Ash Wednesday is a perfect opportunity to remind people that God created us from the earth, suggests “ecopreacher” Rev. Leah Schade. “Finding ways to reconnect with the earth from which you were created is so essential to finding wholeness and being at rest in God.” (Photo by Josh Larios, used by Creative Commons license.)
Seventh Sunday after Epiphany Year A Lectionary Reflection
February 23, 2014
Jesus clearly cares about how we treat one another. The “Sermon on the Mount” is full of teachings about proper human relationships. He begins many by referring to traditional law, saying, “You have heard that it was said…” Following the letter and spirit of the law is tough enough, but Jesus ups the ante considerably by doing what he does so well—drawing the circle of inclusion ever wider. (Photo: abhi, Creative Commons)
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany Lectionary Reflection, Year A
Christian, Christian, how does your garden grow? Who waters, who plants, and who gives the growth? Consider this week’s lessons as part of an “instruction manual” from the master gardener in how to be and grow as disciples. It’s not easy, but the rewards are myriad. (Photo: d-olwen-dee, Creative Commons)
Lectionary Reflection, 5th Sunday After Epiphany, Year A
February 9, 2014
What do the words of Jesus and the Prophet have to say to us about discipleship this week? Plenty! While the instructions are tough ones to hear and follow, we are not alone and we do not “fast” in vain. So, dear friends, let your lights shine and spread mercy, justice, and generosity liberally wherever you go. Read on for ideas with youth and children and for worship. (Photo: ralph repo, Creative Commons)
Lectionary Reflection for the 4th Sunday after Epiphany, Year A
February 2, 2014
This week’s lectionary lessons invite us to ponder what it means to be disciples, called to love and serve God and others. Our calling is not one to which most of the world aspires, but it is exactly in pursuing what the world deems foolish that we find our meaning and our salvation. (Photo: Aaron Geller, Creative Commons)
Most pastors would rather preach on almost anything besides than finances and stewardship, but as the preaching pastor, you are the chief development officer for your church. Provocative words from Ministry Matters. (Photo by Sumos, via Bigstockphoto.com)
Lectionary Reflection for the Third Sunday after Epiphany, Year A
January 26, 2014
Leading and serving the people of God can be tough sledding; just ask Paul. This week’s gospel and epistle lessons offer important words for leaders AND for the people they lead. Blessings on the work you do and on the communities you serve! (Photo: Steve Snodgrass)
Lectionary Reflection for the Second Sunday after Epiphany Year A
January 19, 2014
The season of Epiphany and the lessons for this week offer us an opportunity to see the big picture, to hear the Word, and to understand how and why we are sent into the world to be God’s people in the name of Christ. Read on for ideas for preaching and teaching, worship, and time with children and youth. (Photo: Edith Soto, Creative Commons)
Lectionary Reflection for the Baptism of our Lord Year A
January 12, 2013
Yes, today we remember Jesus’ baptism and our own, but don’t stop there. We have work to do, and a story to tell. (Photo: bterrycompton, Creative Commons)
Second Sunday of Christmas, January 5, 2014
What do the first chapter of John’s gospel and movie lights have in common? Read on to find out, and keep reading to discover ideas for how to use this week’s readings in worship and with youth and children. Blessings on your preaching and teaching in 2014! (Photo: shospace, Creative Commons)
