Revised Common Lectionary: Listening before Giving

Jesus demonstrates a beautiful lesson in this week’s Gospel reading: do not assume that you know the needs or desires of another person. Bartimaeus called out to Jesus for mercy. He could have asked Jesus for any number of things. Though he’s known to us now simply as a blind beggar, certainly there was more… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Prayers and Whining

If you were ever going to have a “superheroes of the Bible” series in worship, this would be a great week to start! Esther saves the lives of an entire nation. And Harbona the eunuch gives a solid assist. A woman as a superhero with a queer sidekick? This Bible reading pushes more boundaries than… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Name It

As usual, the Revised Common Lectionary offers a wealth of options for preaching this week. Matthew 10 could itself be several different sermons! Take up your cross and follow Jesus. Christ brings a sword to the earth, not peace. One’s foes will be members of one’s own household. Can your community to relate to any… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Is This The Time?

Whether you’re celebrating the Ascension of the Lord or the Seventh Sunday of Easter this week, you’ll be hearing a timely question from the disciples: Lord, is this the time? (Acts 1:6) Is this the time we can meet in person again? Is this the time to resume congregational singing? Is this the time we can… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Safer at Home?

It was the evening of Easter. Jesus’ followers weren’t sure what to do with themselves. They were mostly taking the safe route and staying secluded – almost in quarantine. There was no telling what danger they risked if they ventured out into the hubbub of the town. And yet, they had heard good news from… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Saints and Sinners

For all the saintswho from their labors rest……and we, somewhere in the space between mourning and jealousy, continue to labor in a world that assumes little opportunity for rest. The law is slack and judgment is perverted (Habakkuk 1:4), our bodies groan day & night and our strength is dried up (Psalm 32:3-4), faithful discipleship… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: The Days Are Surely Coming…

As a church professional, I get to hear some pretty terrible theology sometimes, from people who assume that I believe as they do. Can you relate? One of those things that I often hear is that the “Old Testament God” is vengeful while the “New Testament God” is forgiving. Passages like this week’s from Jeremiah… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Dishonest Ethics?

Does anyone claim this week’s parable as their favorite? I would be surprised. It is difficult to discern why Jesus would praise the devious actions of a person who cheated his employer. Though, on the other hand, the character in the parable is a slave, and he is cheating the slave owner. Maybe it’s helpful… Read More

Revised Common Lectionary: Yes, Mary Knew

It’s Magnificat Sunday! This week, we hear Elizabeth’s praise of Mary and her child, and Mary’s song of praise to God. How wonderful to have two female prophets in one worship service! As you speak about God’s call for them and their response, be sure to remember that your congregation includes worshippers who have struggled… Read More