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Rights
It’s about respecting dignity Some Christians talk a lot about their personal rights. But there are a few reasons many others have a hard time talking about rights. Chief among them: that whole God-at-the-center-of-things thing. And yet, our baptismal covenant directs us into different territory than we’re used to hearing in the media. We pledge…
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Obstacles – A reflection for Proper 21B
For SundayEighteenth Sunday after Pentecost Collect O God, you declare your almighty power chiefly in showing mercy and pity: Grant us the fullness of your grace, that we, running to obtain your promises, may become partakers of your heavenly treasure; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,…
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Fear
Leaning in, not overcoming “Do not be afraid.” Jesus says this constantly. Often when the proverbial horse has left the barn. Telling us to not be afraid when we already are seems a bit…harsh. And ridiculous. “Oh, OK! I’ll just switch this off… [ click ] There. Not afraid. Phew!” But Jesus isn’t asking us…
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Jesus Keeps Teaching
Jesus teaches about God’s dream for creation, even as those closest to him misunderstand. Even as we misunderstand.
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After the Interruption
This past week, we celebrated Holypalooza for the eighth time in nine years. It was a celebration full of emotion as we long for “normal” and celebrate this joyous opportunity. It also represented a shift in direction; the natural evolution of time and circumstance. The vision of its three founding pastors (now long gone from…
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Repentance
We are already turning The word repent means to turn and go another way. In Mark, we see that repentance is the driver of Jesus’s ministry and the very mantle he takes up from John the Baptizer. It is also what Jesus demonstrates in Mark 8, when he rebukes Peter for getting between him and…
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Failing the Pop Quiz
“Get behind me, Satan!” is one of the most shocking phrases in the gospels. It is also one of the most revealing.
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Without Fear and Longing
For SundaySixteenth Sunday after Pentecost Collect O God, because without you we are not able to please you, mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit may in all things direct and rule our hearts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.Amen. Reading…
