The parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates that true neighborliness is defined by mercy, not boundaries or laws. Jesus challenges us to reconsider whom we view as deserving of compassion, urging that real kindness involves uncomfortable engagement with all, especially those marginalized by society. Mercy transcends categories and demands action.
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 (4th Sunday after Pentecost) – July 6, 2025
In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends seventy disciples to spread the Good News, reflecting the necessity of community and trust over self-reliance. Through the metaphor of birds leaving the nest, it emphasizes preparation through practice, facing rejection, and embracing vulnerability. Ultimately, thriving in community is essential for facing modern challenges.
Luke 9:51-62 (3rd Sunday after Pentecost) – June 29, 2025
This week's Gospel reading from Luke discusses Jesus' journey toward Jerusalem, highlighting the tension with Samaritans who refuse him hospitality. The disciples, fearing betrayal, react violently, but Jesus rebukes them, emphasizing the urgency of following him without looking back. The message urges believers to confront challenges and embrace hope in the Kingdom of God.
John 16:12-15 (Holy Trinity Sunday) – June 15, 2025
Today we discuss the significance of Holy Trinity Sunday, emphasizing the relational aspect of the Trinity rather than theological complexities. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit's guidance to his disciples, ensuring they aren't left alone. The focus is on preaching a God who shares, drawing us into divine relationship and ongoing proclamation of truth.
John 14:8–17 [25–27]; Acts 2:1-20 (Pentecost) – June 8, 2025
Our Pentecost texts reflect on the two portrayals of the Holy Spirit in scripture, emphasizing the importance of recognizing divine presence in everyday life. It connects John 14's themes of knowledge and intimacy with God to Acts 2's communication and understanding, urging believers to focus on the Spirit's ongoing work rather than seeking miraculous signs.
Always on the Verge of Relapse
I have more supports, more accountability, and more experience than ever before and I am so grateful and so much healthier for it. But I am just as close, if not closer to relapsing.
From Lost to Finding
So, many of us have had experiences of feeling lost. They are challenging and hard but there is such joy once we are found. And from that experience, we can help others who are lost to find their way through and experience in the incredible grace and love of God.
#RecoverLent – Listening – “Is there any other way that I have harmed you…?”
Is there any way that I have harmed you that I am unaware of?
#RecoverLent – Telling the Truth and Making Amends
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins…” Like a tornado, I stormed through life, leaving behind total destruction. Broken relationships, fractured friendships, severed connections…. As overdramatic as that sounds, part of me wonders if it isn’t dramatic enough. When... Continue Reading →
#RecoverLent – Vulnerability and Ash Wednesday
Six months into my sobriety, there was a moment that rocked me. It may have been the moment I came closest to drinking again. But being broken and sharing vulnerably saved my life.
