Skeptic's Quote

H. G. Wells, British writer, 1866-1946

When asked which person left the most permanent impression on history, he replied that judging a person’s greatness by historical standards:

“By this test, Jesus stands first.”
“I am a historian, I am not a believer, but I must confess as a historian that this penniless preacher from Nazareth is irrevocably the very center of history. Jesus Christ is easily the most dominant figure in all history.”
“Christ is the most unique person of history. No man can write a history of the human race without giving first and foremost place to the penniless teacher of Nazareth.”

Source 


Wishing everyone a very merry and blessed Christmas!

"The Word became flesh and dwelt among us..." John 1:14

Christmas Eve

This is what awaits Toddler and Baby Holidays on Christmas morning.

Nature's foreshadowing?

Some theologians, in their attempts to define the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the Trinity, have referred to Christ as the form or pattern of creation.  If this is correct, perhaps the pattern of parthenogenesis (virgin birth) found in nature represents a foreshadowing of the ultimate parthenogenesis:  the virgin birth of Christ.

From Wikipedia, here are some relevant passages on parthenogenesis:

Parthenogenesis /ˌpɑrθənɵˈdʒɛnɨsɨs/ is a form of asexual reproduction in which growth and development of embryos occur without fertilization. In animals, parthenogenesis means development of an embryo from an unfertilized egg cell and is a component process of apomixis.

The word parthenogenesis comes from the Greek παρθένος, parthenos, meaning "virgin" and γένεσις, genesis, meaning "birth".^[1] The term is sometimes used inaccurately to describe reproduction modes in hermaphroditic species that can reproduce by themselves because they contain reproductive organs of both sexes in a single individual's body.
Parthenogenesis occurs naturally in many plants, some invertebrate animal species (including nematodes, water fleas, some scorpions, aphids, some bees, some Phasmida and parasitic wasps) and a few vertebrates (such as some fish,^[2] amphibians, reptiles^[3][4] and very rarely birds^[5])

There are no known cases of naturally occurring mammalian parthenogenesis in the wild. Parthenogenetic progeny of mammals would have two X chromosomes, and would therefore be female.
In 1936, Gregory Goodwin Pincus reported successfully inducing parthenogenesis in a rabbit.^[74] In April 2004, scientists at Tokyo University of Agriculture used parthenogenesis successfully to create a fatherless mouse.
On June 26, 2007, International Stem Cell Corporation (ISCC), a California-based stem cell research company, announced that their lead scientist, Dr. Elena Revazova, and her research team were the first to intentionally create human stem cells from unfertilized human eggs using parthenogenesis.

On August 2, 2007, after much independent investigation, it was revealed that discredited South Korean scientist Hwang Woo-Suk unknowingly produced the first human embryos resulting from parthenogenesis...This made Hwang the first, unknowingly, to successfully perform the process of parthenogenesis to create a human embryon and, ultimately, a human parthenogenetic stem cell line.

While admittedly speculative, perhaps the pattern of parthenogenesis in the natural world prefigured the most unique virgin birth of the most unique person, of the most unique species, to have ever walked the face of the earth.  After all, wasn't it JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis who often pointed to the old nature mythologies of 'gods dying and rising' as foreshadowings of Christ, the real God-Man, dying and rising from the dead?

Statistical Odds of the Virgin Birth

Christians and Muslims believe in the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, though Muslims do not accept the divinity of Christ as Christians do. If the virgin birth truly occurred, then this miracle could have occurred in one of two ways: supernaturally or hypernaturally.

If it took place supernaturally, then God acted outside the natural law by overriding the known laws of physics and biology. This is by far the most common view and what most people would refer to as a miracle. Such a view is not conducive to scientific inquiry.

If it took place hypernaturally, then God acted within the natural law by employing the known laws of physics and biology to produce an extraordinary, statistically improbable event. Such a view is conducive, even if only in a limited fashion, to scientific inquiry.

So, what if the virgin birth of Jesus Christ was, in fact, a hypernatural miracle? 

A 2007 Slate article, Can a Virgin Give Birth, answers "Yes-but it's very, very, very, very unlikely." In other words, as the article points out, it would be an extremely improbable event, mathematically (and biologically) speaking. But if this extremely improbable event did happen, what of the added coincidence that it would've happened to the one man billions have believed to be a miracle worker (Muslims), billions more have believed to be God in human flesh (Christians), and even quite a few agnostic & atheistic scholars have claimed to be the most influential figure in human history?

While the odds of the virgin birth being a hypernatural miracle are incredibly low, perhaps considering these odds in the larger context of the odds of humanity even existing in the first place might prove a useful comparison.  For example, in 1986, two top cosmologists, Barrow and Tipler*, wrote a book called the Anthropic Cosmological Principle. They were also mathematicians and physicists. In the book, they laid out ten steps which were necessary for human evolution. Borrowing from a blog that briefly summarized some of the key points, here is something particularly relevant:

     "Moreover, in the Anthropic Cosmological Principle two of the world’s leading cosmologists, John D. Barrow and Frank J. Tipler, point out 10 steps in the course of human evolution, such as the development of the DNA base genetic code, the origin of mitochondria in the cells, the origin of photosynthesis, the development of aerobic respiration, the development of the inner skeleton and the development of the eye, each of which is so improbable that before it would have occurred the sun would have ceased to be a main sequence star, and would have incinerated the earth. The odds they calculated for the assembly of the human genome was somewhere around 4 to the -360th power to the 110,000th power — simply an incomprehensible number. For reasons like this as well as others, “there has developed a general consensus among evolutionists that the evolution of intelligent life. . . is so improbable that is unlikely to have occurred on any other planet in the entire visible universe."

Viewed in this broader context, one could say that the odds of a hypernatural virgin birth are much higher than the odds of humanity coming into existence in the first place.   


* Apparently, Dr. Tipler, also makes a positive argument for the virgin birth being a hypernatural miracle in his book The Physics of Christianity.

Nestled in the corner

Lights

More front porch decorations

Star of Bethlehem

What was it?

Encyclopedia Britannica lays out some of the more popular (naturalistic or hypernatural) theories here.

The spectacular conjunction of Venus and Jupiter, and the multiple, unique conjunctions of Jupiter and the star Regulus, all of which took place in 3/2 BC, happens to be my favorite theory. Here's a fairly recent article on the topic. Incidentally, there is historical evidence of a significant enrollment/registration in this area of the world during this time, and the majority of ancient Christian historians placed Christ's birth in this time window.

Last week, an astronomer whom I follow in science-faith matters, presented new evidence for his favored theory:  a recurring nova.

And of course, some of the faithful believe it was simply a one-time supernatural manifestation of God's glory, unexplainable by science.

Here's some beautiful music to bring the sacred story to life:

St. Nicholas Day

The man. The myth. The legend.

Historically speaking, his life, legends, and more modern adaptation as Santa Claus have endured, on a global scale, for approximately 1,700 years. In fact, one could probably make a credible argument for St. Nicholas being one of the most influential people in the history of mankind.

There is ample historical evidence to support the claim that St. Nicholas (of Myra) was indeed a real person, and in particular, a 4th century Bishop. Beyond that, however, much is unknown from an historian's point of view. That being said, I've cited a few passages from Wikipedia which provide us with some valuable insights.

"Saint Nicholas (Greek: Ἅγιος Νικόλαος, Hagios Nikólaos, Latin: Sanctus Nicolaus); (15 March 270 – 6 December 343),^[3][4] also called Nikolaos of Myra, was a historic 4th-century Christian saint and Greek^[5] Bishop of Myra..."

"He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, and thus became the model for Santa Claus, whose modern name comes from the Dutch Sinterklaas, itself from a series of elisions and corruptions of the transliteration of "Saint Nikolaos".

"The historical Saint Nicholas is commemorated and revered among Anglican,^[8] Catholic, Lutheran, and Orthodox Christians. In addition, some Baptist,^[9] Methodist,^[10] Presbyterian,^[11] and Reformed churches have been named in honor of Saint Nicholas.^[12]"

"The legends with the most likely historical basis are the stories of Nicholas helping three girls and stories of Nicholas helping sailors. Others, especially the legend of the three murdered children, are much later additions to Nicholas lore, historian Dr. Adam English concludes^[34] in a new biography of Nicholas for Baylor University Press based on a four-year study of current historical research into Nicholas of Myra."

Boots & Calling Card

This is what awaits Toddler Holidays when he wakes up on St. Nicholas Day.

 

St. Nicholas Day Eve

I'll be putting up a modest display and a brief, historical post tomorrow.  Here's some beautiful, sacred music honoring him:

Grandmother Holidays' decorations

Here's a timeline

...of 1st century sources that refer to, either implicitly or explicitly, the Virgin Birth of Jesus Christ:

1.  Galatians 4:4- Written circa 50 AD*; while this is an implicit reference, the Greek grammar appears to hint at Christ's virginal conception (see #6 of this scholarly article)

2.   Mark 6:3- Written circa 65-70 AD; implicit reference (see above article)

3.  Matthew 1- Written circa 80-85 AD; explicit reference

4.  Luke 1- Written circa 80-85 AD; explicit reference

5.  Christian Sibyllines, Book VIII- extra-biblical source; written as early as 80 AD; explicit reference

6. John 8:41- Written circa 90-95 AD; implicit reference (see above article)

7.  Odes of Solomon, Book 19- extra-biblical source; written as early as 100 AD; explicit reference


* I have tried to use dates accepted by the 'scholarly consensus'

First Wave

Icons and Theme

Found this picture in a book called 'Christmas in Ukraine'. Thought these images best summed up the meaning of Christmas.

In case you can't quite make it out, these are icons of the Virgin Mary, Christ, and St. Nicholas

And on that note, I have decided that this year's Christmas decorating theme will be.........St. Nicholas.

All Souls Day

Like last year, I honor today's solemn observance in the spirit of Christian universalism. I especially call to mind a few of the early Christian scholars and saints who advocated this view. Here are some of their own words about what they believed regarding the universal extent of Christ's redemption, the temporary & disciplinary nature of Hell, and the final destiny of all mankind:

Clement of Alexandria- 2nd century theologian, sometimes referred to as the first Christian philosopher

     "For all things are ordered both universally and in particular by the Lord of the universe, with a view to the salvation of the universe."

     "If in this life there are so many ways for purification and repentance, how much more should there be after death! The purification of souls, when separated from the body, will be easier. We can set no limits to the agency of the Redeemer; to redeem, to rescue, to discipline, is his work, and so will he continue to operate after this life."

Origen- 3rd century theologian, offered the first comprehensive theological, philosophical, and intellectual defense of Christianity

     "But our belief is that the Word [Christ] shall prevail over the entire rational creation, and change every soul into his own perfection..."

     "For stronger than all the evil in the soul is the Word, and the healing power that dwells in him; and this healing he applies, according to the will of God, to every man."

St. Gregory of Nyssa- 4th century theologian, sometimes referred to as the "flower of orthodoxy"

     "...the nature of evil shall one day be wholly exterminated, and divine, immortal goodness embrace within itself all intelligent creatures; so that of all who were made by God, not one shall be exiled from his kingdom..."

     "For it is evident that God will in truth be 'in all' when there shall be no evil in existence, when every created being is at harmony with itself, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, when every creature shall have been made one body. Now the body of Christ, as I have often said, is the whole of humanity."

     "Whoever considers the divine power will plainly perceive that it is able at length to restore by means of aionion purgation and expiatory sufferings, those who have gone even to this extremity of wickedness."

St. Macrina the Younger- 4th century nun, older sister of St. Gregory of Nyssa

     "When the evil has been extirpated in the long cycles of the aeons nothing shall be left outside the boundaries of good, but even from them shall be unanimously uttered the confession of the Lordship of Christ."

     "The process of healing shall be proportioned to the measure of evil in each of us, and when the evil is purged and blotted out, there shall come in each place to each immortality and life and honor."

Titus of Bostra- 4th century theologian

     "Thus the mystery was completed by the Savior in order that, perfection being completed through all things, and in all things, by Christ, all universally shall be made one through Christ and in Christ."

     "The very abyss of torment is indeed the place of chastisement, but it is not eternal (aionion) nor did it exist in the original constitution of nature. It was afterwards, as a remedy for sinners, that it might cure them. And the punishments are holy, as they are remedial and salutary in their effect on transgressors; for they are inflicted, not to preserve them in their wickedness, but to make them cease from their wickedness..."

St. Isaac of Syria- 7th century theologian

     "...He [God] has devised the establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven for the entire community of rational beings...Nevertheless Gehenna [Hell] is grievous even if it is thus limited in its extent:"

With these sentiments in mind, we call to mind all human souls who have died, righteous and wicked, believer and unbeliever, and we entrust them to Christ, the Divine Mercy. Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy.

"I am he that liveth, and was dead; and behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death." Jesus Christ, Revelation 1:18

"For you, Christ our God are compassionate and love mankind..." Prayer of St. John of Damascus

All Saints Day

From The Apostles Creed:  I believe in ".. the communion of saints..." Also, it's worth remembering that Christianity's greatest saint is a woman: the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Look for an All Souls Day display tomorrow evening.

Sacred Grove

73 trick or treaters last night.

Trick or Treat Weather Forecast

This would be a whole lot better than last year's 40 degrees, 25 mph winds, and rain. Hoping for 100 Trick or Treaters tomorrow. We had 45 last year. Will post lots of pics and maybe a video or two on Friday, which is All Hallows Eve.

Thursday, Oct 30

Day Oct 30

53^°FHigh

Mostly Sunny

Chance of rain:

0%

Wind:

WNW at 4 mph

Humidity:

65%

Skull

Toddler Holidays and I added a bunch of bones to Spirit Grove today. Here's one of them.

Baby Holidays #2 has arrived

Mrs. Holidays delivered him late last night, so Toddler Holidays and Baby Holidays will get to celebrate their first Triduum of All Hallows together.

5 day weather forecast

Still looking very good. A few degrees cooler than the 10 day forecast. Hoping we stay above the 50 degree mark, with light wind.

Thursday, Oct 30

Updated: Oct 26, 2014, 8:02am EDT

 

Plenty of sun. Highs in the mid 50s and lows in the low 40s.

Day Oct 30

54^°FHigh

Mostly Sunny

Chance of rain:

0%

Wind:

WNW at 5 mph

Humidity:

65%

1 week

...till Trick or Treat night. This year, I'm hoping to activate the five senses with our 'Sacred Grove' display.

Sight- 63 glowing lanterns and an array of string lights
Sound- 15 ethereal songs cycling on the computer in the background
Smell- Cinnamon-sticks scented candle
Taste- A variety of candy
Touch- Several bags of leaves strewn on the porch and walkway for trick-or-treaters to crunch upon as they approach the door, and 50 lbs of dry ice flowing on the ground

I hope people feel a sense of the mystical, the sacred, and the beautiful when they visit our house that night.

And down the street, at our 'Spirit Grove' display, I'm hoping to activate the childhood imagination with a slightly spooky, organic, old-school style. I hope people feel a sense of classic Halloween fun as they stroll through the grove.

10 day forecast

Ironically, this is virtually identical to last year's 10 day forecast, which proved to be spectacularly wrong. Let's hope this year is different.

Thursday, Oct 30

Updated: Oct 21, 2014, 11:02am EDT

 

Abundant sunshine. Highs in the upper 50s and lows in the low 40s.

Day Oct 30

57^°FHigh

Sunny

Chance of rain:

10%

Wind:

WNW at 5 mph

Humidity:

62%

UV Index:

3 - Moderate

Sunrise:

7:59 am

Moonrise:

2:02 pm

Moonphase:

Waxing Crescent

10 days

...till Trick or Treat night. 10 day weather forecast comes out tomorrow.

Put up a few more decorations in Spirit Grove.

2 Weeks

...till Trick or Treat night.

Added a wreath to Spirit Grove today.

Egg Sac and Sign

Buzzard

3 Weeks

...till Trick or Treat night in our town. It'll run from 6-8pm. Last year, due to the inclement weather, we only had 45 trick or treaters. Hopefully, we'll have better weather this year, which would likely generate a bigger turnout.

I've also gotten commitments to show up from one Goodwill chapter for the developmentally disabled and one group of elderly residents from Grandmother Holidays' assisted living facility. Three other developmentally disabled groups have shown some interest in coming out, though they have not yet committed to attend.

So, who knows, if everything goes right, maybe we'll hit 100 trick or treaters this year?

Finally, as a sneak preview, 'Sacred Grove' will feature 63 glowing lanterns, 50 lbs of dry ice, 17 tombstones, lots of leaves, music, and a scented candle. Down the street at 'Spirit Grove', I have already hung 13 decorations, with 14 more to go. There will also be 30 glowing lanterns.

Pumpkin

Mother in Law Holidays brought this up for Toddler Holidays