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Having Enemies

Most of us will admit that there are parts of the Bible we skip over – all the “begats,” particularly dry parts of Leviticus, the confusing imagery of Revelation. But I pay pretty close attention to the gospels, which is why it was surprising that this brief vignette at the beginning of today’s passage* was […]

Recognizing Jesus

Sometimes there are so many interesting details in one Bible story that I don’t know where to look. This third encounter between the resurrected Jesus and the disciples* is one such story: Peter naked in the boat, hurriedly putting his clothes back on before diving into the water; the very specific count of fish. When […]

The More Radical Cause

It’s very awkward to think: You know, Judas had a point.* He had argued that Mary’s use of the perfume was a waste; it could have been sold and the money given to the poor. After all, Jesus spoke often about justice for the poor; he told the rich young man, “Go, sell what you own, […]

Hearing the Truth

It started off so well.* Jesus was back in Nazareth not long after beginning his ministry, and was warmly received in his hometown synagogue: “All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips.” And then, in a matter of minutes, everything changed. The adoring crowd became an […]