We are well aware of Adam’s plight. Before the fall, crops were not subject to drought or freeze. Thorns and rocks had not invaded the fertile soil. But after sin tainted this perfect world, the ground would no longer produce without heavy, back-breaking labor. Sweat would drip on the earth as man labored to bring forth its fruit. Today, we don’t know much about sweat. While many of us have jobs of heavy labor, most are aided by technology or... Read more
This much talked-about movie — based on the book by by Jon Krakauer — was recently released. The entire premise of the true story is a brutal commentary on our modern culture. It chronicles the life of young Chris McCandless as he looks for meaning, and ends up disappearing into the Alaskan wilderness.The book – and presumably the movie – are excellent. But there is a pervasive sadness. McCandless looks for purpose in his life, running from riches, running from... Read more
This worker apparently died at his desk — and no one found him till several days later. If true, this is a sad commentary. If this is a hoax, it’s a warning. Get your priorities straight! Please, share with a friend if you feel moved. Read all past issues at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/davidrupert Read more
The serene beauty of a holy life is the most powerful influence in the world next to the power of God. — Blaise PascalThe reformation brought about many things in the sixteenth century, including a destruction of aristocracy, an unprededented equality and the closure of the gulf between the laity and the priesthood. The established church was ensconced in power – considering their ministry sacred and despising all else as secular. But the New Testament teaches something altogether different “But... Read more
In this space, we have highlighted about the need for integrity at the workplace. Theft of time, fudging numbers and other falsehoods might work in the short run – but in the end, they cut short productivity. The New England Patriots have been accused, caught, and fined for cheating. Using video cameras, they taped defensive signals by opponent’s coaches. NFL security confiscated a video camera and tape from a Patriots employee during New England’s 38-14 victory. The employee was accused... Read more
One of the most widespread workplace issues is theft. Larceny, corruption, and cooking the books are so commonplace, that they are almost the expected. These kinds of shenanigans are helping lead us to a place of continual distrust – we don’t trust government, we don’t trust business, we don’t even trust churches – all because others have stolen and we suspect that everyone is too. This lack of trust leads to inordinate reporting, audits and mindless double-checks. It slows productivity... Read more
One baseball coach chanted over and again to me the same words. “It’s all in the follow through!” Somehow, I never got it right. In fact his words could apply to several sports: Baseball, football, Golf, Tennis, bowling. Almost all these endeavors employ a motion that requires a finishing motion. Technique, concentration, commitment, conditioning and ability are worthless under the spell of a bad follow through. The journey of life suffers under a similar dilemma. Good people of every ilk... Read more
Prior to World War II, we were absorbed with making a living. Everything centered around survival. Since that point we have not only developed the technology to make our work easier but also allowed for boundless sensation. Instead of being possessed with survival, we are now possessed with pleasure — even in our work. It is painfully obvious that the decline in fervent faith during this same period has led to a decline in decent behavior. Our pleasure hunt has... Read more
More than one-third of Americans describe themselves as feeling constantly rushed. The average married couple works more than 90 hours a week combined, not including the countless hours spent caring for children and managing household responsibilities. So — how can we gain more time? Or should we seek to gain more control of our lives?What’s your opinion? Please, share with a friend if you feel moved. Read all past issues at http://www.patheos.com/blogs/davidrupert Read more
The AFL-CIO today announced its “Worst Boss Award.” One of the winners (losers?) was a tyrant who threw away the disability paperwork for a man who had cancer and wouldn’t allow him to take his personal vacation time. The other was a boss who had employees vacate a smoke-filled workroom floor by seniority, ensuring that their was someone to answer the phone until the very end. Other stories include a lawyer who called into his secretary giving instructions while he... Read more
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