Relating, Creating, Transforming
Luke 1:39-41; 46-49; 52,53 Let’s get this out of the way from the start. I know that for many, the stories about the birth of Jesus of Nazareth carry with them some pretty strong emotions and nostalgia. For some, this story can be confusing, maddening, and perhaps oppressive—depending on how religion [and your family] treated […]
Read More
Isaiah 64:4-6; 8, 9b Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides you, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Go. You come to the help of those who gladly do right, who remember your ways. But when we continued to sin against […]
Read More
John 18:33-37, John 1 Thanksgiving is over. Black Friday and Cyber Monday have ceased. Giving Tuesday came to an end. Now what? Advent. Whaaaaat? Yes, the season of Advent began on November 29th for Western Christians. I have to say Western Christians, because the season of Advent is indeed a Western creation, and it would […]
Read More
Isaiah 40:4-8, Psalm 85: 8, 10, 11, 13 This time of year, a second candle is lit and people speak an elusive word: Peace. Unfortunately, I’m not sure we are all that honest about this word. Do we really believe in peace? I mean, it certainly doesn’t seem like we believe in it. Otherwise, we […]
Read MoreMatthew 5:1-12 NRSV Halloween is a time of year that brings back many memories for people. And if you are one of those who gives out candy to kids who come to your door, then probably every year you remember when you dressed up and carried a bag that would eventually fill up with a […]
Read MoreMatthew 11:2-11 When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples 3and said to him, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” 4Jesus answered them, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: 5the blind receive their sight, the […]
Read MoreLuke 21:25-36: The Fantasy of Hope The first Sunday of Advent is known as the first day of a new church year. Christian Churches [Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox] around the world start with the stories of the prophets and the gospels in late November/early December and then walk through the stories together, leading up to […]
Read More