lection reflection (29 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Ephesians 1.15-23
St. Paul's prayer in this passage is familiar and intriguing. In it, he prays that we might have knowledge of God and our salvation; the hope to which we are called; the wealth of our inheritance; and the greatness of God's power. Wow! I forced myself to read through that list several times and not gloss . . .
Posted in: reflections
lection reflection (28 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Zechariah 12.1-10
This passage continues the stream of multiple Messianic prophecies--more than any other minor prophet, I think (though I haven't done a complete count). Verse 10 in today's passage is quoted by John when describing the Roman soldier piercing Jesus' side at his crucifixion. But what about mourning? There . . .
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lection reflection (27 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Zechariah 11.4-17
Today's passage tells a parable of the Lord abandoning his people in judgment--typical of what we've been reading in the prophets. The covenant with God is symbolically and visibly broken by the breaking of the shepherd's staff and the people left to fend for themselves. Toward the end, God pronounces . . .
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lection reflection (26 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
As we enter in to the final week of the church year, both the historic and modern lectionaries focus on the final coming of Christ as King and Lord, as Redeemer and Judge, as Victor and Ruler. The modern lectionary followed by many churches in the West added the feast of Christ the King to specifically point both believers and non-believers . . .
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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 . . .
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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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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, . . .
Posted in: reflections
