I’ll start at the end of this 12-minute, intriguing TED Talk. Daniel Reisel, a neuroscientist who has studied the brains of socio-paths, asks us whether we should be concerned not only about changing the brains of criminals but also our own. I find the whole idea of changing our brains – and along with our brains our character and potential – simply fascinating because that idea emerges at the intersection of two deeply held beliefs. On the one hand, we often think of character as something that can be developed and so we stress moral and character development in our schools and churches and civic associations alike. On the other hand,...

A faithful reader of “…in the Meantime” sent me the following tips for writing a successful hymn from Stuart Townsend, one of the more prolific hymn writers of our age. Composer of such popular hymns as “In Christ Alone” and “Beautiful Savior,” Townsend has been writing hymns for almost thirty years and, at age 50, likely has a number more in him. In his brief article, he offers practical advice for writing a hymn that will stand the test of time. But I suspect that the excellent advice he offers isn’t applicable only to musicians and composers but also to preacher. Take a look and let me know what you think. Or, if you’re...