#brant hanson

[tru-oddball]

I've been trying to learn how to speak Irish and apparently you're not supposed to use colloquialisms. I like saying "top of da mornin' to ya." It says don't do that unless you're in a leprechaun costume.

Brant Hanson, Oddcast.

[misterdc503]

Late Valentine's Day thought (17 Feb 2014)

Not long ago I got to hear an interview between Jon Foreman, lead singer of Switchfoot, and Air 1’s Brant Hanson. Switchfoot is one of my favorite bands and Jon’s a figure I look up to. During the conversation they talked about topics ranging from Switchfoot’s recent surfing movie and album to theology.

One of the questions they discussed that’s echoed in my mind was if it was easier for Jon to believe in God or to believe God loved him? Jon, who likes philosophy, said he has a harder time believing God loves him because of the type of person he is - meaning flawed and human.

While digesting his answer, I feel I agree it’s almost more logical to believe an Ultimate Reality or Supernatural Being exists and possibly interacts with our world. But it’s weird to think He cares, let alone loves us. Insert Jesus into the picture and depending how a person has grown up thinking of this radical and yet compassionate individual, asking “why?” makes sense.

Our culture has marred the way we think of that phrase. For instance, many think the story of the prodigal son is about the son. I learned another approach that the story is actually about the compassionate father. The father’s love has not changed and it probably begins even before this young man came into the picture! Likewise, scripture claims God first loved us. It’s not about whether or not I respond or did something to earn that. This remains His preeminent choice.

In one biography, Jon shared he’d teach a philosophy class if he could. I think it’d be fun to collaborate ideas with this man and slightly wrestle on this one. We both share a love and passion for God and humanity. And I agree that we are screwed up in more than one way, but I’m glad I can rely on God’s faithfulness rather than what I have to offer. Nevertheless, the way we respond back to that faithfulness makes the difference.

I’m sure I can count on Switchfoot’s music to continue inspiring and provoking deep thoughts. Thank you Air 1 for hosting such talented individuals and taking the moment to discuss some of the deeps questions in life. It helps us define why we do what we do.

Blessings to you reader.

If you have any comments or thoughts, share?