| A new year brings new beginnings, a chance to set new goals, create new habits, do things better or differently … at least for awhile. May gratitude for benchmarks and achievements marking progress over the past twelve months claim space in your thoughts and discussions. It’s fitting that this month’s text has us with Peter as he finds himself explaining his new understanding of the scope of God’s mission and purpose to those who still share his old understanding. It was hard for God-fearing Jews to recognize Jesus as the Messiah (something new, despite the old-old prophecies and promises). It was hard for God-fearing now-followers of Jesus to understand that their Messiah wasn’t just for the Jews, but was for everyone who believes, even Gentiles. Is it hard for us today to see and accept what God is doing in our world, in our neighborhoods, in our families, when that is different from the way we’ve locked-in our own expectations? May we echo Peter’s practical humility in unexpected situations, to ask, “Who am I to stand in the way” of what God is doing? (This calls to mind a passage we’ll see next season: The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. [Philippians 1:18]) “Your kingdom come, Your will be done.” |
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| Talk to Yourself Here’s something else that’s new … a tool for anyone who’s set on improving their memorization. Our very own former quizzer, now-West Coast Co-Director Brennan Colberg has developed an app called “Quotid” (comes from “quotidian,” a Latin term meaning “daily” … but also conveniently sounds like “Quote-It”—just remember there’s a “D” at the end instead). It’s on the App Store for Apple products and gives you that “listening ear” for solo recitation to check your work. Read, recite, review a marked-up text showing your errors, listen back to hear what you said (versus what you thought you said), see how quickly you recited a section, both in words-per-minute and time elapsed; aim for the “ding” that announces a perfect recitation! Ten free attempts each day or subscribe for unlimited use. Request a special code to have this year’s text included in your library (or create/add your own files—for Scripture, poetry or anything else you’d like to memorize). It’s fully functional, but you are encouraged to send feedback if you encounter any interesting bits that could use some work. More features are planned, but you are the prime audience for this! Do you know of any other useful aids for memorization? Let me know and we’ll spread the word. |