The topic of my Bible studies sessions this week, "Crossing Borders," was partially inspired by our three African American sons. As a racially mixed family, we are becoming more attuned to the intercultural and interracial dynamics of American society. My patterns of reading the Bible as a scholar are also being influenced by this new sensitivity.

Back in Chicago, I am the Marilyn and Ralph Klein Professor of Old Testament Studies at the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago (LSTC). I also am the Director of Advanced Studies at LSTC.