Luke 16: 1 – 9 The Wily Manager
Then he also said to his disciples, "A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. He summoned him and said, 'What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.' The steward said to himself, 'What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.' He called in his master's debtors one by one. To the first he said, 'How much do you owe my master?' He replied, 'One hundred measures of olive oil.' He said to him, 'Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.' Then to another he said, 'And you, how much do you owe?' He replied, 'One hundred kors 3 of wheat.' He said to him, 'Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.' And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. 5 "For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.” I tell you, make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth, so that when it fails, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.
This in another scripture that for me comes out of left field. The manager is about to have to make an accounting to his owner for “squandering his property”, that is, wasting it or using it unwisely. What does he do? He further dissipates it, marking down what is owed to ingratiate himself to the ones who owe it. What happens? The owner gives him credit for his enterprise! Here he has defrauded his owner and the owner not only accepts it but in a way admires it. Like unto like apparently – or it takes one to know one as my grandmother would say. I’m not sure of the larger point. Any ideas??? Also who are the children of this world vs. the children of light?
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
Luke 15: 11 - 32 The Prodigal Son, continued
Luke 15: 11 - 32 The Prodigal Son, continued
Previously I called this "The Tale of Two Sons" But what about the Father? He is also a prominent character in the story. Acting with generosity, patience, and mercy toward his sons, the obvious comparison would be to God our Father. Patient with us in our stubbornness, our wrongheadedness, generous with us when we seek forgiveness, steadfast and reassuring in the face of our doubts, our pettiness. Henri Nouwen in his beautiful book "The Prodigal Son" meditates on this scripture and the famous painting of it done by Rembrandt. (I highly recommend this book!) He came to the conclusion that it is the Father who we should be trying to identify with - not the misguided younger son, not the underappreciated older son, but the generous, patient, merciful Father. That is who God wants us to grow up to be, seeking forgiveness for our youthful mistakes, relinquishing our possessiveness, our "zero sum" mentality, to grow into a person of generosity, of mercy, of patience toward those around us. Amen.
Previously I called this "The Tale of Two Sons" But what about the Father? He is also a prominent character in the story. Acting with generosity, patience, and mercy toward his sons, the obvious comparison would be to God our Father. Patient with us in our stubbornness, our wrongheadedness, generous with us when we seek forgiveness, steadfast and reassuring in the face of our doubts, our pettiness. Henri Nouwen in his beautiful book "The Prodigal Son" meditates on this scripture and the famous painting of it done by Rembrandt. (I highly recommend this book!) He came to the conclusion that it is the Father who we should be trying to identify with - not the misguided younger son, not the underappreciated older son, but the generous, patient, merciful Father. That is who God wants us to grow up to be, seeking forgiveness for our youthful mistakes, relinquishing our possessiveness, our "zero sum" mentality, to grow into a person of generosity, of mercy, of patience toward those around us. Amen.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Luke 15: 11-32 The Prodigal Son, Part I
Luke 15: 11-32 The Prodigal Son, Part I
Then he said, "A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.' So the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. Coming to his senses he thought, 'How many of my father's hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers."' So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.' But his father ordered his servants, 'Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.' Then the celebration began. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. The servant said to him, 'Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. He said to his father in reply, 'Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.' He said to him, 'My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.'" Following on the heels of the previous scripture Jesus gives another example of the boundless mercy of God and the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner. This is a tale of two sons: The youngest son, after demanding his share of his Father’s inheritance goes off to a distant land and squanders his wealth on dissolute living. Falling upon hard times, he eventually returns home seeking his Father’s mercy. Is the Father “our Father”? Are we the youngest son and sinner? The older son has stayed at home al this time working, submissive to his Father and never asking for a thing. You might think the older son would be secure in both his Father’s love and his position on the estate. His words and actions reveal that this is anything but the case. Are we the older son, Jealous of our God’s love and his generosity toward others? In the past I have looked at this parable through my “fairness” lens. The youngest son got his “fair share” already. He should not get anything more – that would be fair and just. I deal in measureable units, in shares and fairness. God deals in immeasurable generosity, in abundance and in truly divine mercy. That is my first observation.
Then he said, "A man had two sons, and the younger son said to his father, 'Father, give me the share of your estate that should come to me.' So the father divided the property between them. After a few days, the younger son collected all his belongings and set off to a distant country where he squandered his inheritance on a life of dissipation. When he had freely spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he found himself in dire need. So he hired himself out to one of the local citizens who sent him to his farm to tend the swine. And he longed to eat his fill of the pods on which the swine fed, but nobody gave him any. Coming to his senses he thought, 'How many of my father's hired workers have more than enough food to eat, but here am I, dying from hunger. I shall get up and go to my father and I shall say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son; treat me as you would treat one of your hired workers."' So he got up and went back to his father. While he was still a long way off, his father caught sight of him, and was filled with compassion. He ran to his son, embraced him and kissed him. His son said to him, 'Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I no longer deserve to be called your son.' But his father ordered his servants, 'Quickly bring the finest robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Take the fattened calf and slaughter it. Then let us celebrate with a feast, because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again; he was lost, and has been found.' Then the celebration began. Now the older son had been out in the field and, on his way back, as he neared the house, he heard the sound of music and dancing. He called one of the servants and asked what this might mean. The servant said to him, 'Your brother has returned and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.' He became angry, and when he refused to enter the house, his father came out and pleaded with him. He said to his father in reply, 'Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.' He said to him, 'My son, you are here with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found.'" Following on the heels of the previous scripture Jesus gives another example of the boundless mercy of God and the rejoicing in heaven over the repentance of one sinner. This is a tale of two sons: The youngest son, after demanding his share of his Father’s inheritance goes off to a distant land and squanders his wealth on dissolute living. Falling upon hard times, he eventually returns home seeking his Father’s mercy. Is the Father “our Father”? Are we the youngest son and sinner? The older son has stayed at home al this time working, submissive to his Father and never asking for a thing. You might think the older son would be secure in both his Father’s love and his position on the estate. His words and actions reveal that this is anything but the case. Are we the older son, Jealous of our God’s love and his generosity toward others? In the past I have looked at this parable through my “fairness” lens. The youngest son got his “fair share” already. He should not get anything more – that would be fair and just. I deal in measureable units, in shares and fairness. God deals in immeasurable generosity, in abundance and in truly divine mercy. That is my first observation.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Luke 15: 1 -1 10 The Parable of Divine Mercy
Luke 15: 1 -1 10 The Parable of Divine Mercy
The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to him, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." So to them he addressed this parable. "What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, 'Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance. "Or what woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbors and says to them, 'Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.' In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Jesus tells his listeners how much rejoicing among the angels there will be over the repentance of one sinner. He is speaking to the Scribes and the Pharisees who are commenting to themselves about Jesus’ choice to eat among sinners and tax collectors. His message is one of hope to the sinners of the crowd and one of rebuke to those of power and influence. In both examples someone – the shepherd, the woman – loses something of value – a sheep, a silver coin - and works diligently to recover it. Apparently the revelation that something of value has been lost is necessary to make this connection. It is a loss or lack that the sinners and tax collectors seem to have grasped. The Scribes and the Pharisees, on the other hand, cluelessly see nothing missing or lacking in themselves. They are busy judging others and congratulating themselves on (what they think is) their better position. In order for mercy to be extended, it must first be sought out.
The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to him, but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them." So to them he addressed this parable. "What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, 'Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you, in just the same way there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance. "Or what woman having ten coins and losing one would not light a lamp and sweep the house, searching carefully until she finds it? And when she does find it, she calls together her friends and neighbors and says to them, 'Rejoice with me because I have found the coin that I lost.' In just the same way, I tell you, there will be rejoicing among the angels of God over one sinner who repents."
Jesus tells his listeners how much rejoicing among the angels there will be over the repentance of one sinner. He is speaking to the Scribes and the Pharisees who are commenting to themselves about Jesus’ choice to eat among sinners and tax collectors. His message is one of hope to the sinners of the crowd and one of rebuke to those of power and influence. In both examples someone – the shepherd, the woman – loses something of value – a sheep, a silver coin - and works diligently to recover it. Apparently the revelation that something of value has been lost is necessary to make this connection. It is a loss or lack that the sinners and tax collectors seem to have grasped. The Scribes and the Pharisees, on the other hand, cluelessly see nothing missing or lacking in themselves. They are busy judging others and congratulating themselves on (what they think is) their better position. In order for mercy to be extended, it must first be sought out.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Luke 14:25-35 Counting Up The Cost
Luke 14:25-35 Counting Up The Cost
Great crowds were traveling with him, and he turned and addressed them, "If any one comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? Otherwise, after laying the foundation and finding himself unable to finish the work the onlookers should laugh at him and say, 'This one began to build but did not have the resources to finish.' Or what king marching into battle would not first sit down and decide whether with ten thousand troops he can successfully oppose another king advancing upon him with twenty thousand troops? But if not, while he is still far away, he will send a delegation to ask for peace terms. In the same way, everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple. "Salt is good, but if salt itself loses its taste, with what can its flavor be restored? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out. Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear." At that time some Pharisees came to him and said, "Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you." He replied, "Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose. Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.' "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling! Behold, your house will be abandoned. (But) I tell you, you will not see me until (the time comes when) you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'"
This scripture is confusing to me. First Jesus seems to be saying anyone who wants to follow him must do so wholeheartedly. He gives the example of turning ones back on one’s parents, spouse, children. My whole being cries out against this. I would find it difficult to turn away from those I hold most dear, who depend upon me, and on whom I rely. It seems needlessly harsh, a lonely solitary undertaking, and a costly one. Following this are several examples of setting out to complete a task - a man building a tower and a king going off to war. Jesus advises that before committing yourself, you will do well to count up the cost, calculating risks in a clear- eyed practical manner very much in contrast to the painful, wrenching, leave-taking at the beginning of this passage. Perhaps Jesus is saying we must do both: realizing in a clear-eyed way that following Christ may in fact be very costly and sometimes painful. If we choose Christ, choose to be his salt to the earth, it should be a thoughtful, considered choosing, since it may in fact cost us dearly. Jesus foreshadows leaving his own loved ones behind. I think he is already grieving their loss. His grief leaves little softness about him, few words of comfort for those who would follow him as he faces his final days on earth.
Great crowds were traveling with him, and he turned and addressed them, "If any one comes to me without hating his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple. Which of you wishing to construct a tower does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if there is enough for its completion? Otherwise, after laying the foundation and finding himself unable to finish the work the onlookers should laugh at him and say, 'This one began to build but did not have the resources to finish.' Or what king marching into battle would not first sit down and decide whether with ten thousand troops he can successfully oppose another king advancing upon him with twenty thousand troops? But if not, while he is still far away, he will send a delegation to ask for peace terms. In the same way, everyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple. "Salt is good, but if salt itself loses its taste, with what can its flavor be restored? It is fit neither for the soil nor for the manure pile; it is thrown out. Whoever has ears to hear ought to hear." At that time some Pharisees came to him and said, "Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you." He replied, "Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose. Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.' "Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling! Behold, your house will be abandoned. (But) I tell you, you will not see me until (the time comes when) you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.'"
This scripture is confusing to me. First Jesus seems to be saying anyone who wants to follow him must do so wholeheartedly. He gives the example of turning ones back on one’s parents, spouse, children. My whole being cries out against this. I would find it difficult to turn away from those I hold most dear, who depend upon me, and on whom I rely. It seems needlessly harsh, a lonely solitary undertaking, and a costly one. Following this are several examples of setting out to complete a task - a man building a tower and a king going off to war. Jesus advises that before committing yourself, you will do well to count up the cost, calculating risks in a clear- eyed practical manner very much in contrast to the painful, wrenching, leave-taking at the beginning of this passage. Perhaps Jesus is saying we must do both: realizing in a clear-eyed way that following Christ may in fact be very costly and sometimes painful. If we choose Christ, choose to be his salt to the earth, it should be a thoughtful, considered choosing, since it may in fact cost us dearly. Jesus foreshadows leaving his own loved ones behind. I think he is already grieving their loss. His grief leaves little softness about him, few words of comfort for those who would follow him as he faces his final days on earth.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Luke 14: 16- 24 Dining As A Metaphor
Luke 14: 16- 24 Dining As A Metaphor
He replied to him, "A man gave a great dinner to which he invited many. When the time for the dinner came, he dispatched his servant to say to those invited, 'Come, everything is now ready.' But one by one, they all began to excuse themselves. The first said to him, 'I have purchased a field and must go to examine it; I ask you, consider me excused.' And another said, 'I have purchased five yoke of oxen and am on my way to evaluate them; I ask you, consider me excused.' And another said, 'I have just married a woman, and therefore I cannot come.' The servant went and reported this to his master. Then the master of the house in a rage commanded his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in here the poor and the crippled, the blind and the lame.' The servant reported, 'Sir, your orders have been carried out and still there is room.' The master then ordered the servant, 'Go out to the highways and hedgerows and make people come in that my home may be filled. For, I tell you, none of those men who were invited will taste my dinner.'"
Jesus tells another parable about dining. A man decides to give a dinner. He sends his servants out to invite friends and acquaintances. One by one they make excuses – they are busy with their own lives, their own priorities. This angers the man that invited them so he invites his servants to go back out and invite others – strangers, the lame, the poor, the blind. Still there is room so the master of the house sends his servants out again to force people to come in. He resolves that not only will his house be full but that those originally invited will not get a morsel of that dinner. What is the point of this parable? Is the master God? Are we the friends and acquaintances too busy to take the time to attend his dinner, to be with him? I don’t like to think of God as angry and vengeful, but that is how Jesus represents the Master in this story. Can we hurt God? To the point where he withdraws his invitation to us? Can our indifference, our busyness, our carelessness lose us the opportunity to be with God?
He replied to him, "A man gave a great dinner to which he invited many. When the time for the dinner came, he dispatched his servant to say to those invited, 'Come, everything is now ready.' But one by one, they all began to excuse themselves. The first said to him, 'I have purchased a field and must go to examine it; I ask you, consider me excused.' And another said, 'I have purchased five yoke of oxen and am on my way to evaluate them; I ask you, consider me excused.' And another said, 'I have just married a woman, and therefore I cannot come.' The servant went and reported this to his master. Then the master of the house in a rage commanded his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and bring in here the poor and the crippled, the blind and the lame.' The servant reported, 'Sir, your orders have been carried out and still there is room.' The master then ordered the servant, 'Go out to the highways and hedgerows and make people come in that my home may be filled. For, I tell you, none of those men who were invited will taste my dinner.'"
Jesus tells another parable about dining. A man decides to give a dinner. He sends his servants out to invite friends and acquaintances. One by one they make excuses – they are busy with their own lives, their own priorities. This angers the man that invited them so he invites his servants to go back out and invite others – strangers, the lame, the poor, the blind. Still there is room so the master of the house sends his servants out again to force people to come in. He resolves that not only will his house be full but that those originally invited will not get a morsel of that dinner. What is the point of this parable? Is the master God? Are we the friends and acquaintances too busy to take the time to attend his dinner, to be with him? I don’t like to think of God as angry and vengeful, but that is how Jesus represents the Master in this story. Can we hurt God? To the point where he withdraws his invitation to us? Can our indifference, our busyness, our carelessness lose us the opportunity to be with God?
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Luke 14:12 – 15 The Poor
Luke 14:12 – 15 The Poor
Then he said to the host who invited him, "When you hold a lunch or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment. Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." One of his fellow guests on hearing this said to him, "Blessed is the one who will dine in the kingdom of God."
Jesus is sitting down to dinner at somebody’s house. He addresses his host saying whenever you give a dinner do not invite your wealthy friends and neighbors, your family and relatives. They might invite you in return. Instead invite the poor, the lame, the blind, even though they cannot repay you. When I first read this I keyed in on the fact that your friends and relatives are all familiar to you and the others are strangers. I thought Jesus was telling us to get out beyond our comfort zone and meet, mingle and assist those who are different from us. Then I came across the part on payment. I think this was the key point for Jesus. If you have the means to be feeding more than your family, don’t share that bounty only with those who can reciprocate in kind. That only insulates you from the needs in the community around you and keeps your wealth in a small enclosed circle. Spread the (your) wealth Jesus seems to be saying. If you have gifts, be they spiritual or material - get out of your comfort zone. Look to those around you. This is not so easy to do today. I have a tendency to keep myself busy in the routine and distractions of my life. Help me to recognize the opportunities God puts in front of me and act upon them. Amen.
Then he said to the host who invited him, "When you hold a lunch or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or your wealthy neighbors, in case they may invite you back and you have repayment. Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." One of his fellow guests on hearing this said to him, "Blessed is the one who will dine in the kingdom of God."
Jesus is sitting down to dinner at somebody’s house. He addresses his host saying whenever you give a dinner do not invite your wealthy friends and neighbors, your family and relatives. They might invite you in return. Instead invite the poor, the lame, the blind, even though they cannot repay you. When I first read this I keyed in on the fact that your friends and relatives are all familiar to you and the others are strangers. I thought Jesus was telling us to get out beyond our comfort zone and meet, mingle and assist those who are different from us. Then I came across the part on payment. I think this was the key point for Jesus. If you have the means to be feeding more than your family, don’t share that bounty only with those who can reciprocate in kind. That only insulates you from the needs in the community around you and keeps your wealth in a small enclosed circle. Spread the (your) wealth Jesus seems to be saying. If you have gifts, be they spiritual or material - get out of your comfort zone. Look to those around you. This is not so easy to do today. I have a tendency to keep myself busy in the routine and distractions of my life. Help me to recognize the opportunities God puts in front of me and act upon them. Amen.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Luke 14:1 – 11 Love vs. Law
Luke 14:1 – 11 Love vs. Law
On a Sabbath he went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully. In front of him there was a man suffering from dropsy. Jesus spoke to the scholars of the law and Pharisees in reply, asking, "Is it lawful to cure on the Sabbath or not?" But they kept silent; so he took the man and, after he had healed him, dismissed him. Then he said to them, "Who among you, if your son or ox 3 falls into a cistern, would not immediately pull him out on the Sabbath day?" But they were unable to answer his question. He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table. "When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, 'Give your place to this man,' and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, 'My friend, move up to a higher position.' Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Just in case you missed it earlier, Jesus reiterates his message of the previous chapter. By curing someone on a Sabbath Jesus confirms that an action of love and compassion is more favorable in God’s eyes and “keeping the Sabbath”. His audience here is specifically identified as Pharisees and lawyers, the religious and community leaders of the day. Not only is a loving action more favorable to God than rite and ritual and law, but those who seek status or see themselves as important in the current hierarchy are dangerously deluding themselves. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted”, says Jesus. Humility seems to be much valued in God’s kingdom. I am thinking of another favorite passage of min which lists the “fruits of the spirit” in Galations 6:22 which are love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness generosity, faith, mildness, charity and self-control. We must respond to God’s invitation with loving action and with humility.
On a Sabbath he went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully. In front of him there was a man suffering from dropsy. Jesus spoke to the scholars of the law and Pharisees in reply, asking, "Is it lawful to cure on the Sabbath or not?" But they kept silent; so he took the man and, after he had healed him, dismissed him. Then he said to them, "Who among you, if your son or ox 3 falls into a cistern, would not immediately pull him out on the Sabbath day?" But they were unable to answer his question. He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table. "When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, 'Give your place to this man,' and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, 'My friend, move up to a higher position.' Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Just in case you missed it earlier, Jesus reiterates his message of the previous chapter. By curing someone on a Sabbath Jesus confirms that an action of love and compassion is more favorable in God’s eyes and “keeping the Sabbath”. His audience here is specifically identified as Pharisees and lawyers, the religious and community leaders of the day. Not only is a loving action more favorable to God than rite and ritual and law, but those who seek status or see themselves as important in the current hierarchy are dangerously deluding themselves. “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted”, says Jesus. Humility seems to be much valued in God’s kingdom. I am thinking of another favorite passage of min which lists the “fruits of the spirit” in Galations 6:22 which are love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness generosity, faith, mildness, charity and self-control. We must respond to God’s invitation with loving action and with humility.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Luke 13:22 – 30 The Narrow Door
Luke 13:22 – 30 The Narrow Door
He passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, "Lord, will only a few people be saved?" He answered them, "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough. After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door, then will you stand outside knocking and saying, 'Lord, open the door for us.' He will say to you in reply, 'I do not know where you are from.' And you will say, 'We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.' Then he will say to you, 'I do not know where (you) are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!' And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves cast out. And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the kingdom of God. For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last."
Jesus continued on his journey through small towns on the way to Jerusalem. What he has to say to the Jews who come to see him is unsettling to say the least. The “chosen people”, Jesus says, are not assured salvation. Many who assumed they will be saved will not be. Complacency and the appearance of being a follower (“We ate and drank in your company. You taught in our streets.”) are insufficient. We must respond and those actions must clearly identify us as Christ’s followers in word and deed. To add even more fuel to the fire, outsiders, that is no- Jews from the north, south east and west are also invited to be saved. Some who are last will be first, and some who were first will be last. Jesus is warned from someone in authority that he is in danger. He foretells his fate – to be slain as have other prophets who were sent to Jerusalem. His desire is to save the people, to gather them safely to himself, but he cannot if people refuse to heed his message.
He passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, "Lord, will only a few people be saved?" He answered them, "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough. After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door, then will you stand outside knocking and saying, 'Lord, open the door for us.' He will say to you in reply, 'I do not know where you are from.' And you will say, 'We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.' Then he will say to you, 'I do not know where (you) are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!' And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves cast out. And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the kingdom of God. For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last."
Jesus continued on his journey through small towns on the way to Jerusalem. What he has to say to the Jews who come to see him is unsettling to say the least. The “chosen people”, Jesus says, are not assured salvation. Many who assumed they will be saved will not be. Complacency and the appearance of being a follower (“We ate and drank in your company. You taught in our streets.”) are insufficient. We must respond and those actions must clearly identify us as Christ’s followers in word and deed. To add even more fuel to the fire, outsiders, that is no- Jews from the north, south east and west are also invited to be saved. Some who are last will be first, and some who were first will be last. Jesus is warned from someone in authority that he is in danger. He foretells his fate – to be slain as have other prophets who were sent to Jerusalem. His desire is to save the people, to gather them safely to himself, but he cannot if people refuse to heed his message.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Luke 13:18 – 21 The Reign of God
Luke 13:18 – 21 The Reign of God
Then he said, "What is the kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a person took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and 'the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.'" Again he said, "To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed (in) with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened."
To what shall I compare the reign of God? To a mustard seed, to yeast, says Jesus. In both cases something really small becomes something really big. But not something that is just small, something that from the outside, anyhow, looks insignificant. It is, however, something that has to grow, something that has to be nurtured. So the reign of God shall grow to have a profound impact on our world. Coming on the heels of the previous scripture that rebuked religious leaders as hypocrites Jesus seems to be saying that the reign of God, although small and seemingly humble to start will grow to life changing and life sustaining proportions with God’s help and our small efforts to nurture it.
Then he said, "What is the kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a person took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and 'the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.'" Again he said, "To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed (in) with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened."
To what shall I compare the reign of God? To a mustard seed, to yeast, says Jesus. In both cases something really small becomes something really big. But not something that is just small, something that from the outside, anyhow, looks insignificant. It is, however, something that has to grow, something that has to be nurtured. So the reign of God shall grow to have a profound impact on our world. Coming on the heels of the previous scripture that rebuked religious leaders as hypocrites Jesus seems to be saying that the reign of God, although small and seemingly humble to start will grow to life changing and life sustaining proportions with God’s help and our small efforts to nurture it.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Luke 13:10 – 17 The Sabbath Cure
Luke 13:10 – 17 The Sabbath Cure
He was teaching in a synagogue on the Sabbath. And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, "Woman, you are set free of your infirmity." He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the Sabbath, said to the crowd in reply, "There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the Sabbath day." The Lord said to him in reply, "Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering? This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the Sabbath day from this bondage?" When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.
In this passage, Jesus cures a woman – on the Sabbath! The chief of the synagogue is highly offended. The Sabbath is supposed to be a day of rest and worship. In my mind this is a case of knee jerk religion. The laws, the rituals, the structure that upholds the religion or at least it’s hierarchy have somehow become more important, at least to this individual, than the people the religion is supposed to minister to. Jesus cuts right through that nonsense. True religion, he seems to be saying, is acting out our faith by loving God and by loving and serving others. Don’t get me wrong – I am a big believer in setting aside the Sabbath or Sunday for worship, rest, family and friends, sharing a meal with loved ones. This world will take everything you’ve got, have you working around the clock, seven days a week, if you will let it. How wise our Father was to ask us to set aside the Sabbath/Sunday one day a week for something different, for something better. We desperately need that day to rest and recoup, and be present to Him and to those we love.
He was teaching in a synagogue on the Sabbath. And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, "Woman, you are set free of your infirmity." He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the Sabbath, said to the crowd in reply, "There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the Sabbath day." The Lord said to him in reply, "Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering? This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the Sabbath day from this bondage?" When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.
In this passage, Jesus cures a woman – on the Sabbath! The chief of the synagogue is highly offended. The Sabbath is supposed to be a day of rest and worship. In my mind this is a case of knee jerk religion. The laws, the rituals, the structure that upholds the religion or at least it’s hierarchy have somehow become more important, at least to this individual, than the people the religion is supposed to minister to. Jesus cuts right through that nonsense. True religion, he seems to be saying, is acting out our faith by loving God and by loving and serving others. Don’t get me wrong – I am a big believer in setting aside the Sabbath or Sunday for worship, rest, family and friends, sharing a meal with loved ones. This world will take everything you’ve got, have you working around the clock, seven days a week, if you will let it. How wise our Father was to ask us to set aside the Sabbath/Sunday one day a week for something different, for something better. We desperately need that day to rest and recoup, and be present to Him and to those we love.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Luke 13: 1 – 9 Guilt by Association
Luke 13: 1 – 9 Guilt by Association
At that time some people who were present there told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. He said to them in reply, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did! Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them --do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!" And he told them this parable: "There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, he said to the gardener, 'For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. (So) cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?' He said to him in reply, 'Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.'"
Who is more guilty? Those who are directly involved in a bad situation or those nearby? Those nearby have maybe just escaped for the moment. Unless they break free of what is going on around them, unless they in Jesus’ words “reform”, their judgment is only delayed, not done away with. This in another of Jesus “signs of the times” warnings. Look around says Jesus. See where you are heading, if you allow yourself to be swept along with the crowd. He finishes with a short parable about a barren fig tree. A farmer had a fig tree that had not produced one fig in three years. He is ready to throw in the towel and cut it down. But his laborer asks for a little more time- to fertilize it, to cultivate it, to give it one more chance to produce. Apparently time and patience are not infinite, for either fruit trees or people.
At that time some people who were present there told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with the blood of their sacrifices. He said to them in reply, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did! Or those eighteen people who were killed when the tower at Siloam fell on them --do you think they were more guilty than everyone else who lived in Jerusalem? By no means! But I tell you, if you do not repent, you will all perish as they did!" And he told them this parable: "There once was a person who had a fig tree planted in his orchard, and when he came in search of fruit on it but found none, he said to the gardener, 'For three years now I have come in search of fruit on this fig tree but have found none. (So) cut it down. Why should it exhaust the soil?' He said to him in reply, 'Sir, leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future. If not you can cut it down.'"
Who is more guilty? Those who are directly involved in a bad situation or those nearby? Those nearby have maybe just escaped for the moment. Unless they break free of what is going on around them, unless they in Jesus’ words “reform”, their judgment is only delayed, not done away with. This in another of Jesus “signs of the times” warnings. Look around says Jesus. See where you are heading, if you allow yourself to be swept along with the crowd. He finishes with a short parable about a barren fig tree. A farmer had a fig tree that had not produced one fig in three years. He is ready to throw in the towel and cut it down. But his laborer asks for a little more time- to fertilize it, to cultivate it, to give it one more chance to produce. Apparently time and patience are not infinite, for either fruit trees or people.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Luke 12: 49 – 59 Trouble Maker
Luke 12: 49 – 59 Trouble Maker
"I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." He also said to the crowds, "When you see (a) cloud rising in the west you say immediately that it is going to rain--and so it does; and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south you say that it is going to be hot--and so it is. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time? Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate, make an effort to settle the matter on the way; otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”
Jesus days, “I have come to light a fire on the earth”. What??? What happened to the guy who spoke about not breaking a bruised reed or quenching a smoldering wick? Jesus says he has come to sow division between mother and daughter, father and son, etc. This is Jesus as the revolutionary, the incendiary. It is not a Jesus I am used to thinking about. I seem to have developed a preference for the patient, wise, loving Jesus. The one who speaks of mercy and forgiveness, love and peace. What is happening? Has Jesus just reached the end of his rope? Does he need a vacation? A few days off? I think this is his acknowledgement that what he is preaching goes against the status quo, hence father vs. son. What he is calling for is going to upset established traditions and require new ways of thinking and being. It is not easy to break people out of their habits and ask them to set up new ones – feelings are going to be hurt, relationships broken up, patterns changed. Those tied to the old ways are going to be resentful, maybe even hostile to those trying to break free of old ways and follow Jesus’ new path. Jesus knows what is in his future, what his path will cost him and his followers. He says, “How I wish the blaze were ignited. What anguish I feel until it is over!” His humanity shows through in his anxiety, but so too his disillusionment. If I look around today at our status quo, our present culture, I can see how difficult it would be to break free. I can also see how necessary it is to follow Jesus’ path. Our world, our culture is heading in a dangerous, harmful direction. Jesus closes by saying - we know better. We need to “judge for ourselves what is right”. We already know deep in our hearts what is right. If we leave it up to “the law”, to outside “judges” we have surrendered our freedom and our responsibility. Jesus calls us to live according to God’s spirit within us and not according to outside laws.
"I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." He also said to the crowds, "When you see (a) cloud rising in the west you say immediately that it is going to rain--and so it does; and when you notice that the wind is blowing from the south you say that it is going to be hot--and so it is. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time? Why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? If you are to go with your opponent before a magistrate, make an effort to settle the matter on the way; otherwise your opponent will turn you over to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the constable, and the constable throw you into prison. I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.”
Jesus days, “I have come to light a fire on the earth”. What??? What happened to the guy who spoke about not breaking a bruised reed or quenching a smoldering wick? Jesus says he has come to sow division between mother and daughter, father and son, etc. This is Jesus as the revolutionary, the incendiary. It is not a Jesus I am used to thinking about. I seem to have developed a preference for the patient, wise, loving Jesus. The one who speaks of mercy and forgiveness, love and peace. What is happening? Has Jesus just reached the end of his rope? Does he need a vacation? A few days off? I think this is his acknowledgement that what he is preaching goes against the status quo, hence father vs. son. What he is calling for is going to upset established traditions and require new ways of thinking and being. It is not easy to break people out of their habits and ask them to set up new ones – feelings are going to be hurt, relationships broken up, patterns changed. Those tied to the old ways are going to be resentful, maybe even hostile to those trying to break free of old ways and follow Jesus’ new path. Jesus knows what is in his future, what his path will cost him and his followers. He says, “How I wish the blaze were ignited. What anguish I feel until it is over!” His humanity shows through in his anxiety, but so too his disillusionment. If I look around today at our status quo, our present culture, I can see how difficult it would be to break free. I can also see how necessary it is to follow Jesus’ path. Our world, our culture is heading in a dangerous, harmful direction. Jesus closes by saying - we know better. We need to “judge for ourselves what is right”. We already know deep in our hearts what is right. If we leave it up to “the law”, to outside “judges” we have surrendered our freedom and our responsibility. Jesus calls us to live according to God’s spirit within us and not according to outside laws.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Luke 12:35 – 48 Preparedness
Luke 12:35 – 48 Preparedness
Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come." Then Peter said, "Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?" And the Lord replied, "Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute (the) food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed in coming,' and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant's master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish him severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master's will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master's will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.
Jesus tells a parable about preparedness. We are to be like servant who are wide awake and on guard, ready for the master’s return. Peter questions Jesus about who this message is for? Is it for those who are his followers? Or for everyone? Jesus gives a bit of a roundabout answer but finally gets down to it. This parable is for those of us who follow Christ. We do not know when the Son of Man will return, but we must stay ready. We are fortunate to be God’s chosen ones, but that benefit comes with a responsibility. “To whom much has been given, much will be required, to whom much has been entrusted, more will be asked.” Jesus, like his Father is a respecter of persons. We have been given a great opportunity in our exposure to the word of God and Jesus's example to emulate. We have also been given freedom. God will not compel our obedience, our participation. It is a free gift, not a command - and yet it is not eternally open. The Son of Man will return. Will we be awake and ready or lost in our culture?
Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come." Then Peter said, "Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?" And the Lord replied, "Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute (the) food allowance at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. But if that servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed in coming,' and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, then that servant's master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish him severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. That servant who knew his master's will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; and the servant who was ignorant of his master's will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.
Jesus tells a parable about preparedness. We are to be like servant who are wide awake and on guard, ready for the master’s return. Peter questions Jesus about who this message is for? Is it for those who are his followers? Or for everyone? Jesus gives a bit of a roundabout answer but finally gets down to it. This parable is for those of us who follow Christ. We do not know when the Son of Man will return, but we must stay ready. We are fortunate to be God’s chosen ones, but that benefit comes with a responsibility. “To whom much has been given, much will be required, to whom much has been entrusted, more will be asked.” Jesus, like his Father is a respecter of persons. We have been given a great opportunity in our exposure to the word of God and Jesus's example to emulate. We have also been given freedom. God will not compel our obedience, our participation. It is a free gift, not a command - and yet it is not eternally open. The Son of Man will return. Will we be awake and ready or lost in our culture?
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Luke 12:32 – 34 The Heart’s Treasure
Luke 12:32 – 34 The Heart’s Treasure
Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
This is a very short passage – three verses only – but so difficult and countercultural. First Jesus tells us we should not fear – this in an age rife with it, a time when 9 out of 10 voices we hear say “fear”, “strike before you are struck”, “protect what is yours”, etc. Apparently a lot of our problems in Jesus analysis come from what we have. We have, but we want more, and the getting of things is nearly all consuming. Then once we have, the keeping and protecting is exhausting as well, and cause us to do things that are against what God calls us to do – make war, be greedy, keep people down. We cannot hide our true heart from God – or from anyone else for that matter. And why? What good does all of this stuff do us? Instead Jesus tells us – the Father has given us the kingdom, all we have to do is take it. We can tone down our attachments to things, be more generous, take the time and energy thereby freed up to spend more time to be with our families, our friends, with God. To let go of the tension and anxiety our culture promotes. Jesus's love and hope for us come through strongly in this passage – Trust in God, be grateful for what you have, be generous with your gifts. God has given you the greatest gift – all you will ever need – access to the Kingdom. All you have to do is claim it.
Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your belongings and give alms. Provide money bags for yourselves that do not wear out, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven that no thief can reach nor moth destroy. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.
This is a very short passage – three verses only – but so difficult and countercultural. First Jesus tells us we should not fear – this in an age rife with it, a time when 9 out of 10 voices we hear say “fear”, “strike before you are struck”, “protect what is yours”, etc. Apparently a lot of our problems in Jesus analysis come from what we have. We have, but we want more, and the getting of things is nearly all consuming. Then once we have, the keeping and protecting is exhausting as well, and cause us to do things that are against what God calls us to do – make war, be greedy, keep people down. We cannot hide our true heart from God – or from anyone else for that matter. And why? What good does all of this stuff do us? Instead Jesus tells us – the Father has given us the kingdom, all we have to do is take it. We can tone down our attachments to things, be more generous, take the time and energy thereby freed up to spend more time to be with our families, our friends, with God. To let go of the tension and anxiety our culture promotes. Jesus's love and hope for us come through strongly in this passage – Trust in God, be grateful for what you have, be generous with your gifts. God has given you the greatest gift – all you will ever need – access to the Kingdom. All you have to do is claim it.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Luke 12:31 Seek First The Kingdom
Luke 12:31 Seek First The Kingdom
As for you, do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not worry anymore. All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.
I want to revisit Jesus’ last works in this passage. “Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.” This has been an important scripture in my life and a favorite of one of my sisters. We have discussed it many times. I kind of picture us in this culture as being on a ladder, always climbing and even when you think you have arrived somewhere, seeing that there is another rung above you. My health and wealth put me fairly far up the ladder, certainly there are many below me. What I am seeing is that any who are on this ladder, who have bought into this climb are only seeking after everlasting climbing, with no arrival, no satisfaction. Jesus says let it be the kingdom that we seek – where status, wealth, etc. do not matter. In that blessed equilibrium we are all loved and cared for by God through each other. Amen.
As for you, do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not worry anymore. All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.
I want to revisit Jesus’ last works in this passage. “Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.” This has been an important scripture in my life and a favorite of one of my sisters. We have discussed it many times. I kind of picture us in this culture as being on a ladder, always climbing and even when you think you have arrived somewhere, seeing that there is another rung above you. My health and wealth put me fairly far up the ladder, certainly there are many below me. What I am seeing is that any who are on this ladder, who have bought into this climb are only seeking after everlasting climbing, with no arrival, no satisfaction. Jesus says let it be the kingdom that we seek – where status, wealth, etc. do not matter. In that blessed equilibrium we are all loved and cared for by God through each other. Amen.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Luke 12:22 – 31 Dependence Upon God’s Providence
Luke 12:22 – 31 Dependence Upon God’s Providence
He said to (his) disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life and what you will eat, or about your body and what you will wear. For life is more than food and the body more than clothing. Notice the ravens: they do not sow or reap; they have neither storehouse nor barn, yet God feeds them. How much more important are you than birds! Can any of you by worrying add a moment to your lifespan? If even the smallest things are beyond your control, why are you anxious about the rest? Notice how the flowers grow. They do not toil or spin. But I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass in the field that grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? As for you, do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not worry anymore. All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.
Jesus continues on his theme of how we are to live: trusting in God, orienting our lives toward love of God and others instead of pursuit of things that this time values. He is speaking to a crowd of thousands, many of whom are poor. How are they processing his message? Perhaps poverty was less cruel in those days – the gap between rich and poor less dramatic, the (popular) culture less relentless about what you need to be happy, fulfilled, successful. Jesus uses two examples from nature to make his point – the lilies of the field and the raven. They both have all they need right where they are. But I feel I am missing something. Sure, I can hear this message and from my nice home, my healthy body, with my hardworking and well paid husband, and my wonderful family and friends, and feel, yes God has been good. But what about those struggling with poverty, isolation, physical and mental illness, abuse, etc. How do those words, “ Do not be concerned for your life, what you are to eat , or for your body, what you are to wear.” For them, I’m sure those words are bitter ones, small comfort in time of real need and pain. What are they supposed to do? How does be patient and trust in me sound to them?
This is a very uncomfortable passage for me. It calls me to feel grateful, but gratitude is not enough. I feel like Christ is here, watching me with gentle eyes but prodding me to do more – to be more compassionate, to be more generous. If I want to try to put on the mind of Christ, then the works of Christ must not be far behind. What do I have that I don’t really need? Why do I keep holding onto it? Giving stuff away to Goodwill is a start. Getting and keeping all that stuff takes so much time and energy, not to mention money. This makes me hark back to the passage about the passage about the man who built up his wealth and just when he thought he had it made, his time on earth is ended. This pursuit of “stuff” looks like a trap from which I need to escape. If you have less “stuff” you have less of a “stuff” habit to break. As I said above, it’s a start.
He said to (his) disciples, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life and what you will eat, or about your body and what you will wear. For life is more than food and the body more than clothing. Notice the ravens: they do not sow or reap; they have neither storehouse nor barn, yet God feeds them. How much more important are you than birds! Can any of you by worrying add a moment to your lifespan? If even the smallest things are beyond your control, why are you anxious about the rest? Notice how the flowers grow. They do not toil or spin. But I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass in the field that grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? As for you, do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not worry anymore. All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these other things will be given you besides.
Jesus continues on his theme of how we are to live: trusting in God, orienting our lives toward love of God and others instead of pursuit of things that this time values. He is speaking to a crowd of thousands, many of whom are poor. How are they processing his message? Perhaps poverty was less cruel in those days – the gap between rich and poor less dramatic, the (popular) culture less relentless about what you need to be happy, fulfilled, successful. Jesus uses two examples from nature to make his point – the lilies of the field and the raven. They both have all they need right where they are. But I feel I am missing something. Sure, I can hear this message and from my nice home, my healthy body, with my hardworking and well paid husband, and my wonderful family and friends, and feel, yes God has been good. But what about those struggling with poverty, isolation, physical and mental illness, abuse, etc. How do those words, “ Do not be concerned for your life, what you are to eat , or for your body, what you are to wear.” For them, I’m sure those words are bitter ones, small comfort in time of real need and pain. What are they supposed to do? How does be patient and trust in me sound to them?
This is a very uncomfortable passage for me. It calls me to feel grateful, but gratitude is not enough. I feel like Christ is here, watching me with gentle eyes but prodding me to do more – to be more compassionate, to be more generous. If I want to try to put on the mind of Christ, then the works of Christ must not be far behind. What do I have that I don’t really need? Why do I keep holding onto it? Giving stuff away to Goodwill is a start. Getting and keeping all that stuff takes so much time and energy, not to mention money. This makes me hark back to the passage about the passage about the man who built up his wealth and just when he thought he had it made, his time on earth is ended. This pursuit of “stuff” looks like a trap from which I need to escape. If you have less “stuff” you have less of a “stuff” habit to break. As I said above, it’s a start.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Luke 12:13-21 Trust in God, Not Possessions
Luke 12:13-21 Trust in God, Not Possessions
Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me." He replied to him, "Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?" Then he said to the crowd, "Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one's life does not consist of possessions." Then he told them a parable. "There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. He asked himself, 'What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?' And he said, 'This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, "Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!" But God said to him, 'You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?' Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich in what matters to God."
The individual who speaks in the beginning of this passage must have joined the gathering late. He asks Jesus to adjudicate a dispute between him and his brother about money – something that Jesus couldn’t less about. Jesus then proceeds to tell the parable about the man who spent literally every day of his life building his wealth. On the very night he finally felt he had arrived – his life was taken from him. Jesus finishes this passage by saying that is the way it works with a man who grows rich for himself instead of growing rich in the sight of God. We may think we have time to serve two masters, our ambitions and God, but that habit is hard to break and easy to put off until it is too late – as happened with the rich man in the parable. I don’t know if it is our competitiveness or perhaps fear that keeps us focused on what our gifts can do for us and not on what we can do with our gifts. It is like being lulled to sleep instead of truly living. If we don’t push back against that fear, that pride in accomplishment, we are in danger of squandering the gifts Goes does give us, the talents, the means, good health, etc.
Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me." He replied to him, "Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?" Then he said to the crowd, "Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one's life does not consist of possessions." Then he told them a parable. "There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. He asked himself, 'What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?' And he said, 'This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods and I shall say to myself, "Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!" But God said to him, 'You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?' Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich in what matters to God."
The individual who speaks in the beginning of this passage must have joined the gathering late. He asks Jesus to adjudicate a dispute between him and his brother about money – something that Jesus couldn’t less about. Jesus then proceeds to tell the parable about the man who spent literally every day of his life building his wealth. On the very night he finally felt he had arrived – his life was taken from him. Jesus finishes this passage by saying that is the way it works with a man who grows rich for himself instead of growing rich in the sight of God. We may think we have time to serve two masters, our ambitions and God, but that habit is hard to break and easy to put off until it is too late – as happened with the rich man in the parable. I don’t know if it is our competitiveness or perhaps fear that keeps us focused on what our gifts can do for us and not on what we can do with our gifts. It is like being lulled to sleep instead of truly living. If we don’t push back against that fear, that pride in accomplishment, we are in danger of squandering the gifts Goes does give us, the talents, the means, good health, etc.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Luke 12: 8 – 12 Holy Spirit, Part II
Luke 12: 8 – 12 Holy Spirit, Part II
Coincidentally, (or not) I have come across a passage from 1 Corinthians about the Holy Spirit. I heard this scripture when I attended mass on a Wednesday morning recently – something I had not done literally for months. (So I guess I was meant to hear it.) The specific verses were 1 Corinthians 2:6- 16. The passage began with a definition of True Wisdom. True Wisdom, St. Paul says, is not a wisdom that can be found in this age, and it is hidden from most. How do we perceive True Wisdom? It is revealed to us through the Spirit which is God’s spirit. What the Spirit calls us to do - concerning loving our neighbor, being merciful and forgiving, being generous and trusting, seeking justice, etc. may make no sense by the world’s current standards. In that light such behavior is absurd. By being blessed and baptized with God’s Spirit, accepting it, by asking for the ability and wisdom to develop and strengthen and utilize the gifts of the Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and awe/fear of the Lord), we put on the mind of Christ. This feels like a “eureka” moment to me. Accepting that I have God’s spirit in me, strengthening my understanding of my spiritual gifts and utilizing them for the good of others – that sounds like what I am/what we are meant to do. Maybe that is why Jesus is so harsh about those who blaspheme the Holy Spirit – God’s spirit/presence on earth in men and women.
?? Is this an argument for a more personal faith and meant to be a counterbalance to the church??
Coincidentally, (or not) I have come across a passage from 1 Corinthians about the Holy Spirit. I heard this scripture when I attended mass on a Wednesday morning recently – something I had not done literally for months. (So I guess I was meant to hear it.) The specific verses were 1 Corinthians 2:6- 16. The passage began with a definition of True Wisdom. True Wisdom, St. Paul says, is not a wisdom that can be found in this age, and it is hidden from most. How do we perceive True Wisdom? It is revealed to us through the Spirit which is God’s spirit. What the Spirit calls us to do - concerning loving our neighbor, being merciful and forgiving, being generous and trusting, seeking justice, etc. may make no sense by the world’s current standards. In that light such behavior is absurd. By being blessed and baptized with God’s Spirit, accepting it, by asking for the ability and wisdom to develop and strengthen and utilize the gifts of the Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and awe/fear of the Lord), we put on the mind of Christ. This feels like a “eureka” moment to me. Accepting that I have God’s spirit in me, strengthening my understanding of my spiritual gifts and utilizing them for the good of others – that sounds like what I am/what we are meant to do. Maybe that is why Jesus is so harsh about those who blaspheme the Holy Spirit – God’s spirit/presence on earth in men and women.
?? Is this an argument for a more personal faith and meant to be a counterbalance to the church??
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Luke 12: 8 – 12 A Warning About the Holy Spirit
Luke 12: 8 – 12 A Warning About the Holy Spirit
"Everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. When they take you before synagogues and before rulers and authorities, do not worry about how or what your defense will be or about what you are to say. For the holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say."
This passage troubles me. Jesus holds out his harshest criticism, the harshest of punishments – denial of God’s forgiveness – his very mercy and love - for those who blaspheme against the Holy Spirit. Why such condemnation?
Jesus goes on to remark on the role of the Holy Spirit in the coming of his Kingdom. The Holy Spirit is to be the apostles’ teacher and guide in time of trouble, and Jesus knows that there is trouble ahead. Jesus understands the important role the Holy Spirit will have in the formation of his church. From the Holy Spirit will come courage, wisdom, knowledge, faith, etc., all vitally important in the continuation of his mission after Jesus has ascended to heaven. Without the Holy Spirit, the gifts the Spirit brings and the apostles' acceptance and belief in those gifts, Jesus mission might have come to a quick end because of the power of fear and doubt. Instead the power of the Holy Spirit helped to found Christ’s great movement - to preach the coming of the Kingdom, reliance on God’s mercy and justice, and love for one another. Come Holy Spirit!
"Everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. When they take you before synagogues and before rulers and authorities, do not worry about how or what your defense will be or about what you are to say. For the holy Spirit will teach you at that moment what you should say."
This passage troubles me. Jesus holds out his harshest criticism, the harshest of punishments – denial of God’s forgiveness – his very mercy and love - for those who blaspheme against the Holy Spirit. Why such condemnation?
Jesus goes on to remark on the role of the Holy Spirit in the coming of his Kingdom. The Holy Spirit is to be the apostles’ teacher and guide in time of trouble, and Jesus knows that there is trouble ahead. Jesus understands the important role the Holy Spirit will have in the formation of his church. From the Holy Spirit will come courage, wisdom, knowledge, faith, etc., all vitally important in the continuation of his mission after Jesus has ascended to heaven. Without the Holy Spirit, the gifts the Spirit brings and the apostles' acceptance and belief in those gifts, Jesus mission might have come to a quick end because of the power of fear and doubt. Instead the power of the Holy Spirit helped to found Christ’s great movement - to preach the coming of the Kingdom, reliance on God’s mercy and justice, and love for one another. Come Holy Spirit!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Luke 12: 4 – 12 Be Not Afraid
Luke 12: 4 – 12 Be Not Afraid
I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.
In this passage Jesus speaks about a condition that we all, unfortunately, have vast experience with in our time – fear. Fear is one of the most powerful of emotions. When improperly manipulated it causes us to do great harm to ourselves and others – even in extreme instances start wars. Jesus tells us that there is nothing in this life that we should fear. He says that flat out: “do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more”. Then he says it again most eloquently in the parable about the smallest, most insignificant of birds – sparrows. If God cares for the physical wellbeing of these small creatures, how much more will he care for us whom he created in his own image? Who are we to fear? Jesus tells us we should fear “the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna”. What the heck does that mean? I guess Gehenna is what we would call Hell. I have to say right now that I am not high on Hell as a place of unending fiery torment. That concept just doesn’t square with the God of mercy and love and justice that I believe in. It sounds too vengeful, too mean. I prefer to think of hell as eternally being apart from God and knowing that it didn’t have to be that way. But I digress. Back to the topic at hand – who we have to fear. (I think) this is the person (or thing) that has the power to keep us from eternal life, from our place in the Kingdom. The person we should fear is that who will keep us from claiming our rightful place with God, who tells us we are not worthy of God’s love and mercy, who encourages us to despair, lose hope, be inattentive, squandering our time and energy in this world. When I get right down to it I have to say that I believe that person is most likely ourselves – our self doubt, our actions or inactions.
I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more. I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one. Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.
In this passage Jesus speaks about a condition that we all, unfortunately, have vast experience with in our time – fear. Fear is one of the most powerful of emotions. When improperly manipulated it causes us to do great harm to ourselves and others – even in extreme instances start wars. Jesus tells us that there is nothing in this life that we should fear. He says that flat out: “do not be afraid of those who kill the body but after that can do no more”. Then he says it again most eloquently in the parable about the smallest, most insignificant of birds – sparrows. If God cares for the physical wellbeing of these small creatures, how much more will he care for us whom he created in his own image? Who are we to fear? Jesus tells us we should fear “the one who after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna”. What the heck does that mean? I guess Gehenna is what we would call Hell. I have to say right now that I am not high on Hell as a place of unending fiery torment. That concept just doesn’t square with the God of mercy and love and justice that I believe in. It sounds too vengeful, too mean. I prefer to think of hell as eternally being apart from God and knowing that it didn’t have to be that way. But I digress. Back to the topic at hand – who we have to fear. (I think) this is the person (or thing) that has the power to keep us from eternal life, from our place in the Kingdom. The person we should fear is that who will keep us from claiming our rightful place with God, who tells us we are not worthy of God’s love and mercy, who encourages us to despair, lose hope, be inattentive, squandering our time and energy in this world. When I get right down to it I have to say that I believe that person is most likely ourselves – our self doubt, our actions or inactions.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Luke 12: 1-3 Into the Light
Luke 12: 1-3 Into the Light
Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. He began to speak, first to his disciples, "Beware of the leaven--that is, the hypocrisy--of the Pharisees. "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.
Maybe it’s just me but I hear Jesus speaking against hypocrisy a lot. How do I define hypocrisy? My off the cuff definition would be – saying one thing in public and doing another thing in private. At its most basic it is lying, but even more foolishly, it is not just lying to others but to yourself. The first is bad enough – it could involve abuse, manipulation, fraud, cheating, etc. But the second – lying to yourself – is even worse. If you lie to yourself you are really lost – in false pride, in delusions, in ignorance. If you cannot even admit to yourself your true motives and situation, how will you ever straighten your life out? In this scripture, Jesus sounds a warning saying that everything hidden will be made known and everything we say and do in the “dark” will be brought out into the daylight. That should give all of us “pause”. It’s not easy to look at our lives in “full daylight” and then seek God’s mercy. In spreading the good news about the Kingdom, Jesus always asked his listeners to start with themselves, to look at themselves, and repent. This seemed to be a necessary first step to moving forward. We are all going to arrive at that moment of facing up to ourselves, to our actions and intentions sooner or later. Unfortunately, such a moment is not a once in a lifetime event but the first of many. Struggling is part of the human condition. And it’s an ongoing condition. I think Jesus knows this and doesn’t give up on us. It’s the hypocrisy that he has no patience for.
Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together that they were trampling one another underfoot. He began to speak, first to his disciples, "Beware of the leaven--that is, the hypocrisy--of the Pharisees. "There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops.
Maybe it’s just me but I hear Jesus speaking against hypocrisy a lot. How do I define hypocrisy? My off the cuff definition would be – saying one thing in public and doing another thing in private. At its most basic it is lying, but even more foolishly, it is not just lying to others but to yourself. The first is bad enough – it could involve abuse, manipulation, fraud, cheating, etc. But the second – lying to yourself – is even worse. If you lie to yourself you are really lost – in false pride, in delusions, in ignorance. If you cannot even admit to yourself your true motives and situation, how will you ever straighten your life out? In this scripture, Jesus sounds a warning saying that everything hidden will be made known and everything we say and do in the “dark” will be brought out into the daylight. That should give all of us “pause”. It’s not easy to look at our lives in “full daylight” and then seek God’s mercy. In spreading the good news about the Kingdom, Jesus always asked his listeners to start with themselves, to look at themselves, and repent. This seemed to be a necessary first step to moving forward. We are all going to arrive at that moment of facing up to ourselves, to our actions and intentions sooner or later. Unfortunately, such a moment is not a once in a lifetime event but the first of many. Struggling is part of the human condition. And it’s an ongoing condition. I think Jesus knows this and doesn’t give up on us. It’s the hypocrisy that he has no patience for.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Luke 11:45 – 54 Off the Hook?
Luke 11:45 – 54 Off the Hook?
Then one of the scholars of the law said to him in reply, "Teacher, by saying this you are insulting us too." And he said, "Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them. Woe to you! You build the memorials of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. Consequently, you bear witness and give consent to the deeds of your ancestors, for they killed them and you do the building. Therefore, the wisdom of God said, 'I will send to them prophets and apostles; some of them they will kill and persecute' in order that this generation might be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah who died between the altar and the temple building. Yes, I tell you, this generation will be charged with their blood! Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge. You yourselves did not enter and you stopped those trying to enter." When he left, the scribes and Pharisees began to act with hostility toward him and to interrogate him about many things, for they were plotting to catch him at something he might say.
When I first read this passage I thought Jesus was speaking about lawyers. Upon reading it again I thought instead he was referring to the religious authorities of his day. Anyhow, Jesus had just laid the hammer down on the Pharisees, a religious group that was “full of themselves” to say the least. Now he moves on to their teachers, the religious authorities, those who believe they know the truth about the Scriptures and God, and use that control to ensure their status and power in society. He condemns them for “imposing heavy burdens” on average folks and for “taking away the key to knowledge”. Are you getting the impression that Jesus dislikes having worship of his Father turned into a power play used to exclude and include people? I am. Jesus faults these “scholars of the law” for taking advantage of their positions. He judges them especially harshly for placing barriers in the way of ordinary people who want to know about God. Jesus has a great relationship with his Father without the assistance or the interference of the religious authorities of his day. Although it is clear from his familiarity with scriptures and the law that he has studied them and learned from many teachers, he has clearly moved beyond them. His faith, a mature faith, is based more on his relationship with the Father and not on what experts and authorities have told him. Of course it is easier to just take what someone tells you on faith than it is to put in the work a relationship demands. I think in this passage Jesus is laying down a challenge - to those who seek and to those who think they have found God.
Then one of the scholars of the law said to him in reply, "Teacher, by saying this you are insulting us too." And he said, "Woe also to you scholars of the law! You impose on people burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them. Woe to you! You build the memorials of the prophets whom your ancestors killed. Consequently, you bear witness and give consent to the deeds of your ancestors, for they killed them and you do the building. Therefore, the wisdom of God said, 'I will send to them prophets and apostles; some of them they will kill and persecute' in order that this generation might be charged with the blood of all the prophets shed since the foundation of the world, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah who died between the altar and the temple building. Yes, I tell you, this generation will be charged with their blood! Woe to you, scholars of the law! You have taken away the key of knowledge. You yourselves did not enter and you stopped those trying to enter." When he left, the scribes and Pharisees began to act with hostility toward him and to interrogate him about many things, for they were plotting to catch him at something he might say.
When I first read this passage I thought Jesus was speaking about lawyers. Upon reading it again I thought instead he was referring to the religious authorities of his day. Anyhow, Jesus had just laid the hammer down on the Pharisees, a religious group that was “full of themselves” to say the least. Now he moves on to their teachers, the religious authorities, those who believe they know the truth about the Scriptures and God, and use that control to ensure their status and power in society. He condemns them for “imposing heavy burdens” on average folks and for “taking away the key to knowledge”. Are you getting the impression that Jesus dislikes having worship of his Father turned into a power play used to exclude and include people? I am. Jesus faults these “scholars of the law” for taking advantage of their positions. He judges them especially harshly for placing barriers in the way of ordinary people who want to know about God. Jesus has a great relationship with his Father without the assistance or the interference of the religious authorities of his day. Although it is clear from his familiarity with scriptures and the law that he has studied them and learned from many teachers, he has clearly moved beyond them. His faith, a mature faith, is based more on his relationship with the Father and not on what experts and authorities have told him. Of course it is easier to just take what someone tells you on faith than it is to put in the work a relationship demands. I think in this passage Jesus is laying down a challenge - to those who seek and to those who think they have found God.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Luke 11: 37 – 44 Keeping Up Appearances???
Luke 11: 37 – 44 Keeping Up Appearances???
After he had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. The Lord said to him, "Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you. Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes of mint and of rue and of every garden herb, but you pay no attention to judgment and to love for God. These you should have done, without overlooking the others. Woe to you Pharisees! You love the seat of honor in synagogues and greetings in marketplaces. Woe to you! You are like unseen graves over which people unknowingly walk."
Yikes! Here we find Jesus angry and not pulling any punches. He goes after the Pharisees, a prominent religious group of the time, listing out their sins . . . putting more store in empty rituals, neglecting justice, pride, rapaciousness, lying to themselves and others, etc. However tempting it would be to relate these flaws to the Church or to any organized religion (and it is) I must own up to the fact that (I think) I am meant by Jesus to be his “church”. (I’m not sure I even know what that word actually means . . . Any ideas???) When Jesus was on earth the last thing on his mind was to form some giant structure of dos and don’ts. Jesus dealt with individuals. He asked individuals to repent, to seek the Kingdom of God, to be generous and forgiving. He gave us the example of his life, how he treated people to inspire us. He chose ordinary fallible people to help him in his mission and spread the word. He eschewed pride and injustice. So let me not take false refuge in anger and inaction. I(we)are the true church. By my/our actions or inactions I/we represent Jesus Christ on earth.
After he had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. The Lord said to him, "Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you. Woe to you Pharisees! You pay tithes of mint and of rue and of every garden herb, but you pay no attention to judgment and to love for God. These you should have done, without overlooking the others. Woe to you Pharisees! You love the seat of honor in synagogues and greetings in marketplaces. Woe to you! You are like unseen graves over which people unknowingly walk."
Yikes! Here we find Jesus angry and not pulling any punches. He goes after the Pharisees, a prominent religious group of the time, listing out their sins . . . putting more store in empty rituals, neglecting justice, pride, rapaciousness, lying to themselves and others, etc. However tempting it would be to relate these flaws to the Church or to any organized religion (and it is) I must own up to the fact that (I think) I am meant by Jesus to be his “church”. (I’m not sure I even know what that word actually means . . . Any ideas???) When Jesus was on earth the last thing on his mind was to form some giant structure of dos and don’ts. Jesus dealt with individuals. He asked individuals to repent, to seek the Kingdom of God, to be generous and forgiving. He gave us the example of his life, how he treated people to inspire us. He chose ordinary fallible people to help him in his mission and spread the word. He eschewed pride and injustice. So let me not take false refuge in anger and inaction. I(we)are the true church. By my/our actions or inactions I/we represent Jesus Christ on earth.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Luke 11:33-36 Parable of the Lamp.
Luke 11:33-36 Parable of the Lamp.
"No one who lights a lamp hides it away or places it (under a bushel basket), but on a lamp stand so that those who enter might see the light. The lamp of the body is your eye. When your eye is sound, then your whole body is filled with light, but when it is bad, then your body is in darkness. Take care, then, that the light in you not become darkness. If your whole body is full of light, and no part of it is in darkness, then it will be as full of light as a lamp illuminating you with its brightness."
This passage is all about “light” Jesus uses the word light, lamp, eyesight. This last, eyesight, seems especially important. If our eyesight is sound, our whole body operates in the light. But if our eyesight is bad, our body lives in darkness. Where our vision/perspective comes from is very important, making our eyesight key among our senses. It gives us a sense of where we are, who we are with, etc. Without it we are lost.
How do we look out onto the world? Do we look out onto the world in fear and anxiety, anger and mistrust? Jesus seemed to look out onto the world with eyes of mercy and trust and love. As human beings I believe our eyes reflect a lot of what is going on inside us. What we hold within must ultimately shine through our eyes and be shown to the world. Jesus’s basic goodness and love shone out through his eyes onto all who met him. He seemed to be all-knowing and at the same time both compassionate and loving. No wonder people were drawn to him. I think the idea of meeting Jesus, looking into his eyes, being known for just who you are, and at the same time being loved, must have been an incredibly powerful and humbling experience. To be known, forgiven, loved . . . oh boy, I think that experience would be the experience of a lifetime. No wonder people followed him. Any of us would have basked and grown and unfurled in the light of that gaze. But how do we experience that light/love today? I’m not sure. Through faith and trust in him?
"No one who lights a lamp hides it away or places it (under a bushel basket), but on a lamp stand so that those who enter might see the light. The lamp of the body is your eye. When your eye is sound, then your whole body is filled with light, but when it is bad, then your body is in darkness. Take care, then, that the light in you not become darkness. If your whole body is full of light, and no part of it is in darkness, then it will be as full of light as a lamp illuminating you with its brightness."
This passage is all about “light” Jesus uses the word light, lamp, eyesight. This last, eyesight, seems especially important. If our eyesight is sound, our whole body operates in the light. But if our eyesight is bad, our body lives in darkness. Where our vision/perspective comes from is very important, making our eyesight key among our senses. It gives us a sense of where we are, who we are with, etc. Without it we are lost.
How do we look out onto the world? Do we look out onto the world in fear and anxiety, anger and mistrust? Jesus seemed to look out onto the world with eyes of mercy and trust and love. As human beings I believe our eyes reflect a lot of what is going on inside us. What we hold within must ultimately shine through our eyes and be shown to the world. Jesus’s basic goodness and love shone out through his eyes onto all who met him. He seemed to be all-knowing and at the same time both compassionate and loving. No wonder people were drawn to him. I think the idea of meeting Jesus, looking into his eyes, being known for just who you are, and at the same time being loved, must have been an incredibly powerful and humbling experience. To be known, forgiven, loved . . . oh boy, I think that experience would be the experience of a lifetime. No wonder people followed him. Any of us would have basked and grown and unfurled in the light of that gaze. But how do we experience that light/love today? I’m not sure. Through faith and trust in him?
Monday, August 30, 2010
Luke 11:29-32 The Sign of Jonah
Luke 11:29-32 The Sign of Jonah
While still more people gathered in the crowd, he said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah." Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.
In this passage, Jesus speaks of Jonah, the Old Testament prophet who moaned over the task given to him by God to the point where his traveling companions tried to do him in – sacrificing his life so that they might be saved. He was swallowed by a whale and then regurgitated three days later. Obviously, Jesus is familiar with this dramatic story. I wonder if the crowds following him know what he was speaking of. What was the task Jonah despaired of? I looked it up and found that he despaired of being taken seriously by the Ninevites when he preached the need of repentance to them. He didn’t want to do it and ran away. Ultimately after surviving the run in with the whale, he came around to preach God’s intended message even though he thought it useless. For those in Jesus’ audience who needed more information, he spells it out, “This is an evil age.” That is plain speaking indeed. Not only is it evil, but it sees no urgent need to change its ways. “It seeks a sign.” So a miracle or some other type of shocking event might be enough to jar them out of their complacency. What if God or Jesus had complied and performed a miracle? Would our world be any different today? I hate to sound cynical, but I don’t think so. Our culture bombards us with messages that we need and deserve things that we really don’t need or deserve, and since the consequences of these actions are often far off, (debt, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc.) we cannot marshall the will power to deny ourselves. What’s my point, you ask? Around our country and the world poverty, injustice, environmental degradation, war, etc. abound. Lack of food, clean water, medical care, fair wages are the norm for many while power and wealth rest in the hands of the few. Jesus message of the need to reform, of living a life of humility, of service to others, of love for God and neighbor, is easily lost in the noise. Apparently, Jesus’s words, his example are all we are going to get. Gulp.
While still more people gathered in the crowd, he said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah." Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. At the judgment the queen of the south will rise with the men of this generation and she will condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and there is something greater than Solomon here. At the judgment the men of Nineveh will arise with this generation and condemn it, because at the preaching of Jonah they repented, and there is something greater than Jonah here.
In this passage, Jesus speaks of Jonah, the Old Testament prophet who moaned over the task given to him by God to the point where his traveling companions tried to do him in – sacrificing his life so that they might be saved. He was swallowed by a whale and then regurgitated three days later. Obviously, Jesus is familiar with this dramatic story. I wonder if the crowds following him know what he was speaking of. What was the task Jonah despaired of? I looked it up and found that he despaired of being taken seriously by the Ninevites when he preached the need of repentance to them. He didn’t want to do it and ran away. Ultimately after surviving the run in with the whale, he came around to preach God’s intended message even though he thought it useless. For those in Jesus’ audience who needed more information, he spells it out, “This is an evil age.” That is plain speaking indeed. Not only is it evil, but it sees no urgent need to change its ways. “It seeks a sign.” So a miracle or some other type of shocking event might be enough to jar them out of their complacency. What if God or Jesus had complied and performed a miracle? Would our world be any different today? I hate to sound cynical, but I don’t think so. Our culture bombards us with messages that we need and deserve things that we really don’t need or deserve, and since the consequences of these actions are often far off, (debt, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc.) we cannot marshall the will power to deny ourselves. What’s my point, you ask? Around our country and the world poverty, injustice, environmental degradation, war, etc. abound. Lack of food, clean water, medical care, fair wages are the norm for many while power and wealth rest in the hands of the few. Jesus message of the need to reform, of living a life of humility, of service to others, of love for God and neighbor, is easily lost in the noise. Apparently, Jesus’s words, his example are all we are going to get. Gulp.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Luke 11:27 – 29 True Happiness
Luke 11:27 – 29 True Happiness
While he was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed." He replied, "Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it."
This very short passage is entitled “True Happiness” in my bible. A woman heaps praise upon Jesus calling him blessed along with the one he came from. Jesus answers that true blessedness is found in the one who hears God’s word and keeps it. One without the other will not do. Simply hearing, listening, is not enough. It must bear fruit in action. Understanding, Acceptance and Action. Word and then deed. Simple and straightforward. Amen
While he was speaking, a woman from the crowd called out and said to him, "Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed." He replied, "Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it."
This very short passage is entitled “True Happiness” in my bible. A woman heaps praise upon Jesus calling him blessed along with the one he came from. Jesus answers that true blessedness is found in the one who hears God’s word and keeps it. One without the other will not do. Simply hearing, listening, is not enough. It must bear fruit in action. Understanding, Acceptance and Action. Word and then deed. Simple and straightforward. Amen
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Luke 11:14 – 26 Power
Luke 11:14 – 26 Power
He was driving out a demon (that was) mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute person spoke and the crowds were amazed. Some of them said, "By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons." Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. But he knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that (I) drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. "When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none, it says, 'I shall return to my home from which I came.' But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that person is worse than the first."
Jesus follows with a few short parables. The first of these is about people questioning the source of his power. Some said, “Only by the power of the Prince of Demons is Jesus able to cast out demons.” Jesus refutes with logic by saying “a house divided against itself will surely fail”. He and the miracles he performs “by the finger of God” are evidence that the kingdom of God is present among them. This is the proof that people were asking for. He cautions his listeners to be wary of the (destructive) power lack of faith and doubt can have in our lives. There is evil in the world. The very person Jesus just cast the devils out of is vulnerable to their return. Those devils are looking for a new home, maybe back with that same individual. We all have our weaknesses. They are hard to overcome and still harder to permanently defeat. Jesus understands our human nature very well. He knows how hard it is to overcome temptation – because he is beset by it himself. Be wary he seems to be saying. Trust in him and he will see us safe.
He was driving out a demon (that was) mute, and when the demon had gone out, the mute person spoke and the crowds were amazed. Some of them said, "By the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, he drives out demons." Others, to test him, asked him for a sign from heaven. But he knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house. And if Satan is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that it is by Beelzebul that I drive out demons. If I, then, drive out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own people drive them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that (I) drive out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man fully armed guards his palace, his possessions are safe. But when one stronger than he attacks and overcomes him, he takes away the armor on which he relied and distributes the spoils. Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters. "When an unclean spirit goes out of someone, it roams through arid regions searching for rest but, finding none, it says, 'I shall return to my home from which I came.' But upon returning, it finds it swept clean and put in order. Then it goes and brings back seven other spirits more wicked than itself who move in and dwell there, and the last condition of that person is worse than the first."
Jesus follows with a few short parables. The first of these is about people questioning the source of his power. Some said, “Only by the power of the Prince of Demons is Jesus able to cast out demons.” Jesus refutes with logic by saying “a house divided against itself will surely fail”. He and the miracles he performs “by the finger of God” are evidence that the kingdom of God is present among them. This is the proof that people were asking for. He cautions his listeners to be wary of the (destructive) power lack of faith and doubt can have in our lives. There is evil in the world. The very person Jesus just cast the devils out of is vulnerable to their return. Those devils are looking for a new home, maybe back with that same individual. We all have our weaknesses. They are hard to overcome and still harder to permanently defeat. Jesus understands our human nature very well. He knows how hard it is to overcome temptation – because he is beset by it himself. Be wary he seems to be saying. Trust in him and he will see us safe.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Luke 11:5 – 13 Asking and Receiving
Luke 11:5 – 13 Asking and Receiving
And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him,' and he says in reply from within, 'Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.' I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. "And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Who among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg?
If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?"
Jesus uses a parable to talk about asking and receiving. He gives the example of asking an acquaintance for something in the middle of the night, an inconvenient time to say the least. If you do not get what you need because of the relationship, then you eventually get what you need because of your persistence. Then follows a very famous triplet: Ask and you shall receive, Seek and you will find, Knock and it will be opened to you. First we must make an effort – to ask, to seek, to knock, before anything else happens. Putting yourself out there by asking etc. and persisting, showing you really want it, must happen first before you get anything.
Then Jesus segues to speak of fathers in general and his Father in particular . . . about a father’s loving care for his children. He closes with a question about a specific gift from his Father – something that I almost missed. Jesus says, “If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the holy Spirit to those who ask him?"
I need to think about this for a minute. Jesus seems to be drawing a parallel from human fathers giving their children “good gifts”, (fish, eggs, etc.) to God our Father giving us the Holy Spirit. Is the Holy Spirit the “good gift” the Father gives to us for our well-being? What does that mean? I have long had a “thing” for the Holy Spirit, for his importance in our world and in our faith. Is Jesus saying that if I have the Holy Spirit in my life then everything about me should and would be changed? How and why I do things would change, my motivation, my understanding, my accomplishments, my goals, my thoughts, words and deeds? The passage from Galations 5:22 that lists the fruits of the spirits comes to mind: love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness and self control. I think through this passage Jesus is trying to tell us how important the Holy Spirit is to him and to us as we live out our lives. Come Holy Spirit.
And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend to whom he goes at midnight and says, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, for a friend of mine has arrived at my house from a journey and I have nothing to offer him,' and he says in reply from within, 'Do not bother me; the door has already been locked and my children and I are already in bed. I cannot get up to give you anything.' I tell you, if he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence. "And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Who among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish? Or hand him a scorpion when he asks for an egg?
If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?"
Jesus uses a parable to talk about asking and receiving. He gives the example of asking an acquaintance for something in the middle of the night, an inconvenient time to say the least. If you do not get what you need because of the relationship, then you eventually get what you need because of your persistence. Then follows a very famous triplet: Ask and you shall receive, Seek and you will find, Knock and it will be opened to you. First we must make an effort – to ask, to seek, to knock, before anything else happens. Putting yourself out there by asking etc. and persisting, showing you really want it, must happen first before you get anything.
Then Jesus segues to speak of fathers in general and his Father in particular . . . about a father’s loving care for his children. He closes with a question about a specific gift from his Father – something that I almost missed. Jesus says, “If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the holy Spirit to those who ask him?"
I need to think about this for a minute. Jesus seems to be drawing a parallel from human fathers giving their children “good gifts”, (fish, eggs, etc.) to God our Father giving us the Holy Spirit. Is the Holy Spirit the “good gift” the Father gives to us for our well-being? What does that mean? I have long had a “thing” for the Holy Spirit, for his importance in our world and in our faith. Is Jesus saying that if I have the Holy Spirit in my life then everything about me should and would be changed? How and why I do things would change, my motivation, my understanding, my accomplishments, my goals, my thoughts, words and deeds? The passage from Galations 5:22 that lists the fruits of the spirits comes to mind: love, joy, peace, patient endurance, kindness, generosity, faith, mildness and self control. I think through this passage Jesus is trying to tell us how important the Holy Spirit is to him and to us as we live out our lives. Come Holy Spirit.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Luke 11: 1 – 4 The Our Father Part II
Luke 11: 1 – 4 The Our Father Part II
I want to think more about the Lord’s Prayer as Jesus’ personal prayer to his father – part of an ongoing conversation if you like. It is not only personal, but passionate, a cry from his very heart and soul. First it’s intimacy is astounding. Was this the first time Jesus addressed God as his “father” to the disciples? I don’t know. Certainly, in those days and all through the ages God was a figure of awe and fear to his people . . . definitely not a beloved, caring father. Yet even though Jesus claims God as father, he also acknowledges God’s holiness, his precedence, and his plan to bring about the Kingdom. Then Jesus switches gears, including others, in this case the disciples, in his prayer – “Give us our daily bread, Forgive us our sins” to let us know we are never alone. In the latter case, Jesus I think is letting us know that we can always change our ways, free ourselves of discouragement and move towards healing (ourselves and others) by asking for, receiving and extending forgiveness. I think the final line is a cry right out of Jesus anguish at that moment. He knows what is coming both for himself and for his disciples and he asks that they be passed over. This is a cry from Jesus’ heart right to the heart of God. It’s intimacy and immediacy is remarkable, and humbling. When I think of how I recite this prayer by rote with hardly a thought I am ashamed. But perhaps the way to do better, for me at least, is not to pray that prayer more thoughtfully, but to use it as an example to work toward my own intimate conversation with God.
I want to think more about the Lord’s Prayer as Jesus’ personal prayer to his father – part of an ongoing conversation if you like. It is not only personal, but passionate, a cry from his very heart and soul. First it’s intimacy is astounding. Was this the first time Jesus addressed God as his “father” to the disciples? I don’t know. Certainly, in those days and all through the ages God was a figure of awe and fear to his people . . . definitely not a beloved, caring father. Yet even though Jesus claims God as father, he also acknowledges God’s holiness, his precedence, and his plan to bring about the Kingdom. Then Jesus switches gears, including others, in this case the disciples, in his prayer – “Give us our daily bread, Forgive us our sins” to let us know we are never alone. In the latter case, Jesus I think is letting us know that we can always change our ways, free ourselves of discouragement and move towards healing (ourselves and others) by asking for, receiving and extending forgiveness. I think the final line is a cry right out of Jesus anguish at that moment. He knows what is coming both for himself and for his disciples and he asks that they be passed over. This is a cry from Jesus’ heart right to the heart of God. It’s intimacy and immediacy is remarkable, and humbling. When I think of how I recite this prayer by rote with hardly a thought I am ashamed. But perhaps the way to do better, for me at least, is not to pray that prayer more thoughtfully, but to use it as an example to work toward my own intimate conversation with God.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Luke 11: 1 – 4 The Our Father
Luke 11: 1 – 4 The Our Father
He was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples." He said to them, "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test."
The Lord’s Prayer or the Our Father as presented in Luke is a sparse, almost spartan affair. Jesus leaves off all words that are non-essential. It is a direct prayer without any stage-setting or slow build-up.
“Father” The prayer is intimate, addressing God as “Father” – a bold start at least as far as the disciples would be concerned. Jesus’ re-introduction of God as “Father” is huge!
“Hallowed be Thy Name” Jesus acknowledges his Father’s holiness, the appropriateness of honoring and worshiping him.
“Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done” I think this is both a recognition of God’s primacy and a submission to his will. His kingship, his will. . .
“Give us each day our daily bread” Ultimately we acknowledge that we must have faith that God will provide us with what we need. . . in the form of skills, or gifts, whatever.
“Forgive us our sins as we forgive others” Forgiveness is a two-way street in God’s kingdom. We must be as generous with forgiveness for others as God is to us.
“Subject us not to the final test” What does this mean? Is it a recognition that we are only human, that we are weak? Or is it a plea right out of Jesus personal prayer at that time - a prayer that knows the cross is coming with all the agony it will mean for him and his disciples? If this is true then Jesus is encouraging us, after we acknowledge our Father’s holiness and primacy, his care for us (providing for our needs and offering us forgiveness if we forgive others) to bring God into our present and share with him our joys and sorrows, our fears and our hopes.
He was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples." He said to them, "When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test."
The Lord’s Prayer or the Our Father as presented in Luke is a sparse, almost spartan affair. Jesus leaves off all words that are non-essential. It is a direct prayer without any stage-setting or slow build-up.
“Father” The prayer is intimate, addressing God as “Father” – a bold start at least as far as the disciples would be concerned. Jesus’ re-introduction of God as “Father” is huge!
“Hallowed be Thy Name” Jesus acknowledges his Father’s holiness, the appropriateness of honoring and worshiping him.
“Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done” I think this is both a recognition of God’s primacy and a submission to his will. His kingship, his will. . .
“Give us each day our daily bread” Ultimately we acknowledge that we must have faith that God will provide us with what we need. . . in the form of skills, or gifts, whatever.
“Forgive us our sins as we forgive others” Forgiveness is a two-way street in God’s kingdom. We must be as generous with forgiveness for others as God is to us.
“Subject us not to the final test” What does this mean? Is it a recognition that we are only human, that we are weak? Or is it a plea right out of Jesus personal prayer at that time - a prayer that knows the cross is coming with all the agony it will mean for him and his disciples? If this is true then Jesus is encouraging us, after we acknowledge our Father’s holiness and primacy, his care for us (providing for our needs and offering us forgiveness if we forgive others) to bring God into our present and share with him our joys and sorrows, our fears and our hopes.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Luke 10: 38 – 42 Mary and Martha
Luke 10: 38 – 42 Mary and Martha
As they continued their journey he entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary (who) sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me." The Lord said to her in reply, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her."
This is a very famous scripture passage. Martha and Mary are two sisters whose home Jesus is visiting. I’m guessing that Martha is the older sister since she is the one who welcomes Jesus. She then begins to perform all the traditional tasks that hospitality calls for, tasks that keep her busy and away from actually being with her guest. Mary, her sister, upon meeting Jesus immediately dropped everything she was doing and settled at Jesus feet to listen to his words. Martha appears a bit disgruntled – to the point where she asks Jesus to intervene and set Mary straight. She is upset and anxious about many things, Jesus says, when only one thing is required. What do you think Jesus means by this? The many things are the thousand little details of our lives – everything that we busy ourselves with. The one thing is taking advantage of being with the Lord when presented with the opportunity. That could be daily prayer, or Sunday Mass, or monthly Adoration, or the Women or Mary or the Men of St. Joseph. What ways is Jesus calling me to enter into his presence, sit at his feet and listen to his words?
As they continued their journey he entered a village where a woman whose name was Martha welcomed him. She had a sister named Mary (who) sat beside the Lord at his feet listening to him speak. Martha, burdened with much serving, came to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me by myself to do the serving? Tell her to help me." The Lord said to her in reply, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and worried about many things. There is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part and it will not be taken from her."
This is a very famous scripture passage. Martha and Mary are two sisters whose home Jesus is visiting. I’m guessing that Martha is the older sister since she is the one who welcomes Jesus. She then begins to perform all the traditional tasks that hospitality calls for, tasks that keep her busy and away from actually being with her guest. Mary, her sister, upon meeting Jesus immediately dropped everything she was doing and settled at Jesus feet to listen to his words. Martha appears a bit disgruntled – to the point where she asks Jesus to intervene and set Mary straight. She is upset and anxious about many things, Jesus says, when only one thing is required. What do you think Jesus means by this? The many things are the thousand little details of our lives – everything that we busy ourselves with. The one thing is taking advantage of being with the Lord when presented with the opportunity. That could be daily prayer, or Sunday Mass, or monthly Adoration, or the Women or Mary or the Men of St. Joseph. What ways is Jesus calling me to enter into his presence, sit at his feet and listen to his words?
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Luke 10: 29 – 37 The Good Samaritan
Luke 10: 29 – 37 The Good Samaritan
But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, 'Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.' Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers' victim?" He answered, "The one who treated him with mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."
The lawyer who just summarized our entire faith in under 30 words asks another key question: “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus replies with one of his most famous parables, The Good Samaritan. Of the three men who came upon the man in need only one, and that one the least likely, responded. The other two, the priest and the Levite, passed him by. The unlikely person, a Samaritan, was a “neighbor” to the man set upon by robbers. This is a powerful teaching that, as Jesus sees it, all men and women, even the most unlikely pairings, can and should be neighbors to each other. No matter their race, religion, nationality, status, you name it. No one is too high or too low to avoid this designation in Jesus eyes and thus in the Kingdom. What does being neighborly involve? Taking care of one another. The Samaritan went to quite a lot of trouble to help this stranger. First he went out of his way – putting aside his own agenda for that day. He bound up the wounds of the man, lifted him onto his beast, took him to a safe place and saw that he would be cared for. Although he then had to leave, he clearly planned to come back to make sure that the innkeeper was fairly compensated for his part in the rescue. By this I conclude that a neighbor is compassionate, generous, and responsible - regardless of who is in need - even if that person is a stranger to him, and different from him in every way.
But because he wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man fell victim to robbers as he went down from Jerusalem to Jericho. They stripped and beat him and went off leaving him half-dead. A priest happened to be going down that road, but when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. Likewise a Levite came to the place, and when he saw him, he passed by on the opposite side. But a Samaritan traveler who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn and cared for him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper with the instruction, 'Take care of him. If you spend more than what I have given you, I shall repay you on my way back.' Which of these three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the robbers' victim?" He answered, "The one who treated him with mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise."
The lawyer who just summarized our entire faith in under 30 words asks another key question: “Who is my neighbor?” Jesus replies with one of his most famous parables, The Good Samaritan. Of the three men who came upon the man in need only one, and that one the least likely, responded. The other two, the priest and the Levite, passed him by. The unlikely person, a Samaritan, was a “neighbor” to the man set upon by robbers. This is a powerful teaching that, as Jesus sees it, all men and women, even the most unlikely pairings, can and should be neighbors to each other. No matter their race, religion, nationality, status, you name it. No one is too high or too low to avoid this designation in Jesus eyes and thus in the Kingdom. What does being neighborly involve? Taking care of one another. The Samaritan went to quite a lot of trouble to help this stranger. First he went out of his way – putting aside his own agenda for that day. He bound up the wounds of the man, lifted him onto his beast, took him to a safe place and saw that he would be cared for. Although he then had to leave, he clearly planned to come back to make sure that the innkeeper was fairly compensated for his part in the rescue. By this I conclude that a neighbor is compassionate, generous, and responsible - regardless of who is in need - even if that person is a stranger to him, and different from him in every way.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Luke 10:25 – 28 The Golden Rule
Luke 10:25 – 28 The Golden Rule
There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test him and said, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "What is written in the law? How do you read it?" He said in reply, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself." He replied to him, "You have answered correctly; do this and you will live."
A Lawyer – yes, apparently they had them even in ancient times – posed a very straightforward and important question. “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” When Jesus asked him what he thought, the lawyer answered with a succinct summary of the Ten Commandments: You shall love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself. This man’s synthesis of the Law bypasses rules and regulations, avoids controls and standards, and skips measurements and judgments. Love God and treat others as you like to be treated. Simple, impossible to misunderstand . . . no owner’s manual or arbiter required. You could carry it around written on your hand and yet it tells you all you need to know. Brilliant!
There was a scholar of the law who stood up to test him and said, "Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "What is written in the law? How do you read it?" He said in reply, "You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself." He replied to him, "You have answered correctly; do this and you will live."
A Lawyer – yes, apparently they had them even in ancient times – posed a very straightforward and important question. “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” When Jesus asked him what he thought, the lawyer answered with a succinct summary of the Ten Commandments: You shall love God with all your heart, soul, strength and mind, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself. This man’s synthesis of the Law bypasses rules and regulations, avoids controls and standards, and skips measurements and judgments. Love God and treat others as you like to be treated. Simple, impossible to misunderstand . . . no owner’s manual or arbiter required. You could carry it around written on your hand and yet it tells you all you need to know. Brilliant!
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Luke 10: 17 – 24 The Seventy-Two continued.
Luke 10: 17 – 24 The Seventy-Two continued.
The seventy (-two) returned rejoicing, and said, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name." Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky. Behold, I have given you the power 'to tread upon serpents' and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven." At that very moment he rejoiced (in) the holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him." Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."
Yesterday I considered the people’s response – positive or negative – to the 72 going out to preach in the villages. Today I look at the disciples. They are characterized as jubilant at what they are able to accomplish in Jesus’ name. Jesus tells them that as awe-inspiring as that experience was, the true fact to rejoice over is that their names (through, I think, their faith and their actions) is known in heaven. Then as he always does, Jesus gives thanks to his Father - for what He has done for him – revealing himself to the child-like, the humble, the powerless, the vulnerable. The Father has chosen Jesus through which to make Himself known, and Jesus has chosen his followers to make both himself and his Father known. They and we are truly blest to know the Father through Jesus. Amen.
The seventy (-two) returned rejoicing, and said, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name." Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky. Behold, I have given you the power 'to tread upon serpents' and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven." At that very moment he rejoiced (in) the holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him." Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."
Yesterday I considered the people’s response – positive or negative – to the 72 going out to preach in the villages. Today I look at the disciples. They are characterized as jubilant at what they are able to accomplish in Jesus’ name. Jesus tells them that as awe-inspiring as that experience was, the true fact to rejoice over is that their names (through, I think, their faith and their actions) is known in heaven. Then as he always does, Jesus gives thanks to his Father - for what He has done for him – revealing himself to the child-like, the humble, the powerless, the vulnerable. The Father has chosen Jesus through which to make Himself known, and Jesus has chosen his followers to make both himself and his Father known. They and we are truly blest to know the Father through Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Luke 10:1 – 16 Mission of the Seventy-Two
Luke 10:1 – 16 Mission of the Seventy-Two
After this the Lord appointed seventy (-two) others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this household.' If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, 'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.' Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, 'The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.' Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town. "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum, 'Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.'" Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."
Jesus appointed an additional seventy two disciples and sent them out as sort of “advance men” to every town and place he intended to visit. Their mission was to heal the sick and proclaim that “the reign of God is at hand”. Although they traveled in pairs they were to bring nothing with them, but only accept the generosity of those that welcomed them. They were to be, in a sense, vulnerable like Jesus – not forcing their presence anywhere they were not welcomed, trusting in people’s generosity. Conversely, Jesus speaks quite harshly of those who reject his ambassadors out of hate or apathy. This passage always bothers me. I can’t quite picture these words coming out of Jesus’ mouth. Last year I went with a friend to a “Town Hall Meeting” hosted by my local congresswoman. The topic of the meeting was health care. We waited for over an hour to get into the meeting, then once inside waited for over an hour for the meeting to begin. I have rarely spent two more uncomfortable hours. I guess by definition the only people who would spend three hours on a Saturday morning to attend one of these meetings would feel they really had something to say. The sense of fear and anger and hostility in that room was palpable. Fear of losing their money, their job, their independence? It was disturbing to say the least. By their fear and anger they appeared to me to already be in a sort of hell, unable to hear, to think outside of themselves. Maybe that was going on in the minds of those in the villages who rejected the disciples.
After this the Lord appointed seventy (-two) others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this household.' If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves his payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, 'The kingdom of God is at hand for you.' Whatever town you enter and they do not receive you, go out into the streets and say, 'The dust of your town that clings to our feet, even that we shake off against you.' Yet know this: the kingdom of God is at hand. I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom on that day than for that town. "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. And as for you, Capernaum, 'Will you be exalted to heaven? You will go down to the netherworld.'" Whoever listens to you listens to me. Whoever rejects you rejects me. And whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."
Jesus appointed an additional seventy two disciples and sent them out as sort of “advance men” to every town and place he intended to visit. Their mission was to heal the sick and proclaim that “the reign of God is at hand”. Although they traveled in pairs they were to bring nothing with them, but only accept the generosity of those that welcomed them. They were to be, in a sense, vulnerable like Jesus – not forcing their presence anywhere they were not welcomed, trusting in people’s generosity. Conversely, Jesus speaks quite harshly of those who reject his ambassadors out of hate or apathy. This passage always bothers me. I can’t quite picture these words coming out of Jesus’ mouth. Last year I went with a friend to a “Town Hall Meeting” hosted by my local congresswoman. The topic of the meeting was health care. We waited for over an hour to get into the meeting, then once inside waited for over an hour for the meeting to begin. I have rarely spent two more uncomfortable hours. I guess by definition the only people who would spend three hours on a Saturday morning to attend one of these meetings would feel they really had something to say. The sense of fear and anger and hostility in that room was palpable. Fear of losing their money, their job, their independence? It was disturbing to say the least. By their fear and anger they appeared to me to already be in a sort of hell, unable to hear, to think outside of themselves. Maybe that was going on in the minds of those in the villages who rejected the disciples.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Luke 9:51 – 62 Move On
Luke 9:51 – 62 Move On
When the days for his being taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?" Jesus turned and rebuked them, and they journeyed to another village. As they were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus answered him, "Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head." And to another he said, "Follow me." But he replied, "(Lord,) let me go first and bury my father." Jesus answered him, "Let the dead bury their dead. But you, come away and proclaim the kingdom of God." And another said, "I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home." (To him) Jesus said, "No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God."
Jesus continues in his pensive, almost morose mood. The Samaritans would not welcome him and his followers, which angered James and John but not Jesus. He will not force his presence on anyone, not then and not now. He accepts the Samaritan’s right to turn away from him and moves on. Their loss. Along the way he grows weary of a mission that does not allow time to rest. No home, no family, no comfort, as he prepares for his coming trials. He meets a few individuals who say they want to follow him, but when challenged by Jesus find excuses to delay. He seems to have little sympathy for their very human (to me) requests to take leave of their families. This makes what Jesus (and his followers) are doing all the more remarkable. Jesus knows what is coming and he knows that distractions and excuses won’t cut it. I wonder what happened to those two men who were drawn to Jesus but could not seem to make a commitment. Did they later become one of the followers of the new church? I hope so. Or did they just sink back into their familiar, comfortable lives. Jesus challenges us, invites us, in his words to “come away and proclaim the Kingdom of God”. He asks us to make a commitment to him, to make a change in our lives. How do we deal with that in this complex, hard driving world? I’m pretty sure if I had been in the place of those two men I too would have disappointed Jesus.
When the days for his being taken up were fulfilled, he resolutely determined to journey to Jerusalem, and he sent messengers ahead of him. On the way they entered a Samaritan village to prepare for his reception there, but they would not welcome him because the destination of his journey was Jerusalem. When the disciples James and John saw this they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?" Jesus turned and rebuked them, and they journeyed to another village. As they were proceeding on their journey someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." Jesus answered him, "Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head." And to another he said, "Follow me." But he replied, "(Lord,) let me go first and bury my father." Jesus answered him, "Let the dead bury their dead. But you, come away and proclaim the kingdom of God." And another said, "I will follow you, Lord, but first let me say farewell to my family at home." (To him) Jesus said, "No one who sets a hand to the plow and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God."
Jesus continues in his pensive, almost morose mood. The Samaritans would not welcome him and his followers, which angered James and John but not Jesus. He will not force his presence on anyone, not then and not now. He accepts the Samaritan’s right to turn away from him and moves on. Their loss. Along the way he grows weary of a mission that does not allow time to rest. No home, no family, no comfort, as he prepares for his coming trials. He meets a few individuals who say they want to follow him, but when challenged by Jesus find excuses to delay. He seems to have little sympathy for their very human (to me) requests to take leave of their families. This makes what Jesus (and his followers) are doing all the more remarkable. Jesus knows what is coming and he knows that distractions and excuses won’t cut it. I wonder what happened to those two men who were drawn to Jesus but could not seem to make a commitment. Did they later become one of the followers of the new church? I hope so. Or did they just sink back into their familiar, comfortable lives. Jesus challenges us, invites us, in his words to “come away and proclaim the Kingdom of God”. He asks us to make a commitment to him, to make a change in our lives. How do we deal with that in this complex, hard driving world? I’m pretty sure if I had been in the place of those two men I too would have disappointed Jesus.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Luke 9: 43-50 The Greatest, Part II
Luke 9: 43-50 The Greatest, Part II
The second admonition is when John reports that they saw another man trying to cast out demons in Jesus name. They tried to stop him because he was not one of them. Jesus disagreed. Whoever is not against them is for them. That is a pretty ecumenical line of thinking. But it fits right in with something that we read a few days ago – the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Jesus inspires people to join in his mission. He is not threatened by their efforts as long as they do it in the right spirit. The “right spirit” is my addition to the discussion. I believe that any action of ours, done in the “right spirit”, that is, inspired by God’s Spirit, is good and can have a good effect. I believe hierarchy and control is less important that creating a growing movement of kingdom followers. How powerful would such a movement of believers be who are putting themselves out there trying to model themselves on Jesus? How much better to have a system where the inspiration of the spirit is emphasized, instead of the control of the message.
I read a book this past Lent that theorizes that the Catholic Church is going through profound change, and that this kind of change happens every 500 years of so – witness the Great Schism of Greek and Roman churches, the Great Reformation, etc. and is a necessary, even healthy part of being a live and growing organism. At the end of the book the author mentions in brief a different time change theory of 2,000 year intervals. She lays out four phases: 2,000BC – Christ’s Birth as the Age of the Father; Christ’s Birth – 2,000 AD as the Age of the Son; 2,000 AD – 4,000AD (the present Age) as the Age of the Spirit; and then 4,000AD on, as the Age of the Holy Trinity. Interesting to think about. Meanwhile back to the Gospel passage. God knows men and women’s hearts. Let him judge them, meanwhile may all people who are inspired by the Spirit to follow Jesus and do good, do so, I hope with his blessing.
The second admonition is when John reports that they saw another man trying to cast out demons in Jesus name. They tried to stop him because he was not one of them. Jesus disagreed. Whoever is not against them is for them. That is a pretty ecumenical line of thinking. But it fits right in with something that we read a few days ago – the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Jesus inspires people to join in his mission. He is not threatened by their efforts as long as they do it in the right spirit. The “right spirit” is my addition to the discussion. I believe that any action of ours, done in the “right spirit”, that is, inspired by God’s Spirit, is good and can have a good effect. I believe hierarchy and control is less important that creating a growing movement of kingdom followers. How powerful would such a movement of believers be who are putting themselves out there trying to model themselves on Jesus? How much better to have a system where the inspiration of the spirit is emphasized, instead of the control of the message.
I read a book this past Lent that theorizes that the Catholic Church is going through profound change, and that this kind of change happens every 500 years of so – witness the Great Schism of Greek and Roman churches, the Great Reformation, etc. and is a necessary, even healthy part of being a live and growing organism. At the end of the book the author mentions in brief a different time change theory of 2,000 year intervals. She lays out four phases: 2,000BC – Christ’s Birth as the Age of the Father; Christ’s Birth – 2,000 AD as the Age of the Son; 2,000 AD – 4,000AD (the present Age) as the Age of the Spirit; and then 4,000AD on, as the Age of the Holy Trinity. Interesting to think about. Meanwhile back to the Gospel passage. God knows men and women’s hearts. Let him judge them, meanwhile may all people who are inspired by the Spirit to follow Jesus and do good, do so, I hope with his blessing.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Luke 9: 43-50 The Greatest, Part I
Luke 9: 43-50 The Greatest, Part I
And all were astonished by the majesty of God. While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples, "Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying. An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest." Then John said in reply, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company." Jesus said to him, "Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you."
These few verses round out a tempestuous few days. Jesus’ mind is very much on his coming Passion. He predicts for a second time that he must be given over to men. His disciples failed to understand, and in fact they are filled with uneasiness. Instead of being present to Jesus in his time of need, some prefer to daydream about who among them is the greatest. Jesus knows what they are thinking. He responds by making two statements. First he says “whoever welcomes a child on my account welcomes not only me, but he who sent me." I read and reread this passage. How is it a response to self-involvement and ambition? Perhaps it is revolutionary because of the traditional place of children in society at that time. There are few mentions of children in the Gospel unless they are involved in cures. Although this would indicate that they are well loved by their parents, they are little seen and never heard from. And yet Jesus asks his disciples to welcome this least seen and heard from group for his sake. Doing this may cause puzzlement to those around him, even derision, but treating the smallest, weakest among us is another way Jesus sets himself and his mission apart. He finishes this by saying that the "least among you is the greatest".
And all were astonished by the majesty of God. While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples, "Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying. An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest." Then John said in reply, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company." Jesus said to him, "Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you."
These few verses round out a tempestuous few days. Jesus’ mind is very much on his coming Passion. He predicts for a second time that he must be given over to men. His disciples failed to understand, and in fact they are filled with uneasiness. Instead of being present to Jesus in his time of need, some prefer to daydream about who among them is the greatest. Jesus knows what they are thinking. He responds by making two statements. First he says “whoever welcomes a child on my account welcomes not only me, but he who sent me." I read and reread this passage. How is it a response to self-involvement and ambition? Perhaps it is revolutionary because of the traditional place of children in society at that time. There are few mentions of children in the Gospel unless they are involved in cures. Although this would indicate that they are well loved by their parents, they are little seen and never heard from. And yet Jesus asks his disciples to welcome this least seen and heard from group for his sake. Doing this may cause puzzlement to those around him, even derision, but treating the smallest, weakest among us is another way Jesus sets himself and his mission apart. He finishes this by saying that the "least among you is the greatest".
Monday, July 19, 2010
Luke 9: 27 – 42 The Possessed Boy
Luke 9: 27 – 42 The Possessed Boy
On the next day, when they came down from the mountain, a large crowd met him. There was a man in the crowd who cried out, "Teacher, I beg you, look at my son; he is my only child. For a spirit seizes him and he suddenly screams and it convulses him until he foams at the mouth; it releases him only with difficulty, wearing him out. I begged your disciples to cast it out but they could not." Jesus said in reply, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long will I be with you and endure you? Bring your son here." As he was coming forward, the demon threw him to the ground in a convulsion; but Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and returned him to his father.
A father asks for a cure for his son at the same time he complains about the disciples’ inability to make the cure. Jesus reacts with exasperation – and why not he is fully human too! After having spent several days off with his disciples, his future is very much on his mind and yet he is being dragged back by people asking him to do things for them, by people reminding him that his disciples may not be fully ready for the task ahead of them. Still he cannot refuse, for the father’s sake, for the son’s sake. Jesus wants to focus on his ministry from a personal point of view. He is perhaps anxious, lacking in sleep, pre-occupied, and yet he cannot help but respond, although in this case the asker seems to be asking less in faith than in expectation. Are people already taking him for granted, always expecting something from him, what he can do for them? That must make him feel even lonelier as he faces his Passion. Let me today realize that everyone I deal with in my work, in my daily activities, at the store, or at the library, is a human being with worries and challenges of their own, deserving of my respect and patience.
On the next day, when they came down from the mountain, a large crowd met him. There was a man in the crowd who cried out, "Teacher, I beg you, look at my son; he is my only child. For a spirit seizes him and he suddenly screams and it convulses him until he foams at the mouth; it releases him only with difficulty, wearing him out. I begged your disciples to cast it out but they could not." Jesus said in reply, "O faithless and perverse generation, how long will I be with you and endure you? Bring your son here." As he was coming forward, the demon threw him to the ground in a convulsion; but Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the boy, and returned him to his father.
A father asks for a cure for his son at the same time he complains about the disciples’ inability to make the cure. Jesus reacts with exasperation – and why not he is fully human too! After having spent several days off with his disciples, his future is very much on his mind and yet he is being dragged back by people asking him to do things for them, by people reminding him that his disciples may not be fully ready for the task ahead of them. Still he cannot refuse, for the father’s sake, for the son’s sake. Jesus wants to focus on his ministry from a personal point of view. He is perhaps anxious, lacking in sleep, pre-occupied, and yet he cannot help but respond, although in this case the asker seems to be asking less in faith than in expectation. Are people already taking him for granted, always expecting something from him, what he can do for them? That must make him feel even lonelier as he faces his Passion. Let me today realize that everyone I deal with in my work, in my daily activities, at the store, or at the library, is a human being with worries and challenges of their own, deserving of my respect and patience.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Luke 9: 28-36 The Transfiguration
Luke 9: 28-36 The Transfiguration
About eight days after he said this, he took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray. While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." But he did not know what he was saying. While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my chosen Son; listen to him." After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
The past few passages seem to be building toward this moment: Peter’s profession of faith, the conditions of discipleship, and now the Transfiguration. Jesus has revealed his very nature and then his destiny (and their destiny if they choose to remain his followers), and now they see the end result – glorification. Peter especially seems eager to forget the foretold challenges and latch onto the glorious part. In case anyone has missed the point, God the Father’s emphatic statement “This is my beloved son, my Chosen One, listen to him” makes it dramatically clear. Instead of being overjoyed (except for one brief trial balloon floated by Peter) the party seems sobered. They will need every bit of strength and faith they can muster for the coming weeks. But this is more than Jesus saying who he is by word and deed. This is the Father spectacularly confirming it. A concrete witness both Jesus and the apostles will cling to in the trying times that are fast approaching. God gives all of us what we need in big and little ways. Amen
About eight days after he said this, he took Peter, John, and James and went up the mountain to pray. While he was praying his face changed in appearance and his clothing became dazzling white. And behold, two men were conversing with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his exodus that he was going to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions had been overcome by sleep, but becoming fully awake, they saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As they were about to part from him, Peter said to Jesus, "Master, it is good that we are here; let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." But he did not know what he was saying. While he was still speaking, a cloud came and cast a shadow over them, and they became frightened when they entered the cloud. Then from the cloud came a voice that said, "This is my chosen Son; listen to him." After the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. They fell silent and did not at that time tell anyone what they had seen.
The past few passages seem to be building toward this moment: Peter’s profession of faith, the conditions of discipleship, and now the Transfiguration. Jesus has revealed his very nature and then his destiny (and their destiny if they choose to remain his followers), and now they see the end result – glorification. Peter especially seems eager to forget the foretold challenges and latch onto the glorious part. In case anyone has missed the point, God the Father’s emphatic statement “This is my beloved son, my Chosen One, listen to him” makes it dramatically clear. Instead of being overjoyed (except for one brief trial balloon floated by Peter) the party seems sobered. They will need every bit of strength and faith they can muster for the coming weeks. But this is more than Jesus saying who he is by word and deed. This is the Father spectacularly confirming it. A concrete witness both Jesus and the apostles will cling to in the trying times that are fast approaching. God gives all of us what we need in big and little ways. Amen
Monday, July 12, 2010
Luke 9:23 – 27 Discipleship
Luke 9:23 – 27 Discipleship
Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself? Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. Truly I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God."
Wow! This short passage is jam packed. Each sentence, each phrase seems like its own commandment. If we want to be Jesus’ followers we must deny our very selves, take up our crosses and follow in Jesus footsteps. Self denial and crosses. That must have been greeted with concern by those who heard it. They already led hard, meager existences – and here Jesus is asking for even more. From there Jesus goes on to say whoever would save his life will lose it and whoever loses their life for Jesus sake will save it. More encouraging words. What is Jesus trying to do? Drive away his followers? End his mission before it begins? I think he is giving his followers insight into his own existence – this is what he is facing, what he is thinking, what he is preparing to do. How will he bear this? Only by his faith in his Father, his love for his Father, and for his love for humanity. Likewise any challenges and difficulties his followers must face will be made bearable by their faith in the Father and in him. What we are asked to do – bear witness, follow the commandments, love, share, forgive, heal, choose life, are in many ways counter-cultural in our society. They bring us to the unwelcome notice of many who feel we are foolish at best and dangerous at worst. Our challenge is to not be ashamed of Jesus’ teachings and follow Jesus - then Jesus promises we will have a share in his reward – everlasting life in the presence of the Father.
Then he said to all, "If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it. What profit is there for one to gain the whole world yet lose or forfeit himself? Whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the Father and of the holy angels. Truly I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God."
Wow! This short passage is jam packed. Each sentence, each phrase seems like its own commandment. If we want to be Jesus’ followers we must deny our very selves, take up our crosses and follow in Jesus footsteps. Self denial and crosses. That must have been greeted with concern by those who heard it. They already led hard, meager existences – and here Jesus is asking for even more. From there Jesus goes on to say whoever would save his life will lose it and whoever loses their life for Jesus sake will save it. More encouraging words. What is Jesus trying to do? Drive away his followers? End his mission before it begins? I think he is giving his followers insight into his own existence – this is what he is facing, what he is thinking, what he is preparing to do. How will he bear this? Only by his faith in his Father, his love for his Father, and for his love for humanity. Likewise any challenges and difficulties his followers must face will be made bearable by their faith in the Father and in him. What we are asked to do – bear witness, follow the commandments, love, share, forgive, heal, choose life, are in many ways counter-cultural in our society. They bring us to the unwelcome notice of many who feel we are foolish at best and dangerous at worst. Our challenge is to not be ashamed of Jesus’ teachings and follow Jesus - then Jesus promises we will have a share in his reward – everlasting life in the presence of the Father.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Luke 9:18 – 22 Who Do You Say That I Am?
Luke 9:18 – 22 Who Do You Say That I Am?
Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" They said in reply, "John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the ancient prophets has arisen.'" Then he said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter said in reply, "The Messiah of God." He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. He said, "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised."
Peter, the imperfect follower of Jesus, simple fisherman, stubborn, impulsive, showed amazing insight in reply to Jesus question – who do you say that I am? Peter names Jesus as the “Messiah of God”. Where did that come from? Apparently weeks of exposure to Jesus’ words and deeds and Jesus’ patience in allowing this ragtag bunch to hang around him has begun to bear fruit. Peter has grown before our very eyes. Of course we know Peter will still have his hiccups, his trials. But the point of Peter’s example gives us hope for ourselves. Could paying attention to Jesus words and deeds rub off on us as well? That plus Jesus’ patience and love is all it took for quite an ordinary person to become extraordinary in bringing about the kingdom. This should give all of us hope and encouragement. Jesus does not expect perfection. He wants us to be with him. He has all the love and patience in the world. He knows we are capable of extraordinary things. He knows it – if only we hang around him for a little longer.
Random thought, or maybe related thought. I started to read this book last week –“Sin Bravely, A Joyful Alternative to a Purpose Driven Life” by Mark Ellingren. It is a critique of the Rick Warren/Purpose Driven Life school of religion. I seems to be saying that instead of being chosen, and needing to act accordingly, we should accept the fact that we are sinners and that even so, with God’s love and patience, we can do good for ourselves and others in this world. This sort of ties in with Peter’s extraordinary confession of Jesus as Messiah. Peter is a sinner, he knows it, but he also is secure in Jesus patience and love, so he keeps picking himself up and dusting himself off and trying again. Jesus nurtures him and – just imagine, founds his entire church/religion on him. Maybe this guy Ellingren is onto something. Interesting that I came across this book exactly at the same time I came across that passage on Peter. Thank you Holy Spirit.
Once when Jesus was praying in solitude, and the disciples were with him, he asked them, "Who do the crowds say that I am?" They said in reply, "John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, 'One of the ancient prophets has arisen.'" Then he said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter said in reply, "The Messiah of God." He rebuked them and directed them not to tell this to anyone. He said, "The Son of Man must suffer greatly and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed and on the third day be raised."
Peter, the imperfect follower of Jesus, simple fisherman, stubborn, impulsive, showed amazing insight in reply to Jesus question – who do you say that I am? Peter names Jesus as the “Messiah of God”. Where did that come from? Apparently weeks of exposure to Jesus’ words and deeds and Jesus’ patience in allowing this ragtag bunch to hang around him has begun to bear fruit. Peter has grown before our very eyes. Of course we know Peter will still have his hiccups, his trials. But the point of Peter’s example gives us hope for ourselves. Could paying attention to Jesus words and deeds rub off on us as well? That plus Jesus’ patience and love is all it took for quite an ordinary person to become extraordinary in bringing about the kingdom. This should give all of us hope and encouragement. Jesus does not expect perfection. He wants us to be with him. He has all the love and patience in the world. He knows we are capable of extraordinary things. He knows it – if only we hang around him for a little longer.
Random thought, or maybe related thought. I started to read this book last week –“Sin Bravely, A Joyful Alternative to a Purpose Driven Life” by Mark Ellingren. It is a critique of the Rick Warren/Purpose Driven Life school of religion. I seems to be saying that instead of being chosen, and needing to act accordingly, we should accept the fact that we are sinners and that even so, with God’s love and patience, we can do good for ourselves and others in this world. This sort of ties in with Peter’s extraordinary confession of Jesus as Messiah. Peter is a sinner, he knows it, but he also is secure in Jesus patience and love, so he keeps picking himself up and dusting himself off and trying again. Jesus nurtures him and – just imagine, founds his entire church/religion on him. Maybe this guy Ellingren is onto something. Interesting that I came across this book exactly at the same time I came across that passage on Peter. Thank you Holy Spirit.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Luke 9:7 – 17 Multiplication of the Loaves.
Luke 9:7 – 17 Multiplication of the Loaves.
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, "John has been raised from the dead"; others were saying, "Elijah has appeared"; still others, "One of the ancient prophets has arisen." But Herod said, "John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?" And he kept trying to see him.
When the apostles returned, they explained to Jesus what they had done. He took them and withdrew in private to a town called Bethsaida. The crowds, meanwhile, learned of this and followed him. He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and he healed those who needed to be cured. As the day was drawing to a close, the Twelve approached him and said, "Dismiss the crowd so that they can go to the surrounding villages and farms and find lodging and provisions; for we are in a deserted place here." He said to them, "Give them some food yourselves." They replied, "Five loaves and two fish are all we have, unless we ourselves go and buy food for all these people." Now the men there numbered about five thousand. Then he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of (about) fifty." They did so and made them all sit down. Then taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing over them, broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. They all ate and were satisfied. And when the leftover fragments were picked up, they filled twelve wicker baskets.
This is a very famous miracle, one that until recently I think I have taken for granted. What changed my mind was a sermon I heard while in Maine. The priest, who initially looked to be quite stern, turned out to be pretty funny. He started and ended with a joke and told several funny stories along the way. But it was his insight into the miracle that has stayed with me. I always took it as a straight up miracle – a bottomless basket of bread and fish, or maybe you imagined baskets of food appearing out of thin air, poof, poof, poof, to feed the masses. This priest had a different take on it. I think his larger point was that we should look to Jesus as our example, follow his ways of faith and trust and generosity. In a way, his take on the miracle was perhaps less “miraculous” in that he said that perhaps what happened that day was that when Jesus blessed and broke the few loaves and fishes and began to share them with the crowd, everyone who had squirreled away a bit of food in their belongings when they came out to see Jesus, broke that out as well and began to share with their neighbors. So Jesus’ example inspired people and together they created the miracle. Maybe that makes this miracle less in your eyes, but not in mine. In my eyes it means that those kind of miracles – inspired by Jesus’ deeds and acted upon by us are possible anytime and anyplace. Have you ever wished you lived in a time of miracles? Maybe we just have to stop waiting for the “poof” and start doing our small part in faith.
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, "John has been raised from the dead"; others were saying, "Elijah has appeared"; still others, "One of the ancient prophets has arisen." But Herod said, "John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?" And he kept trying to see him.
When the apostles returned, they explained to Jesus what they had done. He took them and withdrew in private to a town called Bethsaida. The crowds, meanwhile, learned of this and followed him. He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and he healed those who needed to be cured. As the day was drawing to a close, the Twelve approached him and said, "Dismiss the crowd so that they can go to the surrounding villages and farms and find lodging and provisions; for we are in a deserted place here." He said to them, "Give them some food yourselves." They replied, "Five loaves and two fish are all we have, unless we ourselves go and buy food for all these people." Now the men there numbered about five thousand. Then he said to his disciples, "Have them sit down in groups of (about) fifty." They did so and made them all sit down. Then taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing over them, broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. They all ate and were satisfied. And when the leftover fragments were picked up, they filled twelve wicker baskets.
This is a very famous miracle, one that until recently I think I have taken for granted. What changed my mind was a sermon I heard while in Maine. The priest, who initially looked to be quite stern, turned out to be pretty funny. He started and ended with a joke and told several funny stories along the way. But it was his insight into the miracle that has stayed with me. I always took it as a straight up miracle – a bottomless basket of bread and fish, or maybe you imagined baskets of food appearing out of thin air, poof, poof, poof, to feed the masses. This priest had a different take on it. I think his larger point was that we should look to Jesus as our example, follow his ways of faith and trust and generosity. In a way, his take on the miracle was perhaps less “miraculous” in that he said that perhaps what happened that day was that when Jesus blessed and broke the few loaves and fishes and began to share them with the crowd, everyone who had squirreled away a bit of food in their belongings when they came out to see Jesus, broke that out as well and began to share with their neighbors. So Jesus’ example inspired people and together they created the miracle. Maybe that makes this miracle less in your eyes, but not in mine. In my eyes it means that those kind of miracles – inspired by Jesus’ deeds and acted upon by us are possible anytime and anyplace. Have you ever wished you lived in a time of miracles? Maybe we just have to stop waiting for the “poof” and start doing our small part in faith.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Luke 9:1-6 Commissioning of the Twelve
Luke 9:1-6 Commissioning of the Twelve
He summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal(the sick). He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them." Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
It appears Jesus’ mission is approaching a new phase. He instructs his twelve followers and sends them out “to proclaim the reign of God and heal the afflicted.” By doing this he prepares them for their future role as his disciples when he is no longer with them. God’s Kingdom is at hand – repent and reform your lives. Believe and let the power of your belief heal you. It’s pretty heady stuff – whatever side of the equation you fall on – disciple or crowd member. What I find even more interesting are Jesus detailed instructions to the disciples: bring nothing for the journey, no food, no clothing, no walking stick or traveling bag, no money. Depend upon the generosity of strangers. Force nothing, accept everything. It is Jesus' way and it must be their way. Control nothing, demand nothing. Preach the good news of the kingdom which is coming, heal people, minister to their needs. Take nothing with you, travel light. Go out with love and good will and where it is offered back to you, accept it, and where it is refused, let it go. Are you listening Church?? Control nothing, force nothing, preach the good news, minister to the people and leave the rest to God. Amen.
He summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal(the sick). He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them." Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.
It appears Jesus’ mission is approaching a new phase. He instructs his twelve followers and sends them out “to proclaim the reign of God and heal the afflicted.” By doing this he prepares them for their future role as his disciples when he is no longer with them. God’s Kingdom is at hand – repent and reform your lives. Believe and let the power of your belief heal you. It’s pretty heady stuff – whatever side of the equation you fall on – disciple or crowd member. What I find even more interesting are Jesus detailed instructions to the disciples: bring nothing for the journey, no food, no clothing, no walking stick or traveling bag, no money. Depend upon the generosity of strangers. Force nothing, accept everything. It is Jesus' way and it must be their way. Control nothing, demand nothing. Preach the good news of the kingdom which is coming, heal people, minister to their needs. Take nothing with you, travel light. Go out with love and good will and where it is offered back to you, accept it, and where it is refused, let it go. Are you listening Church?? Control nothing, force nothing, preach the good news, minister to the people and leave the rest to God. Amen.
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