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Between Proper 21 + 22 (Year A)
The confrontations in the Temple continue. And understanding how they got there, and how that makes us feel, is essential.
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In the Kingdom of Earth
In the Kingdom of Earth, selfishness rules and violence is justified. How far such things are from what Jesus offers: a kin-dom of heaven. Proper 22A | Matthew 21:33-46 Several years ago, Rose and I took a trip to northwestern Michigan. We stayed in a bed and breakfast near Traverse City and drove up the…
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Giving Grace
The hardest challenge Jesus gives those inside the church is to recognize that the saving grace is not about who we were before, but during and after. Proper 21A | Matthew 21:23-32 Before Jesus is teaching in the Temple and these chief priests and scribes question his authority, Jesus had to get there. When we…
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For Tuesday of Holy Week
Recap of Matthew 21-22 The climax of the gospel began on Sunday with the Triumphal Entry. Chapter 21 From there, Jesus went to the Temple, drove the tax collectors and dove sellers out, only to find those in need of healing coming in — a kind of exchange which yields far different results than the…
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The Wisdom of Crowds
Hear the excitement in the air, crackling with power and uncertainty, with the anticipatory cries of “Hosanna!” For here is the new king, anointed, blessed successor, and reuniter! The one who would bring the glory of the one kingdom back with its conquering power! He is here and we will be saved! Excitement and confusion…
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Closer to the Kingdom
How the negative helps us find the positive in the Parable of the Wicked Tenants a Homily for Proper 22 A | Text: Matthew 21:33-46 It is a great honor to be here to join you this morning. I am so thankful for the grace and generosity that has been shown to me already. I…