(Mid-) October Update from the Dunhams
Last week in Covenant's library, I "supervised" six of my 16 Wildwood high school students researching topics for the five-page paper I assigned them in the Bible class I teach. The paper is rather involved for high school students (you can read the assignment here), and some of them were feeling overwhelmed at the idea of explaining "why Deuteronomy matters."
As I sat in the library watching them struggle to decide which thick books to quote (and why), I remembered being so concerned about doing a good job writing my own first paper last fall. However, as my professors did then (and as I remind my students now), the goal of studying the Bible is not to make good grades, but to love God and live in his grace, helping others do the same. It was a good reminder for them...and for me.
When it comes to balancing the academic work of seminary with the intention of it, I can't say I perfectly practice everything I preach. However, I've done away trying to suppress the tension between the two, as it keeps me honest in pursuing both my studies and my sanctification. I'm reminded of what Moses said to Israel in Deuteronomy 4:1:
"Hear now, O Israel, the decrees and laws I am about to teach you.
Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers, is giving you."
This is just one reason (among many, many more) "why Deuteronomy matters" to me.
In other news, though I've had the page updated for a couple of weeks now, I'm a little late in letting folks know about our October update. If you'd be so kind as to click here, you'll find:
brief updates on our academic, ministry, and family endeavors
an important update on our financial status (it's fine, but not great - please read)
our monthly calendar for October (or what's left of it)
And, as always, check out our latest pictures at Flickr (note: if you aren’t a "Flickr friend," email Megan as she handles the invites for that).
Finally, if you get the chance and can take the time, leave a comment and say hello. I always enjoy hearing from you and reading your own updates/links if you'd care to share them.