simply, Christian
lection reflection (6 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Luke 13.1-9
In most study bibles, commentaries, and preaching, the parable of the barren fig tree usually receives little attention or is skipped over entirely. Many study bible notes point out something entirely unhelpful such as, "The unproductive tree represents people who were not producing fruit." Super helpful, right? . . .
Posted in: reflections
lection reflection (5 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Zephaniah 1.7-13
This entire chapter details the awesome and awful "Day of the Lord," a day of judgment for sin, idolatry, injustice, and following after other gods. Living at the same time as the prophet Jeremiah, this book is much shorter but equally as clear in its message: Jerusalem, Judah, and surrounding areas will be . . .
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lection reflection (2 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Luke 12.13-31
Jesus' counsel in today's passage could have been written specifically to address the attitudes and excesses of contemporary American society. In the parable of the rich fool, we hear of a man consumed by his own material goods, one who finds security in wealth, and a soul who thinks of little beyond the present . . .
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lection reflection (1 Nov 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
(note: our readings take a detour today as the church observes the festival of All Saints' day)
Hebrew 11.32-12.2
Through all of Hebrews chapter 11, we are encouraged by the lives of the Old Testament saints, who lived in faith, looking forward to the realization of the promises God had made but not yet fulfilled. . . .
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Anselm's prayer for love and friends
theology quote of the week
O blessed Lord and Savior, who has commanded us to love one another, grant us grace that, having received your undeserved bounty, we may love every man in you and for you. We implore your clemency for all; but especially for the friends whom your love has given to us. Love them, O Fountain of Love, and make them to love you . . .
lection reflection (31 Oct 2018)
reading the bible daily with the church
Nahum 1.1-14
In contrast to the prophet Jonah and the good news he brought to Nineveh, the prophet Nahum brings a word of impending judgment from God for their wickedness. Even in the midst of this message of reckoning, however, the gracious and patient nature of the Lord shines through. "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the . . .
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family bible reading plans
getting started with family worship and devotionals
Last week I wrote about establishing the practice of family worship and devotionals. There I encouraged the practice of daily scripture reading in our families. That suggestion begs the question of where to start? For those desiring to create the habit of daily bible reading, deciding where to begin and how to proceed can be . . .