As a general rule, I prefer not to talk directly about myself; I prefer to let my writing speak indirectly about me. (You can learn a lot about someone who is willing to risk writing in truth.) In this case, however, it seems relevant to provide a little background to give context to the entries contained here.
I am not a member of the clergy nor am I involved in any other form of paid ministry - thus Pew Ponderings as opposed to Pulpit Ponderings. I have not attended seminary nor a Christian college or university. I do not have it all figured out - thus Ponderings rather than Perspicacity. (Occasionally, you'll have to look up a $2 word. Enjoy!)
What I am is an active member of a Lutheran congregation where I teach Sunday school at the high school level. But even that is only part of the story. I was raised in the Roman Catholic tradition, have (or had) family covering many denominations - including, but not likely limited to, Methodist, Baptist, and Presbyterian. I've been an active member of a Bible Study Fellowship (multi-denominational) men's class for several years. So, I do spend a fair amount of time reading, studying, and discussing the Bible and other faith books and documents.
Now what about the tag line - A programmer ponders faith and logic? My profession is in software development - specifically creating websites, databases, and supporting applications in the areas of tax, accounting, and legal information for a multinational information services conglomerate. My natural abilities lean toward logic, mathematics, and patterns. I also enjoy the hobbies of genealogy and (obviously) writing. In other words, I'm a research junkie; I love information and knowledge, just for its own sake. But knowledge is only worth something if shared, discussed, bandied about.
There are two primary impetuses for this blog. First and foremost is a place to share and discuss faith. The second is in attempt to answer an age-old question, "How can someone with such a bend toward logic also be a person of faith?" Many believe the two are incompatible. And I must admit, for many years, logic made faith more difficult for me. That my views continue to evolve should be apparent if you return as a regular reader.
I invite you to share, discuss, and grow alongside me.
God's peace -
Jeff
