Author: Rykken

10 November 2024: Pentecost 25

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Faithful Conversations #89
Introduction to Readers:

We make hundreds of decisions every day, and the quality of DISCERNMENT has been on my mind this week. The origin of the word is the Latin discernere, — a combination of dis (meaning apart) and cernere (meaning to separate or sift). Discernment, then, refers to our ability to judge wisely and sift things out on our daily walk. I regularly pray for discernment because life is filled with difficult decisions. Spend time this week thinking about those “discerning souls” in your background, people who modeled clear thinking for you in your formative years. We need reminders of their voices! 

The Face of Jesus (using AI)

Discernment, of course, is important when choosing leaders, and on election eve, this week’s Lectionary readings are a great reminder of the counter-cultural nature of our faith. Think about the thousands of messages we have been hearing for many months (are you as overwhelmed by the political ads as I am?), and how little we hear about the poor or those suffering from injustice in our world. Frustratingly, the appeal from candidates always seems to focus heavily on selfishness, as if the only question we should be asking ourselves is, “What is best for me?!” I shudder to consider what Jesus thinks about the language running in and through our political dialogue!

Thanks for visiting the blog again this week, and for your continued interest in grappling with issues of faith! Amazingly, we have three Sundays left in this church year and will turn the calendar to “Year C” of the Lectionary on December 1st. We have been in the time of Pentecost since May — and a reminder that it was during Pentecost that our spiritual ancestors received the Holy Spirit. Once exclusive to a select group, that Spirit and God’s blessing extend to everyone — a good reminder for us! My reflection this week will key in on the connections between the passages from 1 Kings, Psalm 146, and Mark’s Gospel.

Pentecost 25 Readings
1 Kings 17: 8-16
Psalm 146
Hebrews 9: 24-28
Mark 12: 38-44

Common Themes in the Pentecost 25 Readings

Look for the following themes in the readings for Sunday: faith, sacrifice, and divine provision. In 1 Kings 17:8-16, the widow’s willingness to share her last meal with the prophet Elijah exemplifies deep trust in God’s sustenance. Psalm 146 emphasizes reliance on God as the true source of help, contrasting human leaders with the enduring support of the Lord. Hebrews 9:24-28 speaks to Christ’s ultimate sacrifice, revealing the significance of His role in atonement and salvation. Finally, in Mark 12:38-44, Jesus commends the poor widow’s humble offering, illustrating that genuine faith is measured not by the amount given, but by the heart’s intention.

First Reading: 1 Kings 17: 8-16: The Widow of Zarephath

8 Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, 9 “Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and live there, for I have commanded a widow there to feed you.” 10 So he set out and went to Zarephath. When he came to the gate of the town, a widow was there gathering sticks; he called to her and said, “Bring me a little water in a vessel, so that I may drink.” 11 As she was going to bring it, he called to her and said, “Bring me a morsel of bread in your hand.” 12 But she said, “As the Lord your God lives, I have nothing baked, only a handful of meal in a jar and a little oil in a jug; I am now gathering a couple of sticks so that I may go home and prepare it for myself and my son, that we may eat it and die.” 13 Elijah said to her, “Do not be afraid; go and do as you have said, but first make me a little cake of it and bring it to me, and afterward make something for yourself and your son. 14 For thus says the Lord the God of Israel: The jar of meal will not be emptied and the jug of oil will not fail until the day that the Lord sends rain on the earth.” 15 She went and did as Elijah said, so that she as well as he and her household ate for many days. 16 The jar of meal was not emptied, neither did the jug of oil fail, according to the word of the Lord that he spoke by Elijah.

Psalm 146: Praise for God’s Help

1 Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
2 I will praise the Lord as long as I live;
    I will sing praises to my God all my life long.

3 Do not put your trust in princes,
    in mortals, in whom there is no help.
4 When their breath departs, they return to the earth;
    on that very day their plans perish.

5 Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
    whose hope is in the Lord their God,
6 who made heaven and earth,
    the sea, and all that is in them;
who keeps faith forever;
7     who executes justice for the oppressed;
    who gives food to the hungry.

The Lord sets the prisoners free;
8     the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down;
    the Lord loves the righteous.
9 The Lord watches over the strangers;
    he upholds the orphan and the widow,
    but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.

10 The Lord will reign forever,
    your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the Lord!

The Gospel: Mark 12: 38-44: The Widow’s Offering

38 As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces 39 and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! 40 They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” 41 He sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

Reflection: “let us learn from the widows” 

Elijah and the Widow of Zerephath

Widows figure prominently in three of this week’s readings. My sense is that the widow of Zerephath and the poor widow Christ observes after his denunciation of the Scribes in Mark’s Gospel account, represent those on the fringes of society — those who lack money, status, or power of any kind. In the patriarchal culture of the ancient world, widowhood presented difficult financial challenges. Some quick research indicates that widows, in fact, are mentioned 103 times in the Bible and, not surprisingly, their status affords the opportunity for sharing theological insights (orphans receive 30 mentions, by the way). What should we take away from these stories?

The encounter between Elijah (700 BCE) and the widow from Zerephath has always puzzled me. Elijah, this rugged “confronter of kings” from the Northern Kingdom, is brusque in manner toward the widow, almost rude (verses 10-12). She is clearly destitute and afraid, and yet he expects her to serve him. What must she have been thinking at this moment?  Imagine her stress level! The storyline, of course, highlights the need for faith in God, even in desperate circumstances. Because of her actions, God provides for her and her son from that point forward. The story does not end there, however, because soon thereafter, the widow’s son dies (verses 17-24), and Elijah revives the child with God’s help. What a moment!

“The Widow’s Mite”
Artist: James Christensen
(1942-2017)

It is not hard to imagine that Christ had this story in his mind as he sat teaching in the Temple. We first see a flash of righteous anger directed at the Scribes (Mark 12: 38-40). And isn’t it interesting how Jesus seems to continually call out the power brokers within the faith community and broader societal structure? He has very little patience for them. He then directs his attention to the poor widow and her extravagant generosity. I recall this story being utilized during stewardship drives, as if she is a model for giving. But after reflecting on it this week, that version of the story makes me uncomfortable. Rather, it seems plausible that Christ elevates the widow, contrasting her with the rich and powerful. Though she possessed little, this humble woman was rich in faith and challenges, to the core, our notion of power, and the various complex societal structures that foster poverty in our midst. The Sermon on the Mount comes to mind.

Finally, take time to read Psalm 146 with this week’s election and the two widows in mind — a good reminder of the timeless wisdom of the Bible! And let us pray for discerning minds this week and going forward!

Soli Deo Gloria!

prayer reflection: “Post-Election Day” 

Walter Brueggeman
(b. 1933)

Note: This poem by Walter Brueggemann (b. 1933) jumped out at me this week. Brueggemann is a professor emeritus of Old Testament studies at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia, and has authored over seventy books. This poem appeared in Prayers for a Privileged People (Nashville: Abingdon, 2008), pp. 149. I retrieved it from the Journey With Jesus webzine, a source I utilize frequently.

You creator God
     who has ordered us
       in families and communities,
       in clans and tribes,
       in states and nations.

You creator God
     who enacts your governance
       in ways overt and
       in ways hidden.
     You exercise your will for
       peace and for justice and for freedom.

We give you thanks for the peaceable order of
   our nation and for the chance of choosing—
     all the manipulative money notwithstanding.

We pray now for new governance
   that your will and purpose may prevail,
   that our leaders may have a sense
     of justice and goodness,
   that we as citizens may care about the
     public face of your purpose.

We pray in the name of Jesus who was executed
   by the authorities. Amen. 

An Announcement Regarding an Adult Education Opportunity! 

Dietrich Bonhoeffer
(1906-1945)

We are planning a book study on Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s 1937 classic, The Cost of Discipleship. The goal will be for people to read it between now and the end of the year in preparation for several in-person sessions at ELC in early 2025. While giving us an opportunity to dive into some Lutheran history, Bonhoeffer’s book remains incredibly relevant for 21st Century Christians! We plan to order several copies of the book, and also hope that many will purchase it for themselves. In addition, be aware that a film on Bonhoeffer will be coming out around Thanksgiving, and my intention is to reference the book and Bonhoeffer’s life within the blog as well.

We will meet on sunday 10 November after church in the library, for those that want to participate in some in-person discussion of the lectionary readings. our pattern typically is to take one of the readings, apply the four-question approach to it, and let the discussion flow from there!  All are welcome!
And, one more thing . . .

Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Fourth Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

With elections on our mind, Bishop Eaton recently released this statement regarding voting that I appreciated very much:  “Voting is not just a civic duty; it is a way to serve our neighbors.  When we vote, we have the chance to advocate for policies that reflect God’s justice and compassion.  When we vote, we should think more about the policies that affect the most vulnerable people in our communities, those that Jesus called upon us to serve.”

3 November 2024: All Saints Sunday (Pentecost 24)

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Faithful Conversations #88
Introduction to Readers:

The Wittenberg Castle Church

There are moments in history that send shock waves into the future. 507 years ago this week, on October 31, 1517—All Hallows’ Eve—Martin Luther, in a bold and strategic move, posted his 95 Theses on the door of the Wittenberg Castle Church. The next morning — All Saints’ Day — local parishioners were greeted by Luther’s wide-ranging protest against church practices he deemed unbiblical as they gathered for Mass. Among other things, he challenged the sale of indulgences and the theology behind them, including the notion of purgatory and All Souls’ Day (the next day). As he painstakingly studied the scriptures, this monk of the Augustinian Order, argued that salvation came through faith in Christ alone (sola fide), and upon death, souls go directly to eternal life or separation from God, without an intermediate state. This bold act followed by a confluence of several historical forces, sparked the Protestant Reformation, a profound rupture within western Christianity.

Carol Johnson Wambheim
(1928-2024)

As spiritual descendants of Luther and other reformers, it’s important to remember that, despite our differences, we still share beliefs and traditions with our Roman Catholic brothers and sisters, including the celebration of All Saints’ Day this week. Profound in meaning, we remind ourselves of this beautiful tradition each Sunday in the words of the Apostle’s Creed. Indeed, we are surrounded by the “Communion of Saints” in our daily walk. This has special meaning for me and my family this week owing to the death of our Aunt Carol, an inspirational individual and faith mentor! At age 96, she was the last link to my parent’s generation and her passing brings that odd mixture of deep sadness and joy that resurrection people experience when a family member dies. She joins the cloud of witnesses mentioned in Hebrews, surrounding us — encouraging us — as we await Christ’s return (sidebar: the word encourage literally means to strengthen the heart and grow in courage!). Spend some time this week reflecting on the saints who live on and encourage your hearts! 

Once again, thanks for visiting this space each week and may we continue to inspire each other as we grapple with the scriptures. Again, I listed the readings designated for Pentecost 24 but realize that we follow the All Saints lection. My reflections will highlight the second reading from Revelation 21 with connections drawn to Psalm 24.  And finally, this week’s blog is dedicated to my Aunt Carol.   

All Saints Sunday Readings
Isaiah 25: 6-9
Psalm 24
Revelation 21: 1-6a
John 11: 32-44

Common Themes in the All Saints Sunday Readings
The themes of hope and life after death run in and through this week’s readings. In Isaiah 25:6-9, God promises a joyful feast where He will end all suffering and death. Psalm 24 reminds us that God is powerful and pure, showing His greatness over all creation. Revelation 21:1-6a paints a picture of a new world where God is close to His people and wipes away their tears. In John 11:32-44, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating that He gives us eternal life and hope beyond this life.
 
(And the readings designated for Pentecost 24)
Deuteronomy 6: 1-9
Psalm 119: 1-8
Hebrews 9: 11-14
Mark 12: 28-34
 
Psalm 24: Entrance into the Temple

1 The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,
    the world, and those who live in it,
2 for he has founded it on the seas
    and established it on the rivers.

3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
    And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 Those who have clean hands and pure hearts,
    who do not lift up their souls to what is false
    and do not swear deceitfully.
5 They will receive blessing from the Lord
    and vindication from the God of their salvation.
6 Such is the company of those who seek him,
    who seek the face of the God of Jacob.[a] Selah

7 Lift up your heads, O gates!
    and be lifted up, O ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in!
8 Who is the King of glory?
    The Lord, strong and mighty,
    the Lord, mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, O gates!
    and be lifted up, O ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in!
10 Who is this King of glory?
    The Lord of hosts,
    he is the King of glory. Selah

The Second Reading: Revelation 21: 1-6a: The New Heaven and the New Earth 

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying,

See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them;
they will be his peoples,
and God himself will be with them and be their God;
4 he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
Death will be no more;
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
for the first things have passed away.

5 And the one who was seated on the throne said, “See, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this, for these words are trustworthy and true.” 6 Then he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water as a gift from the spring of the water of life.

Reflection: “Simul Justus et peccator”

Growing up steeped in Lutheranism, the book of Revelation was always presented as being “interesting” in a mysterious kind of way, but not central for us. Part of this, I believe, came from the fact that other denominations, especially those with a literalist bent, relied on it as a predictor of the “end times,” and we were discouraged from such interpretations. **That said, this week’s passage flips the script a bit and prompts me to think about the Kingdom of Heaven in a new way (I need to explore this further, but consider this a start). God and heaven are not “out there” somewhere both in time and space, but rather are here and now among us (verse 3). This idea is mirrored in Psalm 24: 7-10 as well. This squares with the Christian notion of simultaneously walking in two worlds, the temporal and the eternal.     

“Heaven on Earth”
Natural Heritage Site
Thailand

And that brings us to All Saints Day. In his commentary on Romans (his favorite book), Martin Luther gave voice to one of the bedrocks of Lutheranism, that in our Christian journey, we are both sinner and saint. (Luther wrote and delivered lectures in Latin and the phrase Simul Justus et Peccator is how he would have said it). Our faith in Jesus Christ means our salvation has been decided once and for all. Nevertheless, we continue to navigate a broken world that snares us into sin, a continual reminder of our need for daily repentance. In a liberating act of love, God has enabled us to catch glimpses of heaven in our midst that surprise and encourage us — experiences and people that affirm God’s presence here and now. Let’s look for those this week and share them with those around us!   

  Soli Deo Gloria! 
 
**Note: I am indebted to Katherine Shaner, Associate Professor of New Testament at Wake Forest University School of Divinity for this interpretation derived from her 2018 commentary posted in Working Preacher.org).  
a prayer Reflection: “Crazy quilt” (Jane wilson Joyce)  

Note: One week out from our elections, I am praying for our nation to regain a sense of unity. Beyond praying about that, let’s work for it! Though written in 1984, this poem jumped out at me this week and speaks to our times. It also reminded me of our incredible quilting group at ELC!      

The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
is cracked. California is splitting
off. There is no East or West, no rhyme,
no reason to it. We are scattered.
Dear Lord, lest we all be somewhere
else, patch this work. Quilt us
together, feather-stitching piece
by piece our tag-ends of living,
our individual scraps of love.

Jane Wilson Joyce (PhD University of Texas, Austin) retired in 2012 as Luellen Professor Emerita of Classics at Centre College in Kentucky. This poem comes from her book The Quilt Poems (1984). 

And, enjoy this beautiful version of “Sine Nominee” — For All the Saints. This is an organ version from All Saints Church in Oystermouth Swansea (South Wales). 

please note: we will resume our in-person discussion of the lectionary on sunday 3 november! all are welcome! also, be listening for an upcoming adult education opportunity related to a study of dietrich bonhoeffer!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

27 October 2024: Reformation Sunday (Pentecost 23)

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Faithful Conversations #87
Introduction to Readers:

The Revised Common Lectionary is a guideline for churches, not a mandate. For the next two Sundays, denominations that have roots in the Protestant Reformation utilize different texts than those prescribed in the RCL. Next Sunday we commemorate the Reformation, and I am listing those readings first. Part one of my commentary, partially a repeat from a year ago, will focus on Psalm 46. I am also listing the RCL readings (for your interest) and in part two will focus on the Hebrews passage as I have done for several weeks. Thanks for your continued interest in the Lectionary! 

Reformation Sunday Readings
Jeremiah 31: 31-32
Psalm 46
Romans 3: 19-28
John 8: 31-36

Common Themes in the Reformation Sunday Readings
The readings for Reformation Sunday highlight themes of covenant, freedom, and the transformative power of faith. In Jeremiah, God’s promise of a new covenant emphasizes the deep, personal relationship between God and His people. Psalm 46 reinforces the notion of God’s protection and strength amid chaos, while Romans underscores the significance of grace and faith in achieving righteousness (sidebar: Romans was Luther’s favorite book). Finally, John speaks to the liberating truth found in Christ, illustrating that true freedom comes from living in accordance with His teachings.

(And the readings designated for Pentecost 23)
Jeremiah 31: 7-9
Psalm 126
Hebrews 7: 23-28
Mark 10: 46-52

Reflection (part 1): the reformation hymn

Martin Luther
Augustinian Monk

507 years ago, this week (October of 1517), the rebellious Augustinian monk Martin Luther posted his famed Ninety-Five Theses on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany prompting debates that, over time, fractured Roman Catholicism and planted the seeds for the Protestant Reformation. He saw the world through the prism of a cosmic struggle between good and evil, something that comes through clearly in his writing. A brilliant and complex individual, Luther spent years translating the Bible into German, produced tracts and commentaries that fill volumes, and produced a large and small catechism for the education of both clergy and common people. A gifted musician, Luther also wrote hymns — thirty-six are attributed to him. Most famously, he composed Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott, known to us as A Mighty Fortress is our God (hymn number 504 in the ELW). Known as “The Battle Hymn of the Reformation,” Luther most likely penned it between 1527-1529, according to Anglican clergyman and hymnology expert John Julian.

Luther’s Hymn — An Early Printing

Luther loved the Psalms, referring to them as the “Bible in miniature.” Psalm 46 held a special place in his heart, specifically in 1527 with the plague surging through Europe while Luther faced enormous pressures in his own life, including the near death of his son. Reflecting on Psalm 46, Luther made the following gritty observation:  “We sing this psalm to the praise of God, because He is with us and powerfully and miraculously preserves and defends His church and His word against all fanatical spirits, against the gates of hell, against the implacable hatred of the devil, and against all the assaults of the world, the flesh, and sin.”  There are many great versions of this powerful hymn available, and this one by the St. Olaf Choir is especially majestic. Take a listen while you explore Psalm 46 adjacent to the lyrics of the hymn — imagine the mind of Luther at work!

Psalm 46  A Mighty Fortress is our God

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea,

3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah  4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.

5 God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns. 6 The nations are in an uproar; the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice; the earth melts.

7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah  8 Come, behold the works of the Lord; see what desolations he has brought on the earth.

9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire. 10 “Be still, and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.” 11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah

1 A mighty fortress is our God, A bulwark never failing; Our helper He amid the flood Of mortal ills prevailing. For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe– His craft and power are great, And, armed with cruel hate, On earth is not His equal.

2 Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing. Were not the right man on our side, The man of God’s own choosing. Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He– Lord Sabaoth His name, From age to age the same, And He must win the battle.

3 And though this world with devils filled, Should threaten to undo us, We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us. The prince of darkness grim, We tremble not for him– His rage we can endure, For lo, his doom is sure: One little word shall fell him.

4 That word above all earthly powers, No thanks to them, abideth; The Spirit and the gifts are ours Through Him who with us sideth. Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also– The body they may kill; God’s truth abideth still: His kingdom is forever. Amen.

“Holy Hill”
Black River Falls, Wisconsin
(Photo: Joel Busse)

And something to think about today: As is true in every community, the forces of history echo across time. Driving up main street in our small city, the Protestant Reformation is illustrated by the structures atop “Holy Hill!” St. Joseph Catholic Church and Evangelical Lutheran Church are not more than fifty meters apart!   

Reflection (part 2): luther and hebrews

Lutheran Humor

And finally, since we are thinking about Luther this week, a quick commentary on his reservations about the book of Hebrews. (Sidebar: I like to think Luther had a good sense of humor and would appreciate the cartoon here!). Anyway, here is what I have learned thus far. He questioned its authorship and theological content. He believed it lacked apostolic authority since the author was unknown and not clearly associated with the apostles, whom Luther regarded as primary sources of Christian doctrine. Luther was also uneasy about Hebrews’ theological emphasis on works and its interpretation of Christ’s priesthood, which he felt conflicted with his doctrine of justification by faith alone. Particularly, Hebrews 6:4-6, which warns against falling away after receiving salvation, troubled Luther as it seemed to challenge the permanence of grace. Consequently, he considered Hebrews less central to the canon, although he did not reject it entirely. Whew! I am trying to imagine what it may have been like to have theological discussions with this guy!   

Here is the Hebrews passage from Pentecost 23 (Chapter 7: 23-28) 
23 Now there have been many of those priests, since death prevented them from continuing in office; 24 but because Jesus lives forever, he has a permanent priesthood. 25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them. 26 Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. 27 Unlike the other high priests, he does not need to offer sacrifices day after day, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself. 28 For the law appoints as high priests men in all their weakness; but the oath, which came after the law, appointed the Son, who has been made perfect forever.

A couple things to think about here. First, it is important to recall that Hebrews was written as a homily — a sermon — to convince second generation Christians to stay the course, to see the events of their lifetime within God’s cosmic plan. And remember that many of the first hearers were facing persecution for the faith or had witnessed such persecution. Second, as a teacher, I am impressed by the REPETITION that is utilized by the writer — a great technique to reinforce a powerful idea. This passage, for example, builds on last week’s reading in that it reinforces Jesus’ role as High Priest in the grand scheme of God’s plan for salvation, fulfilling the prophecies of old.  What differentiates Christ from all others is that he is holy, blameless, and pure, and that he forever intercedes on our behalf. And note the use of the phrase “once for all,” that is repeated in 9:12, 9:26, 10:2, and 10:10. ONCE FOR ALL (verse 27), Jesus sacrificed for their sins. Let that idea grab hold of your heart this week and share the good news!  

Soli Deo Gloria! 
a prayer Reflection: luther’s evening ritual 

Martin Luther prayed a lot. When a friend asked him what he was going to do today, he is reputed to have replied, “I have so much to do that I shall have to spend the first three hours in prayer!” Whether that is true or not, the spirit of the quote captures part of his persona that comes across time to us. If you are interested, this site offers a compendium of Luther’s prayers. I offer his bedtime prayer practice here. 

Martin Luther
(1483-1546)

In the evening when you go to bed, make the sign of the holy cross and say:

In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Then kneeling or standing, repeat the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. If you choose, you may also say this little prayer:

I thank You, my heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, that You have graciously kept me this day; and I pray that You would forgive me all my sins where I have done wrong, and graciously keep me this night. For into Your hands I commend myself, my body and soul, and all things. Let Your holy angel be with me, that the evil foe may have no power over me. Amen.

Then go to sleep at once and in good cheer.

please note: we will not meet on reformation sunday after church due to a special meeting that will be taking place at that time. we will resume our in-person discussion of the lectionary on sunday 3 november! all are welcome!

 

 

 

 
 

 

20 October 2024: Pentecost 22

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Faithful Conversations #86
Introduction to Readers:

Henri Nouwen
(1932-1996)

“I am increasingly convinced that it is possible to live the wounds of the past not as gaping abysses that cannot be fulfilled and, therefore, keep threatening us as gateways to new life. The ‘gateless gate’ of Zen and the ‘healing wounds of Christ’ both encourage us to detach ourselves from the past and trust in the glory to which we are called.”

As Christians guided by the Holy Spirit, we carry a centuries-old tradition in our hearts. In fact, we visit our spiritual ancestors each week while exploring the Lectionary. Yet, as Nouwen reminds us (above), it is through that faith that we continually find liberation from the past — approaching “gateways to new life.” I have been thinking about that space between the old and new life this week and our role as believers navigating that space. I will revisit this in the prayer reflection in this week’s blog.

Two other things by way of introduction this week. First, we are three weeks out (Tuesday) from Election Day 2024. Of course, millions of people have already voted early across the country. Like many others, I have a bad case of “election fatigue” this year and am weary of the anger and mistrust within the body politic that we witness day to day. That said, I want to share this statement from the ELCA Conference of Bishops and commend it to your reading. May God guide our nation and the world in the days ahead.

Cathryn Wambheim Rykken
(1924-2013)

And second, my mother, Cathryn Wambheim Rykken, was born one hundred years ago this Sunday (20 October 1924). Beyond being a wonderful mom and faith mentor, she was a gifted English teacher and musician. I watched her command a classroom many times during my school years, and any skills I may possess as a teacher, I owe to her. She was strict, but always with a dash of humor, and had a knack for communicating with all people, especially those that needed a lift. This week’s blog is dedicated to her.

Thanks, as always, for visiting this space again this week! My short reflections will again focus on the Hebrews passage. This is the third of seven references to this book in the Year B readings. In addition, I’m posting the Gospel here and want to make that a subject of our discussion (among other things) in our Sunday meeting.

The Readings for Pentecost 22
Isaiah 53: 4-12
Psalm 91: 9-16
Hebrews 5: 1-10
Mark 10: 35-45

Common Themes in the Pentecost 22 Readings!
As you explore the readings for Pentecost 22, look for the following themes: suffering, intercession, and servant leadership. Isaiah emphasizes the transformative power of suffering, portraying the servant who bears the pain of many, while Psalm 91 reflects on divine protection and faithfulness in times of trouble. Hebrews highlights the role of Jesus as a compassionate high priest who empathizes with human weakness, bridging the divine and the mortal. Mark challenges notions of power and greatness, calling believers to embrace humility and service, reinforcing the idea that true leadership is rooted in selflessness and sacrifice.

The Second Reading: Hebrews 5: 1-10 (Focus Reading)
Every high priest chosen from among mortals is put in charge of things pertaining to God on their behalf, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. 2 He is able to deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is subject to weakness, 3 and because of this he must offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. 4 And one does not presume to take this honor but takes it only when called by God, just as Aaron was. 5 So also Christ did not glorify himself in becoming a high priest but was appointed by the one who said to him, “You are my Son; today I have begotten you”; 6 as he says also in another place, “You are a priest forever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” 7 In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission. 8 Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered, 9 and having been made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, 10 having been designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.

The Gospel: Mark 10: 35-45
35 James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came forward to him and said to him, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask of you.” 36 And he said to them, “What is it you want me to do for you?” 37 And they said to him, “Appoint us to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your glory.” 38 But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink or be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” 39 They replied, “We are able.” Then Jesus said to them, “The cup that I drink you will drink, and with the baptism with which I am baptized you will be baptized, 40 but to sit at my right hand or at my left is not mine to appoint, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared.” 41 When the ten heard this, they began to be angry with James and John. 42 So Jesus called them and said to them, “You know that among the gentiles those whom they recognize as their rulers lord it over them, and their great ones are tyrants over them. 43 But it is not so among you; instead, whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wishes to be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life a ransom for many.”

Reflections: Jesus the high priest  

One of my father’s common statements when discussing theology was, “Well, that remains a bit of a mystery to us.” His words echoed in my brain while tackling the Hebrews passage this week, especially when confronting Melchizedek. Who was this guy? As with many figures in scripture, he has been a subject of great debate. Here is some basic information about him.

“The Meeting of Abraham and Melchizedek”
Peter Paul Rubens
(1577-1640)

Melchizedek is mentioned in the Bible in Genesis 14:18-20, where he is introduced as the King of Salem (later known as Jerusalem) and a Priest of God Most High, who blesses Abram. He is also referenced in Psalm 110:4, which declares that the Messiah will be a priest forever in the Order of Melchizedek. In the New Testament, the Book of Hebrews (particularly chapters 5-7) elaborates on Melchizedek’s significance, drawing parallels between his eternal priesthood and the Priesthood of Jesus Christ. This connection emphasizes Jesus as both a king and a priest, fulfilling and surpassing the role of Melchizedek in the divine plan of salvation. (Sidebar: Luther, by the way, posited an interesting theory about the identify of Melchizedek, which I will not get into. You can read about it here!). 

How should we interpret his rather complicated story?  This is a good place to think about a fancy term — Christological exegesis — simply put, a method of Biblical interpretation that seeks to understand and interpret Scripture in light of the person and work of Jesus Christ. In practice, this means looking for prophetic or direct references to Jesus in both the Old and New Testaments. (For example, a Christological exegesis might explore how the sacrificial system in the Old Testament prefigures Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross). Though Melchizedek “remains a mystery,” the writer of Hebrews who is speaking to second-generation Christians, interprets the Old Testament passages that point to the coming of Jesus Christ and his role as savior, and the ultimate mediator between Christians and “God, the Father Almighty.” Let that sink in today!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

a prayer Reflection: “I stand by the door” 

Samuel Moor Shoemaker 
(1893-1963)
Episcopal Priest

Samuel Shoemaker served as an Episcopal Priest in New York City and Pittsburgh. He was among those who impacted Bill Wilson, one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, particularly the need to turn to God as a way of coming out of alcoholism. Shoemaker’s powerful poem, “I Stand By the Door,” spoke to me in a transcendent way when I first heard it years ago. It is widely applicable and a great commentary on the role we play with others when it comes to bringing them to Christ. I am sharing the text of it below, and also a READING OF IT HERE.  

I stand by the door.
I neither go too far in, nor stay too far out,
The door is the most important door in the world—
It is the door through which people walk when they find God.
There’s no use my going way inside, and staying there,
When so many are still outside, and they, as much as I,
Crave to know where the door is.
And all that so many ever find
Is only the wall where a door ought to be.
They creep along the wall like those who are blind.
With outstretched, groping hands,
Feeling for a door, knowing there must be a door,
Yet they never find it . . .
So I stand by the door.

The most tremendous thing in the world
Is for people to find that door—the door to God.
The most important thing any one can do
Is to take hold of one of those blind, groping hands,
And put it on the latch—the latch that only clicks
And opens to one’s own touch.
People die outside that door, as starving beggars die
On cold nights in cruel cities in the dead of winter—
Die for want of what is within their grasp.
They live, on the other side of it—live because they have found it.
Nothing else matters compared to helping them find it,
And open it, and walk in, and find Him . . .
So I stand by the door.

Go in, great saints, go all the way in—
Go way down into the cavernous cellars,
And way up into the spacious attics—
In a vast, roomy house, this house where God is.
Go into the deepest of hidden casements,
Of withdrawal, of silence, of sainthood.
Some must inhabit those inner rooms,
And know the depths and heights of God,
And call outside to the rest of us how wonderful it is.
Sometimes I take a deeper look in,
Sometimes venture a little farther;
But my place seems closer to the opening . . .
So I stand by the door.

The people too far in do not see how near these are
To leaving—preoccupied with the wonder of it all.
Somebody must watch for those who have entered the door,
But would like to run away. So for them, too,
I stand by the door.

I admire the people who go way in.
But I wish they would not forget how it was
Before they got in. Then they would be able to help
The people who have not even found the door,
Or the people who want to run away again from God.
You can go in too deeply, and stay in too long,
And forget the people outside the door.
As for me, I shall take my old accustomed place,
Near enough to God to hear Him, and know He is there,
But not so far from people as not to hear them,
And remember they are there too.
Where? Outside the door—
Thousands of them, millions of them.
But—more important for me—
One of them, two of them, ten of them,
Whose hands I am intended to put on the latch,
So I shall stand by the door and wait
For those who seek it.
‘I had rather be a door-keeper . . .’
So I stand by the door.

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship in the library for discussions of this week’s readings. We learn from each other each week! All are welcome!

Note: Among our discussion on Sunday, let’s plan to explore this week’s Gospel by reading it and applying the four-question approach (NRRD):

  1. What is something NEW you learned from the reading?
  2. What is something that caught your attention and caused you to REFLECT?
  3. What is something that RELATES to other reading you have done?
  4. What is something you would like to further DISCUSS?

 

 

13 October 2024: Pentecost 21

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Faithful Conversations #85

** Note: For those attending ELC, realize that in October, Pastor Jen is offering a special preaching series centered on stewardship, and therefore is using a different set of readings. For purposes of the blog and our ongoing Bible study, I am staying with the RCL readings. And one other thing — we will hear from parishioners as part of the stewardship process. This year’s theme is “Imagine Together,” and yesterday, Judy Ransom, a member of ELC since the early 1980s, offered a powerful testimony. Among other things, she stressed that she is always a “work-in-progress” spiritually (a good reminder for all of us), that we all possess at least one spiritual talent to share with others, and the importance of prayer in our lives (“I have a number of conversations with God throughout the day,” she said). Thanks Judy, it was a terrific message! 

Introduction to Readers:

“Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.” (Kierkegaard)

Søren Aabye Kierkegaard
1813-1855
Danish Philosopher

The Danish philosopher, Søren Kierkegaard, died at age 42, but certainly left his mark. His oft-cited assertion (above) implies that while we can only make sense of our experiences and decisions by reflecting on them after they happen, we must still navigate life in a forward direction, making choices without complete clarity, and often with what Kierkegaard referred to as the “leap of faith.”  (Sidebar: You may want to explore this Danish rebel more fully!). Kierkegaard’s quote has been on my mind this week while navigating the second installment from Hebrews in the Year B cycle. 

A reminder today before going forward. As you walk through the four readings each week, utilize the four-question approach (NRRD):  

  1. What is something NEW you learned from the reading? 
  2. What is something that caught your attention and caused you to REFLECT? 
  3. What is something that RELATES to other reading you have done? 
  4. What is something you would like to further DISCUSS? 

(Note: Our son Jake who majored in history at West Point in the early 2000s, shared this method with me — something he learned from one of his professors there — and I have been using it with my students ever since!)

As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week! My reflections will focus on the Hebrews passage, along with a connection to Psalm 90. I am also including a terrific overview of the book of Hebrews and a familiar hymn!

The Readings for Pentecost 21
Amos 5: 6-7, 10-15
Psalm 90: 12-17
Hebrews 4: 12-16
Mark 10: 17-31

Common Themes in the Pentecost 21 Readings!
Look for the following themes in the readings for Sunday 13 October:  justice, accountability, and the pursuit of righteousness. Amos calls for genuine worship and social justice, highlighting the importance of ethical living over empty rituals. Psalm 90 reflects on the brevity of life and the need for wisdom, urging believers to seek God’s favor and purpose. In the New Testament, Hebrews emphasizes the transformative power of God’s word, while Mark presents a challenging view of discipleship, illustrating the difficulty of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions.

O God Our Help In Ages Past
By Isaac Watts (1674-1748)
Inspired by Psalm 90

Psalm 90: 12-17
12 So teach us to count our days
that we may gain a wise heart.
13 Turn, O Lord! How long?
Have compassion on your servants!
14 Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
so that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
15 Make us glad as many days as you have afflicted us
and as many years as we have seen evil.
16 Let your work be manifest to your servants
and your glorious power to their children.
17 Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us
and prosper for us the work of our hands—
O prosper the work of our hands!

Second Reading: Hebrews 4: 12-16
12 Indeed, the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow; it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. 13 And before him no creature is hidden, but all are naked and laid bare to the eyes of the one to whom we must render an account.14 Since, then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Reflections: A reminder of who and whose we are

I remain intrigued by the fact that those that initially read Hebrews were second-generation Christians who had drifted into a malaise regarding the story that had initially fired their imaginations. They were being reminded of their history — indeed, hit over the head with their history — to wake them up! Before proceeding, take the time to watch this video. It will help you get a good sense of the book we are exploring. 

What should we take away from this week’s reading from Chapter 4? The first section (12-14) compares God’s word to a sword that judges the true intentions of our hearts. We can hide nothing from our Creator. That’s ominous and should bring us to our knees! But there’s more! In the second section (14-16), we are reminded that Jesus, our “great high priest,” experienced the world in human form (while remaining sinless), and has boundless compassion for us. Just as God knows all our failures, all our weaknesses, we are redeemed through God’s Son. Because of our faith in Christ, we are liberated from our sin, our failures, and even death, and brought back to God, the one who formed us! Our troubled world needs to hear this message! Who can we share this good news with this week?   

Soli Deo Gloria! 

a prayer Reflection: “O God our Help in ages Past” 

Note: “O God, Our Help in Ages Past” is a hymn written by Isaac Watts and paraphrases the 90th Psalm. This hymn is frequently sung as a portion of the Remembrance Day service in Canada and festive occasions in England. Learn more about its history here.

West Point Cadet Chapel
Dedicated in 1910

The recording I have linked below is an organ version of the hymn from the Cadet Chapel at West Point in New York. Mary Beth and I had the opportunity to hear an organ concert in that Chapel in 2007 while attending Jake’s graduation. What an incredible experience that was!  The organ is incredible — you can read about it here.

I offer this hymn as a prayer and it hearkens back to the idea that as a faith community, we have a powerful history that points us to a miraculous future!  

1. O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come,
our shelter from the stormy blast,
and our eternal home!

2. Under the shadow of thy throne,
still may we dwell secure;
sufficient is thine arm alone,
and our defense is sure.

3. Before the hills in order stood,
or earth received her frame,
from everlasting, thou art God,
to endless years the same.

4. A thousand ages, in thy sight,
are like an evening gone;
short as the watch that ends the night,
before the rising sun.

5. Time, like an ever rolling stream,
bears all who breathe away;
they fly forgotten, as a dream
dies at the opening day.

6. O God, our help in ages past,
our hope for years to come;
be thou our guide while life shall last,
and our eternal home

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship in the library for discussions of this week’s readings. We learn from each other each week! All are welcome! 

6 October 2024: Pentecost 20

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Faithful Conversations #84
Introduction to Readers:

None of us succeed in life “on our own,” and I am wary of those who posit that notion. We have all been lifted by many along our path. As a historian and teacher, mentors of famous individuals have long intrigued me (think Socrates and Plato, Plato and Aristotle, Aristotle and Alexander the Great, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, Mademoiselle Souvestre and Eleanor Roosevelt, to name a few).  

Howard Washington Thurman
(1899-1981)

Mentors have been on my mind this week prompted, in part, by reading portions of Deep is the Hunger by theologian Howard Thurman, a man whose articulation of the philosophy of non-violent opposition to unjust laws, coupled with the pursuit of inner transformation, dramatically impacted Martin Luther King, Jr. in the 1950s. (Thurman had been a classmate of MLK’s father at Morehouse College in the 1920s and in the 1930s, as a young clergyman, traveled to India, notably spending a good deal of time with Gandhi!).

I encourage you to think about the spiritual mentors in your life as you work through this week’s lectionary readings, especially the Hebrews passage. Who guided you in your faith formation, and how did they do that? Who have you mentored in the faith, if you have been blessed with that opportunity? These are good questions for us to consider.

Between now and the end of November, as we reach the final phase of the readings for Year B of the three-year lectionary cycle, we will interact with the book of Hebrews seven times. Count this week’s blog as my opening volley in that regard — exploring a book that has never captured my attention much. I have much to learn, and I hope you will explore with me! As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week and your continued interest in exploring the scriptures on a deeper level. You are an inspiration in that regard!

The Readings for Pentecost 20
Genesis 2:18-24
Psalm 8
Hebrews 1: 1-4, 2: 5-12
Mark 10: 2-16

Common Themes in the Pentecost 20 Readings!
Look for the following themes in this week’s readings: creation, human relationships, and the significance of Christ. Genesis 2:18-24 highlights the creation of human partnership, emphasizing the importance of companionship. Psalm 8 praises the dignity and responsibility of humanity in creation, marveling at God’s care for humankind. Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12 and Mark 10:2-16 both focus on Christ’s authority, His solidarity with humanity, and the call to live in right relationships, particularly in marriage and family.

Focus Reading: Hebrews 1: 1-4, 2: 5-12
Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom he also created the worlds. 3 He is the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s very being, and he sustains all things by his powerful word. When he had made purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high, 4 having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.

5 Now God did not subject the coming world, about which we are speaking, to angels. 6 But someone has testified somewhere,

“What are humans that you are mindful of them
    or mortals that you care for them?
7 You have made them for a little while lower than the angels;
    you have crowned them with glory and honor,
8  subjecting all things under their feet.”

Now in subjecting all things to them, God left nothing outside their control. As it is, we do not yet see everything in subjection to them, 9 but we do see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, now crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

10 It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11 For the one who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one Father. For this reason, Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, 12 saying, “I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters; in the midst of the congregation, I will praise you.”

Reflections:

As mentioned, Hebrews receives a good deal of attention in the Lectionary for the next two months. Let me offer a few markers for you prior to reading it. First, the authorship of the book has always been disputed (sidebar: Luther was not enthusiastic about Hebrews, and I hope to understand that better in the weeks ahead!). Second, it was written around 70 C.E. for a community of second-generation Greek speaking Christians, many of whom had Jewish background. Third, the recipients of the letter (which is really a sermon) apparently enthusiastically embraced the story of Christ initially but drifted into a malaise over time (note chapter 10).  The sermon was meant to draw them back — to remind them of their heritage and the promise of salvation. In this regard, Hebrews is remarkably relevant for us in 2024!

And here are a couple things to keep in mind when reading the specific verses for this week. I encourage you to compare 1: 1-4 with the opening of John’s Gospel (1: 1-18) or Philippians 2: 6-11 (known as the Christ Hymn). The opening lines also bring to mind the Nicene Creed, and especially these words:

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made,
of one Being with the Father;
through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven,
was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary
and became truly human.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end. 

In the second passage (2: 5-12) the writer connects the people to the Old Testament (Psalm 8 is quoted in Hebrews 2: 6-8a), reminding them that God created them for glory and honor (“for a little while lower than angels”). Remember, they were “drifting” (10: 32-39) and needed to hear these words — it feels a bit like a pep talk! Christ is then portrayed as a “pioneer” (2: 11) who charts our course and ultimate salvation.

We should often remind ourselves that the words we are reading in the scriptures were written for a certain time and place, but they clearly were also meant as a letter to the future. We are hearing directly from our spiritual mentors in these words!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

A PRAYER REFleCTION (inspired by Joan D. Chrittister)

Sister Joan Chittister
Benedictine Order

Note: Sister Joan is a prolific author and religious leader. This quote cited below brought to mind a conversation I had with Pastor Barb Knutson who served ELC some years back. We were talking about how the church will survive going forward in light of declining membership and participation in the early years of the 21st Century.  In her compassionate wisdom, she reminded me that the Christian Church has always moved forward in times of crisis with a remnant of believers (spiritual mentors?), an intriguing fact worth exploring.

“Religious life is not going to go away. It will take a different form. Why am I so sure it’s not going to go away? Because there are people whose personalities and gifts, and interests and soul, are simply immersed in living this kind of a spiritual lifestyle. That only makes sense. If you can live an artistic lifestyle, why can’t somebody live a spiritual lifestyle? We’ve always, in every single great tradition, had a percentage of the population that stands in the middle of us being the beacon that calls us to realize that the spiritual life is an essential part of every life.”

Gracious God, thank you for the souls whose lives are immersed in spiritual devotion, standing as beacons of light in a world of distraction. May their presence inspire us to recognize that the spiritual life is woven into the very fabric of our being, calling us to deeper meaning and purpose. Grant us the wisdom to honor their gifts and embrace the sacred within ourselves and others. Amen. 

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship in the library for discussions of this week’s readings. We learn from each other each week! All are welcome! 

29 September 2024: Pentecost 19

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Faithful Conversations #83
Introduction to Readers:

St. John’s Abbey Church
Collegeville, Minnesota

Sacred spaces and their relation to our faith journeys have been on my mind this week prompted, in part, by travels west to attend an “All-70s” reunion at West Fargo High School (proud member of the class of 1975!). One stop along the route was St. John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota. Thirty years ago, this summer, I spent a month there in a study program with 25 other teachers from around the country. We were studying the writings of Machiavelli with a renowned scholar, but that became secondary due to my absorption into the day-to-day life of the Benedictine Monastery. I read “The Rule of St. Benedict” and joined the Monks in the rhythm of their daily prayers. I tried to imagine Luther’s struggle with Roman Catholicism (they had a huge section of their library devoted to Luther, by the way). This moment of repose came at a moment in my life when I needed help, and I felt the presence of God in that place, profoundly. Walking the grounds again this week brought it all back to me. (Sidebar: Unk, my father, came to visit me there and jokingly asked, “We aren’t going to lose you to the Catholics are we? A perfect example of his humor). I urge you to think about sacred spaces in your life this week, past and present. We live in a time and within a culture that crowds out the sacred spaces of our lives, and I am convinced that so many sisters and brothers in our midst are struggling with anxiety, anger, depression, and hopelessness because of that.

Although each of the readings this week offer a great deal of food for thought, my reflections will focus on Psalm 19. As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week, and I pray that your time with the scriptures is meaningful!

The Readings for Pentecost 19
Numbers 11: 4-6, 10-16, 24-29
Psalm 19: 7-14d
James 5: 13-20
Mark 9: 38-50

Common Themes in the Pentecost 19 Readings!
The readings for Pentecost 19 are rich with insight for our daily lives! They emphasize themes of leadership, community, humility, and personal responsibility. In Numbers, Moses struggles with the burden of leading a complaining people and shares authority with others, showing the need for shared leadership and God’s provision. Psalm 19 praises God’s laws as perfect and life-giving, urging personal reflection and moral integrity. In James, the power of prayer and confession is highlighted, while in Mark, Jesus teaches humility, inclusion, and the need for self-discipline to avoid causing harm to others or oneself spiritually.

Psalm 19: God’s Gory in Creation and the Law

 1 The heavens are telling the glory of God,

    and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
2 Day to day pours forth speech,
    and night to night declares knowledge.
3 There is no speech, nor are there words;
    their voice is not heard;
4 yet their voice goes out through all the earth
    and their words to the end of the world.

In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun,
5 which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
    and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens
    and its circuit to the end of them,
    and nothing is hid from its heat.

7 The law of the Lord is perfect,
    reviving the soul;
the decrees of the Lord are sure,
    making wise the simple;
8 the precepts of the Lord are right,
    rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is clear,
    enlightening the eyes;
9 the fear of the Lord is pure,
    enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are true
    and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold,
    even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey
    and drippings of the honeycomb.

11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned;
    in keeping them there is great reward.
12 But who can detect one’s own errors?
    Clear me from hidden faults.
13 Keep back your servant also from the insolent;
    do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless
    and innocent of great transgression.

14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
    be acceptable to you,
    O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Reflections:

C.S. Lewis
(1898-1963)

“I take this to be the greatest poem in the Psalter and one of the greatest lyrics in the world.” (C.S. Lewis)

Prolific Christian author C.S. Lewis enjoyed the artistry of the writing in Psalm 19.  Known as both an instructional and creation Psalm, this poem from David celebrates the glory of God as revealed through both the order of creation (verses 1-6) and the order of His divine law (verses 7-10). The heavens declare God’s majesty, while His laws are described as perfect, trustworthy, and life-giving, guiding people toward righteousness. The psalm concludes with a personal prayer for forgiveness and purity (verses 11-14), asking that both words and thoughts be pleasing to God. What should we take away from this powerful and poetic Psalm?

God’s order in our lives runs in and through this poem. The first portion reminds me of significance of sacred spaces in our lives, in this case God’s creation.  No words can adequately describe the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. We can feel it walking on the shores of Lake Michigan, hiking in Alaska, or gliding on a river in a canoe. We can feel it in a memory from our youth of a sacred encounter. And it is good to be reminded that we need sacred spaces, including time, in our lives. Our world does so much to take that from us, if we are not mindful of it.

The second portion reminds us of the positive and instructive nature of God’s law, as presented to us in the scriptures (note the six references to the law). Again, think order. Luther, recall, taught that the law served two purposes. First, it taught us how to live in this world as children of God, both in our relationship to the Triune God and with our neighbors. And second, it reminds us that no one is perfect and that we are all in need of salvation. The third portion, a prayer, reminds us that submission to God is the starting point for order in our lives. Full stop.

And finally, dwell on verse 14 for a few moments — there is much there. We have heard these words many times from the pulpit, and we should write them on our hearts. There is a wonderful symmetry here between this verse and verse 3 (“there is no speech, nor are there words”). And though David wrote these words ten centuries before Christ walked this earth, as Christians we believe that the “meditation of our hearts” points us to Jesus in new and powerful ways every day. This is news that we need to share!

Soli Deo Gloria!

A PRAYER REFELCTION (Inspired by James 5: 13-20)
(Note: This week’s passage from James is the fifth and final reference to the Epistle in the Lectionary for Year B). 

Loving God, in times of joy and suffering, help us turn to You in prayer, trusting in Your healing and grace. Strengthen our faith to support one another, confess our faults, and seek forgiveness. May our prayers be powerful and effective, bringing restoration, peace, and spiritual wholeness to our community. Amen.

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship in the library for discussions of this week’s readings. We learn from each other each week! All are welcome! 

Bishop Elizabeth Eaton
Fourth Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Postscript: On 20 September, Elizabeth Eaton, the fourth presiding Bishop of the ELCA, and the first woman to preside as Bishop, issued the following statement in response to the recent controversies surrounding the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio. I commend it to your reading.

 

22 September 2024: Pentecost 18

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Faithful Conversations #82
Introduction to Readers:

Thomas Jefferson in 1801
(1743-1826)
Artist: Rembrandt Peale

This week marks the fourth go-round on James in the Lectionary (there is one more). While researching this week’s passage, I stumbled upon an excellent commentary by a man named Doug Bratt, a retired minister of the Christian Reformed Church of North America, a denomination with Dutch roots and Calvinist bent. What especially caught my attention was his reference to Thomas Jefferson, primary author of the Declaration of Independence and our third President. Teaching Jefferson always proves complicated, especially owing to his toxic relationship to slavery. You might also find his views on religion surprising!

Thanks for visiting this space again and I hope your reading and reflections on scripture are going well! I am on the road for part of this week attending an “All-70s Reunion” out in West Fargo where I graduated high school in 1975. In fact, I will be speaking at a memorial service that is part of the reunion activities, so that should be a unique experience. After a short summary of the common themes among this week’s readings, I am sharing the commentary on James as noted above, and a compelling poem by Walter Brueggemann.

The Readings for Pentecost 18
Jeremiah 11: 18-20
Psalm 54
James 3: 13 – 4: 3, 7-8a
Mark 9: 30-37

Common Themes in the Pentecost 18 Readings
The common themes among the readings for Pentecost 18 emphasize trust in God amidst persecution and suffering, as seen in Jeremiah’s plea for divine justice and the psalmist’s cry for deliverance. Humility and submission to God are highlighted in James, who contrasts earthly ambition with the peace and righteousness that come from heavenly wisdom. In Mark, Jesus teaches that true greatness comes through humility and service, as he predicts his own suffering and elevates the least, symbolized by a child. Together, the readings call for reliance on God’s justice, humility, and a reversal of worldly expectations of power.

Focus Reading: James 3: 13 – 4: 3, 7-8a

13 Who is wise and knowledgeable among you? Show by your good life that your works are done with gentleness born of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant and lie about the truth. 15 This is not wisdom that comes down from above but is earthly, unspiritual, devilish. 16 For where there is envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. 18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

4 Those conflicts and disputes among you, where do they come from? Do they not come from your cravings that are at war within you? 2 You want something and do not have it, so you commit murder. And you covet something and cannot obtain it, so you engage in disputes and conflicts. You do not have because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive because you ask wrongly, in order to spend what you get on your pleasures.

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Reflections: 

Here is the link for the commentary by Doug Bratt. 
Soli Deo Gloria! 

 

A Poem and Prayer by Walter Brueggemann

Note: The Brueggeman poem seems especially fitting for an election season!  

Post-Election Day

You creator God
who has ordered us
in families and communities,
in clans and tribes,
in states and nations.

You creator God
who enacts your governance
in ways overt and
in ways hidden.
You exercise your will for
peace and for justice and for freedom.

We give you thanks for the peaceable order of
our nation and for the chance of choosing—
all the manipulative money notwithstanding.

Walter Brueggeman
(b. 1933)

We pray now for new governance
that your will and purpose may prevail,
that our leaders may have a sense
of justice and goodness,
that we as citizens may care about the
public face of your purpose.

We pray in the name of Jesus who was executed
by the authorities.

Note: Walter Brueggemann is a professor emeritus of Old Testament studies at Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia, and has authored more than seventy books. 

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship for some in-person discussion of the week’s readings. We meet in the library, and all are welcome! We learn from each other each week! 

15 September 2024: Pentecost 17

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Faithful Conversations #81
Introduction to Readers:

John Wooden (1910-2010) and Kareem Jabbar
(formerly Lew Alcindor)

As a young basketball player, I was a great admirer of John Wooden — and, actually had the chance to meet him, including a 15-minute conversation in 1978 when he visited Concordia! One of my favorite quotes from Wooden (who was quoting Ghandi) is this: “Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever.” It seems to me, that’s a good way to think about our lives as Christians — and it applies to studying the Bible! My intention with the FC Lectionary Blog each week is to provide guidance for the four readings, and I do that with great humility. My understanding of scripture is limited, but I know that we need to be persistent about it. Like me, I hope you are not content with staying at a superficial level.

James is in the line-up again this week and I’m gaining more clarity on the epistle. His words do not need a whole lot of explanation, in my mind. This week’s passage, for example, hits hard and is exceedingly relevant in our current political environment! We will come back to James two more times between now and the end of September, so I included this week’s reading in full. My reflections, however, will focus on the passage from Isaiah. Once again, thanks for your visit this week!

The Readings for Pentecost 17
Isaiah 50: 4-9a
Psalm 116: 1-9
James 3: 1-12
Mark 8: 27-38

Common Themes in the Pentecost 17 Readings
The readings for Pentecost 17 emphasize themes of perseverance, humility, and the power of words. In Isaiah 50:4-9a, the prophet speaks of unwavering faith and endurance in the face of opposition, trusting God for vindication. Psalm 116:1-9 reflects a deep gratitude to God for deliverance and the importance of walking in His presence. James 3:1-12 warns about the destructive potential of the tongue, urging believers to speak wisely, while Mark 8:27-38 calls for self-denial, highlighting the cost of discipleship and the importance of aligning one’s life with Christ.

Old Testament Reading: Isaiah 50: 4-9a

The Lord God has given me
a trained tongue,
that I may know how to sustain
the weary with a word.
Morning by morning he wakens,
wakens my ear
to listen as those who are taught.
5 The Lord God has opened my ear,
and I was not rebellious;
I did not turn backward.
6 I gave my back to those who struck me
and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard;
I did not hide my face
from insult and spitting.

7 The Lord God helps me;
therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like flint,
and I know that I shall not be put to shame;
8 he who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
Let us stand in court together.
Who are my adversaries?
Let them confront me.
9 It is the Lord God who helps me;
who will declare me guilty?
All of them will wear out like a garment;
the moth will eat them up.

New Testament Reading: James 3: 1-12: Taming the Tongue
3 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers and sisters, for you know that we who teach will face stricter judgment. 2 For all of us make many mistakes. Anyone who makes no mistakes in speaking is mature, able to keep the whole body in check with a bridle. 3 If we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we guide their whole bodies. 4 Or look at ships: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, yet they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. 5 So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits.

How great a forest is set ablaze by a such a small fire! 6 And the tongue is a fire. The tongue is placed among our members as a world of iniquity; it stains the whole body, sets on fire the cycle of life, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 For every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, 8 but no one can tame the tongue—a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless the Lord[d] and Father, and with it we curse people, made in the likeness of God. 10 From the same mouth comes a blessing and a curse. My brothers and sisters, this ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and brackish water? 12 Can a fig tree, my brothers and sisters, yield olives or a grapevine figs? No more can salt water yield fresh.

Soli Deo Gloria! 

A PRAYER REFELCTION: Remembering Oscar Romero

Oscar Romero
(1917-1980)

A Future Not Our Own

It helps now and then to step back and take a long view.
The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts,
it is beyond our vision.

We accomplish in our lifetime only a fraction
of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work.
Nothing we do is complete, which is another way of
saying that the kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith. No confession
brings perfection, no pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the Church’s mission.
No set of goals and objectives include everything.

This is what we are about. We plant the seeds that one
day will grow. We water the seeds already planted
knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces effects
far beyond our capabilities.

We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of
liberation in realizing this.
This enables us to do something, and to do it very well.
It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning,
a step along the way, an opportunity for the Lord’s
grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the
difference between the master builder and the worker.

We are workers, not master builders, ministers, not
messiahs. We are prophets of a future not our own.

From Xavarian Missionaries:
Oscar A. Romero, Archbishop of San Salvador, in El Salvador, was assassinated on March 24, 1980, while celebrating Mass in a small chapel in a cancer hospital where he lived. He had always been close to his people, preached a prophetic gospel, denouncing the injustice in his country and supporting the development of popular and mass organizations. He became the voice of the Salvadoran people when all other channels of expression had been crushed by the repression. This poem was composed by Bishop Ken Untener on the anniversary of the martyrdom of Bishop Óscar Romero. 

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship starting on 15 September for some in-person discussion of the week’s readings. We meet in the library and all are welcome! We learn from each other each week! 

8 September 2024: Pentecost 16

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Faithful Conversations #80
Introduction to Readers:

Some Reformation Humor!

Being raised by “cradle to grave” Lutherans (of the Norwegian Lutheran Church to American Lutheran Church to ELCA lineage), James has always inhabited a second-tier status among the New Testament books in my worldview. Luther, as is widely acknowledged, objected to James due to its lack of focus on Jesus Christ and emphasis on “works” righteousness. He referred to it as a “right strawy epistle,” and deemed it inappropriate for use in the religious schools of his day. Indeed, I remember an old religion professor of mine at Concordia getting downright worked up about James in one of his lectures! That said, between now and the end of September (including last Sunday), we encounter James five times in the Lectionary, so I hope to confront my Lutheran biases and give James another look!

Thanks for visiting this space again this week! I hope you feel as challenged as I do walking through the Lectionary! After providing a short summary of common themes among the Pentecost 16 readings, my reflections will focus on the passage from James. Beyond that, we will hear from Henri Nouwen again this week and conclude with a new interpretation of a familiar tune.

(Sidebar: Nikolai Frederik Severin Grundtvig is commemorated in the ELCA this week (2 September), and if you want some background on his life, here is a good link. My sense is that Rollie Lee will appreciate it!  You will find the calendar for “Lesser Festivals and Commemorations” in the ELW, pages 15-17. It’s quite a list!) 

The Readings for Pentecost 16
Isaiah 35: 4-7a
Psalm 146
James 2: 1-10 (11-13) 14-17
Mark 7: 24-37

Common Themes in the Pentecost 16 Readings
The readings for Pentecost 16 emphasize God’s justice, mercy, and the call to live out an inclusive and active faith. Isaiah 35:4-7a speaks of God’s promise to bring healing and transformation, offering hope to those who are weak and oppressed. Psalm 146 praises God as the one who upholds the marginalized, executes justice, and provides for those in need. James 2:1-17 and Mark 7:24-37 challenge believers to reject favoritism, live out their faith through compassionate actions, and recognize the expansive reach of God’s healing and love, which transcends social and cultural boundaries.

Note to Readers: 
I’m including the James reading from Pentecost 15 (last Sunday) to add context to this week’s focus reading from James. Here it is:  

17 Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.18 In fulfillment of his own purpose he gave birth to us by the word of truth, so that we would become a kind of first fruits of his creatures. 19 You must understand this, my beloved brothers and sisters: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, 20 for human anger does not produce God’s righteousness. 21 Therefore rid yourselves of all sordidness and rank growth of wickedness, and welcome with meekness the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. 22 But be doers of the word and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. 23 For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; 24 for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. 25 But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act—they will be blessed in their doing. 26 If any think they are religious and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself unstained by the world.

Focus Reading: James 2: 1-10 (11-13) 14-17: Warning Against Partiality
2 My brothers and sisters, do not claim the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ of glory while showing partiality. 2 For if a person with gold rings and in fine clothes comes into your assembly, and if a poor person in dirty clothes also comes in, 3 and if you take notice of the one wearing the fine clothes and say, “Have a seat here in a good place, please,” while to the one who is poor you say, “Stand there,” or, “Sit by my footstool,” 4 have you not made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and to be heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor person. Is it not the rich who oppress you? Is it not they who drag you into the courts? 7 Is it not they who blaspheme the excellent name that was invoked over you? 8 If you really fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well. 9 But if you show partiality, you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it. {11 For the one who said, “You shall not commit adultery,” also said, “You shall not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery but you murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12 So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty. 13 For judgment will be without mercy to anyone who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.} 14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Surely that faith cannot save, can it? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,” and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? 17 So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.

“Saint James the Less”
Peter Paul Reubens
(1610-1612)

Often as I work on the blog, I am humbled by Alexander Pope’s (1688-1744) famous admonition, a little learning is a dangerous thing. The authorship of the book of James, for example, took me down a rabbit hole. Like other NT books, debates over the actual source have stirred for centuries, so likely I will not solve it here. There are several men named James referenced in the New Testament. Some believe the book was written by James, the brother of Jesus, while others believe a later author simply wrote “in the name of James,” a common practice of the time.

James the Just
Neo-Byzantine Icon
Russian Orthodox Church

And one more thing about his identity. I found this reference to James on the site of a Russian Orthodox Church:  “Saint James the Just, also called James Adelphos and James the Brother of Our Lord (died AD 62), was the first Bishop or Patriarch of Jerusalem. According to the Protoevangelion of James, James was the son of Joseph—along with the other ‘brethren of the Lord’ mentioned in the scripture—from a marriage prior to his betrothal to Mary (another theory! my emphasis). He wrote an epistle which is part of the New Testament. St. James is commemorated on October 23″ (and yes, we commemorate James the Martyr on that day in the ELCA!). 

Major Sidebar — I feel compelled to include this since I married a “Mary,” born to Catholic parents!): The question of whether Mary and Joseph had other children besides Jesus is interpreted differently across Christian traditions. The Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches teach that Mary remained a perpetual virgin, meaning she had no other children, and interpret references to Jesus’ “brothers” and “sisters” as either cousins or close relatives. In contrast, many Protestant denominations believe that Mary had additional children based on a literal reading of biblical passages that mention Jesus’ siblings. Luther, owing to his strong Catholic training, held to the perpetual virgin theory and referred to Mary as the “Queen of Heaven.” In fact, he included this statement regarding the “Hail Mary” in his Little Prayer Book: “Let not our hearts cling to her in faith, but through her penetrate to Christ and to God himself. Thus, what the Hail Mary says is that all glory should be given to God, using these words: ‘Hail, Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with you; blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of thy body, Jesus Christ. Amen.’ ” (Living Lutheran Magazine, 31 August 2018). I may never hear the “Hail Mary” the same way again after reading this!  

The ELCA, as far as I can tell, does not have an official doctrine on whether Mary had additional children besides Jesus, leaving the interpretation largely to individual belief. The ELCA tends to emphasize the centrality of Scripture and does not require adherence to the doctrine of Mary’s perpetual virginity. Therefore, many within the ELCA are open to the possibility that Mary had other children, interpreting biblical references to Jesus’ “brothers” and “sisters” as literal siblings. However, there is also room for diverse personal beliefs within the denomination, and members are not required to take a specific stance on this issue (not surprising!). 

Regardless of who authored James, the book offers sound advice for practical Christian living and is often compared to Proverbs. The Lutheran Study Bible identifies the following themes in the 108 verses of the book: joy, wisdom, creation, word, first fruits, faith, blessing, growth, and endurance. And I appreciate this sentence from that same introduction: “These themes give powerful encouragement for responsible Christian action amid the complex realities of daily life” (Lutheran Study Bible, page 1992). 

Finally! What about this week’s passage? What should we take away from that? Like so much of this book, it seems straightforward. If we claim to be Christians, and yet show partiality to those who hold power and wealth, we are missing the mark. If we talk a good game, but never show it with our actions, we are empty. So, where was Luther coming down on this? It seems to me, if we could talk to brother Martin, he would say, “Ah, but be careful that you don’t start thinking you can earn salvation by ‘doing this’ or ‘doing that’ — we simply cannot! We all sin and fall short of the Glory of God, and it happens to us every day!” I can see Luther’s point here, but also feel like the words from James could have come from Christ — reread the passage again with that in mind. It is this tension between “faith and works” that we must continually grapple with in our Christian journey. My interpretation of Lutheranism is simply this: I have been given the gift of faith and my salvation is settled — I did nothing to earn it. My response to that, however, is to share the gift, including a greater understanding of it!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

A PRAYER REFELCTION: Henri Nouwen
(Note: The spiritual connection to water referenced in this prayer really hit me — something we can all relate to. Perhaps it’s the river, or a beautiful lake, or “the sea.”) 

Today I thought of the words of Vincent van Gogh: “It is true there is an ebb and flow, but the sea remains the sea.” You are the sea. Although I experience many ups and downs in my emotions and often feel great shifts and changes in my inner life, you remain the same. Your sameness is not the sameness of a rock, but the sameness of a faithful lover. Out of your love I came to life, by your love I am sustained, and to your love I am always called back. There are days of sadness and days of joy; there are feelings of guilt and feelings of gratitude; there are moments of failure and moments of success; but all of them are embraced by your unwavering love. . . . O Lord, sea of love and goodness, let me not fear too much the storms and winds of my daily life, and let me know there is ebb and flow, but the sea remains the sea. Amen. (From the Henri Nouwen Society website’s Daily Meditation, 31 August 2024). 

The Doxology

Thomas Ken
(1637-1711)
English Cleric

(Nostalgia Warning! This song takes me back to the many church basements of my youth, or family gatherings where people spontaneously broke into harmony! I found this description of the hymn’s background that you will appreciate. I also appreciate using the expression “Holy Ghost!” The version I posted takes an old hymn and puts a new twist on it — so heartfelt).

Thomas Ken (1637–1711), who crafted these plain and profound words in the late 1600s, wrote them as the final and “doxological” stanza of three hymns he published, first for students at Winchester College at Oxford University. Ken, who was an Anglican minister, royal chaplain, and eventually bishop, first penned verses for his students at Winchester to sing upon arising in the morning, and at bedtime each evening. Later he added a third hymn, to rehearse at midnight, were students to have trouble sleeping. Each hymn was a confession of faith, and an invocation of divine blessing, tailored to its particular moment of the day. And each hymn ended with the same 25-word doxological verse in praise of God, three in one.

Ken’s hymns have by no means been lost today. However, it is his final verse — our beloved “Doxology” — that has endured, so well-known is it that it needs no placeholder in our hymnbooks. Christians the world over simply know it, almost without fail — both Ken’s timeless words and the tune, which Ken did not write, but which much later began to accompany the song. The tune, called Old One-Hundredth, originally designed to accompany the singing of Psalm 134, and later Psalm 100, first appeared in the Geneva Psalter in 1551 and was written by Louis Bourgeois (1510–1561), who served as head of choirs and music, alongside famous pastor and theologian John Calvin.

(Source: desiringGod website: The Best Known Hymn in History)

Join us on Sundays at ELC after the 9:30 worship starting on 15 September for some in-person discussion of the week’s readings. We meet in the library and all are welcome! We learn from each other each week!