The following is a reflection on James 2:1-17, the epistle lesson appointed for Proper 18 B, according to the Revised Common Lectionary. James wrote to a church in crisis. And we know what that crisis was: the bigotry of class.
The following version of the prayers of the people is inspired by the Epistle of James, and might be used when a reading from the letter is preached on or highlighted in the service in some other way. Father of Lights, from whom comes every perfect gift, hear our prayers which we offer fervently to you, and in the name of our glorious Lord Jesus Christ. We pray for the church, that we might show […]
The following is a reflection on James 1:17-27, the epistle lesson appointed for Proper 17B in the Revised Common Lectionary. This is also the first in a series of five reflections on the Letter of James. Luther called the Epistle of James the “Epistle of Straw.” In other words, he didn’t care for it too much. Mostly, of course, because it is so very different from the epistles of Paul. It’s not as theologically “deep” […]
The following is a reflection on Acts 10:44-48, the second lesson properly appointed for Easter 6B, according to the Revised Common Lectionary. …While Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon all who heard the word. The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles… The two words above, which to me stick out as if they have […]
The following is a reflection on 1 John 4:7-21, the epistle lesson for the Fifth Sunday of Easter in Year B, according to the Revised Common Lectionary. I have very clear memories of holding each of my daughters, just moments after their births. Both times a nurse handed me those little swaddled bundles and then left the room to care for my wife, just recovering from the c-section. I remember experiencing a flood of emotion, […]
The following is a reflection on Hebrews 5:5-10, the Epistle Lesson for the Fifth Sunday in Lent, according to the Revised Standard Lectionary. Hebrews 5:1-10 is the Epistle Lesson for Proper 24B. Abram had been told by God to pick up from his land—the only home he had ever known—and go to a new place.You can’t possibly imagine how big this is unless you’ve ever been among people who are rooted to their land through […]
The following is a reflection on Philippians 3:4b-14, the Epistle lesson appointed for October 2nd, 2011 according to the New Revised Common Lectionary. (Proper 22, Year A) On this site there is also • a reflection on the Gospel lesson for the same day, and • a version of the Prayers of the People, based on the lessons of the day. “I have suffered the loss of all things.” Oftentimes I sit in my office, […]
The cross at the center of the Cloister from Trie-en-Bigorre, at The Cloisters in New York City. The following is a reflection on Philippians 2:1-13, the Epistle lesson appointed for September 25th, 2011 according to the New Revised Common Lectionary. (Proper 20, Year A) On this site there is also • a reflection on the Gospel lesson for the same day [coming soon], and • a version of the Prayers of the People, based on […]
The following is a reflection on Philippians 1:21-30, the Epistle lesson appointed for September 18th, 2011 according to the New Revised Common Lectionary. (Proper 19, Year A) On this site there is also • a reflection on the Gospel Lesson for the same day, and • a version of the Prayers of the People, based on the lessons of the day. “And this is God’s doing. For he has graciously granted you the privilege not […]
I don't have all the answers, I don't know if I'm on God's side or not, I'm just trying to muddle my way through - but all the while seeking truth and mercy.