Enterprise Information Management

Question: Discuss about theEnterprise Information Management. Answer: Introduction: Recently, organizations are dealing with a huge explosion of information. Organizations are required to staunchly manage and save these large amounts of data, daily. Enterprise Information Management, also called EIM is used to term a business discipline which unifies various theories of content management, business intelligence technique, and enterprise integration so as to reorganize the information for better management, storage, and handling (Lam Taylor, 2016). Multi-Enterprise Master Data Management Master Data denotes the basic entities for a specific enterprise like accounts, suppliers, consumers, etc. Master Data Management (MDM) is the theory which incorporates business with IT so that continuity, uniformity, and accuracy of master data which is associated with the organization can be maintained (Gartner, 2012). Master Data Management consists of processes, tools, standards, policies, and governance which uniformly explains and manages an organizations core data for providing an individual reference point. The data comprises of both analytical data and reference data. Multi-enterprise Master Data Management provides support for master data management via deletion of duplicates, mass maintenance, and implementing rules for elimination of improper data being provided to the system. This creates an authentic master data source. The main objective of MDM is to provide processes for collection, aggregation, consolidation, quality-assurance, persistence, and distribution of data a ll throughout an organization so that control and consistency is ensured. It is an exclusive process of helping an enterprise link all the critical data into one single file which provides a reference point. MDM simplifies data sharing between departments and personnel. Additionally, MDM streamlines computing across various system applications, platforms, and architectures. MDM can be defined as the theory of specialized quality improvement via policies and procedures which have been implemented by the organization. The main goal of MDM is to provide the user with a single true file on which the management will base their decisions. MDM ensures that the organization doesnt utilize various versions of one file in various operations. MDM can also be defined to be a technology-centric discipline which combines IT and business so that accountability, semantic consistency, stewardship, accuracy, and uniformity can be ensured for an enterprises data asset. Master Data is uniform and consi stent all throughout. It is an uniform and consistent identifier set and enhanced attributes which explains the basic components of an enterprise such as accounts, hierarchies, sites, suppliers, employees, opportunities, and the consumers. One specific master data source consists of 3 important abilities, namely, an authorized information sources, the capability to consistently utilize the information, and the capability to be parallel with the transformation of the business requirements, in regards to MDM. An integrated compilation of services might be created in regards to the specific piece of data in regards to the analytical applications and business processes. Additionally, effective business operations are enabled via the 3 abilities which have been explained. The authenticated and authoritative data sources make sure the data is redundancy and duplicity free and it follows a standardized structure (Dreibelbes, 2016). Gartner has described numerous theories and technologies which can be used for EIM with the help of Hype Cycle, that has been depicted below. Figure 1 - Hype Cycle (Ronthal and Simoni, 2015) Working There are numerous stages of application for a multi-enterprise MDM methods and techniques. They are The first step is Identification of data sources from all exterior levels and from all throughout the enterprise. These might comprise of both unstructured and structured data. The second step is Identification of data consumers and producers is performed so that the data sources can be understood properly. The third step is Collection and analysis of master datas metadata is performed via analysis of data so that all associated attributes can be understood. The fourth step is Appointment of data stewards is performed so that the collected data can be analyzed and the various associated operations can be managed. The fifth step is Implementation of information and data governance is performed so that authority is given at the administrative, legislative, judicial, and executive levels to the data management is performed correctly. The sixth step is Development of a Master Data Model is done. It is created at a multi-enterprise level which is developed in regards to the approval of all involved parties. Additionally, it includes the analysis results, too. The seventh step is Specific set of tools are used for the creation of master lists by performing various operations on them. These tools are generally divided into 2 classes Production Information Management (PIM) Customer Data Integration (CDI) The eight step is an infrastructure is created. Then, the master data is tested via various equipment and tools that were previously chosen. The ninth step is A process of maintenance is performed afterwards so that additional activities can be maintained (Wolter and Haselden, 2016). Components MDM accomplished the 5 basics of management of enterprise level information and data that has been depicted below Data Migration Master Data consists of data which is amassed from various diverse sources and is transferred to a single location. The data is cleaned effectively so that all kinds of inconsistencies, redundancies, and duplicities can be removed from all the sets of data. Data Integration Each organization has their own methodology and information architecture which is customizable. The Multi-enterprise MDM incorporates the whole sets of data in a single unit which is well-suited with the organizations architecture. Data Maintenance Synchronization of data definitions and business objectives with multi-enterprise MDM makes sure that any modifications are correctly and accurately reflected and data consistency is maintained throughout. Data Quality Assurance Multi-enterprise MDM comprises of various quality measures for maintaining data quality. Data Retention Multi-enterprise MDM employs constant effort for management of data by saving essential data and deleting non-essential and unnecessary data. Key Benefits Master Data Edits With the assistance of MDM and its related features, Master data modification can be performed. Sometimes, it might happen that modification made in one data copy might not be shown in other data copies. This might cause discrepancies and inconsistence which might be quite fatal. MDM ensures that these situations do not take place and updates records via master data modifications. Effective Data Analysis With the assistance of irredundant and clean data, best data analysis results can be achieved. This might not be possible if unreliable or duplicate data is present. Removal of redundancy For high volumes of data, redundancy is quite common since data is collected from various sources. A major advantage of multi-enterprise MDM is the fact that redundancy of data is fully removed and maintenance of coherence is present all throughout. Various Platforms When various businesses and enterprises are involved, there are various platforms present, too. MDM permits data access and availability across various platforms like online, physical, cloud, etc. Flexibility MDM permits immense data flexibility as operations like modifications, storage, changes, etc. Are quite easy to manage and perform. Easy and timely Backup Centralized sources of data are used for multi-enterprise MDM so that data backup is performed frequently and the data backup is saved securely in case a severe attack takes place. Key Data Users have the capability to make decision regarding the data which will be fed and the data that will be deleted. This permits accomplishment of needs of the business. Authoritative Data MDM provides an authentic information source and a reliable base for all types of business operations which are performed. Access Based Roles For multi-enterprise MDM, access privileges and rights is provided according to the individuals role within the master data. It permits better management of access and maintains data and information privacy and security. High Usability and Business Efficiency The 2 prime conditions for consumers and business operators are efficiency and usability. Multi-enterprise MDM provides both business efficiency and increased usability which results in satisfied consumers and employees. Logical Data Warehouse (LDH) The 2nd technology and concept which is used for enterprise information management is the application and utilization of logical data warehouses (Russom, 2016). The architectural layer which is layered on top of the organizations normal data warehouse which consists of continuous data is known as a logical data warehouse. This layer permits the business analysts and executives to observe the stored data without any requirement of data relocation and transformation, prior to observation. The logical data warehouse complements the traditional central data warehouse with capabilities which will progressively fetch and transform data. Components Repository Management This is a critical part of the Logical Data Warehouse which manages and maintains the enterprises data repository. Distributed Processes Various shared processes are available within the cloud and these are incorporated with the assistance of logical DATA warehouses. Auditing Statistics Services Accurate data accuracy and governance is permitted and handled. Management of Metadata Metadata from various external and internal sources is managed and maintained. Data Virtualization It permits virtual data integration for all the enterprise components. Essentials for EIM EIM has numerous demands which can be accomplished via the implementation of a logical data warehouse within the organizations structure and architecture. These demands are as follows Agility of enterprise an organizations capability to acquire and sense modifications which are required to incorporated and successfully attempt is known as enterprise agility. Logical data warehouse permits the enterprise to manage an excellent agility level since it offers a logical data view which is present at the organizations levels and allocations. Single view Corporations want a consistent and individual information view which is related to it in regards to information, suppliers, consumers, etc. Logical data warehouses offer this with extreme excellence and ease (Hensley, 2016). Satisfaction of customer an organization primary goal is maintenance and achievement of enhanced consumer satisfaction. This permitted via the utilization of logical data warehouses via effective data analysis, storage, and management. Real time Integration of real-time data is given across all interfaces and boundaries by permitting on-demand analysis via logical data warehouses. Advantages of Logical Data Warehouse Agility on all enterprise level Most of the new modifications and developments in regards to data attributes can be effectively managed via Logical DATA warehouses. Real-time analytics and queries is permitted via Logical DATA warehouses since it offers enhanced flexibility. Comprehensive Critical Data Assets View Organizations find it easier to have a combined data view, at all times. This is permitted via the logical DATA warehouses. Additionally, it permits multi-structured and unstructured data management and handling. Budget Effectiveness Logical DATA warehouses provides features which are cost-effective. Also, it permits optimized data administration Conclusion EIM or Enterprise Information Management is a critical element which is required by every organization. There are various concepts and technologies which have been initiated for achieving various tasks. Multi-enterprise MDM and Logical DATA warehouses are 2 methodologies which help in management of data and information at an enterprise level. There are various advantages which are provided via these methodologies in regards to cost effectiveness, agility, individual data view, cleansed data, and flexibility. Additionally, these permits the enterprise to accomplish its core business objectives in regards to customer satisfaction and competitive advantage. Additionally, various security mechanisms are present within these 2 methods. These permit the business officials to maintain data privacy and security, in addition to availability, integrity, and confidentiality. The advantages of MDM are enhanced as the organizations departments, employees, and applications are enhanced. Due to thi s reason, MDM is quite worthwhile for larger enterprises. In case of mergers, MDM helps in minimization of confusion, and optimization of efficiency of the newly amalgamated organization. References Compositesw (2016).Logical Data Warehouse | Cisco. [online] Available at: https://www.compositesw.com/solutions/logical-data-warehouse/ [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Dreibelbis, A. (2016). Enterprise Master Data Management. [online] Available at: https://cdn.ttgtmedia.com/searchDataManagement/downloads/MasterDataManagementSOA1.pdf [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Increase Agility and Reduce Costs with a Logical Data Warehouse. (2014). 1st ed. [ebook] Available at: https://www.marklogic.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Increase-Agility-and-Reduce-Costs-with-a-Logical-Data-Warehouse.pdf [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Gartner, (2012). Master Data Management (MDM) - Gartner IT Glossary. [online] Gartner IT Glossary. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/it-glossary/master-data-management-mdm/ [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Hensley, N. (2016). The logical data warehouse: The new secret weapon for leading. [online] IBM Big Data Analytics Hub. Available at: https://www.ibmbigdatahub.com/blog/logical-data-warehouse-new-secret-weapon-leading-businesses [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Lam, V. and Taylor, J. (2016). Enterprise Information Management (EIM): The Hidden Secret to Peak Business Performance. [online] Available at: https://www.umsl.edu/~sauterv/DSS4BI/links/EIM_Final.pdf [Accessed 23 Aug. 2016]. Ronthal, A. and Simoni, G. (2015). Hype Cycle for Enterprise Information Management, 2015. [online] Gartner.com. Available at: https://www.gartner.com/doc/3096424/hype-cycle-enterprise-information-management [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Russom, P. (2016). The Logical Data Warehouse: What it is and why you need it. [online] Available at: https://tdwi.org/webcasts/2015/06/the-logical-data-warehouse-what-it-is-and-why-you-need-it.aspx [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016]. Wolter, R. and Haselden, K. (2016). The What, Why, and How of Master Data Management. [online] Msdn.microsoft.com. Available at: https://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/bb190163.aspx [Accessed 3 Sep. 2016].

The Military - An Instrument Of National Power

Questions: 1. The military is an instrument of national power. Pick two other instruments of national power and briefly describe them. Give at least two examples of each.a) Instrument of national power b) Two examples c) Instrument of national power d) Two examples 2. One end defined in the National Security Strategy 2010 is the security of the United States, its citizens, and U.S. allies and partners. A means associated with this end is U.S. nuclear forces. Explain at least one way that U.S. nuclear forces will be used to achieve this end (refer to the QDR 2014, Section II, The Defense Strategy). 3. Using the QDR 2014 regarding the future security environment, describe the most significant threat, challenge, and opportunity and explain your rationale for choosing each. a) Threat b) Challenge c) Opportunity d) Rationale 4. Define a state and discuss whether states are still relevant. a) Provide a definition of a state using the C200 course materials. Be sure to cite the author or doctrinal refe rence you used. b) Are states still relevant in the 21st century? Explain why or why not. 5. For what purpose does the Geographic Combatant Commander conduct a Strategic Estimate?6. Describe how the Geographic Combatant Commander translates the strategic guidance and direction [contained in either the Guidance for Employment of the Force (GEF) or the Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP)] into planning for theater strategy.a) GEF b) JSCP 7. Define strategy and explain how it informs planning.a) Provide a definition of strategy using the C200 course materials. Be sure to cite the author or doctrinal reference you used. b) How does strategy inform planning? Explain. 8. Describe how Crisis Action Planning differs from Deliberate Planning. Answers: 1. a). Instrument of national power The four instruments of national power are Diplomatic, Information, Military and Economic (DIME). Among these four factors, economic factor can be considered as a major instrument of national power. Developments of an economy are done with the help of sanctions of funding requirements from the government and it can become a major form factor. b) Two examples As an example, it can be said the dominance of Apple, IBM, Intel, Microsoft etc in the US economy. Another example could be cited as the enormous Gross Domestic Product of the US economy and the buying power of the citizens of US. c) Instrument of national power Diplomatic tool can also be used as an instrument of national power. Diplomacy can be used to maintain relationship between two countries. d) Two examples Diplomatic agreement between United Nations and another country or any two security relationship reassessment can be cited as an example of Diplomatic national power. Another example can be a challenge in the GAAT region for the USEUCOM is to provide only non-lethal security assistance, link other assistance (e.g. economic aid) to continued participation in diplomatic efforts to resolve the territorial dispute, or also build the capacity of the other party to the territorial dispute. 2. One end defined in the National Security Strategy 2010 is the security of the United States, its citizens, and U.S. allies and partners. A means associated with this end is U.S. nuclear forces. Explain at least one way that U.S. nuclear forces will be used to achieve this end (refer to the QDR 2014, Section II, The Defense Strategy). Protecting citizens of United States is categorized as one of the primary objectives of National Security of 2010, and nuclear forces play a crucial role in this regard. Developing nuclear weapons are very much required to fight terrorism in countries like Afghanistan. Recent disturbances in Afghanistan have clearly shown that a proper security strategy is required not only for the existing citizens of Afghanistan or United States but also for the entire world. Hence, placing nuclear weapons in those disturbed areas might be required to challenge the terrorist activities. Nuclear forces can also be divided into various sub-forms such as missiles used from the ground or air or by using submarines or ships etc. Also, serious consideration needs to be taken regarding budgeting of these nuclear weapons as maintaining nuclear weapons can be very costly in nature. Incorrect spending on these areas may, later on, lead to questioning from different governing bodies. The end state of security can have ways of a strong military and means of using that military in all of its capabilities: combat, humanitarian assistance, training, counterterrorism, etc. 3. The Quadrennial Defense Review of 2014 (QDR 2014) is prepared to rebalance, reshape and adapt the military force of United States of America in order to cope up with the opportunities and strategic challenges in the coming years. There are mainly three strategic pillars in QDR 2014, these are deterring aggression, defending that US land and developing international security with the help of US influence and deterring aggression. a) Threat More and more countries these days are becoming powerful and are developing advanced weapon to protect their nation. For example, growing terrorism activity in countries like Afghanistan can be considered as a serious threat to United Nations. Also, because of religious differences Middle East nations are becoming threats to the country. Competition for resources such as water and energy, between the countries can also become a factor for indifferences and lead to war. Cyber threats are also becoming a factor for instability as the usage of internet increases rapidly in the developing and underdeveloped nations. In addition to this, large economic based country, China can be considered as another major threat to US. b) Challenge Managing high end sophisticated technologies are becoming an increasing challenge day by day. Counter stealth technology can be taken as an example of highly advanced weapons systems. Automated systems and robotics are also becoming a trend that helps to improve military strategy of any country. Innovations in the field of biotechnology can also lead to development of weapons that are difficult to detect and encounter. c) Opportunity In todays complex situation, there are multiple strengths of United Nations that can be cited. Post recession US economy is becoming stronger and it is still one of strongest strengths of US government. Future prospect of US economy is also seems to be very strong. United Nations also has alliances with other countries such Europe in particular that needs technologically advanced but also possesses strong nuclear power. This alliance can be leveraged during crises such as war. In addition, human resources are strength of US military and it can be used for any kind of emergency. d) Rationale The objectives United Nations defense system should always seek to protect its land and citizens. However, emerging countries such as China are becoming stronger day by day and increasing terrorist activities can be one of the biggest weaknesses of the country. Other countries are also increasing their strength in terms of acquiring new age defense weapons and that can pose serious threat to the country. Increasing number of cyber threats are also considered to be one of the weaknesses of United Nations. 4. a). In the context of U.S. Army, states are different territories that define the categorization of tasks of the officials. They are divided into different departments or agencies to perform allocated tasks. Some are assigned to do laboratory research while others are instructed to bring out new and innovative ideas to combat the evil forces of the enemies. There are also some training schools for men and women to train them to join the army, which can also be referred to as states. States are specialized departments that render quality services to various sectors related to the U.S. army. States are usually set up to safeguard national interests. They are maintained by staffs from the intelligence bureaus who keep a track of everything taking place inside the U.S. army. The surveillance becomes much easier when the tasks are divided into various states as personal supervision is implemented for proper execution of the strategies. b). States are still relevant in the 21st century. States can be used to form alliances and partnerships. Alliances and partnerships are a central and constant phenomenon in international politics throughout history. It has been seen multiple times that states have been used as a strategy in order to counter any activities like fighting the enemy. By forming alliances the security of the country can be increased. When a state joins an alliance, though entanglement becomes a possibility, the chances of defeating the enemy becomes stronger. Hence, it can be concluded that state is still a relevant concept in 21st century. For what purpose does the Geographic Combatant Commander conduct a Strategic Estimate The estimate of strategy prepared by Geographic Combatant Commander is an available tool to CCMDs and sub unified commands since they develop and campaign design plans and subordinate campaign. It includes assessment of the broad strategic factors that can influence the theatre strategic area. It also includes the direction of analysis of strategy that is received from the secretary of defense, president, or the authoritative body of an international force. It includes all entities states, or groups in the operations scenario that may ask to justify the ability of CCMDs of defending of US in a particular region. This will help in foresight of the relevant geo economic, cultural and geopolitical factors in that area. This assessment of operational and strategic challenges of the CCMD; an analysis of anticipated or known opportunity that can be leveraged by CCMD; and assessment of risks present in the security environment. It is a process, as well as a product. The development of the S trategic Estimate takes one through a process collects set of inputs, make their analysis, and transform them into a product. It would be correct to say that the process is as important as the product. Although CCDRs consider regional approaches within their theatres, one is unlikely to full versions of the Strategic Estimate product in the real world. Each part of the process for developing the Strategic Estimate is based on the analysis of a common set of information. The importance of information gathering cannot be over-emphasized, since the quality of strategic analysis usually depends on the breadth and depth of information brought to bear on the situation. The more quickly a planner masters the sources, whether from a library or the internet, the more quickly the planner can proceed with sound analysis. 6. Describe how the Geographic Combatant Commander translates the strategic guidance and direction [contained in either the Guidance for Employment of the Force (GEF) or the Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP)] into planning for theater strategy. a) GEF GCCs creates a theatre strategy emphasizing on meeting specific end states for their theatres. By theatre strategy it is meant a preparation of the long-term plans of the commanders for the AOR. It is the connection between strategic joint operation planning and national guidance required for achieving regional and national objectives. To be more specific, it links activities of CCMD, resources and operations to policy of Government of United States (USG) and guidance of strategy. The theatre strategy must explain the end of regional state and the ways, objectives, and means to meet them. It must start with estimate of the strategy. Even though no particular format for a theatre strategy is there, it may if it wants, contain the commanders challenges, vision, objectives, assumptions, trending patterns, and resources. GCCs implement theatre strategy in order to focus and align efforts and resources to prepare and mitigate for contingencies and conflict in their AOR and advance and sup port US interests. In order to support this objective, theatre strategies focus on activities for security cooperation, capacity building for partner and preparation for adverse situations. Theatre strategies typically implement regional and military engagement, intimate cooperation with the embassies, Department of State (DOS), and other departments of the federal system to achieve theatre objectives. Theatre strategy should be supported by the resources available to compliment the accomplishment of specific end states and should include policies, programs, military resources, and funding availabilities. b) JSCP The CJCS exercises its power for directing the preparing of the joint plans through the primary medium. The JSCP gives strategic, military and operational campaign plans. It also provides planning for contingency based on present capability of the military. It acts as a link between strategic guidance included in the GEF and the operation planning products and activities, which are involved in the accomplishment of that guidance. In addition to CCMDs communication to the specific guidance necessary for deliberate planning, the JSCP normally translates policy related to strategy end states from the GEF into campaign for the military and guidance reserve plan for CCDRs and expands assistance to contain international defense posture, cooperation of security, and other related activities. 7. a). Strategy can be defined as a national, regional and governmental tool. It is a way that leads to means which are actionable events. Strategies can be changed, but they are frameworks that actual operations and tactics fit within. Strategy drives planning or guides planning. When there are one or more goals to achieve under uncertain circumstances, few plans are set up to combat the situational difficulties, which are known as Strategies. Strategy is very important in any organizational structure because there are limited resources present to achieve the desired goals. Strategy usually involves goal-setting, determining strong actions to attain the goals and assembling resources for proper execution of the actions. Talking about military strategy, it is a collection of ideas applied by the military organizations (in this case U.S. military organization) to achieve the strategic goals that are desired by them. This type of strategy generally deals with planning and conducting of different campaigns, the disposition and movement of forces and of course in deception of their enemies. The military operational and strategic guidance are provided by the JSCPs to CCDRs, CCAs, Service Chiefs and DOD agencies to prepare contingency and campaign plans depending on the currently available military capabilities. b). Orders and joint plans are developed with the military and strategy planning sets. The planners and commanders derive the understanding of the end states from the strategic guiding policies. Strategy affects the planning process. Planning transforms strategic direction and guidance into operational orders and campaign plans. The objectives and mission of the organizational set up are planned before hand and respective strategies are set into motion for proper execution of the plans. Concept development, strategic guidance, plan assessment and plan development are used to map politico-military assessments in the level of strategic planning to evaluate the military objectives and strategies. Strategy and planning go hand in hand for execution. The planning process should include various strategies that can be used to combat situational difficulties. A proper planning should always contain appropriate strategies so that the crisis period can be easily conquered. 8. Describe how Crisis Action Planning differs from Deliberate Planning. It requires deliberate planning focuses on the plans prepared, planned and occur in the non-crisis situation. The planning is used to plan, create and develop the contingency plans and campaigns for a wide range of the activities created on the requirements that are identified in GEF or other such planning directives. Global and theater campaign plans are the centered parts of the DODs constructive planning. Crisis action planning (CAP) provides the CCDRs and CJCS are the processes for making the information up as the chain of instructions to the SecDef and President so to attain a vital decision. It also highlights the instruments for commanding the successful execution of the activity. Crisis action plans are very similar to the deliberate plans but differs too. CAP works out on the real world and the dynamic conditions and not on the static ones. References R.M,Wilcox,Menning B.W. Guide to Strategic Estimate Developmen ,n.d. Statement of General Philip Breedlove Commander U.S. Forces Europe,2019. Strategic Estimate Caucasus Region, 2019. House.gov,. "The United States House Of Representatives House.Gov". Last modified 2016. Accessed January 5, 2016. https://www.house.gov. State.gov,. "Bureau Of European And Eurasian Affairs". Last modified 2016. Accessed January 5, 2016. https://www.state.gov/p/eur/index.htm. whitehouse.gov,. "The White House". Last modified 2015. Accessed January 5, 2016. https://www.whitehouse.gov. State.gov, "Bureau Of European And Eurasian Affairs", last modified 2016, accessed January 5, 2016, https://www.state.gov/p/eur/index.htm. R.M. Wilcox and Menning B.W, Guide to Strategic Estimate Development, (n.d), 5. whitehouse.gov, "The White House", last modified 2015, accessed January 5, 2016, https://www.whitehouse.gov. Statement of General Philip Breedlove Commander U.S. Forces Europe, (2019),1-5. Strategic Estimate Caucasus Region, (2019), 5. Statement of General Philip Breedlove Commander U.S. Forces Europe, (2019),1-5. Statement of General Philip Breedlove Commander U.S. Forces Europe, (2019),1-5.

Reflection on Jesus Essay Example

Reflection on Jesus Essay The teachings of Jesus, His death and resurrection, and the promise of His return provide believers with a firm foundation for living, confidence in God’s power and provision in our lives, and clear direction in The Way. As a believer, His message directs my educational choices, guides my life experiences, and determines how I approach society. Christ teaches that the measure of successful living in His eternal kingdom is far different than the standards society espouses. In Matthew 5, He lists many â€Å"blessings† that our society defines as character flaws or weaknesses. Jesus asks believers to remove our trust in possessions and self-gratification. He calls us to live differently so that others can see Him clearly in us, and in doing so, offer hope to those who are hurting. Christ provides practical guidance for daily living. Throughout Matthew 5 and 6, He challenges believers to examine our motives and make decisions beyond the letter of the law. We are to consider the â€Å"thought life† behind our actions and strive to make those thoughts and motives pure. (Bradley, 2012) In doing so, we are able to live righteously in both the law and the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 10:5, NIV) Jesus cautions His believers not to forget the glorious purpose we are called to. By being the salt of the earth as described in Matthew 5, we are called to live in a way that mirrors Jesus’ sacrifice, which can preserve a dying world as salt preserves food. Jesus asks us to reflect His light and illuminate a dark world. Each parable in Luke 15 displays how highly God values us. His pastoral, possessive, and parental connections to us are also revealed, as is His great concern when we are separated from Him. We will write a custom essay sample on Reflection on Jesus specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Reflection on Jesus specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Reflection on Jesus specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The parables allude to God’s efforts to rescue, retrieve, and restore us to Him and the great celebration that results when we are reunited. By reflecting God’s love to the world, we fulfill our purpose and help â€Å"find† the lost. The account of Jesus’ death and resurrection in Luke 22-24 demonstrates His great love for us, His perfect obedience to God’s will and plan for His life, and the fulfillment of that plan through tremendous sacrifice and divine restoration. Jesus sets an example of perfect obedience for us in Luke 22:42. He was fully aware of His impending torture and death, yet he still submitted to God’s will. Remaining obedient throughout His trial, crucifixion and death, Jesus fulfilled every promise in Isaiah 53:5, where it says â€Å"But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. † Jesus defining moment comes not in His death, but in His resurrection, as Luke 24 describes. It is through Jesus that we are restored to the Father. Paul explains, â€Å"For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. † (1 Corinthians 15:21-22, NIV) Matthew 24 tells of great trials, unrest, and distress that are to come before Jesus returns. Jesus talks about worldwide turmoil; catastrophes so severe that â€Å"If those days had not been cut short, no one would survive, but for the sake of the elect those days will be shortened. † (Matthew 24:22, NIV). Even in this foreboding message, Jesus provides hope for His believers. Matthew 24:31 encourages believers that Jesus will gather them together to be with Him. Nobody will know the time of His return, so he provides guidance for His followers to stay alert. Jesus gives the promise of reward for those who are faithful and prepared in verses 45 through 47, but also warns those who are not prepared in verse 48 through 51. As a business major, I am preparing to lead others professionally. While leadership comes with a temptation to serve my own interests, Jesus teaches in Matthew 5 that greater gains in life will come through servant leadership and humility. This approach may be misunderstood by my peers, and may cost me professional and social opportunities, but I don’t have to worry about those costs. Jesus says, â€Å"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. † (Matthew 6:25a, NIV). His death and resurrection prove that He has the both the authority and the desire to provide for me. I need only trust Him. Matthew 24 provides encouragement for this approach. â€Å"It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. † (Matthew 24:45b, NIV). Jesus’ teachings guide me as I daily turn over all of my will to Christ’s care and control. I minister in a Christ-centered recovery program for anyone with hurts, hang-ups, and habits that keep them from having an intimate relationship with Christ. Jesus provides the â€Å"8 Principles† of this program, in order, through the â€Å"Beatitudes† found in Matthew 5:3-12. I live keenly focused on â€Å"practicing these principles in all my affairs. (Baker, 2005) I do so with the confidence that Jesus’ death and resurrection, as described in Luke 22-24, have brought me back into relationship with God. I hold firmly to the promise of Matthew 24 that I will be reunited with my Creator. Rather than insisting on my rights, amassing wealth, or living self-centeredly, Jesus calls me to live counter-culturally; so that others can see Christ in me. Following Jesus means living the example He sets in the midst of His betrayal, trial, and crucifixion: not my will, but God’s. I do all of this with the hope and promise that even though I may struggle, I can learn to be â€Å"reasonable happy in this life, and supremely happy in the next† (Neibuhr, 1986) when He returns. References Baker, J. (2005). Celebrate recovery leaders guide. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan. Bradley, M. (2012, August 18). You are what you think. Retrieved from http://www. bible-knowledge. com/you-are-what-you-think/ Neibuhr, R. (1986). The essential reinhold niebuhr: Selected essays and addresses. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press.

IB Extended Essay Topics For Biology

IB Extended Essay Topics For BiologyIn these days of the expanding syllabus and of the increasing focus on IB Extended Essay topics biology offers a great way to diversify your coursework. There are several great choices when it comes to Biology-biology in particular- that you can consider in your IB Extended Essay topics.This is not meant to be a complete listing of all the Biology-related topics, but it does show off some of the ones that most students will be familiar with and that can be used to great effect in their extended essay. I always suggest that if you are not familiar with one of these topics that you consult with an instructor or even your advisor about it. There are probably better IB Extended Essay topics for you, and the instructors and advisors I spoke to were all very enthusiastic about the choices available to you.You should know that if you are a biology major and in a major with such types of major courses, you should have no problem with the choice of Biology as an IB Extended Essay topic. You will probably be able to find Biology coursework that covers all of the major themes from the major. Make sure though that the Biology coursework is fully accredited by the relevant accrediting body so that your IB Extended Essay paper is recognized by your school as being valid. There are many good online sources that can help you with this, and I recommend that you spend some time doing your research into this topic as soon as possible.I recommend that you start out by focusing on Biology- especially the 'big questions' in the biological world. These questions include such things as- how did life begin? And why did life begin?Biological questions are always at the heart of Biology, as they are in most disciplines. But there are other questions that are frequently asked and often considered as important questions in Biography and History. Why was Charles Darwin famous? Or, why are there still androids?Biology is of course an endless source of thes e questions, and the section for these topics will vary depending on which course you take. If you are taking a class in Bio-Technology, you may well consider learning about artificial life forms. If you are taking a course in Environmental Sciences, you may want to look at microbes and in particular bacteria.Biology is also a fascinating subject. It involves the study of life, and the things that life does. Biologists are constantly looking for more ways to identify life in its natural habitats. You might be interested in learning about animals that are critically endangered, or to learn about fish and amphibians that are threatened by over harvesting.When you graduate from college you can take your IB Biology exam and get credit for not only the biology courses you have taken, but for the study you have done on Biology. I always recommend that you work hard in your IB Biology coursework to help develop your personality and values, but also to prepare you for life-long dedication t o the knowledge and appreciation of Biology.

Discrimination Against Women essays

Discrimination Against Women essays The perception of certain work as feminine has had a significant impact on women, both at home and in the workplace. Often feminine jobs regulate women to positions where they earn less money and are less likely to become management than their male counterparts. In addition, at home women are still chiefly responsible for managing the household and child rearing. These mundane and repetitive duties are not considered masculine, like vehicle maintenance and yard work, and therefore fall on the shoulders of women. Working women constantly battle against horizontal segregation, the separation of women and men into gender specific jobs. These feminine positions, also known as pink collar jobs, mainly involve working with people, domestic duties, and administrative work. Men mostly hold both blue collar jobs, factory and mechanical work, and white collar jobs, professional work. These positions are considered more valuable which translates into higher wages. Additionally, blue collar jobs are often unionized resulting in both higher wages and better benefits. Another phenomenon that affects working women is vertical segregation, gender separation within the same job classification. For example, female physicians on the average make only 77 percent of what male physicians make. Likewise, female lawyers are less likely to practice criminal law and are more likely to practice family law. In turn, they earn around 70 percent of male lawyers salaries.1 Similarly, female college professors typically teach in the humanities and social science disciplines, while male professors are more visible in the physical sciences. The masculine positions are viewed by society to be more important and valuable; therefore, they pay more and command higher respect. Many women have been denied top-level positions in their professions simply because they are females. Although they have earned the degrees and put in the necessary yea...

Online Leraning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Online Leraning - Essay Example In this essay, I'll discuss why online learning has the advantages that it makes it compete with traditional classrooms. The first online courses were delivered on command-line systems. Later on, Archie, Veronica and Gopher were used from course providers to give students access to information and MOO's (Multi user dungeon Object Oriented) came to provide real-time text-based communication. During the 90's, newer conferencing systems became available, and after the advent of the web they supported audio and video also, to conclude to web-in-a-box software for student tracking (Mason, 1998). Most online courses are based on applications known as "course management systems", where topics are outlined and students and teachers have discussions, complete tests, submit papers; and where resources and grades are posted. These characteristics enable people with tight-schedules, remote locations or simply with preference to study from home, the possibility of learning at their own pace, organizing their time (flexibility), and interacting with a lot of different people. Therefore, their most important advantages include flexibility, interactivity, lower costs, multimedia and hyperlinking. Another important advantage is that distractions are minimized. ... These characteristics enable people with tight-schedules, remote locations or simply with preference to study from home, the possibility of learning at their own pace, organizing their time (flexibility), and interacting with a lot of different people. Therefore, their most important advantages include flexibility, interactivity, lower costs, multimedia and hyperlinking. Another important advantage is that distractions are minimized. Since the student can access the course whenever he/she wants, he/she will be more attentive to the contents than in an obligatory lecture in a day where he/she perhaps has a headache or a classmate is distracting him/her. The possibility of taking courses at far-distanced universities. What about courses that are not offered at your campus Let's say you would like to learn Serbian, but your college doesn't offer it. You could enroll for Serbian 101 at a college located hundreds of miles away. Still another advantage is that, taking these types of courses can strengthen other important skills needed studying and/or at a job. "On-line courses provide the opportunity to improve technology and Internet skills," says Tim Ely, director of instructional design at Harcum College in Pennsylvania.2 Not everyone is for online courses, some articles say. One of the major disadvantages is that the face-to face relationships with teacher and classmates are gone. "A drawback is that you have no face-to-face interaction with peers and instructors, meaning you can't tune in and react to clues such as body language, facial expression, and tone of voice," says Ely. "A feeling of isolation and lack of community may also develop due to lack of human contact." Motivation He who wants to learn shall learn. Whether inside of a classroom or in front of a

What is Good Death (Meaningful Death) Meant to Christianity Essay

What is Good Death (Meaningful Death) Meant to Christianity - Essay Example Job’s friend, Bildad, typified death as the â€Å"lord of terrors† (Jackson 1). The writer of Hebrews, on the other hand, spoke of those who, through the fear of death, were, throughout their existence, put through bondage and oppression. Though few of us might attain that high peak of faith, where we can say like Apostle Paul that we desire to die, surely with the clarification of the New Testament exposure, we can encounter the mysteries of death with calmer spirits. This paper will discuss what a good death is meant to a Christian. It will dwell on factors such as organ donation, after life and how to live for a meaningful death as a Christian. Death refers to the state of sleeping. The New Testament talks about dead people as those that have fallen asleep in Jesus (Jackson 1). The phrase â€Å"sleep† is utilized in the Scriptures to explain the state of the human body in death. The book of Daniel reveals that only the body of man slumbers in death. Here, it i s certain that the fraction of man, which is laid in the dust of the soil, is that which sleeps. However, it is the human’s body, which is laid into the ground. Therefore, it is the human body, which sleeps in death, not the spirit (Sheehan 34). In the New Covenant, the phrase â€Å"asleep† is said to originate from the Greek word (koimaomai), which is also from keimai, plainly signifying â€Å"to lie down† (Sheehan 34). ... The Bible also sensibly speaks of the rotting of the human body (Sheehan 34). When Adam and Eve committed their sin, the tree of life was taken away from them and; thus, physical immortality. Death is, hence, man’s lot to go back to the dust of the ground. Paul talks about the earthly home of our tabernacle being â€Å"dissolved† or shuttered by death (Jackson 1). The Greek phrase for â€Å"dissolved† is kataluo, accurately signifying to â€Å"loose down,† a clear expression for fleshly decomposition. It is distressing that others decline to acknowledge the fate or destiny of the body, using huge sums of money trying to preserve their mortal remains in anticipation of resuscitation. Regardless of the claims to the opposite, physical immortality will never be attained by the medical profession (Jackson 1). In this age of fast growing health care technology, on a day-to-day, basis Christian nurses are faced with vital issues, which result in questions and un certainty regarding the relationship between Christian ethics, as well as modern medicine. This exercise of organ donation, in addition to transplantation, is one such medical development (Howard 15). Following the first victorious organ transplant, in 1954, the matters circulating this practice have become more and more complicated. Apparently, many people promptly accept the notion that receiving or donating organs is ethically permissible. With regards to Christianity, sacrifice and assisting others are key themes, and; thus, a choice to donate organs is perceived as a constructive thing. Christians should be confident to assist others in need (Howard 16). They see organ donation as an act of love and care to the receiver. It is also a way of