Increasingly, the passage of time seems a blur. We’re already a month into 2023! These midwinter months push us inward. Blankets, sweaters, and hot beverages are tangible evidence of our desire for sanctuary and peace. Yet, instead of going into hibernation, this inward drive can provide a natural time for reflecting on who we are. […]
Needing Rest for Christmas?
This year what I need from Christmas is rest. I suspect I’m not alone in that.
What is a spiritual life? Do I have one?
Few words are quite as squishy as “spiritual.” Some avoid using it because it’s open to so many interpretations. After all, the term is used by all sorts of people, probably even people who disagree with you! Yet, I think spiritual is a worthy and helpful word. Note: This post is an edited version of an essay […]
Do Christians Hate Forgiveness? (Are we Jonah?)
Not long ago, the president announced an initiative to relieve some of the pressure of escalating student loan costs and predatory practices with a small loan forgiveness program. The response among many Christians has been deeply fascinating. Social media posts on the subject have mile-long threads of replies. Strident articles are being published. People have […]
The Lamb is the Key: Why So Many Christians Read Revelation Wrong
John’s Apocalypse has been a troublesome book since the beginning. Many interpreters, taking their cue from the Revelator’s promise to “show what must soon take place,” have seen in Revelation a coded sequence of end-time events. The only work remaining is to decode the symbols to reveal the book’s one true meaning. Or is it?
Lent Reflection – Do I find myself condemning other’s faith or spiritual practice?
Mark 14:1-9 is the scripture I’m spending time with today – when a woman anoints Jesus to the surprise and consternation of the other dinner guests.
Lent Reflection – Am I drawn to apocalyptic end-time teaching?
Luke 21:5-33 is the scripture I’m reading today for Lent, where Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple in apocalyptic terms.
Lent Reflection – Do I mistake my religious observance for a life that pleases God?
Today’s reading for Lent is Mark 11:12-23, Jesus’ dramatic act in the temple and his odd interaction with a fig tree.
Lent Reflection – Do I expect Jesus to make my life and the world what I want it to be?
Today is the 38th day of Lent. I’m reading Luke 19:28-44 today, Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem to crowds of hopeful and adoring fans.
Lent Reflection – Am I driven by fear of loss and death?
Today is the 37th day of Lent. John 19:38-42 is the scripture today, the burial of Jesus.
Lent Reflection – Do I think Jesus’ crucifixion was mainly meant to benefit me?
Today is the 36th day of Lent. The reading today is Luke 23:39-43, Jesus crucified between two condemned men.
Lent Reflection – Do I have a need for God to be violent?
We’re up to the 35th day of Lent. Luke 23:33-38 is today’s scripture. Jesus is crucified. Jesus forgives.
Lent Reflection – Am I tempted to ignore injustice?
This is the 34th day of Lent. The scripture today is Luke 23:27-31, when the women of Jerusalem weep for Jesus.
Lent Reflection – Am I driven to avoid discomfort and insecurity?
Today is the 33nd day of Lent. The scripture today is John 12:20-33, where Jesus talks about what it really means to follow him.
Lent Reflection – Do I serve others even when it costs me?
Today is the 32nd day of Lent. Today’s passage is Mark 15:21, a single verse that offers us a fascinating glimpse into the life of the early church.