In this column, we discover more about our Baptist whu0101nau, meeting someone in our team of 40,000 each post. This week we are getting to know Christa McKirland, Lecturer in Systematic Theology at Carey Baptist College.
What is something you think everyone should experience at least once in their life?
Boiled peanuts. This is a Southern American delicacy and can be found at all of the best gas stations (in the Southeastern part of the U.S.) in a crockpot thatu2019s been on simmer for several hours.
If you could be a pro at any one thing, what would it be?
I would be a professional guitar player. I cannot play any instruments, and I think it would be awesome to be able to pick up a guitar and playu2014especially in Aotearoa!
What is a random interest that has completely nothing to do with your study or work?
I love going for walks, especially in the bush. Raya (my 6-year-old) often asks, u201cMommy, whatu2019s your favourite thing to do?u201d and I always tell her, u201cExploring new places with my family!u201d A close second is playing Halo :)
What is the oddest fact you know?
Most muppets are left-handed.
What is the most boring thing youu2019ve ever done?
When I was young, my mom would have me proofread land title deeds with her. She would read them out loud, and I would follow along with a typed copy to make sure there werenu2019t mistakes. Fortunately, she paid me to do this.
What is your favourite way of connecting with God?
I love writing retreats. This is often a time to get away and work on a specific project. Since my work projects are all about God, I find that these are times I feel most connected and least distracted in my relationship with God.
Can you describe a significant moment when you experienced Godu2019s love?
Honestly, every time I teach. That famous quote from Chariots of Fire rings true for me: when I am walking in my gifts, u201cI can feel Godu2019s pleasure.u201d
What is your favourite thing about the neighbourhood where you live?
We love so many things about our neighbourhoodu2014from the Grotto with a massive lawn across from our house, to our neighbours next door, to the Reduced to Clear at the end of the streetu2014we love our home in Onehunga.
What do you love most about being Baptist?
What I love most about being Baptist is that we are committed to covenanting together. The dominant metaphor for the church in the New Testament is that of family. When you are family, you are committed to one another no matter what. I think this is beautiful and also so hard! Fortunately, I believe we have the empowerment of the Spirit to unify usu2014not so much ideologicallyu2014but to consider my brother and sister before myself (Phil 2:1-5).
