The post reflects on the quiet moment following Easter, where congregations often feel exhausted after the celebrations. It emphasizes Jesus' gentle presence in times of uncertainty, offering peace and breath rather than pressure. Resurrection is portrayed as a continuous way of life, centered on the Spirit and the invitation to pause and breathe amidst chaos.
Luke 24:1-12 (Easter Sunday) – April 20, 2025
Luke’s resurrection account presents an absence of Jesus, emphasizing memory over immediate joy. The women, expecting death, encounter mystery and are challenged to remember Jesus' promises. This narrative acknowledges grief and complexity, inviting preachers to embody resurrection hope amid brokenness, encouraging communities to proclaim Christ's promise even without tangible presence.
Luke 19:28-40 (Palm Sunday) – April 13, 2025
Luke's account of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem diverges from other Gospels by emphasizing humility and healing over triumphalism. Instead of palms and shouts of "Hosanna," the crowd lays down cloaks, praising God for Jesus' acts of power. The narrative underlines that peace stems from vulnerability and love, rather than political might.
John 12:1-8 (5th Sunday in Lent) – April 6, 2025
This passage from John's Gospel highlights Mary’s profound act of devotion towards Jesus as he prepares for his imminent death. It contrasts her radical faith with Judas' pragmatic objections, posing essential questions about true devotion. As we approach Holy Week, it invites us to center our attention on Christ and embrace the promise of resurrection.
Luke 15:1-3,11b-32 (4th Sunday in Lent) – March 30th, 2025
The parable of the Prodigal Son highlights the themes of grace and belonging, illustrating the struggle between the wayward younger son and the dutiful older brother. Both characters reflect different aspects of humanity, emphasizing that all are in need of forgiveness and love. The father symbolizes God's extravagant grace, inviting everyone to the celebration without regard for merit.
Luke 13:1-9 (3rd Sunday in Lent) – March 23, 2025
This week's text explores human dynamics and theodicy through a parable told by Jesus. He emphasizes personal repentance rather than judging others. The gardener's plea for more time encourages growth and grace. The narrative highlights the need for patience and investment in both our spiritual lives and the lives of those around us.
Luke 13:31-35 (2nd Sunday of Lent) – March 16th, 2025
In this reflection for the 2nd week of Lent, Jesus embodies the longing to break Jerusalem's cycle of violence, contrasting the protective love of a mother hen with the predatory nature of power. The narrative highlights the city's history, the grief of rejection, and the enduring call for mercy amidst ongoing oppression and conflict.
Luke 4:1-13 (1st Sunday in Lent) – March 9, 2025
The content explores the Lukan account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness, highlighting differences from Matthew's version. It emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in Jesus' resistance to temptation, framing Lent as a time for spiritual growth rather than mere self-denial. Ultimately, it suggests that temptation's significance expands beyond the wilderness to Jerusalem, symbolizing hope through resurrection.
Luke 9:28-36 [37-43a] (Transfiguration Sunday) – March 2, 2025
Introduction Every year we hear the Transfiguration story the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. No matter the year, on the Sunday before Lent begins, we hear the transfiguration story. All three Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, tell this story. Many of the details are similar but there are some distinguishing characteristics. In all three the... Continue Reading →
1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 (Seventh Sunday after Epiphany) – February 23, 2025
The content discusses Paul's dialogue with the Corinthians regarding resurrection and the nature of curiosity in religious inquiry. It highlights the balance between seeking knowledge and accepting mystery in faith. Paul encourages openness to broader understandings while acknowledging limitations in human comprehension, emphasizing that curiosity can deepen our relationship with God.
