Several years ago, Christa Hill (now Thornsbury) joined the Helwys Society Forum as a regular contributor. All in all, she has authored about a dozen-and-a-half thoughtful, quality articles or book reviews. In addition to writing, she has contributed to the editing of nearly every post the HSF has published since she accepted the position—thank God for good editors!
A month or two ago, Mrs. Thornsbury informed us that the time has come for her to hang up her proverbial hat with the HSF (at least for now). We are truly saddened by this news but excited for what is coming down the path of life for her and her family.
In order to celebrate and to honor Mrs. Thornsbury’s time with the HSF, each member has chosen their favorite article of hers and given an explanation for their selection. Interestingly, not one HSF contributor picked the same article as another, which, we believe, speaks to the substantive breadth and stylistic richness of her writing. The HSF trusts that readers will miss her contributions as much as we will and hopes that this post will prompt readers to give some of her best articles a second (or even third) look.
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“A Trip to the Art Museum”: In this piece, Christa takes the reader through a date she shared with her now-husband, Frank Thornsbury. I like this piece for several reasons: First, Christa’s approach is creative and imaginative and memorable. The article is a wonderful illustration of teaching—and teaching effectively—through story. A second reason I like this piece is because, amid its sharp cultural analysis, it demonstrates a spirit of redemption and a commitment to truth, goodness, and beauty. Finally, as an added bonus, it was picked up and republished by ONE Magazine. –Matthew Steven Bracey
“Art and Christian Excellence”: Followers of the HSF should know that we write and think about the arts. This is one area on which Christa has focused her attention as a Forum writer, and I appreciate her thoughtful work. In this article, Christa begins by giving a brief historical survey to shed light on our current search for meaning in the arts. I also like how she offers ways that Christians can thoughtfully engage the culture. These areas of consideration include an education that focuses on the whole person and the support of artists who understand that the content and form of their work have inherent meaning. –Zachery Maloney
“Biblical Complementarianism: A Brief Introduction”: I’ve really enjoyed reading Christa’s posts on the HSF ever since she joined. She’s an excellent writer and never fails to provide thoughtful insights into whatever topic she discusses. One thing I appreciate about her contributions to the Forum is that she shows that discussions on theology, spirituality, ministry, and culture are not just for men. Women can and should have an active voice in these discussions. I’m glad Christa has not only defined women’s roles in biblical complementarianism as she does in the article linked above, but also that she demonstrates biblical complementarianism with her genuine contribution to conversations on theology, spirituality, ministry, and culture. –Zach Vickery
“Loving Your Pastor and His Family”: It’s been such a blessing to have Christa as a contributor to the HSF. She’s brought great insight on a wide variety of topics. A particularly helpful article was this one on how churches care for their pastors. Having grown up in a pastor’s home, Christa has been behind the scenes and knows something of the many burdens and delights of a pastor and his family. I’m thankful for Christa’s reminder of the importance of praying for and encouraging our pastors. Having both attended church with Christa and now serving as her pastor, I can gladly say that she practices what she “preaches.” –Jesse F. Owens
“Sing About Jesus, Not About You: Rejecting Self-Centered Church Music”: I appreciate Christa’s insight into this area of church ministry. As any cursory look would show, that all kinds of music (new and old) are replete with focus on the self. Too often, we’re concerned about the gifts we’ll be given, or the feelings we can evoke. Yet these things all fail to focus on the very one whom we worship. Christa rightly points out, using Davidic psalms as an example, that one can be self-referential in worship without being self-centered. Of course, the Christian is not absent or passive in worship, but also he or she is not the focal point. Christa extends this reality not only to lyrics but also the style and setting of the music as well. Christa rightly concludes, “We must not be afraid to sing about our sin, to sing the Scriptures themselves, to sing songs that contain robust doctrine. We must not sing to glorify or gratify ourselves. We must sing to glorify God and to forget not His benefits.” I’m thankful for her thoughts on this subject. –Christopher Talbot
“The Country Gentleman: Country Life and Customs in the Poetry of Robert Herrick”: This article is Christa’s piece that resonates most with me. Her well-researched article on Robert Herrick’s poetry was informative and enjoyable. She introduced me to a new poet who wrote on themes close to my heart. I was especially impressed by her treatment of Herrick’s slow growing love for the country. The goodness of the rural life requires time to appreciate, especially for those who come from the constant boom and hustle of the city. Finally, as in all good writing, Christa’s personality, her love for the rural and simple life, glimmered through the writing. –Phillip T. Morgan
“Women’s Ministry Matters”: As a senior editor (alongside Matt), I have to say how much I’ll miss reading Christa’s regular essays and even viewing her editorial work. Christa has shown herself to be a person of wisdom and wit, and this comes across many ways. I’ve deeply enjoyed many of her articles, including this one on women’s ministry. As a pastor I have personally witnessed the impact that spiritually mature, growing women can have on an entire congregation. If we had more churches practicing the kinds of ideas commended in this article, the Kingdom of God would be deeply enriched. Take up, read, and practice! –W. Jackson Watts
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