One of the reasons I dread reenacting Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem is because it contrasts so greatly with his excruciating exit. It’s painful to hear how he was betrayed by not only Judas, but by every local in town. I hate knowing that many...
Let’s share the stage from Act 1 with Jesus, Martha, Mary, and Lazarus. They are the four main characters, and each one is having thoughts. The message delivered to Jesus tells us that over time, they’ve come to love each other. Over time they’ve gotten...
The Lord does not see as mortals do. Mortals judge on outward appearance. Mortals use minimal input to draw linear conclusions, form opinions, and surmise that those who either rise to greatness or suffer hardship somehow manage to earn or deserve their fate. These mortal ways...
Listen to a summary of the first reading. It sounds so much like what happens between churches and pastors, time and time again. At the start, there is trust. The whole congregation journeys by stages, going along as the LORD commands. Then comes a time...
Let’s do a little Bible study. Nicodemus is not mentioned in any other gospel, only the Book of John. In a scene later on, he’s referred to as a Pharisee who had “gone to Jesus before,” a great example of cross referencing. There, Nicodemus explains...
While praying the Lord’s Prayer this week, it was funny to think of how what happened in today’s gospel reading influenced Jesus’ own way of praying and how he decided to teach his disciples about prayer. Because of what happened in the wilderness, Jesus teaches...
Scenes from both testaments remind us that God sends a variety of individuals to make a well-rounded group. As surely as need becomes apparent, God takes aim. I can’t think of a better example than when a congregation seeks a pastor, a pastor seeks a...
The deal Moses laid out was this: Here are your choices. Life and prosperity or death and adversity. If you obey God’s commandments, that is, love the Lord, walk in his ways, and observe every command, decree, and ordinance, then you shall live. You shall...
The reality of aging began knocking at my door when Portico, my ELCA benefits provider, reminded me that I must register with Social Security and choose Medicare options by March of this year. I guess thinking about that prompted me to to catch up on...
What do you think of when I say the word, “consolation”? By definition, it means comfort received after disappointment or loss. When I think of a consolation prize, I envision small tokens given to game show contestants after one winner is declared. Once dashed hopes...