Theology, Scripture, football, Labrador retrievers,liturgy, meeting other Calvinists, Puritan studies

I am not comfortable sharing photos.

I was fortunate enough to belong to an Episcopal church that provided rich and regular Christian formation. I was confirmed in junior high school. I thank God for the power of liturgy, the sacraments, and the body of Christ. My Christian walk is strong.

I learned from an early age that God's grace cannot be earned or even desired – it is a gift from Him. Reading Luther's "Freedom of a Christian" powerfully convicted me on this point.

I have a daily time of reflection and prayer. I am currently reading "On the Incarnation" and the "Life of Anthony"by Athanasius. I find his views of soteriology inspiring. In the incarnation, God took up humanity into Himself and re-created it.Jesus not only died for us, but lived for us that we might, as part of his body, experience full humanity.

Jesus – he is the one for whom, in whom, and about whom Scripture exists.

I am content to rest in Christ. But I take the Genesis claim that God created humanity in the divine image male and female as inspiration to seek a marriage partner. Together, husband and wife unite in the fullness of time to experience and glorify the Creator.

I am most passionate about knowing God. I really find the study of theology inspiring. Calvinism offers us ways to understand ourselves in relationship to God and to God's kingdom.

my salvation, my family, and my local church

I like people with a good sense of humor, who are intellectually curious, empathetic to others,and passionate about the Lord. These are also the traits I seek in myself.

This will probably sound funny, but I have had a lifelong theological relationship with Martin Luther. I saw a movie about him when I was in confirmation class and struggling with issues about how to know Christ. The movie inspired me to read Roland Bainton's biography of Luther and then to read Luther himself. I love how Luther struggled to know Christ at the same time that he dared to proclaim a gospel of radical grace. Luther is a very human theologian, with real faults and strengths. I have always related to that.

I have not had, yet, a serious relationship because up until now I have not been in a place in my career that I could devote myself to a wife and family. Waiting hasn't been easy, but I think it has been best. I am excited about beginning a new phase of life.

I really like the hymn "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." Three movies that have stuck with me are "All Quiet on the Western Front," "Chariots of Fire," and "Babette's Feast." The communal meal in "Babette's Feast" is an incredible foretaste of the messianic feast that awaits us. I found that scene really moving, a sacramental celebration.

I have a PhD and have recently been lucky enough to get a teaching job in higher education. This is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream!

I hope to publish and not perish; to know the joy of having a wife and children; and to continue to serve and enjoy the Lord. In reverse order of importance.

I like to read, to watch football, to spend time with family, and to travel.

I was born in Kentucky and have traveled to the Mediterranean, Africa and Mexico.

Probably not an option--finding a stable long-term position in higher education isn't easy. I would not be opposed to looking, but I don't think I would leave my present position other than to move to an equally good one.

I play the ukulele.....

Undoubtedly.