lection reflection (16 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Luke 16.1-9
I confess, I have always found this to be Jesus' most perplexing parable. What behavior is commendable? Whom are we to emulate? Who is acting justly? What is the lesson here? How can we apply it to our own lives? Rightly understanding and applying this parable has always been a challenge. While some early commentators . . .
Posted in: reflections
lection reflection (15 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
James 1.1-15
"Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance [patience, steadfastness, perseverance]" (James 1.2-3 CSB). This is a tough lesson. Unfortunately for us, as we all know, there is only one way to learn . . .
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grace and mercy are there
theology quote of the week
Grace and mercy are there where Christ on the cross takes your sin from you, bears it for you, and destroys it. To believe this firmly, to keep it before your eyes and not to doubt it, means to view the picture of Christ and to engrave it in yourself.
Luther, Martin. Luther’s works, vol. 42: Devotional Writings I . . .
lection reflection (14 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Joel 2.12-19
After a lengthy description of judgment and the coming "Day of the Lord," the prophet Joel proclaims God's invitation to repent and turn back to him in faith and hope. "Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the LORD your God. For he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, . . .
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lection reflection (13 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
We're back at it today after a few days of much-needed and enjoyed time in the Texas hill country...
Luke 14.25-34
Today's passage presents us with a difficult teaching on the struggle of priorities in our lives. Taken literally, the notion of hating our our parents, spouses, and children is unimaginable to come from . . .
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Luther on righteous government
theology quote of the week
Since the beginning of the world it has been true, and it remains true, that spiritual and temporal authority are more often given to the Pilates, Herods, Annases, and Caiaphases than to godly men such as Peter, Paul, and others. There are always more evil men than godly ones in the government as in all other estates. Moreover, . . .
lection reflection (7 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Zephaniah 2
Warnings against the impending judgment of God continue through this chapter. The prophet relays the message, nation by nation, of the coming day of the Lord, which is described here as a day of terrible judgment. Instead of the pride and arrogance for which they will be judged, Zephaniah calls the people to change their . . .
Posted in: reflections
