2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 3 by Nick Needham

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>

Why read the book?</h2>
Nick Needham wrote 2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 3: The Renaissance and Reformation. It is the third book in his clear and readable church history series. This volume covers the period from the late Middle Ages through the Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation up to the early seventeenth century. Needham explains how new ideas, the printing press, and dissatisfaction with the church led to major changes. He gives clear accounts of Martin Luther, John Calvin, the English Reformation, and the Counter-Reformation. The book shows both the great gains of the Reformation and the tragic divisions it caused. Like the earlier volumes, it includes helpful excerpts from original sources at the end of each chapter. Needham writes in a warm and straightforward style that makes a complex and important period easy to follow. Readers see how the events of these centuries still shape the church today.</p>

Favourite quote</h2>

The Reformation was not the invention of a new religion but the recovery of the true gospel that had been obscured for centuries.</p> </blockquote>
—Nick Needham</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 3 brings one of the most exciting periods in church history to life. Needham explains the background of the Renaissance and how it helped prepare the ground for reform. He gives fair and balanced accounts of the key figures. The chapters on Luther are especially strong. They show both his courage and his flaws. Needham also explains Calvin's work in Geneva and the spread of Reformed ideas across Europe. He does not hide the violence and suffering that came with religious change. At the same time he shows the great spiritual gains that resulted from a return to the Bible. The book helps readers understand why the Reformation happened and why it still matters. The primary source readings let you hear the actual voices of the reformers. Needham writes with respect for the subject and with a clear love for the truth of the gospel. Because the book is long it covers the ground thoroughly without rushing. Readers finish with a much better understanding of how the modern church came to be.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
The Reformation recovered the gospel of grace through faith in Christ alone. Understanding this period helps us value the Bible and guard the truths that were won at such great cost.</p>

Marskramer Path part 08

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Hiked part 8/20 of the Marskramer Path, 17.92 kilometres from Deventer to Klarenbeek.</p>

Along the IJsselkade in Deventer you will see the fast-flowing river IJssel, after which the stage runs over the dike and along floodplains to the south. You pass swamps and wheels that have arisen from dike breaches. Via Gietelo you arrive in Klarenbeek at the strange and abandoned train station.</p> </blockquote>
Hike report</h2>
Deventer</h3>
</p>
Crossing the IJssel</h3>
Your browser does not support the video tag. </video> </p>
Floodplains and the windmill</h3>
</p>
Wilp</h3> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video>
Woods, wheat and estates</h3>
</p>
Towards Klarenbeek</h3>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

From</td> Deventer</td></tr>
To</td> Klarenbeek</td></tr>
Distance</td> 17.92 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 4h 14m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 4.24 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 147 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 18°C, Cloudy, 68% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>
More info</h2>

Trail details</a> (Dutch)</li>
Deventer</a></li>
Klarenbeek</a></li> </ul>

Monthly update #0434 • June 2026

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.
Biking</h3>

Biking in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park</a></li>
Biking in Hollandse Duinen National Park</a></li> </ul>
Books</h3>

The Odyssey by Homer</a></li>
2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 1 by Nick Needham</a></li> </ul>
Hiking</h3>

Marskramer Path part 07</a></li> </ul>
TV</h3>

For All Mankind</a></li> </ul>
Distance</h2>

Activity</th> Distance (km)</th> </tr> </thead>
Walking</td> 193.44</td> </tr>
Hiking</td> 18.72</td> </tr>
Running</td> 0</td> </tr>
Biking</td> 72.29</td> </tr>
Swimming</td> 0</td> </tr>
IceSkating</td> 0</td> </tr>
Skating</td> 0</td> </tr>
Rowing</td> 0</td> </tr></tbody> </table>

Can I Trust The Bible? by R.C. Sproul

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
R.C. Sproul wrote Can I Trust The Bible? It is a short and clear book from his Crucial Questions series. Sproul takes the most common objections people raise against the Bible and answers them one by one. He looks at questions such as whether the Bible contains contradictions, whether it is historically accurate, and whether science has disproved its claims. He also explains what Christians mean when they say the Bible is without error. Sproul does not avoid difficult issues. Instead he shows that the Bible stands up well when it is examined carefully and honestly. The book is written in simple language so that ordinary readers can follow the arguments without needing special training. It helps both new believers who have honest questions and long-time Christians who want stronger reasons for their confidence in Scripture.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

If the Bible is not trustworthy where it can be tested, how can we trust it where it cannot be tested?</p> </blockquote>
—R.C. Sproul</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
Can I Trust The Bible? gives calm and careful answers to questions that trouble many people today. Sproul does not mock those who doubt. He takes their questions seriously and shows that the Bible has strong reasons for being trusted. He explains the idea of inerrancy in a way that makes sense without becoming too technical. The book points out that many supposed contradictions disappear when the text is read in its proper context. Sproul also shows how the Bible has been remarkably preserved through the centuries. What stands out is his honest and respectful tone. He never pressures the reader. Instead he gives clear reasons and leaves the person free to think. The short chapters make the book easy to read and think about one section at a time. Readers finish with greater confidence that the Bible can be trusted as the reliable Word of God.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
The Bible is trustworthy because it comes from God, who does not lie or make mistakes.</p>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 2 by Nick Needham

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
Nick Needham wrote 2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 2: The Middle Ages. It is the second book in his clear and readable church history series. This volume covers the long medieval period from the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the fifth century to the years just before the Protestant Reformation in the early sixteenth century. Needham explains how the church spread across Europe, how the papacy grew in power, how monastic orders shaped spiritual life, and how universities and scholastic theology developed. He covers key figures such as Gregory the Great, Anselm, Thomas Aquinas, and Francis of Assisi. The book also looks at the Crusades, the growing problems of corruption, and the calls for reform that were already appearing. Like the first volume, it includes helpful excerpts from original sources at the end of each chapter. Needham writes in a warm and straightforward style that makes a complex thousand-year period both interesting and easy to follow.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

The medieval church was not a perfect institution, but it was the vehicle through which the Christian faith was preserved, taught, and spread across Europe during some of the most turbulent centuries in history.</p> </blockquote>
—Nick Needham</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 2 makes the long medieval period feel alive and understandable. Needham does an excellent job of showing both the strengths and the weaknesses of the church during these centuries. He explains how the faith survived the collapse of Rome and then slowly converted the new peoples of Europe. The sections on the growth of the papacy and the development of monasticism are especially clear and balanced. He gives a fair picture of scholastic theology and shows why thinkers like Anselm and Aquinas mattered so much. At the same time, he does not hide the problems of corruption, superstition, and the increasing distance between clergy and ordinary people. The primary source readings at the end of each chapter are very helpful. They let you hear the actual voices of medieval Christians rather than only reading about them. Needham writes with warmth and respect, yet he remains honest about the church's failures. Because the book is long, it covers the ground thoroughly without rushing. Readers come away with a much better understanding of why the Reformation happened and what the medieval church actually believed and practised.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
The medieval church preserved and developed the Christian faith through many difficult centuries. Understanding this period helps us see both the deep roots of our faith and the real problems that later required reform.</p>

For All Mankind

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </div>
For All Mankind is an American science fiction drama on Apple TV. Ronald D. Moore created it with Matt Wolpert and Ben Nedivi. It imagines an alternate history where the Soviet Union reaches the Moon first, and the space race never ends. Joel Kinnaman plays the astronaut Ed Baldwin.</p>
The idea is simple and strong. The Americans lose the first race, so they do not stop. Each season jumps forward in time, and with each jump the goal moves further out. First the Moon, then a base, then Mars, then more. We follow the people who build it and fly it, and we watch them grow old in the work. Ed Baldwin and his family sit at the centre of all of it.</p>
What I Loved</h2>
The show is about pushing yourself toward greatness. It is about refusing to settle, reaching for the hard thing, and paying the cost of that choice. Every season asks the same question. What more can we do, and who is willing to do it? I find that spirit rare on television, and I love it here.</p>
The Baldwins carry that spirit better than anyone. Ed will not stop. He is stubborn and proud and often wrong, but he never stops reaching. His wife stands beside that drive and builds a life around it, which takes its own kind of strength. His daughter grows into the work and pushes herself just as hard. By the later seasons his grandson reaches further still. Three generations, all of them straining toward something bigger than themselves. I have great respect for that family and what they stand for.</p>
The show does have a habit I like less. It often stops to push present-day politics, and at times the message gets heavy and loud. When it does, it pulls focus away from the people and the missions, which are the best parts. I would rather the writing trusted the story to make its point. Even so, the core never breaks. The drive to do hard things and to keep going is always there underneath.</p>
Why You Should Watch</h2>
Watch it if you care about ambition. Watch it if you like engineering, risk, and people who refuse to quit. The time jumps let you see the same characters across decades, so you feel the weight of every choice they made along the way. The space race becomes a long story about what people can do when they will not accept defeat.</p>
It is not a quiet show. The stakes are high and the losses are real. But it rewards anyone who wants to be reminded that greatness comes from effort, and that the people who reach the furthest are often the ones who would not turn back.</p>
Takeaway</h2>
Greatness comes from refusing to stop. The show teaches that you reach further by pushing past what feels safe. A family that drives each other forward can do remarkable things. Ambition costs something, and it is still worth paying. The people who keep reaching are the ones who change what is possible.</p>

Biking in Hollandse Duinen National Park

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Biked in Hollandse Duinen National Park with a distance of 37.40 kilometres.</p>

Hollandse Duinen National Park runs along the South Holland coast from Hook of Holland to Katwijk, wrapping around The Hague. Its dunes, beaches, and dune lakes form one of the largest coastal nature areas in the Netherlands, threaded with cycling paths and alive with birds.</p> </blockquote>
Ride report</h2>
Through The Hague and into the woods</h3>
</p>
Castles and country estates</h3>
</p>
Into the dunes</h3>
</p>
The Scheveningen seafront</h3>
</p>
Promenade sculptures and the coast</h3>
</p>
Harbour and back to The Hague</h3>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

Distance</td> 37.40 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 2h 33m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 14.6 km/h</td></tr>
Max speed</td> 33.2 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 141 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 29˙ C, sunny, 70% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>

Biking in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Biked in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park with a distance of 31.34 kilometres.</p>

Zuid-Kennemerland National Park sits on the North Sea coast in the province of North Holland, between Haarlem, Bloemendaal, and IJmuiden. Its dunes, woodland, and open grassland are grazed by European bison and Highland cattle, and a web of cycling paths threads through it within easy reach of Amsterdam.</p> </blockquote>
Ride report</h2>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

Distance</td> 31.34 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 2h 09m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 14.4 km/h</td></tr>
Max speed</td> 29 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 208 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 27˙ C, Sunny, 69% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 1 by Nick Needham

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sun, 21 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
Nick Needham wrote 2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 1: The Age of the Early Church Fathers. It is the first book in a five-volume series on church history. This volume covers the period from the time of the apostles in the first century up to the Council of Chalcedon in the year 451. Needham explains how the early church faced persecution, false teaching, and internal debates. He shows how Christian doctrine developed through the writings of the Church Fathers and the decisions of the early councils.</p>
The book includes short excerpts from primary sources at the end of each chapter. These allow readers to hear the voices of figures such as Ignatius, Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Athanasius, and Augustine. Needham writes in a clear and lively style. He makes a long and complex period both interesting and easy to follow. The book helps readers see how the faith we hold today was shaped in those early centuries. It is useful for anyone who wants to understand the roots of Christian belief without getting lost in difficult academic language.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

The early church fathers are not distant historical figures. They are our spiritual ancestors whose struggles and insights still shape the faith we confess today.</p> </blockquote>
—Nick Needham</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 1 brings the early centuries of the church to life in a way that few books manage. Needham does not simply list dates and names. He tells the story of real people who faced real dangers and worked out hard questions about God, Christ, and salvation. The sections on the development of the doctrine of the Trinity and the person of Christ are especially clear and helpful. He explains why the early church had to fight against heresies such as Gnosticism, Arianism, and Apollinarianism. At the same time he shows how these debates helped the church reach clearer statements of biblical truth.</p>
The inclusion of primary source readings at the end of each chapter is one of the best features. Readers can move straight from Needham's explanation to the actual words of the early fathers. The book is long enough to cover the ground properly, yet it never feels heavy or dull. Needham writes with warmth and respect for the subject. His voice feels like that of a wise teacher who wants the reader to love church history rather than simply learn facts. The final chapters on Augustine and the fall of the Western Roman Empire tie everything together in a satisfying way. Readers come away with a much deeper appreciation for the faith that was defended and passed on through those difficult early years.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
The first five centuries shaped the Christian faith we hold today. Understanding how the early church defended the truth helps us value and guard that truth in our own time.</p>

Marskramer Path part 07

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Hiked part 7/20 of the Marskramer Path, 18.9 kilometres from Lettele to Deventer.</p>

The area between Lettele and the Hanseatic city of Deventer is a small-scale varied landscape with meadows, forest and heath. After this you walk to Deventer aan de IJssel, one of the most beautiful rivers in the Netherlands. Finally, after the medieval streets and alleys, you will enjoy the Deventer Koek.</p> </blockquote>
Hike report</h2>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

From</td> Lettele</td></tr>
To</td> Deventer</td></tr>
Distance</td> 18.9 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 4h 42m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 4.02 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 112 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 28°C, Sunny, 73% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>
More info</h2>

Trail details</a> (Dutch)</li>
Lettele</a></li>
Deventer</a></li> </ul>

The Odyssey by Homer

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
Homer wrote The Odyssey around 800 BC. It is the second great epic poem from ancient Greece and the direct sequel to The Iliad. The story follows Odysseus, king of Ithaca, as he tries to return home after the Trojan War.</p>
His journey takes ten years because he faces storms, monsters, and angry gods. He meets the Cyclops, the witch Circe, the Sirens, and the sea monster Scylla. Meanwhile his wife Penelope waits faithfully in Ithaca while many suitors try to take over his house.</p>
His son Telemachus grows up and searches for news of his father. The poem mixes exciting adventures with deep thoughts about home, loyalty, and what it means to be human. It remains one of the greatest stories ever told about the longing to return home.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

There is nothing sweeter than a man's own country and his parents, even though he has a fine house in a foreign land.</p> </blockquote>
—Odysseus</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
The Odyssey is full of wonder and danger from the very first page. I loved how Homer makes Odysseus clever rather than just strong. He uses his mind to escape terrible situations where brute force would fail.</p>
The adventures feel exciting and frightening at the same time, especially the meeting with the Cyclops and the journey past the Sirens. What stands out most is the deep longing for home that runs through the whole story.</p>
Penelope's quiet strength and loyalty give the book real heart. The final return and the way Odysseus deals with the suitors feel satisfying and just. Homer shows both the glory of adventure and the greater value of a simple home and faithful family.</p>
The language is powerful even in translation. Readers finish the book with a strong sense of what truly matters in life.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
Cleverness, perseverance and loyalty can bring a person home even after many years of danger and loss. Home and family are worth every struggle.</p>

Monthly update #0433 • May 2026

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.
Books</h3>

Who Is Jesus? by R.C. Sproul</a></li>
Truths We Confess by R.C. Sproul</a></li>
The Iliad by Homer</a></li>
Suicidal Empathy by Gad Saad</a></li> </ul>
Christianity</h3>

Ascension Day</a></li>
Pentecost</a></li> </ul>
Essays</h3>

The Wide Paved Road versus the Narrow Footpath</a></li> </ul>
Gems</h3>

Magnifica Humanitas</a></li> </ul>
Hiking</h3>

Marskramer Path part 03</a></li>
Pelgrims Path part 03</a></li>
Marskramer Path part 04</a></li>
Marskramer Path part 05</a></li>
Marskramer Path part 06</a></li>
Pelgrims Path part 04</a></li> </ul>
Music</h3>

Firedove by Anna Lapwood</a></li> </ul>
Distance</h2>

Activity</th> Distance (km)</th> </tr> </thead>
Walking</td> 223.12</td> </tr>
Hiking</td> 102.5</td> </tr>
Running</td> 0</td> </tr>
Biking</td> 0</td> </tr>
Swimming</td> 0</td> </tr>
IceSkating</td> 0</td> </tr>
Skating</td> 0</td> </tr>
Rowing</td> 0</td> </tr></tbody> </table>

Suicidal Empathy by Gad Saad

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sun, 31 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
Gad Saad wrote Suicidal Empathy: Dying to Be Kind. He is an evolutionary psychologist who studies how bad ideas spread. In this book he explains how empathy, a useful human trait, has become dangerous when it grows too strong and points in the wrong direction. Saad shows how Western societies now favour criminals, illegal migrants, and certain identity groups over their own citizens and victims. He links this to soft-on-crime policies, open borders, and demands for endless tolerance.</p>
The book builds on his earlier work about harmful ideas that damage clear thinking. Saad argues that when empathy overrides reason and self-preservation it becomes suicidal. He gives many real examples from recent years and ends with ways to protect society from this problem. The book is direct and easy to follow.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

A society dies when it cares more about exhibiting infinite tolerance and empathy than invoking its survival instinct.</p> </blockquote>
—Gad Saad</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
Suicidal Empathy gives a clear warning about a real danger in modern life. Saad explains how empathy started as a good thing that helped people survive in groups. He shows how it has turned into a problem when it makes leaders and citizens ignore danger and favour those who harm others. The book points out how this shows up in courtrooms, schools, and government policies.</p>
Saad talks about the harm caused when people feel they must always side with the offender rather than the victim. He asks why societies weaken themselves in the name of kindness. The writing is sharp and honest. Saad uses strong examples without holding back. Readers see how the same pattern appears in many different areas of life.</p>
The final chapter offers practical steps to regain balance. The book makes you think about where empathy should stop and reason should take over.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
Empathy is good in the right amount and directed at the right people. When it becomes excessive and irrational it destroys the society that practises it.</p>

Pelgrims Path part 04

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sat, 30 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Hiked part 4/27 of the Pelgrims Path, 16.3 kilometres from Aarlanderveen to Reeuwijk.</p>

The four windmills of the Aarlanderveen four-mill complex, the only working four-mill complex in the world, drain the Drooggemaakte Polder on the Westzijde in Aarlanderveen. You might even hear a black-tailed godwit or a skylark singing by the Reeuwijkse Plassen in this bird-rich landscape.</p> </blockquote>
Hike report</h2>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

From</td> Aarlanderveen</td></tr>
To</td> Reeuwijk</td></tr>
Distance</td> 16.3 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 3h 42m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 4.41 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 112 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 18°C, Sunny, 79% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>
More info</h2>

Trail details</a> (Dutch)</li>
Aarlanderveen</a></li>
Reeuwijk</a></li> </ul>

Magnifica Humanitas

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Tue, 26 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

102: The use of AI is never a purely technical matter: when it enters processes that affect people’s lives, it touches on rights, opportunities, status and freedom. Important and sensitive decisions — concerning employment, credit, access to public services or even a person’s reputation — risk being fully delegated to automated systems that do not know “compassion, mercy, forgiveness, and above all, the hope that people are able to change,”</strong> [125] and can therefore give rise to new forms of exclusion. There are clearly harmful uses, such as the manipulation of information or violations of privacy. Yet there is also a subtler danger, for when AI systems present themselves as neutral and objective, they end up reflecting and reinforcing the stereotypes or ideological bias of their designers and developers.</p> </blockquote>
→ vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/encyclicals/documents/20260515-magnifica-humanitas.html</a></p>
Pope Leo XIV wrote his first encyclical to Catholics, other Christians, and all people of goodwill. He applies the Church’s Social Doctrine to artificial intelligence and digital technology. He asks whether humanity will create a new Tower of Babel, a place of pride, uniformity, and control, or rebuild Jerusalem as a city of shared responsibility, diversity, and friendship with God.</p>
The main purpose is clear. The Pope calls for careful judgement so that technology serves true human growth and the good of everyone. Technology is not neutral. It is a gift that people must use with ethics. The letter builds on 135 years of Catholic Social Teaching since Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum.</p>
Core ideas include:</p>

Human dignity is fixed and infinite because each person is made in the image of the Triune God. Dignity does not depend on usefulness or data.</li>
Artificial intelligence can help heal, connect, and develop life, but it becomes harmful when it creates dependence, bias, surveillance, or fake relationships. The Pope rejects transhumanism; real greatness comes from grace, not machines.</li>
The Church’s key principles — common good, subsidiarity, solidarity, and justice — must guide the digital world.</li> </ul>
The chapters cover:</p>

The history of Social Doctrine.</li>
Its basic principles.</li>
The danger of a technocratic system that concentrates power; the need for transparency and fair rules.</li>
Real-life issues: truth online, jobs and automation, freedom from new forms of control.</li>
Peace instead of war; the Pope criticises artificial intelligence weapons because they remove human moral choice.</li> </ul>
In the end, Pope Leo XIV urges everyone to put God first and people at the centre. He asks the Virgin Mary to help build a fraternal, just, and open world for all. The message is simple and hopeful: choose communion, not domination. In the age of artificial intelligence, humanity must stay truly and magnificently human.</p>

The Iliad by Homer

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 25 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

</div> </span> </div>
Why read the book?</h2>
Homer wrote The Iliad around 800 BC. It is one of the oldest and greatest works in Western literature. The poem tells the story of the final weeks of the Trojan War. It focuses on the anger of Achilles, the greatest Greek warrior. When Agamemnon takes his prize Briseis, Achilles refuses to fight. This decision brings terrible suffering to the Greek army.</p>
The story shows fierce battles, the roles of the gods, and the human cost of pride. It ends with the death of Hector and the sorrow it brings. The book helps readers understand ancient ideas about honour, fate, and what it means to be human. It also shows how small insults can lead to great destruction.</p>
Homer uses powerful language to describe both the glory and the horror of war. The poem remains exciting and moving even after nearly three thousand years.</p>
Favourite quote</h2>

Let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first do some great thing that shall be told among men hereafter.</p> </blockquote>
—Achilles</span></figcaption></figure>
What I Loved</h2>
The Iliad gives a raw and powerful picture of war. Homer describes battle scenes with great detail and energy. He creates memorable characters such as the proud Achilles, the noble Hector, and the wise King Priam.</p>
The poem shows how pride can destroy lives and how friendship and duty drive men forward. The gods take sides and interfere in human affairs, which adds another layer to the story. What stands out is the deep sadness beneath the glory.</p>
Homer makes you feel the tragedy of war and the shortness of human life. The final meeting between Achilles and Priam is especially moving. Homer writes with beauty and strength even in translation. Readers finish the book with a greater understanding of honour and the heavy price it often demands.</p>
The book calls for courage but also warns against the dangers of unchecked anger.</p>
Key Takeaway</h2>
Glory and honour come at a great cost. Pride can bring victory but also terrible loss and sorrow.</p>

Marskramer Path part 06

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sun, 24 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Hiked part 6/20 of the Marskramer Path, 17.3 kilometres from Holten to Lettele.</p>

From the Holterberg you descend to a more open area to Espelo, popularly called Splo. There are about 150 scattered farms where the residents have close ties. Together they hold (world) records such as making the largest Easter fire, throwing pitchforks and making a snowman; unique in the Netherlands.</p> </blockquote>
Hike report</h2>
</p>
Map</h2>
Details</h2>
Data</th> Value</th></tr></thead>

From</td> Holten</td></tr>
To</td> Lettele</td></tr>
Distance</td> 17.3 km</td></tr>
Duration</td> 3h 57m</td></tr>
Speed</td> 4.38 km/h</td></tr>
Elevation gain</td> 83 m</td></tr>
Weather</td> 28°C, Sunny, 75% humidity</td></tr> </tbody></table>
More info</h2>

Trail details</a> (Dutch)</li>
Holten</a></li>
Lettele</a></li> </ul>

Pentecost

hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Sun, 24 May 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Happy Pentecost to all of you.</p>

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.</p> </blockquote>
-</em> Acts 2:1-2</p>
Let us remember what this day truly means. The Holy Spirit came to dwell in all who believe in Jesus Christ. He empowers us, guides us, and draws us closer to God. That gift stands above all else.</p>
It is about the Spirit of God, alive and at work in us.</p>
I wish you peace in your hearts. I wish you hope that lasts. I wish you the joy that comes from knowing his Spirit lives in you. May God bless you this Pentecost and in the days ahead.</p>

Peter's Path

The Sword of Freedom by Yossi Cohen

Key Takeaway</h2> Israel survives by staying alert, acting first when needed, and treating security as the foundation of its existence. Understanding this mindset helps explain both its past successes and the choices it continues to make.</p>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 4 by Nick Needham

Key Takeaway</h2> The age of religious conflict tested the faith that the Reformation had recovered. Understanding this period helps us value the cost of standing for the gospel and remain faithful to the truths that were defended at such great cost.</p>

Monthly update #0435 • July 2026

Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.

Pelgrims Path part 05

Hike report</h2>

Reeuwijkse Plassen</h3> </p>

Paths and ditches</h3> </p>

Polder and the Lancaster memorial</h3> </p>

Nieuwerbrug</h3> </p>

Open country</h3> </p> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video>

Canals and wildlife</h3> </p>

Towards Haastrecht</h3> </p>

Map</h2>

Goodbye to Nikki and Anouk

Does Prayer Change Things? by R.C. Sproul

Key Takeaway</h2> Prayer does not change the mind of God. Prayer does change things. God uses the prayers of His people to accomplish His will. Prayer also changes the person who prays. True prayer needs trust in God’s control and the steady habit of coming before Him.</p>

Zero to One by Peter Thiel

Key Takeaway</h2> Progress comes from going from zero to one. Copying others only moves from one to n. The strongest companies find secrets that others miss and then build monopoly around them. Success demands courage to think alone and the discipline to act on that thought.</p>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 3 by Nick Needham

Key Takeaway</h2> The Reformation recovered the gospel of grace through faith in Christ alone. Understanding this period helps us value the Bible and guard the truths that were won at such great cost.</p>

Marskramer Path part 08

Hike report</h2>

Deventer</h3> </p>

Crossing the IJssel</h3> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video> </p>

Floodplains and the windmill</h3> </p>

Wilp</h3> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video>

Woods, wheat and estates</h3> </p>

Towards Klarenbeek</h3> </p>

Map</h2>

More info</h2> Trail details</a> (Dutch)</li> Deventer</a></li> Klarenbeek</a></li> </ul> Monthly update #0434 • June 2026 hello@peterspath.net (Peter) — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0000 Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.

Monthly update #0434 • June 2026

Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.

Can I Trust The Bible? by R.C. Sproul

Key Takeaway</h2> The Bible is trustworthy because it comes from God, who does not lie or make mistakes.</p>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 2 by Nick Needham

Key Takeaway</h2> The medieval church preserved and developed the Christian faith through many difficult centuries. Understanding this period helps us see both the deep roots of our faith and the real problems that later required reform.</p>

For All Mankind

Biking in Hollandse Duinen National Park

Ride report</h2>

Through The Hague and into the woods</h3> </p>

Castles and country estates</h3> </p>

Into the dunes</h3> </p>

The Scheveningen seafront</h3> </p>

Promenade sculptures and the coast</h3> </p>

Harbour and back to The Hague</h3> </p>

Map</h2>

Biking in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park

Ride report</h2> </p>

Map</h2>

2000 Years of Christ's Power Volume 1 by Nick Needham

Key Takeaway</h2> The first five centuries shaped the Christian faith we hold today. Understanding how the early church defended the truth helps us value and guard that truth in our own time.</p>

Marskramer Path part 07

Hike report</h2> </p>

Map</h2>

The Odyssey by Homer

Key Takeaway</h2> Cleverness, perseverance and loyalty can bring a person home even after many years of danger and loss. Home and family are worth every struggle.</p>

Monthly update #0433 • May 2026

Posts</h2> The following posts were written last month.

Suicidal Empathy by Gad Saad

Key Takeaway</h2> Empathy is good in the right amount and directed at the right people. When it becomes excessive and irrational it destroys the society that practises it.</p>

Pelgrims Path part 04

Hike report</h2> </p>

Map</h2>

Magnifica Humanitas

The Iliad by Homer

Key Takeaway</h2> Glory and honour come at a great cost. Pride can bring victory but also terrible loss and sorrow.</p>

Marskramer Path part 06

Hike report</h2> </p>

Map</h2>

Pentecost

Key Takeaway</h2>
Israel survives by staying alert, acting first when needed, and treating security as the foundation of its existence. Understanding this mindset helps explain both its past successes and the choices it continues to make.</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
The age of religious conflict tested the faith that the Reformation had recovered. Understanding this period helps us value the cost of standing for the gospel and remain faithful to the truths that were defended at such great cost.</p>

Reeuwijkse Plassen</h3>
</p>

Paths and ditches</h3>
</p>

Polder and the Lancaster memorial</h3>
</p>

Nieuwerbrug</h3>
</p>

Open country</h3>
</p> Your browser does not support the video tag. </video>

Canals and wildlife</h3>
</p>

Towards Haastrecht</h3>
</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
Prayer does not change the mind of God. Prayer does change things. God uses the prayers of His people to accomplish His will. Prayer also changes the person who prays. True prayer needs trust in God’s control and the steady habit of coming before Him.</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
Progress comes from going from zero to one. Copying others only moves from one to n. The strongest companies find secrets that others miss and then build monopoly around them. Success demands courage to think alone and the discipline to act on that thought.</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
The Reformation recovered the gospel of grace through faith in Christ alone. Understanding this period helps us value the Bible and guard the truths that were won at such great cost.</p>

Deventer</h3>
</p>

Crossing the IJssel</h3>
Your browser does not support the video tag. </video> </p>

Floodplains and the windmill</h3>
</p>

Woods, wheat and estates</h3>
</p>

Towards Klarenbeek</h3>
</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
The Bible is trustworthy because it comes from God, who does not lie or make mistakes.</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
The medieval church preserved and developed the Christian faith through many difficult centuries. Understanding this period helps us see both the deep roots of our faith and the real problems that later required reform.</p>

Through The Hague and into the woods</h3>
</p>

Castles and country estates</h3>
</p>

Into the dunes</h3>
</p>

The Scheveningen seafront</h3>
</p>

Promenade sculptures and the coast</h3>
</p>

Harbour and back to The Hague</h3>
</p>

Ride report</h2>
</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
The first five centuries shaped the Christian faith we hold today. Understanding how the early church defended the truth helps us value and guard that truth in our own time.</p>

Hike report</h2>
</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
Cleverness, perseverance and loyalty can bring a person home even after many years of danger and loss. Home and family are worth every struggle.</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
Empathy is good in the right amount and directed at the right people. When it becomes excessive and irrational it destroys the society that practises it.</p>

Hike report</h2>
</p>

Key Takeaway</h2>
Glory and honour come at a great cost. Pride can bring victory but also terrible loss and sorrow.</p>

Hike report</h2>
</p>