Sharron R. Blezard

The Truth About Freedom

October 25, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Reformation Sunday Lectionary Reflection, October 30, 2011
What constitutes real freedom? Jesus has the answer…if only we will listen.
(Photo by cliffjamester used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Living the Gospel of Love

October 20, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Lectionary Reflection for the 19th Sunday after Pentecost
How can so few words be so difficult to live? It sounds pretty simple on the surface: love God with all you are and have, and love your neighbor just like yourself. The challenges comes in letting go of all that hinders love. (Photo by Coolm36 used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

For Granted… Soap and Water

October 19, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

JUST LIVING Blog–This is the first in a series entitled “For Granted” that will examine the many things we take for granted amidst our abundance in North America. Plentiful access to soap and water is a good way to “come clean” and kick off the conversation. (Photo by the Italian voice used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!

American Idols

October 12, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

18th Sunday after Pentecost Lectionary Reflection – For great is the LORD, and greatly/ to be praised;/he is to be revered above/all gods./For all the gods of the peoples are/idols,/but the LORD made the heavens. Psalm 96:4-5 Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are […]

The Seven Deadly Sins of Personal Finance

October 9, 2011 By Len Penzo

Here’s an engaging (and entertaining) look at the seven deadly sins of personal finance from award-winning financial blogger Len Penzo. In addition to linking these sins to personal finance, Penzo suggests “penance” for the repentant in the form of additional articles on financial management. (Photo by Muffet used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

‘Pity Party’ or ‘Plenty Party’

October 5, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

LECTIONARY REFLECTION – What will it be…a “pity party” or a “plenty party”? With God the answer is always the latter. No matter which lesson you choose this week, there is plenty of mercy, grace, and joy to share. (Photo by khrawlings used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

Life, Death and Assorted Fruits and Nuts

September 28, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Lectionary Reflection: 16th Sunday after Pentecost
Who belongs in the vineyard and who does not? What role will you play in this cast of characters? One thing’s for certain–this week’s gospel challenges our assumptions and asks us to look long and hard at how we embody the gospel.

What will it be—Yes or No?

September 20, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Lectionary Reflection for Sept. 25, 2011
Do we say the right things but don’t do the right thing? If so, what will it take to experience a change in priorities and to recognize a new authority? What will you preach or teach this Sunday? (Photo by YourLocalDave used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)

It’s not Fair! God’s Grace and Human Nature

September 14, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Lectionary Reflection, 14th Sunday after Pentecost

God’s idea of fair and our idea of what’s fair can be quite different. I’d say that’s a very good thing! What do you think?

The Mathematics of Manumission = Freedom in Forgiveness

September 7, 2011 By Sharron R. Blezard

Who benefits from forgiveness—the one forgiven or the one who forgives? Considering this question leads to some important answers, strange mathematics, and hard work. Are you ready? (Photo by FeatheredTar used under Creative Commons License. Thanks!)