Browsing

Spin Doctors or Cross Bearers?

12th Sunday after Pentecost Year A, August 31, 2014
We are called into a way of life that runs counter to everything the world tells us is worth having and doing and being. We are invited into community, splashed with water and word, filled with Spirit breath, and gifted to give and give and give some more. And that life is good–very, very good. (Photo by Leland Francisco, used by Creative Commons license)

How to Prevent an Identity Crisis

Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection, Year A, August 24, 2014
Want to know how to prevent an identity crisis? Take a cue from Peter in this week’s gospel lesson. This lesson applies to 21st century followers of Jesus, too! (Photo: David Goehring, Creative Commons)

A Crumby Gospel

Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, August 17, 2014
Chances are that this week folks in your faith community will be reeling and/or numb from world events. Add to that the usual list of prayer needs and human brokenness and pain. So hand out this crumby gospel, these crumbs of abundant love, grace, and salvation, and don’t be stingy.(Photo: Simon James, Creative Commons)

Jesus > Chaos + Fear + Doubt

Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, August 10, 2014
Going through chaos into unknown and/or hostile territory makes for some fine drama, unless of course you are the one who is experiencing it. In this week’s gospel reading, Jesus sends the disciples into life’s storms, and they fail to recognize him. How might we be like those early followers? (Photo: Binny V A, Creative Commons)

Divine Hospitality & Abundance

Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, August 3, 2014
There is so much more than mere money to God’s abundance; in fact, by honoring all aspects of God’s abundance and desire for us to live life to its fullest, we are equipped to better understand how to weave our understanding and right use of financial resources into our daily living. (Photo: Amy Gaertner, Creative Commons)

Do You Really Get It?

Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Year A July 27, 2014 Have you understood all this?” They answered, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” Matthew […]

In Process

If you’ve ever undertaken a church renovation or home restoration project, you understand a thing or two about what it means to be “in process.” Dwellings need continual upkeep and maintenance to remain sound and functional. So do organisms and organizations. The Body of Christ is no exception to the rule. (Photo by Jeremy Levine, used by Creative Commons license)

Word

Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A
How are we respond to the creative word and redeeming purpose of God? The answer is a simple one. We, the created and beloved, are to praise God and offer our thanks. We are to use our humble gifts of human voice, word, and action in joyous and grateful response to God’s amazing “Word” of grace, love, and mercy. (Photo: John Morgan, Creative Commons)

The Soul Whisperer

Lectionary Reflection for the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Year A, June 6, 2014
Can you hear the whisper of Jesus calling you to wholeness, to healing, to a new way of being? In the wearying wake of the world’s vain promises and competing claims, Jesus offers fresh hope, a light load, and real rest. These are words so many of us need to hear afresh. How will you share this good news? (Photo: wild, Creative Commons)

A Living Wage in God’s Economy

Third Week after Pentecost, Year A, June 29, 2014
This week’s lessons offer wonderful possibilities to talk about stewardship of time, resources, relationships, and faith. Ample opportunities to address hospitality and welcome are at hand, as well. Check out our ideas for worship and for time with children and youth, too! (Photo: Intel Free Press, Creative Commons)