Forever Forgive
For Sunday, September 14, 2014 – Matthew 18:21-35 In case we haven’t been listening, Jesus has more to say about forgiving as we have been forgiven. Wanting to be a good student, Peter ponders the math. “How often should I forgive?” he asks. “As many as seven times?” Seven—a long span, a vast number. In years, long enough for the “same […]
It Takes Practice
For Sunday, September 7, 2014 – Matthew 18:15-20 Sometimes, in a blissfully quiet moment, or when we are tired and disappointed in ourselves and others, we hear a sneaky little voice telling us we might be better off attempting this journey alone. We can discern our own callings, read thought-provoking books, join an online community, work on loving humanity while avoiding actual people. Thankfully, we wake up again and see that for better […]
The Really Real
For Sunday, August 31, 2014 – Matthew 16:21-28 Simon acknowledges Jesus as the Christ, and Jesus calls Simon “Peter,” the rock of a new community. They are vibrating on the same wave length, understanding and being understood, so Jesus begins to speak more explicitly about Reality. Peter would rather Jesus didn’t, and he begins to rebuke him. How quickly “Peter the rock” […]
Who Are You?
For Sunday, August 24, 2014 – Matthew 16:13-20 Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” It reminds me of those funny questions, the kind that have the answers tucked inside, like “Who is buried in Grant’s tomb?” Jesus enjoys being playful with his friends, using wit and humor to tug them in closer. We […]