One Thing Needed
Jesus, on his way to Jerusalem with his disciples, is welcomed by Martha into her home. Mary, Martha’s sister, sits at his feet, as a disciple of her day would, listening to what he has to say. Martha is distracted with all the tasks of hospitality at hand. She comes to Jesus and asks, “Lord, […]
When the Heart Leaves
Those who’ve yet to see and feel, lean heavy on thinking. It’s a shallow game to play. The philosopher Rene’ Descartes said, “I think; therefore I am.” He was wrong. The proud rule keeper asked Jesus to define what it means to be a neighbor*. Drawing the man outside the bounds of his law, he […]
With Open Hands
At a recent memorial service, I heard a daughter marvel at how her mother was able to let go of her things with each move: beloved furniture, inherited dishes, favorite books, unneeded clothing. This journey of relinquishment comes to all of us. For those who understand it as preparation, the journey can be full of […]
Respond to Rejection
Jesus, resolved to remain faithful to his call, even unto death, “sets his face toward Jerusalem.”* On his way he intends to pass through Samaria as Jews often do on their way to and from feast days in Jerusalem. He sends an advance team of disciples to Samaria before he is to pass through. They […]