Browsing

Fling Wide the Doors, Church!

Lectionary Reflection for the Second Sunday of Advent, Year A, December 8, 2013
Could this week’s Advent lessons offer an opportunity to talk about how to be a welcoming church and an hospitable people? How can we welcome others as Christ has welcomed us? ‘Tis the season, and we have the best reason! (Photo: sage, Creative Commons)

Expecting the Unexpected

Lectionary Reflection, First Sunday of Advent, Year A December 1, 2013 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. — Matthew 24:44 What do you expect of this season? What does Advent mean to you? Is it a time of waiting and watching for glimpses of […]

Habits of Gratitude

Jeremy Adam Smith of the Greater Good Science Center points to six traits grateful people habitually exhibit. While not specifically linked to stewardship and faith practice, these six traits are reflective of Christian teaching and discipleship practice. Read on for the full story! (Photo: angies, Creative Commons)

DIY Instead of BUY

The new d0-it-yourself movement is reminding us that we do have alternatives. In addition to being fun, thrifty, and personal, making things yourself is immensely rewarding. Check out this article from MNN with abundant links. You’ll find suggestions for gifts, bread, toys, cosmetics, household cleaners, and much more. (Photo: chatirygirl, Creative Commons)

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)

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)