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.
Luke 8:26-39 (2nd Sunday after Pentecost) – June 22, 2025
The passage discusses Jesus' encounter with a demon-possessed man in Gentile territory, illustrating themes of marginalization, liberation, and community restoration. It highlights how addiction, racism, and other societal issues act as modern "demon possessions," distorting identities and isolating individuals. The narrative emphasizes the importance of healing and reconciliation within communities.
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.
John 17:20-26 (7th Sunday of Easter) – June 1, 2025
In John 17, Jesus’ “high priestly prayer” emphasizes unity among future believers, reflecting relational love rather than uniformity. This unity serves as a witness to the world and is rooted in God's eternal love. The call is to navigate differences with humility and trust, fostering belonging within the church community.
John 5:1-9 (alternate text) (6th Sunday of Easter) – May 25, 2025
This week's lectionary offers an alternate Gospel reading from John 5, highlighting Jesus' healing of a man at the pool of Beth-zatha. The narrative emphasizes the importance of agency, urging the church to actively listen to others' needs. Jesus’ question, “Do you want to be made well?” reflects a call for genuine, empathetic service rather than assumptions.
John 13:31-35 (5th Sunday of Easter) – May 18, 2025
The Gospel text during Easter reflects on Jesus' Last Supper and his commandment to love one another, emphasizing its significance for discipleship. This reminder to embody Christ's love remains vital today, as believers must actively demonstrate this love in the world. The call to love is ongoing and essential for community and faith.
John 10:22–30 (4th Sunday of Easter/Good Shepherd Sunday) – May 11, 2025
This week’s reflection explores Jesus’ confrontation with the crowds demanding to know his messianic intentions during the Festival of the Dedication. Instead of political clarity, he emphasizes a relational understanding of discipleship. The text offers hope for those seeking security and recognition amidst uncertainty, highlighting the essence of belonging in faith.
John 21:1-19 (3rd Sunday of Easter) – May 4, 2025
The Gospel of John emphasizes a new commandment: to love one another as Jesus loved us. This is illustrated through Peter's reinstatement after his betrayal. Jesus encourages disciples not only to profess love but to actively care for others. Genuine love transcends fear and divisions, reflecting Christ's teachings in our interactions.
Micah Krey 