The Black Hole of Sin
by Peter J. LeithartMichael Crummey’s The Adversary inspires the cathartic terror and sadness Aristotle said tragedy should evoke. Continue Reading »
Chaos in Our Souls
by Mark BauerleinRJ Snell joins the podcast to discuss his new book Lost in the Chaos. Continue Reading »
An Accident
by James Matthew WilsonThe road flares burning where the truck swerved off Just before midnight show the streaks in gravelAnd banged-up tailgate slanted in its trough. Those passing—weary, wondering—slow their travelOn sight of massed police and long enough . . . . Continue Reading »
Orlando was Not a Tragedy
by R. R. RenoWe all know that Omar Mateen’s rampage fits a pattern. But this pattern points to descriptions and explanations that are unpalatable, because they put demands on our leaders and us. So politicians and pundits default to a therapeutic stance. They call the slaughter a “tragedy,” in order to avoid giving it meaning. Continue Reading »
The Tragedy of the Resurrection
by Carl R. TruemanPace common wisdom, the resurrection makes human life truly tragic.
Continue Reading »
Why the Lord’s Prayer Still Matters
by Gene FantPraying the Lord's Prayer in the midst of tragedy is a timely reminder of the unity we all share as image-bearers of God. Continue Reading »
Ruthless Optimism
by Nathaniel GivensMormon culture, especially in America, exhibits what I call “ruthless optimism,” which is the habit of unreasonable striving to be (or perhaps to appear to be) happy regardless of circumstance. This perpetual optimism is both ridiculous and endearing to outsiders, but for those within the faith, the association of righteousness with happiness can create incredible strain. If you’re not happy, is it because you’re doing something wrong? Congratulations: now you have two reasons to be unhappy. This pressure is compounded by the Mormon emphasis on evangelizing: how can you be an effective missionary if you’re depressed? Continue Reading »
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