Welcome to the blog, y'all

Here 'tis--the class blog.  Throughout this course, the blog will serve as a tool for exchanging information in the public square related to our January interim class themes of pop culture, the empire and the Kingdom of God (no small themes, let me tell you).  Class members should feel free to post class-related tidbits, comments, links, videos and so on, in addition to assigned posts and comments.  And the public should feel free to follow the blog and comment over the next three weeks.

For starters, here's the course description:

While references to “empire” can easily bring Star Wars to mind, the word refers to a much broader reality that is referenced throughout Scripture and has significant implications for daily life in today’s world. This course will use texts such as Colossians Remixed (Brian Walsh & Sylvia Keesmaat) to help define empire and the role of fully awake Christians living in the empire, with particular reference to aspects of popular culture, including food, television, film, music and fashion. Through reading, film viewing, discussion, guest speakers and special projects, students will explore the problem of sin reflected in idolatry, consumerism and power manipulation, but they will also be encouraged to find hope in the Kingdom of God, rooted in activism, community and daily practices.