Browsing

Life in His Name

Lectionary Reflection for the Second Sunday of Easter, Year A
April 27, 2014
Instead of looking at this snapshot from John’s gospel as merely Thomas’ story of encountering the risen Christ, maybe we need to explore it from our Lord’s perspective of relationship, of reaching out and clothing us in his love and with his own name and identity. (Photo: Mark Morgan, Creative Commons)

It’s About Time—Sort Of

Lectionary Reflection for the Resurrection of our Lord, Year A, April 20, 2014
Jesus’ simple instructions to the women provide clear direction for us today. There’s no time like this present festival day to go and tell the good news. (Photo: dmitry b., Creative Commons)

Like a Broken Vessel

Palm/Passion Sunday, Year A
April 13, 2014
Along with suggestions for your Palm/Passion Sunday worship and ideas for youth and children, we bring a special message for all of you who serve and lead God’s people in worship. Thank you for all you do! (Photo: Ian Stannard, Creative Commons)

Mindset

Lectionary Reflection for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, April 6, 2014
Whether we choose to spiral toward death in all its manifestations or set our minds and hearts on Jesus’ desire to give us life abundant and peace everlasting makes all the difference. Paul’s words make a strong case for setting one’s mind on Spirit-life. (Photo: , Creative Commons)

Of Spit, Mud, and Miracles

Fourth Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection, March 30, 2014
It’s truly amazing what Jesus can do with a little dust, some simple spit, and a few words. He gives sight to the blind and new life to those dead in sin. How is it that we so often miss the action of Jesus in the world? Why are we so blind to the everyday miracles that surround us? Read on for ideas about the gospel lesson for this week; open your eyes and see. (Photo: Tony Alter, Creative Commons)

Thirst

Third Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection Year A
March 23, 2014
In the Samaritan woman at the well we dare not see someone “other” or “less than” ourselves. Rather, mirrored in her eyes is the reflection of our own brokenness and shame. We all thirst for the living water that only God can provide. (Photo: kateausburn, Creative Commons)

Stewarding the Mysteries

Second Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection, Year A, March 16, 2014
Yes, we are charged with stewarding the mysteries of faith in a world that seeks ready, quick, and easy answers. Impossible? Thanks to the faithful witness of those who have gone before us, we continue to share the good news and sacred mysteries that defy explanation–and that defy sin and death. Along with Nicodemus, we still sometimes wonder “How can these things be?” (Photo: Punktraum, Creative Commons)

The Examination

First Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection, March 9, 2014
Our Lord faced the tests and temptations of the evil one, and so do we. What can we learn from Jesus’ wilderness experience that will help us to be more faithful disciples? (Photo: out0fwave, Creative Commons)

Stewards of One Another

Seventh Sunday after Epiphany Year A Lectionary Reflection
February 23, 2014
Jesus clearly cares about how we treat one another. The “Sermon on the Mount” is full of teachings about proper human relationships. He begins many by referring to traditional law, saying, “You have heard that it was said…” Following the letter and spirit of the law is tough enough, but Jesus ups the ante considerably by doing what he does so well—drawing the circle of inclusion ever wider. (Photo: abhi, Creative Commons)

Community Gardening

Sixth Sunday after Epiphany Lectionary Reflection, Year A
Christian, Christian, how does your garden grow? Who waters, who plants, and who gives the growth? Consider this week’s lessons as part of an “instruction manual” from the master gardener in how to be and grow as disciples. It’s not easy, but the rewards are myriad. (Photo: d-olwen-dee, Creative Commons)