C-Ya, Chumps: I'm Going on an Awesome Christian Cruise
Me? I'm going on an awesome Christian cruise.
This time Monday, Carolyn and I will be doing that thing where everybody throws confetti and says "bon voyage" in a wild, festive, raucous bacchanal of sobriety.
I have been told I will enjoy the ocean of food that will be arrayed before me. Also, apparently, given the picture of our ship that Google called up, I will also be called to administer Christian massages to immodest Christian females. I will decline this.
Then, I will relax next to a Christian pool with the members of Casting Crowns.
My life is a non-stop Carnival of Irony.
UPDATE:
Some of you are questioning the willy-nilly use of "Christian" when applied to entertainment options. I understand; I used to be the same way.
But then I was invited on this cruise.
It's caused me to really reflect and re-think some things.
I plan to continue ruminating, as I do what I feel God has long called me to do: Float at sea while karaoke-ing with Dallas Holm.
Just remember that the pool is the baptismal, too. No urinating, Brant.
Posted by: cool dad | May 16, 2008 at 10:30 AM
bacchanal? show off.
Posted by: Tim Maynard | May 16, 2008 at 10:49 AM
How much money do Western Christians spend on recreation?
Funny you should ask, because I just discovered the amount is so astronomically high that they have become their own market demographic, commanding enough revenue to justify setting up entire cruise ships as "christian" themed.
Let the Carnival of Irony commence!
Posted by: Tim Maynard | May 16, 2008 at 10:52 AM
Lucky Dog... my wife and I are trying to win a cruise in a video contest. If you get a chance, check out the video and drop a rating. Song written by yours truly!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hr_4LUDIjPM
Posted by: Eric Hilliard | May 16, 2008 at 11:01 AM
I've always been a little uncomfortable about the Christian days at theme parks and Christian cruises and stuff. Are we supposed to contextualize the gospel into material revelry for the Christians? When in Rome?
As a Missionary Kid from the 3rd World, where people have a hard time getting medical care or sometimes food, the volume of resources poured into entertainment just seems absurd. I often feel guilty just being at a theme park. I don't know if my 3rd world experience gives me a clearer perspective, or a more jaded one. Mostly I don't say too much about it.
Brant, enjoy your cruise for what it is: a cruise. But as far as their spiritualizing it by calling it 'Christian' I say, "Mock on, Brother! Mock on!"
Posted by: Samuel Jones | May 16, 2008 at 11:48 AM
Christian cruises are the work of the devil.
Also, I wish I could go on one.
Posted by: Chaotic Hammer | May 16, 2008 at 11:49 AM
"Non-stop carnival of irony"
best... Christian pseudo punk band... name... ever
Posted by: Dave | May 16, 2008 at 11:59 AM
"best... Christian pseudo punk band... name... ever"
so true
Posted by: Tim Maynard | May 16, 2008 at 12:21 PM
I meant to chime in and tell you this morning that the secret to not getting sea sick on these things is to wear, not a special bracelet, but one of those big foam cowboy hats. Preferably in a neon color. Also, painting your toenails bright pink helps too. But only your big toes. I don't know why...but it does. Trust me on this. I am an 'avid' cruiser and would never suggest anything just to make you look silly.
Posted by: Just Matt | May 16, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Have a safe trip Brant !! Bring me back something pretty :)
Posted by: Jeremiah | May 16, 2008 at 01:25 PM
Considering that this is a "Christian" cruise, it is a good thing it is not a sin to not drink wine.
Posted by: scott eaton | May 16, 2008 at 01:39 PM
Brant, as this is a Christian cruise I assume it is to the "Holy Land". And there is a "Leading Christian Celebrity" leading it - for you to follow.
Communion on the Mount of Olives followed by a hallowed rendition of the Beatitudes at the foot of an old rugged cross.
You can actually step in the same footprints that Jesus left as he ascended the Villa De LaRosa.
I read that one of them takes you to a real sepulcher (sp?) where they say Jesus is buried!
Now that is a real Christian cruise, my friend!
If it is one of those Carribean cruises calling itself Christian you are getting scammed. They are just lying to you to get you spend money that otherwise you would give to the poor. The so-called Leading Christian Celebrity Leader is probably just some wannabe Holy Land cruise leader who doesn't even know where Jesus is buried!
Posted by: Steve_11 | May 16, 2008 at 01:57 PM
I can't think of anything I'd rather do less than be locked on a boat with no alcohol and a bunch of Christians. But maybe that's just me.
Posted by: Texas in Africa | May 16, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Uh, excuse me, but I've been told the bars WILL be open.
You don't get righteousness points for refusing to go into a bar if it's closed.
Posted by: Brant | May 16, 2008 at 03:34 PM
There are so many funny, sarcastic things I could say here, like leaving 10% of the food on the buffet. But I don't want to make Baby Jesus cry.
Posted by: The Chick Voice | May 16, 2008 at 04:08 PM
Wow! I really do hope you enjoy yourself. I myself, would probably enjoy a nice drink if it settled well with my stomach at sea.
All of these comments are to hilarious, so I wont even try.
But I do suggest playing a few rounds of Poker or something of the like, just for fun...that should stir someone up.
And make sure you take some of you excerpts for Awesomely Bold Leadership to give to the Leader of Speakers there.
ok, well i tried to be funny, but i just cannot top all of these others. But do have fun!
Posted by: Kevin Kitzmiller | May 16, 2008 at 04:49 PM
Christian Cruises? You are going to get sick. People always get sick on cruises. Or tossed overboard under mysterious circumstances. We'll be hearing about you on Nancy Grace soon.
But have a nice time anyway.
Posted by: Barry Pike | May 16, 2008 at 05:03 PM
have fun.
Posted by: maryann | May 16, 2008 at 06:22 PM
Shouldn't Christians be taking secular cruises instead, so they can lead all the drinking and dancing and fornicating heathens to Jesus.....?
Talk about a captive audience!
Now that would be a whole ton of righteousness points right there, brother!
Posted by: Julie | May 16, 2008 at 06:55 PM
Wow, now we truly do see the triumph of Satan. With deck chairs. And little umbrella drinks. Where is a herd of pigs when you need it (them)?
What could be worse? A movie called "Prince Caspian"? Thank goodness that will never happen.
Posted by: John M. | May 16, 2008 at 08:57 PM
Casting Crowns annoys me
Posted by: Harr | May 19, 2008 at 10:56 AM