, although the action committed was wrong (better: not good), the child himself was not guilty of wrongdoing. This level exists more as a functionally necessary stepping stone.
Level Two- Disobedience with Guilt
The person in this level feels immediate remorse after wrongdoing. This type of person would be viewed as someone who lived by their ‘principles’. Objectivity of their scruples aside, the point here is that these people have standards, and they actually try to follow them. Since an operative moral framework is in place, a certain amount of guilt is to be expected. Pressure to obey from within (guilty conscience), as opposed from pressure to obey from without (cultural norms), is an important aspect of this level. This type of person would be quite responsive to a call for moral reform. In fact, it is quite possible that this person would turn from their sin without the factor of third party confrontation.
A personal experience of mine when I was a child classically illustrates this level. Growing up, my parents always gave me and my brothers Easter baskets on Easter morning. For some odd reason, the candy in my brother’s Easter basket seemed so much better than the same candy in mine. I began to crave my brother’s candy, and so, when he wasn’t looking I grabbed a piece of his candy out of his Easter basket. The guilt I felt in my mind adversely affected the clarity of my senses, and I was so nervous of being caught that I threw the candy into my mouth wrapper and all! Disobedience - consequences - guilt - reform.
~~~~
Part two of this series will cover levels three through six.
~~~~
Speculative Dialogue on Progressive Depravity
Part One
Assumptions and Common Ground
The truth is, we all have basic presuppositions concerning morality. When we talk about evil, it immediately becomes complex because of the sheer plethora of opinions. However, universal agreement about the finer details of morality need not be present in order for coherent discussion to take place. The value of human life (in a Christian framework - because that person is created in the image of God), and treating others as you would like to be treated are two basic principles which can be assumed for the sake of dialogue.
Depravity and Progression
Human experience teaches us that one naturally gravitates towards evil. It is easy to become angry, lose your temper, and say something you, in an otherwise normal state of mind, would not usually say. It takes hard work to stay calm, remain in control, and think before you speak. Not only do we gravitate towards evil, we also find ourselves progressing into deeper levels of sin. However, is one sin worse than another? I maintain that the difference is not one of essence, but rather, one of progression. Progression from an involuntarily sensitive conscience to a voluntarily seared conscience. Thus, certain sins, may in fact, be worse than others. Though the fact of evil is present in any sin, the level of depravity varies greatly. For the sake of speculative dialogue, I propose ten 'levels' of hardness experienced during one's progression into depravity. These levels, are not necessarily chronological, that is, one level does not always follow the prior. They are, however, progressive, that is, each level is more depraved than the one before. The (1) intent of the perpetrator, the (2) level of guilt experienced, and the (3) perceived possibility of moral reform are three of the main factors which influenced the formation of the following ten levels.
Level One- Morally Ignorant
At this level are those who are honestly unaware of the rightness or wrongness of a particular issue. Like a tourist, who unknowingly breaks custom in a foreign country, so too is the individual who unknowingly commits evil. Under this level, is a child who, unawares of the danger, touches a hot stovetop. Although it would be unfair to say that the child sinned, it would be equally unfair to say that the child acted in a way consistent with the way things ought to be. Thus, although the action committed was wrong (better: not good), the child himself was not guilty of wrongdoing. This level exists more as a functionally necessary stepping stone.
Level Two- Disobedience with Guilt
The person in this level feels immediate remorse after wrongdoing. This type of person would be viewed as someone who lived by their ‘principles’. Objectivity of their scruples aside, the point here is that these people have standards, and they actually try to follow them. Since an operative moral framework is in place, a certain amount of guilt is to be expected. Pressure to obey from within (guilty conscience), as opposed from pressure to obey from without (cultural norms), is an important aspect of this level. This type of person would be quite responsive to a call for moral reform. In fact, it is quite possible that this person would turn from their sin without the factor of third party confrontation.
A personal experience of mine when I was a child classically illustrates this level. Growing up, my parents always gave me and my brothers Easter baskets on Easter morning. For some odd reason, the candy in my brother’s Easter basket seemed so much better than the same candy in mine. I began to crave my brother’s candy, and so, when he wasn’t looking I grabbed a piece of his candy out of his Easter basket. The guilt I felt in my mind adversely affected the clarity of my senses, and I was so nervous of being caught that I threw the candy into my mouth wrapper and all! Disobedience - consequences - guilt - reform.
~~~~
Part two of this series will cover levels three through six.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Just Stop While You're (not) Ahead
What's up with Sarah Palin attacking the media lately? She needs to just cut her losses (painful though they may be) and get out of the spotlight for a while. If she wants any chance of running for President in 2012, she needs to stop rehashing her interview woes and just chill out in Alaska for a couple of years. Seriously, who are her advisers? (Hint: Fire them...now!) Palin has been one big public relations flop from the word, "go".
So that I don't come across completely one sided, I totally understand CNN is biased and will over-dramatize anything. That said, some of her interviews were absolutely awful, and I doubt even Sean Hannity could have made them look good. Palin's honeymoon stage with the media lasted for about, oh, six hours. Once the media (an admittedly vague term) turned on her it was lights out for Hockey Mom of the Year. Palin tried to recover, but all her flailing (and winking) just sunk her deeper into the quicksand of the liberal left.
Now, a couple of months after the election, Palin still can't let sleeping dogs lie. Fortunately for Palin, America has an extremely short memory. My advice? Just fade into the background and pretty soon we'll all be talking about items of real importance (like the next Brangelina baby). Then, when you are ready (and I mean really ready), re-present yourself to us. It will be like a re-birth and we'll all say,
"Palin, we hardly knew thee."
So that I don't come across completely one sided, I totally understand CNN is biased and will over-dramatize anything. That said, some of her interviews were absolutely awful, and I doubt even Sean Hannity could have made them look good. Palin's honeymoon stage with the media lasted for about, oh, six hours. Once the media (an admittedly vague term) turned on her it was lights out for Hockey Mom of the Year. Palin tried to recover, but all her flailing (and winking) just sunk her deeper into the quicksand of the liberal left.
Now, a couple of months after the election, Palin still can't let sleeping dogs lie. Fortunately for Palin, America has an extremely short memory. My advice? Just fade into the background and pretty soon we'll all be talking about items of real importance (like the next Brangelina baby). Then, when you are ready (and I mean really ready), re-present yourself to us. It will be like a re-birth and we'll all say,
"Palin, we hardly knew thee."
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