For
many of us these are seasons of gift-giving. We want to give a gift to a family
member or friend. Trying to identify just the right gift, we search for one that
is an accurate expression of our affection and appreciation. We are looking for
something that would be desired, needed, and have lasting value for the
recipient. At long last we find just the right one, the genuine article, only to
discover that it is not in stock. Not currently available, the chosen item is on
back order. It is the giving of a gift that is yet to be fulfilled.
During
these expectant days of hope, joy, peace, and love, the Columbia Seminary family
gratefully and proudly remembers you and your ministry. I was thinking that the
seminary had found just the right Christmas gift for our alumni/ae and friends
this year: a video recording of faculty member, Dr. Rodger Nishioka's
presentation..."Educating Resilient and Imaginative Leaders for God's Changing
World". Delivered to the seminary's President's Advisory Council on November 2,
2012, Rodger's address began with a provocative premise taken from
sociologist/journalist, Phyllis Tickle's book, The Great Emergence: ...since its
beginning, every 500 years the church has had a rummage sale...marking not the
end of the church but a dramatic change in its expression. From there the
presentation went on to provide a much more hopeful, encouraging, and exciting
view of life and ministry in the church today. I couldn't wait to share the
whole thing with you! Regrettably, I am very disappointed to say that the
full-length video recordings of Rodger's presentation suitable for sharing with
you are not currently available. Though not in stock, they are on back order and
will be made available to you as soon as possible.
For
now, ours is the giving of a gift to you that is yet to be fulfilled. However,
with you and yours we join in proclaiming with the prophet the greatest gift
fulfillment of all...
...for
unto us a son is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall rest
upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty
God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6 American Standard
Version)
Advent
and Christmas blessings to you all!