Browsing by Sharron R. Blezard

Why Perseverance Matters

Lectionary Reflection for the 26th Sunday after Pentecost November 17, 2013 Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 Doing the right thing can be tough—tough to discern, tough to put into practice, and tough practice consistently. Staying the course and using critical thinking to discern the right […]

Focus

25th Sunday after Pentecost, Year C, November 10, 2013
This week’s lesson offer powerful reminders of our need to remain focused on the things that really matter. How can you use these lessons to help those in your worshiping community find renewed focus? (Photo: toolstop, Creative Commons)

At the Feet of the King

Christ the King Sunday Lectionary Reflection, November 24, 2013
Christ is the King of Kings, the ruler who turns all of our human notions and illusions of power squarely on their heads. In what by worldly definitions appears to be weakness and failure, Jesus shows that real power is rooted in love, bathed in grace, and covered with mercy. (Photo: Sue Hasker, Creative Commons)

Reformers’ Mashup

Reformation/23rd Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection
October 27, 2013

Reformation throughout church history is a mashup of people, places, and ideas. The good news remains unchanged, but the Church of Christ in every age looks a little different. Why not use today to celebrate reformation–not just as history but as ongoing, necessary, and good? Check out these ideas for the lessons, for worship, and for time with youth and children. (Photo: Rene Clausen Nielsen, Creative Commons)

Simplicity: A Better Normal?

Some may say simplicity is becoming the new normal–the way we must live to ensure a future for those who will come after us and for our entire planet. Another way to look at simplicity is as a “better” normal, as a way to sustain health, well-being, and community. Click here to Read Duane Elgin’s […]

Pester, Pester, Pester

Twenty-Second Sunday after Pentecost YR C Lectionary Reflection
October 20, 2013
According to Jesus it’s perfectly o.k. to pester the powers that oppose the reign of God and justice for all of creation. We can do this knowing that it is God’s nature to give, love, and care for us. We are not alone…so go ahead and pester, pester, pester for the sake of the gospel. (Photo: Caelie Frampton, Creative Commons)

Enough is Enough

When is enough, well, enough? Rob Dietz and Dan O’Neill have some definite ideas and suggestions. Check out this essay adapted for the New Dream Blog from their book Enough is Enough. It squares well with scriptural guidance and would make a good basis for topical study. (Photo: jakerome, Creative Commons)

First (and always)–Give Thanks

Twenty-first Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year C
October 13, 2013
One of the greatest gifts we can give to each other in Christian community is that of helping one another cultivate a spirit of gratitude. If we do this, the glad hearts and generous spirits will follow. Saying “Thank you, Jesus” is enough, but it’s only the beginning.

Faith — ‘A Little Dab’ll Do Ya!’

Twentieth Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, October 6, 2013
More is not always necessary, or even better. Take hot sauce for example. A little goes a long way. God gives us enough faith. We need only trust and be good stewards of the gift. (Photo: Creative Commons)

Creative Recycling

Check out this article from Mother Nature Network! It shows you how to recycle everything from crayons to Crocs and a whole lot more. (Photo: jjsink, Creative Commons)