It was a nice relaxing weekend, minus a few small sunburn spots!
As a Christian, wife, mother of a little girl and two fur-babies, Mississippi State Bulldog, and PhD, I lead a very busy life. If you add on top of that my obsession for organization and loves for couponing, sewing, knitting, cooking, reading, gardening, and a host of other random hobbies, you've got the recipe for...well...variety. And variety is the spice of life!
Friday, August 12, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Gulf Shores
It's Foto Friday- Gulf Shores edition! Last weekend, Mama and Papa Poe invited us down for a weekend at the beach. They had gotten a really good deal on a house in Foley that the owners are renting out until they can sell the place. Mama Poe made us some tasty meals, as did the Fish River Grill #2 (Swamp Soup...yum). While we spent a lot of time in the screened in pool at the house, we also made it out to the beach:
It was a nice relaxing weekend, minus a few small sunburn spots!
It was a nice relaxing weekend, minus a few small sunburn spots!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
MrsDrPoe: The Lost Parables (Luke 15)
It's another Theology Thursday on the blog, so I invite you to open up your Bibles with me as we delve into God's word. Today we'll be looking at the "lost chapter" in Luke, Chapter 15. I studied this chapter earlier in the week with our friend Mr. Holley, and most of these ideas presented here came from that study.
The chapter opens with the Parisees and scribes complaining that Jesus was again receiving and eating with tax collectors and sinners. And Jesus responds to their complaints with three parables:
The Lost Sheep
Jesus points out than any man who lost one out of one hundred sheep would leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness in order to seek after the one that was lost. Upon finding it, any man would call together his friends and neighbors to celebrate its return to the fold. Jesus compares this scenario to the fact that there is "more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who have need no repentance."
The Lost Coin
Jesus says that any woman who loses one of ten silver coins would light lamps and sweep her house, carefully searching until she finds it. And when she does find it, she gathers her friends and neighbors together to rejoice with her. Jesus again compares this to the "joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
These stories show us that God cares about every individual, not percentages. Like the "any man" and "any woman" in these parables, we should realize that there's too much at stake to give up on those who are lost; we should continually be searching for opportunities to teach the gospel of Christ. One other thing we can see is the heavenly view of repentance- it is an occasion for massive amounts of rejoicing in the Lord.
The Lost Son
A certain man had two sons, the youngest of which demanded his inheritance early. When he had received it, this son took all his possessions with him to a far country and literally wasted everything that he had. After a famine in the country, the son winds up feeding pigs for a citizen of the country. Coming to the realization that he would gladly eat the pods he was feeding the pigs, the son decided that he would go home, repent of the sin he committed against God and his father, and ask to be one of his father's slaves.
When he was a long way off, his father saw him and ran to him, commanding his servants to bring his son clothes and to kill the fatted calf. While the celebration continued, the older son came back from the fields and refused to enter the party. The father pleaded with him, but the son refused saying that he was responsible and worked hard for his father all the time but never received even the smallest of festivities in his honor. The father responds that all he had belonged to the oldest son, but it was right to celebrate at the younger son's return for he "was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found."
There are so many lessons that this parable by itself could teach us. First, it's important to note that when the younger son wanted to leave, the father didn't try to get him to stay by changing the rules. (Example: the son wanted to spend money on harlots; the dad didn't say, "if you stay, you can bring one over occasionally.") This has application to us as children of God, as well as to those of us who are parents.
Another thought this story brings to light is the fact that if we take one step toward God, He will run to us, just like the father ran to the son when he was still a long way off. When we make the decision to turn our lives toward Him and to repent of the sins we've committed, He rushes to us, and helps us take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23).
Finally, while we must be careful not to be the younger son, we must also strive not to be like the older son. When one repents and returns to the church, we should embrace him/her and rejoice that he/she has been made alive again. Often times it's too easy for us to have a cynical ("he/she will just go back to his/her old ways soon enough.") or proud ("he/she doesn't deserve this; I've been more faithful than him/her!") attitude toward one who repents. These are the same attitudes that the Pharisees and scribes had toward the sinners and tax collectors at the beginning of the chapter- attitudes that we as Christians, saved by the grace of God, should not possess!
The parable of the lost son is left open-ended. I think that this is in part due to the fact that the Pharisees and scribes were left to choose whether or not they would continue in their holier-than-thou attitudes. If we struggle with this idea that heaven rejoices more over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine who don't need repentance, then we too are left with a choice- love our returned brethren and rejoice with the heavenly host or harbor our resentment, allowing the devil a firm foothold in our lives.
The chapter opens with the Parisees and scribes complaining that Jesus was again receiving and eating with tax collectors and sinners. And Jesus responds to their complaints with three parables:
The Lost Sheep
Jesus points out than any man who lost one out of one hundred sheep would leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness in order to seek after the one that was lost. Upon finding it, any man would call together his friends and neighbors to celebrate its return to the fold. Jesus compares this scenario to the fact that there is "more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who have need no repentance."
The Lost Coin
Jesus says that any woman who loses one of ten silver coins would light lamps and sweep her house, carefully searching until she finds it. And when she does find it, she gathers her friends and neighbors together to rejoice with her. Jesus again compares this to the "joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
These stories show us that God cares about every individual, not percentages. Like the "any man" and "any woman" in these parables, we should realize that there's too much at stake to give up on those who are lost; we should continually be searching for opportunities to teach the gospel of Christ. One other thing we can see is the heavenly view of repentance- it is an occasion for massive amounts of rejoicing in the Lord.
The Lost Son
A certain man had two sons, the youngest of which demanded his inheritance early. When he had received it, this son took all his possessions with him to a far country and literally wasted everything that he had. After a famine in the country, the son winds up feeding pigs for a citizen of the country. Coming to the realization that he would gladly eat the pods he was feeding the pigs, the son decided that he would go home, repent of the sin he committed against God and his father, and ask to be one of his father's slaves.
When he was a long way off, his father saw him and ran to him, commanding his servants to bring his son clothes and to kill the fatted calf. While the celebration continued, the older son came back from the fields and refused to enter the party. The father pleaded with him, but the son refused saying that he was responsible and worked hard for his father all the time but never received even the smallest of festivities in his honor. The father responds that all he had belonged to the oldest son, but it was right to celebrate at the younger son's return for he "was dead and is alive again, and was lost and is found."
There are so many lessons that this parable by itself could teach us. First, it's important to note that when the younger son wanted to leave, the father didn't try to get him to stay by changing the rules. (Example: the son wanted to spend money on harlots; the dad didn't say, "if you stay, you can bring one over occasionally.") This has application to us as children of God, as well as to those of us who are parents.
Another thought this story brings to light is the fact that if we take one step toward God, He will run to us, just like the father ran to the son when he was still a long way off. When we make the decision to turn our lives toward Him and to repent of the sins we've committed, He rushes to us, and helps us take up our cross daily (Luke 9:23).
Finally, while we must be careful not to be the younger son, we must also strive not to be like the older son. When one repents and returns to the church, we should embrace him/her and rejoice that he/she has been made alive again. Often times it's too easy for us to have a cynical ("he/she will just go back to his/her old ways soon enough.") or proud ("he/she doesn't deserve this; I've been more faithful than him/her!") attitude toward one who repents. These are the same attitudes that the Pharisees and scribes had toward the sinners and tax collectors at the beginning of the chapter- attitudes that we as Christians, saved by the grace of God, should not possess!
The parable of the lost son is left open-ended. I think that this is in part due to the fact that the Pharisees and scribes were left to choose whether or not they would continue in their holier-than-thou attitudes. If we struggle with this idea that heaven rejoices more over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine who don't need repentance, then we too are left with a choice- love our returned brethren and rejoice with the heavenly host or harbor our resentment, allowing the devil a firm foothold in our lives.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Whole Wheat Bread
Today's What's for Dinner Wednesday is another treat to eat with your meal- whole wheat bread made from scratch from start to finish (just call me the little red hen). This recipe is essentially from my VitaMix cookbook, with a few minor adjustments. If you don't have one of these mixers-on-steroids, you can start with whole wheat flour and mix/kneed the dough by hand.
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups warm water (not pictured), 1 package active dry yeast, 1 tablespoons honey, 1 3/4 cups whole kernel wheat, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
Place the whole wheat kernels in the dry container, securing the lid. Turn the machine on VARIABLE speed 1. Quickly increase the speed to 10 and then to high. Grind wheat for 1 minute, and then let it cool for a few minutes.
Combine yeast, honey, and the water in a bowl to proof for approximately 5 minutes.
Pour oil, lemon juice, and yeast mixture into the wheat flour in the blender container. To mix the dough, turn the machine on HIGH for 1 second. While the dough rests, grease a loaf pan. To kneed the dough in the machine, two steps are required; repeat the two-step process 5 times.
Step 1: Scrape the sides of the container with a non-stick spatula, pulling the dough at the sides to the center of the container.
Step 2: With the speed set to HIGH, turn the machine on and off quickly, 5 times.
Dump the dough into the loaf pan, scraping the container with the spatula if necessary. Shape the loaf with the spatula:
Let the dough rise about 30 minutes until it reaches the top of the loaf pan.
Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.
Each loaf makes 12 slices, and each slice has: 99 calories, 0 grams of fat, 4 grams of fiber, 2 milligrams of sodium, 0 grams of sugar, and 22 grams of Carbs...obviously not low-carb but pretty healthy (bread-wise) and no preservatives. Enjoy!
**Edit 8/11/11: The above nutrition information is for a slice of bread made without oil, honey, salt, and lemon juice which are considered optional ingredients in the original recipe. Thanks to Anonymous for prompting a second look!
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups warm water (not pictured), 1 package active dry yeast, 1 tablespoons honey, 1 3/4 cups whole kernel wheat, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon lemon juice.
Place the whole wheat kernels in the dry container, securing the lid. Turn the machine on VARIABLE speed 1. Quickly increase the speed to 10 and then to high. Grind wheat for 1 minute, and then let it cool for a few minutes.
Combine yeast, honey, and the water in a bowl to proof for approximately 5 minutes.
Pour oil, lemon juice, and yeast mixture into the wheat flour in the blender container. To mix the dough, turn the machine on HIGH for 1 second. While the dough rests, grease a loaf pan. To kneed the dough in the machine, two steps are required; repeat the two-step process 5 times.
Step 1: Scrape the sides of the container with a non-stick spatula, pulling the dough at the sides to the center of the container.
Step 2: With the speed set to HIGH, turn the machine on and off quickly, 5 times.
Dump the dough into the loaf pan, scraping the container with the spatula if necessary. Shape the loaf with the spatula:
Let the dough rise about 30 minutes until it reaches the top of the loaf pan.
Bake at 350 for 35 minutes.
Each loaf makes 12 slices, and each slice has: 99 calories, 0 grams of fat, 4 grams of fiber, 2 milligrams of sodium, 0 grams of sugar, and 22 grams of Carbs...obviously not low-carb but pretty healthy (bread-wise) and no preservatives. Enjoy!
**Edit 8/11/11: The above nutrition information is for a slice of bread made without oil, honey, salt, and lemon juice which are considered optional ingredients in the original recipe. Thanks to Anonymous for prompting a second look!
MrsDrPoe: The Blessing
For the next reading review, I present to you "The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance" by Dr. John Trent and Gary Smalley:
I received a free copy of this book from the BookSneeze website. In this work, a method for blessing our children is investigated based on examination of Old Testament blessings given from fathers to their children. The five main 'parts' to a blessing are developed from these passages. The authors also delve into general guidelines and examples for blessing, as well as suggestions for how to pass on the blessing if we have never experienced it ourselves.
I enjoyed this book. It was a fairly easy read, and it presented psychological thoughts of a Biblical nature that should be considered when raising children. Although I don't plan on being a parent any time soon, I think the ideas conveyed by the authors will be helpful to me when we do start adding to our family.
I found the subtitle of the book to be a little misleading; in the text, Dr. Trent does acknowledge the need in certain instances for discipline as outlined in the Bible. In these cases, sinful acts of children should not be "unconditionally accepted." This and most of the ideas presented in the book align with my understanding of the scriptures; however, some do not. As always, I caution readers to examine any study of this nature with an open Bible, because nothing should replace the word of God.
I received a free copy of this book from the BookSneeze website. In this work, a method for blessing our children is investigated based on examination of Old Testament blessings given from fathers to their children. The five main 'parts' to a blessing are developed from these passages. The authors also delve into general guidelines and examples for blessing, as well as suggestions for how to pass on the blessing if we have never experienced it ourselves.
I enjoyed this book. It was a fairly easy read, and it presented psychological thoughts of a Biblical nature that should be considered when raising children. Although I don't plan on being a parent any time soon, I think the ideas conveyed by the authors will be helpful to me when we do start adding to our family.
I found the subtitle of the book to be a little misleading; in the text, Dr. Trent does acknowledge the need in certain instances for discipline as outlined in the Bible. In these cases, sinful acts of children should not be "unconditionally accepted." This and most of the ideas presented in the book align with my understanding of the scriptures; however, some do not. As always, I caution readers to examine any study of this nature with an open Bible, because nothing should replace the word of God.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Conservation of Momentum, Part II
It's that time again folks! For this Thesis Tuesday, we will continue our discussion on the conservation of momentum equation by looking at a brief example.
Consider water flowing through a 20 deg bend shown below at a rate of 0.025 m3/s. The flow is frictionless, gravitational effects are negligible, and the pressure at section 1 is 150 kPa and section 2 is 74.5 kPa. Determine the x and y components of force required to hold the bend in place.
Alright...let's organize the problem from the given information in the statement, the original figure (not shown), and a fluid property table:
Given: theta = 20 deg, Q1 = 0.025 m3/s, P1 = 150 kPa, P2 = 74.5 kPa, rho = 999 kg/m3, D1 = 0.1 m, D2 = 0.05 m
Find: Fx, Fy
Assume: steady, laminar, incompressible, uniform flow, frictionless, neglect gravity
Now onto the solution (employing the process we outlined last week):
Step 1: We must first choose a CV, keeping in mind the criteria for the "best" CV. In the figure above, the CV we will use is represented by the dashed line- note that it is perpendicular to flow into and out of the bend and that it cuts through the bend support.
Step 2: Next, we must apply the continuity equation:
For steady (d/dt(...) = 0), incompressible (rho = constant), uniform (V = constant) flow with 2 in/out surfaces:
Since we know the volumetric flowrate (Q1) and bend diameter at 1, we can find the velocity at 1:
Similarly, since we know the diameters at 1 and 2, we can determine the areas:
Thus, we can solve for the velocity at surface 2:
Step 3: Then we look at the external forces acting on the bend. In this case, we have two pressure forces and the support force of the bend (which we would not "see" if our CV did not intersect the support apparatus):
Step 4: Next, we must look at the left side of the linear momentum equation for steady, uniform, incompressible flow with 2 surfaces:
Step 5: Finally, we combine the right and left sides of the momentum equation, splitting it into scalar components (remember: this equation is a vector equation!), and solve for the unknown support forces:
Vector Eqn:
X-Momentum:
Y-Momentum:
Z-Momentum:
While it may seem a bit complicated at first, I can assure you that the more problems you work with this outlined process, the easier it becomes. Please be sure to comment with any questions you may have, and stay tuned for more momentum madness next week!
Consider water flowing through a 20 deg bend shown below at a rate of 0.025 m3/s. The flow is frictionless, gravitational effects are negligible, and the pressure at section 1 is 150 kPa and section 2 is 74.5 kPa. Determine the x and y components of force required to hold the bend in place.
Alright...let's organize the problem from the given information in the statement, the original figure (not shown), and a fluid property table:
Given: theta = 20 deg, Q1 = 0.025 m3/s, P1 = 150 kPa, P2 = 74.5 kPa, rho = 999 kg/m3, D1 = 0.1 m, D2 = 0.05 m
Find: Fx, Fy
Assume: steady, laminar, incompressible, uniform flow, frictionless, neglect gravity
Now onto the solution (employing the process we outlined last week):
Step 1: We must first choose a CV, keeping in mind the criteria for the "best" CV. In the figure above, the CV we will use is represented by the dashed line- note that it is perpendicular to flow into and out of the bend and that it cuts through the bend support.
Step 2: Next, we must apply the continuity equation:
d/dt(int(rho)dV) + int(rho*(V.n))dA = 0
For steady (d/dt(...) = 0), incompressible (rho = constant), uniform (V = constant) flow with 2 in/out surfaces:
rho*int(V1.n1)dA1 + rho*int(V2.n2)dA2 = rho*|V2|*A2 - rho*|V1|*A1 = 0
Since we know the volumetric flowrate (Q1) and bend diameter at 1, we can find the velocity at 1:
|V1|= Q1/(0.25*pi*D1*D1)
Similarly, since we know the diameters at 1 and 2, we can determine the areas:
A1 = 0.25*pi*D1*D1 (etc.)
Thus, we can solve for the velocity at surface 2:
|V2|= |V1|*D1*D1/(D2*D2) = 12.732 m/s
Step 3: Then we look at the external forces acting on the bend. In this case, we have two pressure forces and the support force of the bend (which we would not "see" if our CV did not intersect the support apparatus):
Fp1 = (p1*A1 0 0)
Fp2 = (Fp2x Fp2y 0) = (-p2*cos(theta)*A2 p2*sin(theta)*A2 0)
Fs = (Fsx Fsy Fsz)
Fp2 = (Fp2x Fp2y 0) = (-p2*cos(theta)*A2 p2*sin(theta)*A2 0)
Fs = (Fsx Fsy Fsz)
Step 4: Next, we must look at the left side of the linear momentum equation for steady, uniform, incompressible flow with 2 surfaces:
d/dt(int(rho*V)dV + int(rho*V*(V.n))dA
rho*int(V1*(V1.n1))dA1 + rho*int(V2*(V2.n2))dA2
-rho*int(V1*|V1|)dA1 + rho*int(V2*|V2|)dA2
-rho*V1*|V1|*A1 + rho*V2*|V2|*A2
rho*int(V1*(V1.n1))dA1 + rho*int(V2*(V2.n2))dA2
-rho*int(V1*|V1|)dA1 + rho*int(V2*|V2|)dA2
-rho*V1*|V1|*A1 + rho*V2*|V2|*A2
Step 5: Finally, we combine the right and left sides of the momentum equation, splitting it into scalar components (remember: this equation is a vector equation!), and solve for the unknown support forces:
Vector Eqn:
-rho*V1*|V1|*A1 + rho*V2*|V2|*A2 = Fs + Fp1 + Fp2
X-Momentum:
-rho*|V1|*|V1|*A1 + rho*|V2|*|V2|*cos(theta)*A2 = Fsx + rho*A1 -p2*cos(theta)*A2
Fsx = -821.322 N
Y-Momentum:
-rho*|V2|*|V2|*sin(theta)*A2 = Fsy + p2*sin(theta)*A2
Fsy = -158.79 N
Z-Momentum:
0 = Fsz
While it may seem a bit complicated at first, I can assure you that the more problems you work with this outlined process, the easier it becomes. Please be sure to comment with any questions you may have, and stay tuned for more momentum madness next week!
Monday, August 8, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Prospective Deals, 8/9
Good afternoon and happy Money Monday to all! There are a few good deals this week that I thought I'd share with you, but I haven't gone myself yet, so I don't have any pictures.
CVS
$1 ECB back WYB 2 bottles of Herbal Essences or Aussie shampoo or conditioner at $2.48/bottle [$1/1 RP 8/07, FREE bottle (Facebook offer, expired)]
Wags
$8 back in RR WYB $20 in Dr. Scholl's products (coupons here, there, and everywhere)
$1 back in RR WYB 1 bottle Herbal Essences or Aussie shampoo or conditioner at $3.00 [$1/1 RP 8/07, FREE bottle (Facebook offer, expired)]
Kroger
Mangoes - $1 (It's the perfect time to try these)
Sweet corn ears - $0.33 (And for a fantastic side dish, these)
Red seedless grapes - $1.68/lb
Tyson boneless, skinless breasts - $1.79/lb
Be sure to check here for all the deals and coupon matchups this week, and happy saving!
CVS
$1 ECB back WYB 2 bottles of Herbal Essences or Aussie shampoo or conditioner at $2.48/bottle [$1/1 RP 8/07, FREE bottle (Facebook offer, expired)]
Wags
$8 back in RR WYB $20 in Dr. Scholl's products (coupons here, there, and everywhere)
$1 back in RR WYB 1 bottle Herbal Essences or Aussie shampoo or conditioner at $3.00 [$1/1 RP 8/07, FREE bottle (Facebook offer, expired)]
Kroger
Mangoes - $1 (It's the perfect time to try these)
Sweet corn ears - $0.33 (And for a fantastic side dish, these)
Red seedless grapes - $1.68/lb
Tyson boneless, skinless breasts - $1.79/lb
Be sure to check here for all the deals and coupon matchups this week, and happy saving!
Friday, August 5, 2011
MrsDrPoe: The Land of the Samurai
Happy Foto Friday to all! Today I'd like to share with you some pictures from my recent trip to Japan for the first ASME-JSME-KSME Joint Fluids Engineering Conference. After 15+ hours of flight time (from ATL to SFO to TYO) we arrived at the Tokyo-Narita airport at 4:40 pm local time, but the conference was in Hamamatsu, which meant we had 2.5+ hours of train rides before we reached our final destination. The trains themselves were pretty cool:
As were the views from them (rice patties and Tokyo):
Hamamatsu Station was almost adjacent to our hotel, which was fantastic because by the time we got there, it was 9:30 pm local time, and we were exhausted. After checking into my room at the Okura Act City Hotel, I immediately showered and settled in for Sunday morning services. Right after the closing prayer (which happily coincided with my goal of staying up till midnight local time to help my body get acclimated to the current time zone), I tumbled into my small, hard bed that was surprisingly comfortable.
The next morning I felt fantastic (or at least a lot better than I did when I got to my room the night before). After Sunday evening services and daily Bible reading, I checked out the view of the city, mountains, and the Pacific) from my room:
While Japan is totally clean (I saw maybe two pieces of trash on the street the whole time I was there), downtown Hamamatsu is definitely prettier at night. Another thing I noticed my first day there was the bathrooms. The toilets were either porcelain holes in the ground (not the first thing you want to see when you get off a plane you've been in for 10+ hours) or highly technical machines with bidet buttons:
The shower had three knobs- one to turn on the bath faucet, one to turn on the shower head, and one to select the temperature (no guessing at the perfect temp there). And the mirror had an area above the sink that wouldn't fog when you took a shower (love it).
After meeting my advisor for breakfast, I went across the street to the hotel conference center where all the presentations were being given:
Every day from about 8:30-6:00 someone was lecturing about something- I heard about A LOT of different research projects going on...so much in fact that I realized how much I miss going to class. One of the most interesting presentations was about the vortices formed by the flapping of butterfly wings. My presentation went alright; although, I wish I would've done a better job answering the few questions that were asked about my work.
Lunches were provided for us each day as well:
We received green tea in a juice-box and a box with 6-9 compartments containing various Japanese delicacies. Each lunch box came with a guide to what was in each compartment; some of the descriptions on this guide were quite interesting, for example:
Tuesday night I spent going to a Technical Committee meeting and working on my presentation (which I gave Wednesday at noon). Wednesday night there was a banquet for all the conference participants- it was opened with the smashing of a Sake barrel by the leaders of each society, closed with a Japanese word and a clap from the crowd, and filled in between with Japanese culture. There were Japanese style dishes (both sweet and savory), green tea, and music on Japanese harps from a group called the Harp Queens:
Since the purpose for my trip was the conference, I didn't get to do much sightseeing; however, Monday and Thursday nights I did get out of the hotel complex for a bit. The first night out it was me and a map (with the locations all in Japanese). I struck out to find Hamamatsu Castle, but I didn't make it there before dark (at about 7:00 pm). Since the castle was in a less populated area of town, I decided to go back to the hotel (Japan has a low crime rate, but I didn't want to take my chances). On the way back, I got lost for about 20 minutes before finding a sign that said "Hamamatsu Station"...then I followed the train station signs home.
Thursday night was less adventurous; my advisor and I went to try and get souvenirs for our families. While wandering around the city, we ran into another conference attendee with his Japanese "sister" (who had been an exchange student in his home when he was younger). We went to a Japanese BBQ place with them, where the sister ordered various items (from a Japanese Mr. Robinson) that were brought to our table along with what was essentially a mini charcoal grill. The food was wonderful- especially the beef- and I can now say that I have tried cow tongue. Here some random pictures from my wanderings:
And that was my trip to the land of the Samurai in a nutshell. It was a great experience that I was so thankful to have had, and if I can ever go back, I will (but I am definitely taking Mr. Poe with me next time)!
As were the views from them (rice patties and Tokyo):
Hamamatsu Station was almost adjacent to our hotel, which was fantastic because by the time we got there, it was 9:30 pm local time, and we were exhausted. After checking into my room at the Okura Act City Hotel, I immediately showered and settled in for Sunday morning services. Right after the closing prayer (which happily coincided with my goal of staying up till midnight local time to help my body get acclimated to the current time zone), I tumbled into my small, hard bed that was surprisingly comfortable.
The next morning I felt fantastic (or at least a lot better than I did when I got to my room the night before). After Sunday evening services and daily Bible reading, I checked out the view of the city, mountains, and the Pacific) from my room:
While Japan is totally clean (I saw maybe two pieces of trash on the street the whole time I was there), downtown Hamamatsu is definitely prettier at night. Another thing I noticed my first day there was the bathrooms. The toilets were either porcelain holes in the ground (not the first thing you want to see when you get off a plane you've been in for 10+ hours) or highly technical machines with bidet buttons:
The shower had three knobs- one to turn on the bath faucet, one to turn on the shower head, and one to select the temperature (no guessing at the perfect temp there). And the mirror had an area above the sink that wouldn't fog when you took a shower (love it).
After meeting my advisor for breakfast, I went across the street to the hotel conference center where all the presentations were being given:
Every day from about 8:30-6:00 someone was lecturing about something- I heard about A LOT of different research projects going on...so much in fact that I realized how much I miss going to class. One of the most interesting presentations was about the vortices formed by the flapping of butterfly wings. My presentation went alright; although, I wish I would've done a better job answering the few questions that were asked about my work.
Lunches were provided for us each day as well:
We received green tea in a juice-box and a box with 6-9 compartments containing various Japanese delicacies. Each lunch box came with a guide to what was in each compartment; some of the descriptions on this guide were quite interesting, for example:
"food boiled and seasoned"
"boiled rice with assorted ingredients"
"Shizuoka Oden - Japanese dish containing all kinds of ingredients cooked in a special broth of soy sauce, sugar, sake, etc."
"boiled rice with assorted ingredients"
"Shizuoka Oden - Japanese dish containing all kinds of ingredients cooked in a special broth of soy sauce, sugar, sake, etc."
Tuesday night I spent going to a Technical Committee meeting and working on my presentation (which I gave Wednesday at noon). Wednesday night there was a banquet for all the conference participants- it was opened with the smashing of a Sake barrel by the leaders of each society, closed with a Japanese word and a clap from the crowd, and filled in between with Japanese culture. There were Japanese style dishes (both sweet and savory), green tea, and music on Japanese harps from a group called the Harp Queens:
Since the purpose for my trip was the conference, I didn't get to do much sightseeing; however, Monday and Thursday nights I did get out of the hotel complex for a bit. The first night out it was me and a map (with the locations all in Japanese). I struck out to find Hamamatsu Castle, but I didn't make it there before dark (at about 7:00 pm). Since the castle was in a less populated area of town, I decided to go back to the hotel (Japan has a low crime rate, but I didn't want to take my chances). On the way back, I got lost for about 20 minutes before finding a sign that said "Hamamatsu Station"...then I followed the train station signs home.
Thursday night was less adventurous; my advisor and I went to try and get souvenirs for our families. While wandering around the city, we ran into another conference attendee with his Japanese "sister" (who had been an exchange student in his home when he was younger). We went to a Japanese BBQ place with them, where the sister ordered various items (from a Japanese Mr. Robinson) that were brought to our table along with what was essentially a mini charcoal grill. The food was wonderful- especially the beef- and I can now say that I have tried cow tongue. Here some random pictures from my wanderings:
And that was my trip to the land of the Samurai in a nutshell. It was a great experience that I was so thankful to have had, and if I can ever go back, I will (but I am definitely taking Mr. Poe with me next time)!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Biblical Definitions
It's another Theology Thursday, folks! Please open up your Bibles with me as we look at a few passages from God's word. Today's topic stems from one of the things that our friend, Ms. Long, loves about language- the fact that it's a living organism, constantly growing and changing. Because of this, there are several Bible words in the current vernacular that may bring different ideas to mind than the ideas the Biblical contexts present. We'll look at two for now: profane and visit.
PROFANE
1) not connected with religion or religion matters; secular 2) not initiated into the inner mysteries or esoteric knowledge of something 3) not hallowed or consecrated 4) showing disrespect or contempt for sacred things; irreverent*
bebelos - permitted to be trodden, accessible (related to koinos - common)**
Typically when we think of the word profane, we think of the related word profanity, which then leads to the thought of trash or filth. Even the phrasing of the dictionary definition above brings to mind that to profane something means to drag it through the mud. But examining the Biblical definition, we see profaning something doesn't just mean heaping trash on it, but also simply making it accessible or common.
So if we consider what it means to "profane the name of [our] God" (Lev 18:21, etc.), we need to realize that it doesn't just mean pairing "God" with curse words. Any time we use His name other than when we are consciously speaking of Him or to Him, we are profaning His name by making it common. We need to be mindful of flippantly using phrases such as "Oh, Lord" and "Oh my God," realizing that there is a context in which these phrases should be used and a context in which they should not. We must take great care to not make common anything that is holy.
VISIT
1) to go or come to see out of friendship or for social reasons 2) to stay with as a guest for a time 3) to go or come to see in a professional or business capacity 4) to go or come to in order to inspect or investigate 5) to go or come to for a time so as to make use of , look at, etc. 6) to occur or come to 7) to bring suffering, trouble, etc. 8) to inflict (punishment, etc.) upon someone; to afflict (with punishment, etc.); to avenge*
episkeptomai - to inspect (a late form of episkopeo - to look upon, care for, exercise oversight)**
When I say something like: "I'm going to go visit ___," I am usually employing one of the first six dictionary definitions of the word, meaning I'm visiting someone for social or business reasons. But these definitions don't encompass the full Biblical meaning of the word. Take Ruth 1:6 for example: "Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the LORD had visited His people by giving them bread." Prior to this visit by God, there was a famine in the land of Israel (Ruth 1:1), and this verse tells us that God visited the children of Israel by giving them bread. Here we can see the Biblical definition of "visit"- to supply a need.
So when we are told in Jas 1:27, "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world," we know this doesn't necessarily mean stop by and say hi (although social interaction is important and can be a valid need- especially for shut-ins). To truly visit orphans and widows in their trouble, we must help supply their needs in whatever area their lives are lacking; this is pleasing to God (Matt 25:36-46).
Another verse that talks about visiting is Ex 32:34, "...Nevertheless, in the day when I visit for punishment, I will visit punishment upon them for their sin." In this verse we see God planning to visit to supply another need- the need for justice and punishment for sin. We should remind ourselves daily of this need and strive daily to remove sin from our lives, seeking the grace of God when we stumble. Ironically, in a world full of sin, visiting to supply the specific need of punishment has remained a valid dictionary definition for the word "visit."
I hope these thoughts have been helpful to you, and until next time...happy studying!
*From Webster's New World College Dictionary, Fourth Edition
**From Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words
PROFANE
1) not connected with religion or religion matters; secular 2) not initiated into the inner mysteries or esoteric knowledge of something 3) not hallowed or consecrated 4) showing disrespect or contempt for sacred things; irreverent*
bebelos - permitted to be trodden, accessible (related to koinos - common)**
Typically when we think of the word profane, we think of the related word profanity, which then leads to the thought of trash or filth. Even the phrasing of the dictionary definition above brings to mind that to profane something means to drag it through the mud. But examining the Biblical definition, we see profaning something doesn't just mean heaping trash on it, but also simply making it accessible or common.
So if we consider what it means to "profane the name of [our] God" (Lev 18:21, etc.), we need to realize that it doesn't just mean pairing "God" with curse words. Any time we use His name other than when we are consciously speaking of Him or to Him, we are profaning His name by making it common. We need to be mindful of flippantly using phrases such as "Oh, Lord" and "Oh my God," realizing that there is a context in which these phrases should be used and a context in which they should not. We must take great care to not make common anything that is holy.
VISIT
1) to go or come to see out of friendship or for social reasons 2) to stay with as a guest for a time 3) to go or come to see in a professional or business capacity 4) to go or come to in order to inspect or investigate 5) to go or come to for a time so as to make use of , look at, etc. 6) to occur or come to 7) to bring suffering, trouble, etc. 8) to inflict (punishment, etc.) upon someone; to afflict (with punishment, etc.); to avenge*
episkeptomai - to inspect (a late form of episkopeo - to look upon, care for, exercise oversight)**
When I say something like: "I'm going to go visit ___," I am usually employing one of the first six dictionary definitions of the word, meaning I'm visiting someone for social or business reasons. But these definitions don't encompass the full Biblical meaning of the word. Take Ruth 1:6 for example: "Then she arose with her daughters-in-law that she might return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the LORD had visited His people by giving them bread." Prior to this visit by God, there was a famine in the land of Israel (Ruth 1:1), and this verse tells us that God visited the children of Israel by giving them bread. Here we can see the Biblical definition of "visit"- to supply a need.
So when we are told in Jas 1:27, "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world," we know this doesn't necessarily mean stop by and say hi (although social interaction is important and can be a valid need- especially for shut-ins). To truly visit orphans and widows in their trouble, we must help supply their needs in whatever area their lives are lacking; this is pleasing to God (Matt 25:36-46).
Another verse that talks about visiting is Ex 32:34, "...Nevertheless, in the day when I visit for punishment, I will visit punishment upon them for their sin." In this verse we see God planning to visit to supply another need- the need for justice and punishment for sin. We should remind ourselves daily of this need and strive daily to remove sin from our lives, seeking the grace of God when we stumble. Ironically, in a world full of sin, visiting to supply the specific need of punishment has remained a valid dictionary definition for the word "visit."
I hope these thoughts have been helpful to you, and until next time...happy studying!
*From Webster's New World College Dictionary, Fourth Edition
**From Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Corn Fritters
Today's What's for Dinner post could actually be an appetizer or side dish: Grandmama Wolgemuth's corn fritters. When I visited the great state of PA a few weeks ago, my uncle mentioned these in passing, and I knew I needed to get the recipe because 1) everything my grandmother makes is superb and 2) Papa Poe loved the corn fritters we ate in Gatlinburg last year. So without further ado...
Ingredients: 2 large ears of corn (as dry as possible), 1 egg, 0-4 tablespoons of flour, and oil for frying (not pictured).
Remove the corn from the cob by grating each ear; you should have approximately one cup of corn when you finish.
Beat the egg in a small bowl, and add the corn. If the corn wasn't very dry, add a few teaspoons of batter to stiffen the mixture slightly; the drier the corn, the less flour that you need to add. Drop by spoonfuls into hot oil.
After a minute or so, flip the fritters. After the fritters are cooked through and golden brown, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a papertowel. Serve with ketchup or maple syrup (Papa Wolgemuth's and my favorite fritter-dip).
Notes: This recipe (which makes about 10 half-dollar sized fritters) is not exact; try to stick to the 1 egg to 1 cup corn ratio and to add as little flour as possible when trying to obtain the thicker consistency that holds together when dropped into the oil. To dry my corn, I leave shucked ears in the refrigerator (uncovered) for several days. In the future I'd like to try this recipe with other produce (apples, etc.); I'll be sure to post my results!
Ingredients: 2 large ears of corn (as dry as possible), 1 egg, 0-4 tablespoons of flour, and oil for frying (not pictured).
Remove the corn from the cob by grating each ear; you should have approximately one cup of corn when you finish.
Beat the egg in a small bowl, and add the corn. If the corn wasn't very dry, add a few teaspoons of batter to stiffen the mixture slightly; the drier the corn, the less flour that you need to add. Drop by spoonfuls into hot oil.
After a minute or so, flip the fritters. After the fritters are cooked through and golden brown, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a papertowel. Serve with ketchup or maple syrup (Papa Wolgemuth's and my favorite fritter-dip).
Notes: This recipe (which makes about 10 half-dollar sized fritters) is not exact; try to stick to the 1 egg to 1 cup corn ratio and to add as little flour as possible when trying to obtain the thicker consistency that holds together when dropped into the oil. To dry my corn, I leave shucked ears in the refrigerator (uncovered) for several days. In the future I'd like to try this recipe with other produce (apples, etc.); I'll be sure to post my results!
MrsDrPoe: Ms. Ledbury
Good morning all! For today's edition of Poes' Pals, I introduce you to...Ms. Ledbury:
Although we have not known Ms. Ledbury as long as we have known most of the friends that have been featured so far in this segment, it truly seems like we have. We first met her when she visited the land of the Bulldogs to check out the mechanical engineering PhD program. Ms. Ledbury had graduated at the top of her class from the University of Memphis a few years prior and was debating whether or not to return to the wonderful world of college.
When Ms. Ledbury decided that she would indeed join our ranks at State, we were exceedingly happy. Since that time, she has successfully completed her first year of the direct-to-PhD program, scoring amazingly well on her qualifying exams. We have been particularly impressed with her drive, especially having been out of school for a while.
During the overlap of our years in Starkville, we had the privilege of not only visiting with Ms. Ledbury on campus, but also visiting in her home and worshiping with her regularly. Her hospitality and kindness are truly obvious, even to those who know her even a short while. She is always quick to offer whatever service she can provide, and we certainly do miss her!
Although we have not known Ms. Ledbury as long as we have known most of the friends that have been featured so far in this segment, it truly seems like we have. We first met her when she visited the land of the Bulldogs to check out the mechanical engineering PhD program. Ms. Ledbury had graduated at the top of her class from the University of Memphis a few years prior and was debating whether or not to return to the wonderful world of college.
When Ms. Ledbury decided that she would indeed join our ranks at State, we were exceedingly happy. Since that time, she has successfully completed her first year of the direct-to-PhD program, scoring amazingly well on her qualifying exams. We have been particularly impressed with her drive, especially having been out of school for a while.
During the overlap of our years in Starkville, we had the privilege of not only visiting with Ms. Ledbury on campus, but also visiting in her home and worshiping with her regularly. Her hospitality and kindness are truly obvious, even to those who know her even a short while. She is always quick to offer whatever service she can provide, and we certainly do miss her!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Conservation of Momentum, Part I
It's another Thesis Tuesday on the blog! Today we'll be looking at the second conservation equation that governs fluid mechanics: Conservation of Momentum (AKA Newton's 2nd Law or the Linear Momentum Equation).
In Lagrangian terms, this equation simply states that the sum of the forces acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object times its acceleration (or the time rate of change of its linear momentum). Recall that we wish to employ an Eulerian methodology; therefore, we must use Reynolds Transport Theorem to convert this equation.
For this case, our extensive (mass dependent) property is linear momentum, and our intensive (mass independent) property is linear momentum per unit mass, or density times velocity. Combining the result from the Reynolds Transport Theorem with the Lagrangian form of the conservation of momentum equation, we get the sum of the forces acting on the control volume is equal to:
Here, F is a force, rho is the density, V is the velocity, and n is the unit outward normal vector.
The first thing we should notice about this equation is that it is a vector equation and can thus be written as 1, 2, or 3 equations depending on how many dimensions our problem has. For a 3D problem:
The second thing we should notice is the similarity between these equations and the conservation of mass equation. Each one has something equal to a term tracking how our intensive property changes with time in the control volume plus a term tracking how much of the intensive property is crossing the control surface (into or out of the control volume).
We will employ the following methodology to a fixed, non-deforming control volume:
1) Choose the best CV, establishing all bounds and known conditions
2) Apply the conservation of mass equation
3) Determine all forces acting on the CV
4) Evaluate the right side of the conservation of momentum equation in terms of unknown and known variables
5) Combine both sides of the conservation of momentum equation and solve for the unknowns
Now, let that stew, and tune in next Tuesday for some fun examples.
In Lagrangian terms, this equation simply states that the sum of the forces acting on an object is equal to the mass of the object times its acceleration (or the time rate of change of its linear momentum). Recall that we wish to employ an Eulerian methodology; therefore, we must use Reynolds Transport Theorem to convert this equation.
For this case, our extensive (mass dependent) property is linear momentum, and our intensive (mass independent) property is linear momentum per unit mass, or density times velocity. Combining the result from the Reynolds Transport Theorem with the Lagrangian form of the conservation of momentum equation, we get the sum of the forces acting on the control volume is equal to:
sum(F) = d/dt(int(rho*V)dV) + int(rho*V*(V.n))dA
Here, F is a force, rho is the density, V is the velocity, and n is the unit outward normal vector.
The first thing we should notice about this equation is that it is a vector equation and can thus be written as 1, 2, or 3 equations depending on how many dimensions our problem has. For a 3D problem:
sum(Fx) = d/dt(int(rho*u)dV) + int(rho*u*(V.n))dA
sum(Fy) = d/dt(int(rho*v)dV) + int(rho*v*(V.n))dA
sum(Fz) = d/dt(int(rho*w)dV) + int(rho*w*(V.n))dA
The second thing we should notice is the similarity between these equations and the conservation of mass equation. Each one has something equal to a term tracking how our intensive property changes with time in the control volume plus a term tracking how much of the intensive property is crossing the control surface (into or out of the control volume).
We will employ the following methodology to a fixed, non-deforming control volume:
1) Choose the best CV, establishing all bounds and known conditions
2) Apply the conservation of mass equation
3) Determine all forces acting on the CV
4) Evaluate the right side of the conservation of momentum equation in terms of unknown and known variables
5) Combine both sides of the conservation of momentum equation and solve for the unknowns
Now, let that stew, and tune in next Tuesday for some fun examples.
MrsDrPoe: Happy Anniversary, Baby!
Three years ago today, Mr. Poe and I were wed. In my humble opinion, I would argue that Mr. Poe is the best husband ever, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the past three years of companionship and encouragement that our marriage has provided me with. We have grown together in faith and love- qualities that have better developed our relationship with each other and with God. I am blessed beyond measure and thus extremely thankful! In the words of Rick and Bubba:
Monday, August 1, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Drug Store Deals, 7/31
Happy Money Monday to all! Due to some technical difficulties at "Poe Central Station," I don't have any pictures of the great deals this week. I did, however, wish to share my scenarios with you:
CVS
1 Gillette Fusion Proglide Razor ($4/1 PG 7/31)
2 Skinny Cow Candies (B1G1 RP 7/31)
Total Sale Price: $11.97
Total Coupons: $4.99
ECBs Used: $1.00
Total OOP: $7.46
ECBs Back: $5.99
Wags*
Transaction 1
1 Goody Hair Clips
1 Allegra Allergy 5ct. (Mail-in-Rebate RP 7/31)
Total Regular Price: $10.61
Total Sale: $0.99
Total OOP: $9.62
RR and MiR back: $8.99
Transaction 2
1 Complete Contact Solution ($1/1 SS 7/31)
1 Folder
Total Regular Price: $10.15
Total Sale and Coupons: $2.47
RR Used: $2.00
Total OOP: $5.68
RR Back: $8.00
*You could probably split these two transactions up differently to spend less OOP, but the Allegra MiR says it won't pay you back for coupons, so I didn't want to use RR for this item since they appear on the receipt as "Manufacturer Coupons." Am I just being paranoid? Perhaps.
Until next week...happy saving!
CVS
1 Gillette Fusion Proglide Razor ($4/1 PG 7/31)
2 Skinny Cow Candies (B1G1 RP 7/31)
Total Sale Price: $11.97
Total Coupons: $4.99
ECBs Used: $1.00
Total OOP: $7.46
ECBs Back: $5.99
Wags*
Transaction 1
1 Goody Hair Clips
1 Allegra Allergy 5ct. (Mail-in-Rebate RP 7/31)
Total Regular Price: $10.61
Total Sale: $0.99
Total OOP: $9.62
RR and MiR back: $8.99
Transaction 2
1 Complete Contact Solution ($1/1 SS 7/31)
1 Folder
Total Regular Price: $10.15
Total Sale and Coupons: $2.47
RR Used: $2.00
Total OOP: $5.68
RR Back: $8.00
*You could probably split these two transactions up differently to spend less OOP, but the Allegra MiR says it won't pay you back for coupons, so I didn't want to use RR for this item since they appear on the receipt as "Manufacturer Coupons." Am I just being paranoid? Perhaps.
Until next week...happy saving!
Friday, July 29, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Sascha's Story
Good morning all! Since we talked about our youngest "daughter" a few weeks ago, I thought it would be only fair to talk about our oldest one on this Foto Friday:
Sascha's story starts several semesters ago. Mr. Poe and I had been dating for nearly two years, and, while we weren't engaged at that time, we were planning to get married. One of the things that we often talked about was having a dog; I really wanted a Dachshund of my own (I love the ones my parents had/have very much), and Mr. Poe thought that starting off small was a sensible option. Although we decided we wouldn't get one until we said "I do," I spent some of my spare time looking through local animal shelter websites for a pup. It was during a random search of the Corinth Alcorn County Humane Society's website that I saw this pitiful picture:
It was love at first sight. I showed Ryan, my parents, my siblings, my current roommate, my future roommate...basically anyone who would look at it. After several days of looking, talking, and praying, Mr. Poe decided to adopt Sascha for me as an anniversary present. We drove up to Corinth to pick her up. She was "on the mend" from heart worm treatments, with tremendously sad, lifeless eyes; on the way home she would duck like she was about to get hit every time we went under an overpass. We didn't know much about the (approximately) two-year old's history, but the folks at the shelter thought she might have been involved in some sort of puppy mill.
She spent the first few months of her life as a Wolgemuth/Poe with Mama and Papa Wolgemuth (I was interning at Penn State). Mama Wolgemuth gave her lots of loving and treats, and when I returned, she was a changed pup...full of life and very happy:
Although she has a very cat-like personality (i.e. an attitude of "I'll come see you if I want to"), Sascha is a loving dog. She's sweet and playful, and she has brought tremendous joy to our lives. Her antics are crazy, and she always makes me laugh:
We love our little Snoosh, and we are so thankful we adopted her! Feel free to share some of your pet adoption stories!
Sascha's story starts several semesters ago. Mr. Poe and I had been dating for nearly two years, and, while we weren't engaged at that time, we were planning to get married. One of the things that we often talked about was having a dog; I really wanted a Dachshund of my own (I love the ones my parents had/have very much), and Mr. Poe thought that starting off small was a sensible option. Although we decided we wouldn't get one until we said "I do," I spent some of my spare time looking through local animal shelter websites for a pup. It was during a random search of the Corinth Alcorn County Humane Society's website that I saw this pitiful picture:
It was love at first sight. I showed Ryan, my parents, my siblings, my current roommate, my future roommate...basically anyone who would look at it. After several days of looking, talking, and praying, Mr. Poe decided to adopt Sascha for me as an anniversary present. We drove up to Corinth to pick her up. She was "on the mend" from heart worm treatments, with tremendously sad, lifeless eyes; on the way home she would duck like she was about to get hit every time we went under an overpass. We didn't know much about the (approximately) two-year old's history, but the folks at the shelter thought she might have been involved in some sort of puppy mill.
She spent the first few months of her life as a Wolgemuth/Poe with Mama and Papa Wolgemuth (I was interning at Penn State). Mama Wolgemuth gave her lots of loving and treats, and when I returned, she was a changed pup...full of life and very happy:
Although she has a very cat-like personality (i.e. an attitude of "I'll come see you if I want to"), Sascha is a loving dog. She's sweet and playful, and she has brought tremendous joy to our lives. Her antics are crazy, and she always makes me laugh:
We love our little Snoosh, and we are so thankful we adopted her! Feel free to share some of your pet adoption stories!
Thursday, July 28, 2011
MrsDrPoe: Examining Modern Media
Well friends, another Theology Thursday is upon us! As always, I invite you to open your Bibles as we once again examine a portion of God's word.
Sometime in the past year, Mr. Poe and I heard a lesson by our friend Mr. Ellis titled "Glorifying God in Gray Areas." In essence, the lesson pointed out that if you try to look in the Bible for a specific verse about getting a tattoo, what to look at on the internet, etc., you won't find one; however, that doesn't mean that the Bible is out-dated or non-applicable to us. Based on study of the basic New Testament principles and guidelines presented in the Bible, any specific 'modern-day' question we have can be answered. Using this concept, today we will look at the side note from last weeks post about current media.
Mr. Poe and I have tried to be even more diligent recently about screening the music we listen to, the articles and books we read, and the movies and TV show that we watch. In order to do that, we look at reviews of movies, shows, books, and articles and read lyrics to determine which movies, songs, etc. have bad language, inappropriate themes/scenes, or any other trash in them. At this point you may be thinking that we're big weirdos (which is ok with me), but before you totally blow this post off, let's look at two Biblical reasons that influenced our decision in this matter:
1: These influences can lead directly to sin.
Jas 1:14-16 says, "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.*" Inappropriate language and themes in media feed on our desire to be like the stars and other worldly people, to be popular or adventurous or loved, etc. in the way that they are. Like James says, dwelling on these desires leads to us physically committing the sin we see/hear. But it's more than that...it's our thoughts as well. Suppose you're watching an inappropriate movie or music video, which means you've got inappropriate thoughts in your head. Matt 5:28 tells us that "...whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
While James provides part of the solution in 4:7-8, "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded." In his letters to Timothy, Paul tells him to "...flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness," (1 Tim 6:11) and "Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Tim 2:22) We must resist the devil and flee from lusts/temptations! And the most effective way to do that is to get rid of negative/worldly influences in our lives. As Jesus said in Matt 5:29-30, "If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast if from you...and if your right hand causes you to sin, cut if off and cast it from you."
2: You can't hate it if you accept it.
If you think that you aren't tempted to use bad language or to lust after a woman/man by popular media, you may need to think again (see * above). But if you're fully convinced that you wouldn't sin in these ways by watching a movie or listening to a song, consider how this media affects your attitude toward the subject of the movie or song. Do you find bad language acceptable for other people to use? Do you find promiscuous acts okay for other people to perform? Now consider the Biblical attitude toward sin and evil:
If God hates it, and we are striving to be like Him, we should hate it too. But it is very hard to hate something if you don't think it's wrong. We should definitely consider how today's media can skew how we view sin; we should also consider that our acceptance of it and the sin it portrays can be a stumbling block to others...
Any way you look at it, "Evil company [or influence] corrupts good habits." (1 Cor 15:33) I've heard people say that if you wouldn't listen to/watch/etc. something with your grandmother, than you probably shouldn't be listening to/watching/etc. it...but that all depends on who your grandmother is. Instead, next time you listen to a song or watch a movie, pay attention to the content and ask yourself if you would still be listening to or watching it if Jesus was in the room with you. If the answer is no, then you should probably turn it off.
Sometime in the past year, Mr. Poe and I heard a lesson by our friend Mr. Ellis titled "Glorifying God in Gray Areas." In essence, the lesson pointed out that if you try to look in the Bible for a specific verse about getting a tattoo, what to look at on the internet, etc., you won't find one; however, that doesn't mean that the Bible is out-dated or non-applicable to us. Based on study of the basic New Testament principles and guidelines presented in the Bible, any specific 'modern-day' question we have can be answered. Using this concept, today we will look at the side note from last weeks post about current media.
Mr. Poe and I have tried to be even more diligent recently about screening the music we listen to, the articles and books we read, and the movies and TV show that we watch. In order to do that, we look at reviews of movies, shows, books, and articles and read lyrics to determine which movies, songs, etc. have bad language, inappropriate themes/scenes, or any other trash in them. At this point you may be thinking that we're big weirdos (which is ok with me), but before you totally blow this post off, let's look at two Biblical reasons that influenced our decision in this matter:
1: These influences can lead directly to sin.
Jas 1:14-16 says, "But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren.*" Inappropriate language and themes in media feed on our desire to be like the stars and other worldly people, to be popular or adventurous or loved, etc. in the way that they are. Like James says, dwelling on these desires leads to us physically committing the sin we see/hear. But it's more than that...it's our thoughts as well. Suppose you're watching an inappropriate movie or music video, which means you've got inappropriate thoughts in your head. Matt 5:28 tells us that "...whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart."
While James provides part of the solution in 4:7-8, "Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded." In his letters to Timothy, Paul tells him to "...flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness," (1 Tim 6:11) and "Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (2 Tim 2:22) We must resist the devil and flee from lusts/temptations! And the most effective way to do that is to get rid of negative/worldly influences in our lives. As Jesus said in Matt 5:29-30, "If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast if from you...and if your right hand causes you to sin, cut if off and cast it from you."
2: You can't hate it if you accept it.
If you think that you aren't tempted to use bad language or to lust after a woman/man by popular media, you may need to think again (see * above). But if you're fully convinced that you wouldn't sin in these ways by watching a movie or listening to a song, consider how this media affects your attitude toward the subject of the movie or song. Do you find bad language acceptable for other people to use? Do you find promiscuous acts okay for other people to perform? Now consider the Biblical attitude toward sin and evil:
"Hate evil, love good..." (Amos 5:15)
"Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,' Says the LORD." (Zech 8:17)
"These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren." (Prov. 6:16-19)
"For the LORD God of Israel says That He hates divorce, For it covers one's garment with violence..." (Mal 2:16)
"Let none of you think evil in your heart against your neighbor; And do not love a false oath. For all these are things that I hate,' Says the LORD." (Zech 8:17)
"These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren." (Prov. 6:16-19)
"For the LORD God of Israel says That He hates divorce, For it covers one's garment with violence..." (Mal 2:16)
If God hates it, and we are striving to be like Him, we should hate it too. But it is very hard to hate something if you don't think it's wrong. We should definitely consider how today's media can skew how we view sin; we should also consider that our acceptance of it and the sin it portrays can be a stumbling block to others...
Any way you look at it, "Evil company [or influence] corrupts good habits." (1 Cor 15:33) I've heard people say that if you wouldn't listen to/watch/etc. something with your grandmother, than you probably shouldn't be listening to/watching/etc. it...but that all depends on who your grandmother is. Instead, next time you listen to a song or watch a movie, pay attention to the content and ask yourself if you would still be listening to or watching it if Jesus was in the room with you. If the answer is no, then you should probably turn it off.
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