Faithful Conversations #76

Introduction to Readers:

Athletics has been an important part of my life since I was very young. Part of what I truly enjoy about the Olympics every four years are the stories of young men and women who overcome tremendous obstacles and persevere. Prompted, in part, by the inspiring story surrounding gymnast Simone Biles, I have been thinking this week about how we should face adversity as Christians. And also, how that becomes part of our Christian witness, or testimony to others.

Psalm 34 pointed me in that direction as well.  The author, King David, a central figure in the Old Testament, faced numerous challenges throughout his life. As a young shepherd, he was anointed by the prophet Samuel to be king, yet he had to contend with the reigning King Saul, who saw David as a threat and pursued him relentlessly. Despite these threats, David demonstrated remarkable resilience and faith. He endured hardships, including betrayal by allies and the challenge of uniting a fragmented kingdom. His trials were not only political but personal, marked by moral failures and family strife. Through it all, David’s unwavering faith in God and his leadership ultimately helped him build a united and prosperous kingdom, leaving a lasting legacy.

As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week and I hope that your Lectionary discipline is holding up. After offering a short summary of themes embodied in this week’s readings, my reflections will center on Psalm 34.

And . . a reminder about those four guiding questions:
What is something new you learned from the reading? (NEW)
What is something that caught your attention or made you think? (REFLECT)
What did you read that relates to other reading you have done? (RELATE)
What would you like to discuss from the reading? (DISCUSS)

The Readings for Pentecost 12
1 Kings 19: 4-8
Psalm 34: 1-8
Ephesians 4: 25 – 5: 2
John 6: 35, 41-51

Quick Take on This Week’s Readings
Listen for the following themes as you work through this week’s readings: divine sustenance, encouragement, and the call to embody Christ-like love. In 1 Kings 19:4-8, Elijah receives nourishment from an angel, allowing him to continue his journey, symbolizing God’s provision during times of despair. Psalm 34:1-8 praises the Lord’s deliverance and goodness, encouraging trust in God’s care. Ephesians 4:25 – 5:2 urges believers to live in truth, kindness, and forgiveness, mirroring God’s love and forgiveness in Christ. John 6:35, 41-51 emphasizes Jesus as the “bread of life,” offering eternal sustenance and the promise of resurrection to those who believe. Together, these passages highlight the importance of spiritual nourishment, trust in God’s providence, and the transformative power of living a life of love and compassion.

Psalm 34: 1-8: Praise for Deliverance from Trouble

Of David, when he feigned madness before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away.

 Reflections: “Adversity and witnessing”

General Background: Because it is part of the Lectionary for the next three Sundays, I want to spend some quality time with Psalm 34. It is one of the seventy-three Psalms attributed directly to King David. He may have authored others as well. His authorship reflects his deep spiritual life and complex personal experiences including various trials, deep repentance, and faithfulness. David’s psalms are cherished for their theological depth and emotional authenticity, and they continue to be a source of inspiration and comfort for believers across generations (i.e. Psalm 23). One other point by way of introduction: Psalm 34 is an acrostic poem, a poetic form where each line or stanza begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This form highlights the psalmist’s devotion to God’s Word and served as a mnemonic device to aid in memorization and meditation. (Sidebar: Psalm 119, the longest Psalm, is the best example of this form in the Bible. In Psalm 119, the poem is divided into 22 sections, each corresponding to a letter of the Hebrew alphabet, and each section contains 8 verses that start with that particular letter). 

Historical Context of Psalm 34: David lived roughly ten centuries before the birth of Christ. Psalm 34 appears to be rooted in a particular episode in David’s journey. The short statement of identification (“Of David, when he feigned madness before Abimelech, so that he drove him out, and he went away.”) references a harrowing story found in 1 Samuel 21 when David fled from Saul and took refuge with the Philistines. He was afraid of King Achish of Gath, pretended to be insane, and ultimately escaped. 

Summary of verses 1-8: This section of Psalm 34 begins with David announcing to the reader that he intends to provide testimony concerning God’s power. The word testimony comes from the Latin derivative testis meaning “witness.” He also invites the community to join him in praising God (verses 1-3). In verses 4-6, David vaguely references WHEN he was saved (the Samuel story). In verses 7-8, he recaps God’s goodness for those who seek refuge in Him.

What should we take away from this reading? Let me return to the notion of overcoming adversity and sharing our story with others (witnessing). In my experience (and granted, it is my experience and may be limited or short-sighted), public testimony (witnessing) is not something we are used to doing within the Lutheran tradition. We tend to associate that more with Baptist-oriented denominations. Psalm 34, however, suggests to me that such testimony — particularly regarding powerful examples of God working in our lives, especially in guiding us through adversity — is deeply rooted in scripture. And it seems to me we need to get beyond our bashfulness about this and realize that BY NOT sharing our story of faith with others in an authentic fashion, we are depriving our brothers and sisters in the faith of good news they need to hear!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

** Note: I am indebted, in part, to Eric Mathis, Assistant Professor of Music and Worship at Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama for his interpretation of Psalm 34 this week.  

we meet for a discussion of the lectionary after church on sundays, and all are welcome! No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary!

Note: we will not be meeting this sunday, but will resume on 18 August at ELC at 9:40 in the Library! 

Faithful Conversations #75

Introduction to Readers:

The rhythm of our spiritual lives has been on my mind this week, prompted by a couple things. First, in our Lectionary journey, we are eleven Sundays into the twenty-six that make up the season of Pentecost (which runs into late November). It’s a long stretch, and it’s easy to lose focus. And second, we have reached the “dog days of summer,” a phrase often associated with baseball, but with ancient origins. It’s a phase of the year when the heat and humidity run high in the north country, and life slows a bit. As Christians, how should we react when our faith hits a lull, feels distant, or trapped in routine? A good question to ponder.

My coaching background kicks in at this point. I have had the privilege of working with runners for over 40 years, and a favorite phrase within our fraternity is, “Trust the Process!” In other words, hold fast to the disciplines that help you grow as a runner, even when things don’t seem to be progressing. The same could be said about our Christian journey. Spiritual disciplines — prayer, interacting with scripture, communal worship experiences — these are ALL important and open us to the work of the Holy Spirit — and often, it seems, when we least expect it! I cannot tell you the number of times I have had an unexpected revelation on a Sunday morning or in the middle of praying, or when wading through a challenging passage of scripture! And, I might add, such spiritual disciplines are deeply rooted in the Lutheran experience! Keep that thought in mind this week and stay the course!

As always, thanks for visiting this space again today! After providing a brief summary of the readings, my reflections will focus on the Ephesians passage. Also, as a sidebar, let me share (again) a four-question approach to reading that can be beneficial (and widely applicable). Our son Jake learned this during his years at West Point in the early 2000s, and I have been utilizing it with my students ever since. It works well with the Lectionary readings — here are the questions: 

What is something new you learned from the reading? (NEW)
What is something that caught your attention or made you think? (REFLECT)
What did you read that relates to other reading you have done? (RELATE)
What would you like to discuss from the reading? (DISCUSS)

The Readings for Pentecost 11
Exodus 16: 2-4, 9-15
Psalm 78: 23-29
Ephesians 4: 1-16 (focus reading)
John 6: 24-35

Quick Take on This Week’s Readings
Look for the themes of divine provision, unity, spiritual nourishment, and faith in this week’s readings. In Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15, we witness God’s provision of manna to the Israelites, emphasizing His care and sustenance even in times of doubt and need. Psalm 78:23-29 recounts that miraculous event, celebrating God’s abundant generosity and faithfulness. Ephesians 4:1-16 calls for unity within the body of Christ, urging believers to live in humility, patience, and love, recognizing the diverse gifts that contribute to the church’s growth and maturity. John 6:24-35 presents Jesus as the true bread of life, inviting us to seek spiritual fulfillment in Him, contrasting the temporary satisfaction of physical hunger with the eternal nourishment He provides. Together, these readings highlight the interplay between physical and spiritual sustenance, God’s unwavering provision, and the call for a unified, faith-filled community.

The Second Reading: Ephesians 4:1-16 (Focus Passage)

4 I, therefore, the prisoner in the Lord, beg you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, ² with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, ³ making every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace: ⁴ there is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, ⁵ one Lord, one faith, one baptism, ⁶ one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.⁷ But each of us was given grace according to the measure of Christ’s gift. ⁸ Therefore it is said,

⁹ (When it says, “He ascended,” what does it mean but that he had also descended into the lower parts of the earth? ¹⁰ He who descended is the same one who ascended far above all the heavens, so that he might fill all things.) ¹¹ He himself granted that some are apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers ¹² to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, ¹³ until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. ¹⁴ We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming; ¹⁵ but speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, ¹⁶ from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.

 Reflections: “Growing in christ” 

Ephesians 4:1-16 is jam-packed! Paul calls for unity within the Christian community, emphasizing humility, gentleness, patience, and love. The passage encourages believers to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace, recognizing the one body and Spirit they share (note the seven uses of “one” in the passage, representative of “completeness” in Christian theology). It highlights the diverse gifts given to each member of the community to build up the body of Christ. Ultimately, it underscores the goal of spiritual maturity and growth into Christ, who is the head of the church.

What should we take away from this powerful passage? One of the most appealing things to me is the language emphasizing both our UNITY in Christ and the DIVERSITY of our gifts (“he gave gifts to his people”). Talk about a relevant message for 2024! Within the horrible divisions we are experiencing in our civic lives, it is such a powerful reminder that as Christians we are called to UNITY and that our differences make us stronger.  A second feature of Paul’s message that stands out to me is that our lives are a process of becoming (“trust the process”). As cliche as it may sound, we are all a “work in progress.” Listen to what brother Martin, our forebear in the faith, had to say about that:

This life, therefore, is not godliness but the process of becoming godly, not health but getting well, not being but becoming, not rest but exercise. We are not now what we shall be, but we are on the way. The process is not yet finished, but it is actively going on. This is not the goal but it is the right road.  (From “A Defense and Explanation of All the Articles.” Luther’s Works 32, p. 24. Edited by George Forell. Augsburg, 1958).

Excellent thoughts, Luther, for the “dog days” of summer!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 8:30 service at ELC on 4 August for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #74

Introduction to Readers:

Let me start with a quick reminder of where we are in Year B of our lectionary journey. We are ten Sundays into Ordinary Time in our church calendar, the longest phase of the Revised Common Lectionary. The term ordinary refers to the fact that these Sundays are numbered (think “ordinal”), not that they are unimportant.  We remain in Ordinary Time through November when we arrive at the first of five major liturgical seasons of the church year, starting with Advent (followed by Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, and Easter). Each season celebrates a particular aspect of the mystery of Christ. Here’s another thing. During each of the three years of the Lectionary Cycle, one of the Synoptic Gospels is highlighted (Year A = Matthew, Year B = Mark, and Year C = Luke). John’s Gospel is sprinkled in during each of the three years and for five Sundays (starting last week), we are reading from John. The full Lectionary Cycle, by the way, is located on pp. 18-53 of the ELW.

Another reminder: As part of our church calendar, we also designate various days each year as Lesser Festivals, Commemorations, and Occasions (similar to what our Roman Catholic friends refer to as Feast Days, and a reminder of aspects of our tradition that is rooted there). Monday, July 22nd, for example, is a Lesser Festival in the ELCA dedicated to Mary Magdalene, Apostle. (It also happens to be my birthday, which has nothing to do with the Lectionary, but I appreciate sharing that calendar date with Mary of Magdala, a fascinating individual!) Again, these days are all listed on pages 54-63 of the ELW, and you might want to take a look!

As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week! Allow yourself a time of contemplation as you read from the scriptures and pray for clarity of thinking — a practice I have begun to incorporate.  I will offer a short commentary on two major themes found in the four readings, along with some reflections on the Gospel story.

Before you read this week . . . A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary:
Look for two major themes in the readings for Pentecost 10: divine provision and God’s boundless love. In 2 Kings 4:42-44, the miracle of feeding a hundred men with just a few loaves of bread demonstrates God’s ability to provide abundantly beyond human expectations. Similarly, John 6:1-21 highlights Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the 5,000 and walking on water, emphasizing His role as a provider and source of strength. Complementing these acts of provision, Psalm 145:10-18 and Ephesians 3:14-21 celebrate God’s immense and enduring love, reflecting His commitment to care for all creation and dwell within believers, revealing a divine presence that nurtures and sustains.

The Readings for Pentecost 10
2 Kings 4: 42-44
Psalm 145: 10-18
Ephesians 3: 14-21
John 6: 1-21

The Gospel Reading: John 6: 1-21 (Focus Passage)
6 After this Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, also called the Sea of Tiberias. ² A large crowd kept following him because they saw the signs that he was doing for the sick. ³ Jesus went up the mountain and sat down there with his disciples. ⁴ Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near. ⁵ When he looked up and saw a large crowd coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread for these people to eat?” ⁶ He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do. ⁷ Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little.” ⁸ One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, ⁹ “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But what are they among so many people?” ¹⁰ Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was a great deal of grass in the place, so they sat down, about five thousand in all. ¹¹ Then Jesus took the loaves, and when he had given thanks he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. ¹² When they were satisfied, he told his disciples, “Gather up the fragments left over, so that nothing may be lost.” ¹³ So they gathered them up, and from the fragments of the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten, they filled twelve baskets.

¹⁴ When the people saw the sign that he had done, they began to say, “This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world.” ¹⁵ When Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself. ¹⁶ When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, ¹⁷ got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. ¹⁸ The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. ¹⁹ When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were terrified. ²⁰ But he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” ²¹ Then they wanted to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the land toward which they were going.

 Reflections: “Christ amidst the stormy seas” 

In her introduction to John in the Lutheran Study Bible, Professor Karoline M. Lewis of Luther Seminary, describes the book as a “spiritual account of Jesus’ life and teaching.” No doubt, John has a completely different feel than the Synoptic Gospels and has always been my favorite (I would urge you to spend some time with the book this week). Among other things, John includes the seven signs (or miracles) attributed to Christ and this week’s passage includes miracles number four and five — the feeding of the five thousand and Jesus walking on water (sidebar: the feeding of the five thousand is the only miracle found in all four Gospels, and Jesus walking on water is found in Matthew, Mark, and John but not in Luke. Matthew’s account includes Peter’s attempt to walk toward Christ on the water, and I’m partial to that one). Perhaps because the feeding of the five thousand was part of last week’s study, I am especially drawn to that fifth sign this week — the account of Jesus walking on water.

First, a quick summary. The story of Jesus walking on the water occurs after the feeding of the five thousand. There were those in the crowd, steeped in Jewish prophecy, who openly speculated that Jesus was the prophet/king as promised in the scriptures (verse 14). Sensing this, Jesus departs the scene and goes up the mountain to pray (verses 15-16). As evening falls, Jesus’ disciples set out across the Sea of Galilee (verses 16-17).  (Sidebar: is anyone else wondering why they did not wait for Jesus?). A strong wind stirs up the waters, making their journey challenging. Jesus approaches them, walking on the water, and reassures them with the words, “It is I; don’t be afraid” (verses 18-20). The disciples are amazed and want to take him into the boat, which then miraculously reaches the shore immediately (verse 21).

This story — or image — of Jesus walking on the water has always been one of my favorite moments of his earthly journey. What are the takeaways? Let me offer two. First, I’m fascinated by the debates over Christ’s identity in the early centuries of Christianity — critically important debates that ultimately led to the formation of the three ecumenical creeds we follow within the ELCA (the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian). Proof of his divine nature (and the Trinity) rested on the hundreds of prophecies found in the Old Testament and the miracle stories. And it strikes me that those debates continue into the present period. I have encountered my share of skeptics over the years who simply cannot accept the miracles and consider those of us that do as being naive and delusionary. As “people of the way,” however, we have been granted the gift of faith. We do not understand the full range of mysteries inherent in that faith — at least not yet!  And second, the episode on the Sea of Galilee also provides a powerful metaphor for our Christian journey. When we encounter darkness and stormy waters, Jesus appears to offer us the most powerful encounter imaginable — a sustaining and uplifting love — full stop. Echoing the words from Isaiah 43:2 — When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you — we are charged with sharing this assurance with those in our midst who are living with despair today. Jesus affords us that opportunity!  

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 8:30 service at ELC on 28 July for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #73

Introduction to Readers:

“We hardly need to be reminded that we are living in an age of confusion—a lot of us have traded in our beliefs for bitterness and cynicism or for a heavy package of despair, or even a quivering portion of hysteria. Opinions can be picked up cheap in the marketplace while such commodities as courage and fortitude and faith are in alarmingly short supply.”

Edward R. Murrow said that . . . in 1951! Seventy-three years later, his words ring true. My first political memory (a flashbulb memory) is from 22 November 1963. My first-grade teacher, Mrs. Larkin, stood in front of our class and told us school was letting out early because the President had been killed. I walked home on the cold autumn day and sat with my grim-faced father watching the news unfold on our small black and white TV. Sixty-one years later, it feels like an “end of innocence” moment in my young life.**

Saturday’s fearsome assassination attempt on former President Trump and heart-wrenching death of Corey Comperatore are but the latest chapter in our roller-coaster political world. As Christians, we may be shocked by such events, but we should never be surprised. There is an evil presence in our world. As Luther said, We need not invite the Devil to our table; he is too ready to come without being asked. The air all about us is filled with demons. So it is.

Brace up, my friends, and be reminded that for the next four months, we will be inundated with all-things election related. How should we handle that on our Christian journey? In a past life, I spent over forty years walking young people into their civic and political lives, and I often utilized the accompanying optical illusion as a way of illustrating the political world to them. In the binary political context of the United States, we are offered two competing (and plausible) versions of reality — two people can look at the same thing (person, issue, situation) and see something entirely different. It can be frustrating and aggravating. And, EXHAUSTING. My advice to you — and I offer this with humility — is to avoid the echo chambers of our politics. Vary your news sources, be willing to listen to contrary views, and pray for a discerning mind. As Christians, we cannot divorce ourselves from the political world, and we have an opportunity — and perhaps an obligation — to offer a different voice.

**Before she died in 2009 at age 93, I visited Mrs. Larkin. She remains a hero in my life, in part, because she taught me to read! She had a remarkable memory and recounted the day of Kennedy’s assassination and also provided details about my class — amazing!

Beyond a short summary of this week’s readings, my short reflections will focus on the passage from Mark. Beyond that, take some time with a wonderful reflection from Henri Nouwen, and a gorgeous song based on Psalm 23. As always, MANGE TAK for visiting this space for a few minutes, and may God bless your journey!

 

Before you read this week . . . A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary:
The readings for Pentecost 9 weave a rich tapestry of themes centered around divine guidance, restoration, and unity. Jeremiah 23:1-6 and Psalm 23 both highlight God as a shepherd who leads and cares for the people, promising safety and righteousness. Ephesians 2:11-22 continues this theme by emphasizing the breaking down of barriers and the creation of a unified spiritual community through Christ. Finally, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 depicts Jesus as the compassionate shepherd who heals and guides the weary, underscoring the theme of Christ’s nurturing presence amid life’s challenges.

The Readings for Pentecost 9
Jeremiah 23: 1-6
Psalm 23
Ephesians 2: 11-22
Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56

The Gospel Reading: Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56
³⁰The apostles gathered around Jesus and told him all that they had done and taught. ³¹He said to them, “Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. ³²And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves. ³³Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and arrived ahead of them. ³⁴As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.

 Reflections: finding the balance between compassion and rest  

This week’s Gospel reading puzzled me at first. Abruptly following the death of Jesus’ cousin and friend, John the Baptist, the two unspectacular stories bracket better known and miraculous episodes in Christ’s journey — the feeding of the five thousand (35-44), Jesus going up the mountain to pray (45-46), and Jesus walking on water (47-52). In Mark 6:30-34, Jesus and His disciples seek a quiet place to rest, but a large crowd follows them, prompting Jesus to teach them with compassion as they are like sheep without a shepherd. In Mark 6:53-56, after crossing the sea, Jesus heals the sick and those in need as the people recognize Him and bring their loved ones to touch the hem of His garment, hoping for healing.

What should we take away from this reading? There are lessons here for us, and two things stand out to me. First, our Lord’s humanity is on full display here. He is tired, as are his disciples. They had just returned from missionary work, and he sensed both their excitement and fatigue. Jesus took them to a deserted place to rest (verse 31), but the crowds — those desperate crowds — followed quickly. And that leads me to the second observation. In spite of his exhaustion — and grief for his cousin John — he exhibits amazing patience and compassion for the people. These searching and excited people — our spiritual ancestors — were the first Christians and their hope rested on this young man from Nazareth. Two thousand years later in our exhausted world, may we continue to seek his healing presence!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 8:30 service at ELC on 21 July for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #72

Introduction to Readers:

“History and memory share events; that is, they share time and space. Every moment is two moments.” 

This observation by Canadian poet and novelist Anne Michaels (b. 1958) beautifully captures the intricate relationship between history and memory. Every moment exists as both a historical event and a personal memory, intertwined in the fabric of time. This week’s readings reminded me of Michaels’ observation. And, I suppose, every time we’re in the scriptures, this dynamic is at play. WHAT actually happened? And HOW do we remember it? And further, WHY are we prompted to remember it? These are the operative questions — keep them in mind as you work your way through the readings this week. My reflections will focus on the passage from Ephesians. As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week! I’m honored by your presence.

Let’s Get Started!  A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary:

The readings for Pentecost 8 share a common theme of prophetic call and divine purpose. Amos 7:7-15 highlights the unwavering commitment of prophets to convey God’s message despite adversity. Psalm 85:8-13 speaks of God’s steadfast love and righteousness, promising redemption and restoration to those who seek Him. Ephesians 1:3-14 underscores God’s predestined plan for salvation and adoption, emphasizing His grace and the spiritual blessings bestowed upon believers. Mark 6:14-29 recounts the tragic consequences of John the Baptist’s prophetic ministry, illustrating the cost of truth-telling and fidelity to God’s will. Together, these readings underscore the profound intersections of divine calling, justice, and the enduring promise of God’s grace throughout history.

The Readings for Pentecost 8
Amos 7: 7-15
Psalm 85: 8-13
Ephesians 1: 3-14 (Focus Reading)
Mark 6: 14-29

The New Testament Reading: Ephesians 1: 3-14 (Easy to Read Version)

³ Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In Christ, God has given us every spiritual blessing in heaven. ⁴ In Christ, he chose us before the world was made. He chose us in love to be his holy people—people who could stand before him without any fault. ⁵ And before the world was made, God decided to make us his own children through Jesus Christ. This was what God wanted, and it pleased him to do it. ⁶ And this brings praise to God because of his wonderful grace. God gave that grace to us freely. He gave us that grace in Christ, the one he loves.

⁷ In Christ we are made free by his blood sacrifice. We have forgiveness of sins because of God’s rich grace. ⁸ God gave us that grace fully and freely. With full wisdom and understanding ⁹ he let us know his secret plan. This was what God wanted, and he planned to do it through Christ. ¹⁰ God’s goal was to finish his plan when the right time came. He planned that all things in heaven and on earth be joined together with Christ as the head.

¹¹ In Christ we were chosen to be God’s people. God had already planned for us to be his people, because that is what he wanted. And he is the one who makes everything agree with what he decides and wants. ¹² We Jews were the first to hope in Christ. And we were chosen so that we would bring praise to God in all his glory. ¹³ It is the same with you. You heard the true message, the Good News about the way God saves you. When you heard that Good News, you believed in Christ. And in Christ, God put his special mark on you by giving you the Holy Spirit that he promised. ¹⁴ The Spirit is the first payment that guarantees we will get all that God has for us. Then we will enjoy complete freedom as people who belong to him. The goal for all of us is the praise of God in all his glory.

Reflections: who are we?  

Thirteen letters from the New Testament are attributed to St. Paul. Seven of those are undisputed by scholars: Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, and Philemon. The remaining six are disputed — that is, Paul’s authorship is not universally accepted, including the tenth book of the New Testament, Ephesians. As noted in my Lutheran Study Bible, “it was not uncommon for a disciple of a famous teacher to write a letter in the name of the teacher,” and perhaps that is the case with Ephesians. Tradition holds (again, with conflicting claims) that Paul wrote to the Ephesians while in prison in Rome (c. 62), along with Colossians, Philemon, and Philippians.

First, some context for this powerful passage from the first chapter. Ephesus was an ancient Greek and Roman city on the west coast of Anatolia (present day Turkey). It was the third largest city in the Roman Empire, behind Rome and Alexandria and served as a major seaport and center of commerce. Known for the famed Temple of Artemis completed in 550 BCE and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the church in Ephesus was also one of the seven cited in Revelation (chapter 2). Notably, the city became an important center for Christianity from 50 CE onward (intriguing to note that Mary, mother of Jesus, is believed to have settled there). Paul lived there from 53-56, working with a congregation and organizing missionary activity into the surrounding hinterlands. Among other things, he became embroiled in a dispute with artisans there whose livelihood depended on the sale of statuettes of Artemis (note Acts 19: 23-41 — a dramatic story!). He is writing to his former colleagues years later (perhaps from prison) to help them navigate various challenges they face.

What should we take away from this week’s passage? (Sidebar: To be honest, it is so packed with theology that I had to read it a number of times. I learned while researching these verses that in the original Greek, 3-14 is one sentence! This is reflected in the King James Version, which you can access here! I utilized the “Easy to Read” version in my posting). These things stand out to me: first, it is important to imagine how first-generation Christians may have read these words nearly 2,000 years ago. We know the letter was circulated among many of the earliest churches. They were experiencing the split between Jews and Gentiles, and that particular conflict is addressed throughout the letter (note verses 4-6 and 9-11, for example). In a larger sense, our spiritual ancestors lived in a polytheistic culture in the throes of a cosmic struggle — not unlike the world we inhabit! Paul is framing that world for them within the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ (realize that the crucifixion occurred merely thirty years prior to this writing!).  And while he is speaking to them, he is also speaking to us.

Second, reread the full passage again, focusing on verses 11-14, with these two questions in mind: WHO AM I? WHO ARE WE? These verses are a great reminder of our Christian identity, that we are spiritual beings experiencing an earthly journey. We live within that great mystery and with the assurance that our story is eternal. Our Creator God loves us — imagine that! We do not understand it all today, but someday we will!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 8:30 service at ELC on 14 July for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #71

Introduction to Readers:
Welcome back to Faithful Conversations! I’m deviating from my normal pattern this week a bit and offering three things. First, we’re about to celebrate the 248th anniversary of our nation’s founding, and two recent news events have prompted me to think about that confounding intersection between faith and politics. Second, I want to introduce you to a wonderful resource we have available to us through Luther Seminary and offer you a challenge for next Sunday! Finally, I’m sharing another commentary on prayer by Henri Nouwen (I’m a fan!). So, let’s get started.

(Note: Please feel free to offer comments or feedback for the benefit of the group!)

part 1: separating church and state

Within the past couple of weeks, two states have been in the national headlines for actions taken regarding religion and the public schools. First, Louisiana’s legislature has mandated the displaying of the ten commandments in taxpayer supported schools (Kentucky attempted this in 1980, but the law was struck down). According to the new law, public schools must prominently display a poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments in every classroom, as well as in the school library and cafeteria. And second, Oklahoma’s Superintendent of Public Instruction, Ryan Walters, issued an edict requiring schools in the state to teach the Bible as part of their curricula for grades five through 12. The mandate emphasizes the Bible’s historical and cultural significance, as well as its influence on the nation’s founders and constitutional principles. Schools are also instructed to refer to the Ten Commandments.

How should we view these efforts by Louisiana and Oklahoma through the lens of our faith? Further, does the ELCA offer any guidance in this regard? Let me offer a couple things here. First, for some background, here is a short screencast with some background on how the Founders approached religion.

And second, as a follow-up to the screencast, here is the full social statement I referenced from the ELCA. Read if interested!

part 2: the sunday readings, a resource, and a challenge! 

The Readings for Pentecost 7
Ezekiel 2: 1-5
Psalm 123
2 Corinthians 12: 2-10
Mark 6: 1-13

A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary:
The readings for Pentecost 7 from Ezekiel 2:1-5, Psalm 123, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, and Mark 6:1-13 all highlight the themes of prophetic mission, human weakness, and reliance on God’s strength and grace. Ezekiel’s commission as a prophet despite anticipated resistance, and Jesus sending out His disciples amidst His own rejection, illustrate the challenge of proclaiming God’s message. Both Paul, in his admission of weakness, and the psalmist, in their plea for mercy, emphasize humility and the necessity of depending on God’s grace. Together, these passages underscore the call to faithful obedience, the acceptance of human frailty, and the reliance on divine empowerment to fulfill God’s purposes.

A Resource and a Challenge!
As you know, we live in a time of amazing access to information related to the Bible! Luther Seminary in St. Paul has several outstanding resources that are game-changing when it comes to studying the scriptures. Below I have linked the “Enter the Bible” site, and it would be great for you to see what is available there. Here’s my challenge for you this week:

When you arrive at the site, go to the “Books” link at the top, and search out one of this week’s readings (note: there may be a survey linked at the top, which you can “X” out; also, you can create an account for the site — no charge — if interested).

Then, for practice, search out Ezekiel (the first reading). When you arrive there, you will note that you get into all sorts of information about the book, including “Passages” (under “See All Our Related Content”). Find the passage that includes this week’s reading (it won’t be exact, but you will get the idea). Once there, you can read an analysis of the passage.

Now . . . here’s another thing to try. Pastor Jen and I have an ongoing conversation about the Lectionary, and I know from talking to her on Sunday that she will be preaching on Mark 6: 1-13 next Sunday. Take some time with it and think about what you might emphasize if you were going to talk to someone about it. What ideas would you want to communicate? This is a great way to engage in that portion of the worship experience!  Here’s the link — enjoy the process!

Part 3: a commentary on prayer from henri nouwen

This really gave me something to think about! Wow!

“Prayer and action can never be seen as contradictory or mutually exclusive. Prayer without action grows into powerless pietism, and action without prayer degenerates into questionable manipulation. If prayer leads us into deeper unity with the compassionate Christ, it will always give rise to concrete acts of service. And if concrete acts of service do indeed lead us to a deeper solidarity with the poor, the hungry, the sick, the dying, and the oppressed, they will always give rise to prayer. In prayer we meet Christ, and in him all human suffering. In service we meet people, and in them the suffering Christ. . . . Action with and for those who suffer is the concrete expression of a compassionate life and the final criterion of being a Christian.”

— Henri Nouwen, Meditation for 26 May 2024

Note: Our lectionary small group will not meet on sunday 7 july after service. We will gather again, however, on 14 july after the 8:30 service at elc! come and join the conversation! No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome!  

 

 

Faithful Conversations #70

Introduction to Readers:

PERSPECTIVE has been on my mind lately — how we perceive the world around us and the events of our time, particularly through our Christian lens (our exhausting political environment has prompted this!). For example, I have long been convinced that American citizens should be required to absorb a minimum of 15 minutes of international news every day to see how our fellow human beings are faring around the planet. The global prism quickly confirms that much of what is happening in the United States mirrors transnational trends, and we are incredibly fortunate, relatively speaking. It is astonishing to me, as one example, that there are currently more than 120 million refugees in the world, people forced from their homes, and that 40% of them are children! As a father and grandfather, this grieves my heart and makes me ashamed for the trivial matters I complain about day to day. And consider how this one issue is impacting political debates in our nation and elsewhere! Alarming, to say the least. (Sidebar: Global Refuge — formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service — was established after World War II, and the ELCA has a longstanding tradition with refugee work. In post-war Europe, nearly 60 million people became refugees and 10 million of those were Lutheran Christians).

My father was what I would call a hopeful realist. One of his favorite admonitions to me was this: Things are never as good as they seem, nor are they as bad as they seem. Reality is somewhere in the middle.* This perspective serves me well!  With such thoughts as a backdrop, I’m reflecting on the Christian concept of LAMENTING this week, prompted by the Old Testament reading. How should we deal with authentic sadness in our lives, debilitating despair that drives us to weep and wail, openly or internally? As always, thanks for spending a few minutes in this space each week. I offer these postings with humility as a Christian brother.

* I have learned that the Roman poet Phaedrus famously said something akin to that, and perhaps that’s where Unk (my dad) learned it. (The derivative quote is this: “Things are not always what they seem; the first appearance deceives many; the intelligence of a few perceives what has been carefully hidden”). Much to think about there!  

Before you read this week . . . A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary:
The readings for Pentecost 6 weave together themes of divine compassion, restoration, and transformative faith. Lamentations 3:22-33 highlights God’s steadfast love and mercy even in times of affliction, urging hope and trust in His faithfulness (the focus of my reflections). Psalm 30 celebrates deliverance from distress, emphasizing praise and gratitude as responses to God’s healing power (an inspiration for this week’s prayer). 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 calls for generosity and equality in sharing resources, echoing the principles of Christ-like love and solidarity within the Christian community. Mark 5:21-43 underscores Jesus’ healing touch, illustrating faith that overcomes despair and brings about miraculous restoration. Together, these passages emphasize God’s enduring compassion, the transformative power of faith, and the call to respond with gratitude, generosity, and trust in His providence.

The Readings for Pentecost 6
Lamentations 3:22-33 (focus passage)
Psalm 30
2 Corinthians 8: 7-15
Mark 5: 21-43

The Old Testament Reading: Lamentations 3: 22-33

 Reflections: “Great is your faithfulness” 

The Bible is filled with voices of lament, prayers raised to God in the midst of devastating sorrow. The first reading this week comes from Lamentations, and I invite you to spend some time with the entire book in the days ahead (some scholars believe that Jeremiah authored Lamentations, but there is no consensus on that). It contains five poems, each reflecting on the fall of Jerusalem and subsequent exile at the hands of the Babylonians in 586 B.C.E. (yes, they became refugees!). Many voices of suffering emerge in the five poems — children, parents, political and religious leaders, prisoners, and widows — all reacting to an existential disaster.

To get a better sense of this week’s passage, it is important to read all of Chapter 3 (sidebar: Lectionary readings often puzzle me a bit because of how they are divided, but I digress). Verses 1-21 are filled with anger and despair. The speaker accuses God of ignoring — even causing — horrible suffering. I picture a man or woman standing amidst rubble, shaking their fist at God! The writer, however, then makes a powerful transition in verse 21, setting up this week’s reading: “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope.” So, what is “this” referring to in verse 21? The answer comes in verses 22- 24. Dwell on these words for a few moments:  The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “therefore I will hope in him.” What an incredible dialogue!

What should we take away from this? First, the despairing voices feel very contemporary to me, especially when I see the images coming out of the Middle East in 2024. Yes, lament is part of our lives — part of our world — every single day. We experience it ourselves and witness it in the lives of others. Second, spending some time on this for a few days makes me wonder if we avoid lament in our faith journey in these challenging times — that we forget the necessity of acknowledging authentic pain (“weeping and wailing”) in ourselves or others. It is easier to turn our gaze in a different direction, after all. Our culture, in my estimation, pushes us to do that. What are we to do?

In 1525, Martin Luther offered a series of lectures on Lamentations. Among his many insights, and in typical Luther fashion, he emphasized what is termed a “Christological interpretation” of the book — a “Christ-centered” lens. He saw in its themes of suffering and hope a foreshadowing of Christ’s redemptive work. He drew connections between the suffering of those Israelites in 586 BCE and the future suffering of Christ, urging believers to repentance, faith, and trust in God’s promises. For Luther, that meant persevering in prayer, relying on God’s grace amidst life’s turmoil, and experiencing the transformative power of God’s Word. This is good news for us to share!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 8:30 service at ELC on 30 June for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #69

Introduction to Readers:

Stormy seas are on my mind this week. In April of 1868, my great-great grandfather Torger Rykken and his wife Agata, along with their seven children, including my twelve-year-old great-grandfather Kittel, boarded a ship in Bergen to begin the 3,000-mile journey across the North Atlantic to Quebec. Encountering a terrifying two-day storm early in the voyage that blew them 100 miles off course, they nearly perished. One of their infant children, Kristi (my great-aunt), died several days before they reached North America, a fact they kept hidden from the ship’s captain to avoid a burial at sea.* Once in Quebec, they traveled by train to Detroit, then across southern Michigan and a ferry crossing to Milwaukee. From there, they boarded a train to Rushford, Minnesota, arriving on the 4th of July to start their new life in America.

Beyond the fact that this week’s Gospel reading involves another dangerous crossing, I’m sharing this family story for two reasons. First, it is humbling to imagine the staggering challenges my ancestors navigated compared to my own, something we have all contemplated. One can only admire their courage and rock-solid faith. And second, their survival in the face of that dramatic storm 156 years ago, reminds me of what historians call contingency — the notion that historical events are not predetermined but are influenced by a complex interplay of unpredictable factors, circumstances, and individual actions. The fact is, I would not be writing this had they not survived. We all have such moments in our backstories, known or unknown, and they prompt us to examine the meaning of our lives.

My reflections this week will focus on that long-ago storm in the Sea of Galilee recounted on Mark’s Gospel. I’m also including a powerful poem by Howard Thurman. As always, thanks for taking a few minutes in this space again this week. I pray for all of us as we move forward in our understanding of the scriptures!

* Torger buried Kristi near the shores of the St. Lawrence once they arrived in Quebec. A few months later, at the behest of Agata, he made the difficult journey from Rushford back to Quebec to retrieve Kristi’s body and bring her back to Rushford for burial. What a painful and difficult trip that must have been!   

Before you read this week . . . A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary: 
The four lectionary readings for Pentecost 5 share common themes of God’s supreme power over creation, His deliverance and care for His people, and the call for human faith and trust in His sovereignty. Job 38 emphasizes God’s control over the natural world, setting the stage for recognizing His omnipotence. Psalm 107 illustrates God’s ability to calm storms and save those in trouble, urging people to give thanks. 2 Corinthians 6 speaks to enduring hardships with faith, relying on God’s grace and support. Mark 4 portrays Jesus calming a storm, showcasing His divine authority and encouraging the disciples to trust in Him. Together, these readings highlight the importance of recognizing God’s power, trusting in His care, and remaining steadfast in faith during life’s challenges.

The Readings for Pentecost 5
Job 38: 1-11
Psalm 107: 1-3, 23-32
2 Corinthians 6: 1-13
Mark 4: 35-41 (Focus Reading)

A Portion of Psalm 107 (as a backdrop for the Gospel)
Some went down to the sea in ships,
    doing business on the mighty waters;
²⁴ they saw the deeds of the Lord,
    his wondrous works in the deep.
²⁵ For he commanded and raised the stormy wind,
    which lifted up the waves of the sea.
²⁶ They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths;
    their courage melted away in their calamity;
²⁷ they reeled and staggered like drunkards
    and were at their wits’ end.
²⁸ Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble,
    and he brought them out from their distress;
²⁹ he made the storm be still,
    and the waves of the sea were hushed.
³⁰ Then they were glad because they had quiet,
    and he brought them to their desired haven.

The Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 35:41: Jesus Stills a Storm
³⁵ On that day, when evening had come, he said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” ³⁶ And leaving the crowd behind, they took him with them in the boat, just as he was. Other boats were with him. ³⁷ A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. ³⁸ But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion, and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” ³⁹ And waking up, he rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Be silent! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. ⁴⁰ He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” ⁴¹ And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

reflections:  “he made the storm be still”

As Mark tells it, Jesus and his disciples set out across the Sea of Galilee when a fierce storm arises. With chaos swirling around them, Jesus remains asleep in the stern. The terrified disciples wake him, pleading for help, astonished by his seeming nonchalance. Jesus then rebukes the wind, commanding the sea to be still, resulting in immediate calm. He questions their lack of courage and faith, leaving the disciples in awe and wonder at his authority over nature, asking each other, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

What are we to make of this perplexing story? The dialogue between Jesus and his disciples is thought-provoking, especially these four questions: (the disciples) Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing? (Jesus) Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?  (the disciples) Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?

I find myself in every one of those questions. But let’s focus on Jesus for a minute. Notably, he goes to sleep amidst this terrifying storm. How can he do that? Was he simply exhausted from his ministry? Perhaps there is a different answer. Writing in a 2009 article in The Christian Century, UCC Minister Kate Layzer (Cambridge, Massachusetts), makes the following observation:

Jesus’ ministry is one dangerous crossing after another, starting with his baptism. The moment the waters close over his head, the moment God’s rushing Spirit meets and merges with his, his path through the world becomes one of confrontation: confrontation between entrenched interests and the in-breaking kingdom; confrontation between the way things are and the way God means them to be. The unclean spirits don’t want their boat rocked. Neither do the authorities. But the Spirit of the Lord is upon Jesus. Rocking the boat is what he’s come to do.

In other words, Jesus navigated storms from the very beginning, and we should learn from that. His earthly existence was perilous to say the least. In the dangerous crossings of our lives — physical and emotional pain, depression, addiction, broken relationships, fractured politics, the violence of war — it is easy to feel that God is distant, that Jesus is sleeping.  Why is this happening to me? To us? Our fears and anxieties are real, and we want them to end! Echoing Psalm 107, we are in the depths and our courage melts away. Jesus, however, does not take away the calamities of our lives. Rather, he helps us navigate our storms. He provides courage, He provides hope. Nothing can defeat us. This is news that we need to share with others.

Soli Deo Gloria! 

If interested, join us after the 10:15 service at Hatfield on 23 June for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome! 

Faithful Conversations #68

Introduction to Readers:

“With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it; he did not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything in private to his disciples.”

These two verses (Mark 4: 33-34) stopped me in my tracks this week. On one level, they remind us that Jesus, reared within the tradition of Jewish storytelling, frequently used parables — allegorical stories — to convey spiritual truths. This was how his listeners were able to hear such truths. It’s that second clause, however, that was NEW to me — that he explained everything in private to his disciples. That feels personal as if Jesus is speaking directly to us across the centuries! Give that some thought this week.

So, WHY Jesus’ reliance on stories? Having been raised by a father who loved stories and subtly used them to enhance my understanding of the world, Jesus’ approach seems perfectly natural to me, and fitting with our human nature. Author and educator Neil Postman (1931-2003) offered this sharp assessment of the value of stories in an article from the late 1980s:  “Nations need stories, just as people do, to provide themselves with a sense of continuity, or identity . . . Without stories as organizing frameworks we are swamped by the volume of our own experience, adrift in a sea of facts . . .  A story gives us direction by providing a kind of theory about how the world works—and how it needs to work if we are to survive.” It seems to me that Jesus’ parables clearly do that! (Sidebar: Postman’s quote is exceedingly relevant, by the way, as we observe the twists and turns of our current political campaign. Clearly, candidates and political parties offer their worldview — an “organizing framework” and “theory about how the world works.” And, of course, they do this, in part, by attacking their opponent’s theory of the case.  As citizens, we are left to sort this out — and we draw on our own stories to do that!)

After offering a short summary of this week’s readings, my reflections will focus on the two parables included in the passage from Mark. As always, thanks for your continuing interest in tackling the lectionary! One thing you might want to try this week is to take one reading per day and simply spend time with it — give yourself a few minutes to contemplate its meaning.  

Before you read . . . A Quick Take on Sunday’s Lectionary: 
Look for these connecting themes in the readings for Pentecost 4: growth, renewal, and the flourishing of God’s kingdom. Ezekiel 17:22-24 speaks of God’s promise to bring about new life and growth, using the imagery of a tender shoot growing into a majestic cedar tree. Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 celebrates the flourishing of the righteous, comparing them to strong and resilient trees planted by God. In 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 [11-13] 14-17, Paul discusses the transformation that occurs in those who are in Christ, emphasizing the newness of life and the reconciliation between humanity and God. Finally, in Mark 4:26-34, Jesus uses parables about seeds and mustard seeds to illustrate the gradual yet powerful growth of God’s kingdom.

The Readings for Pentecost 4
Ezekiel 17: 22-24
Psalm 92: 1-4, 12-15
2 Corinthians 5: 6-10 [11-13] 14-17
Mark 4: 26-34 (Focus Reading)

The Gospel Reading: Mark 4: 26-34
²⁶ He also said, “The kingdom of God is as if someone would scatter seed on the ground ²⁷ and would sleep and rise night and day, and the seed would sprout and grow, he does not know how. ²⁸ The earth produces of itself first the stalk, then the head, then the full grain in the head. ²⁹ But when the grain is ripe, at once he goes in with his sickle because the harvest has come.” ³⁰ He also said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? ³¹ It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, ³² yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” ³³ With many such parables he spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it; ³⁴ he did not speak to them except in parables, but he explained everything in private to his disciples.

reflections: the mystery of the kingdom 

Depending on how they are identified in the Gospels, we have roughly forty parables from Jesus. There are nine in Mark’s gospel and in this week’s passage, we are are challenged with two of them. The Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29), only present in Mark, illustrates how the kingdom of God grows mysteriously and gradually, much like a seed planted in the ground that grows and produces a harvest without the farmer fully understanding how it happens. The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Mark 4:30-32) appears in all three Synoptic Gospels** (compare to Matthew 13:31-32 and Luke 13: 18-19) and likens the kingdom of God to the tiny mustard seed that grows into a large plant, providing shelter for birds. What should we take away from these stories?

Let me start with the more familiar of the two — that of the mustard seed. In ancient Palestine, where agriculture was a primary way of life, listeners would have been familiar with mustard seeds and the plants they produced. The seeds were commonly used as a spice and for medicinal purposes, and mustard plants were known for their exponential growth. We might imagine that for a small group of people, many of them from the lower echelons of society, many of them considered outcasts, Jesus’ metaphor signaled hope for the future. God’s entrance into history in human form meant something big was about to happen, and they had a front row seat.

The first parable (verses 26-29), that of the growing seed, surprised me, as is often the case with scripture. I’m sure I have read it a number of times, but I must have glossed over it. Jesus’ message here — that our work is simply to “plant the seeds” of the kingdom in our world — is profound. We do not (and cannot) fully grasp the working of the Holy Spirit in our midst. The awesome power of God is beyond our comprehension. Our role is to simply to be guided by the Holy Spirit and do the work in whatever manner we can. It’s that simple. We are not responsible for the outcome of that work. There will be successes and there will be failures, but God is in charge. It seems to me, especially as we navigate the challenges facing the Christian community in 2024, this is a powerful and liberating message for all of us!

Soli Deo Gloria! 

**The Synoptic Gospels refer to the first three books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. They are called “synoptic” because they share a similar structure, content, and even wording in many passages when compared side by side. The term “synoptic” comes from Greek roots meaning “to see together” or “to have a common view,” highlighting their shared perspectives on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Gospel of John, while also about Jesus’ life and teachings, is distinct from the Synoptic Gospels in both its style and content. It includes unique stories, discourses, and theological reflections not found in Matthew, Mark, or Luke.

I thought you might appreciate a bit of humor with today’s post! Join us after the 10:15 service at Hatfield on 16 June for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome!

Faithful Conversations #67

Introduction to Readers:

**Renewal is on my mind this week, triggered by three things: recent conversations with various people, the polarizing times we are experiencing in 2024, and next Sunday’s passage from 2 Corinthians. How do we experience renewal as individuals? Further, how are public institutions renewed? Important questions!  

Due to my age (born 1957), one of the consistent narratives in my lifetime (especially since 1970) has been declining trust in institutions. Reputable polling organizations track this carefully, and the numbers are daunting. Cynicism lurks around every corner regarding government, political leaders, schools, organized religion (and the list goes on and on). Countless books have been churned out on this topic and explanations run deep. I don’t think it is coincidental, by the way, that decline trust has accelerated since the mid-1990s and the advent of the internet. Information has been democratized in the 21st Century, allowing people to challenge traditional narratives and authority figures more readily. Indeed, agreed upon truths have seemingly disappeared (“my truth is not your truth”).

As is often the case, history provides perspective. We are not the first people in history to confront such anxious times. One of my favorite poems is called The Second Coming by Irish poet, William Butler Yeats. Prompted by the cataclysmic impact of the Great War, and the flu pandemic of 1918-19, Yeats captured the anxiety of his time in haunting language that feels contemporary: 

Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold;
Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world,
The blood-dimmed tide is loosed, and everywhere
The ceremony of innocence is drowned;
The best lack all conviction, while the worst
Are full of passionate intensity.
Surely some revelation is at hand;
Surely the Second Coming is at hand.

My reflections for Pentecost 3 will center on the passage from 2 Corinthians and what it has to say to us about renewal. As always, thanks for visiting this space again this week and for your continued interest in exploring the Bible!

*The word “renewal” derives from a 14th Century Middle English word, “reneuen,” meaning to restore (a living thing) to a vigorous or flourishing state. 

The Readings for Pentecost 3
Genesis 3: 8-15
Psalm 130
2 Corinthians 4: 13 – 5:1
Mark 3: 20-35

A Quick Take on the Sunday Readings:
The readings for Pentecost 3 are interconnected through the themes of human fallibility, divine mercy, faith, and spiritual kinship. In Genesis 3:8-15, we witness the origin of human sin and the resulting estrangement from God, setting the stage for the need for redemption. Psalm 130 responds to this condition with a cry for mercy and forgiveness, emphasizing the hope and trust in God’s redemptive love. In 2 Corinthians 4:13 – 5:1, Paul speaks of enduring faith despite suffering, highlighting the promise of eternal life and the renewal of our beings as a counter to the decay initiated by sin. Mark 3:20-35 ties these themes together by illustrating Jesus’ teaching on true kinship, defining it through obedience to God’s will rather than biological ties. Collectively, these passages reflect the journey from sin and separation towards faith, redemption, and spiritual unity with God.

The Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13 – 5:1 (NRSV)
¹³ But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture—“I believed, and so I spoke”—we also believe, and therefore we also speak, ¹⁴ because we know that the one who raised Jesus will also raise us with Jesus and will present us with you in his presence. ¹⁵ Indeed, everything is for your sake, so that grace, when it has extended to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. ¹⁶ So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. ¹⁷ For our slight, momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, ¹⁸ because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen, for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal. 5 For we know that, if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 

reflections on 2 Corinthians 4:13 – 5:1

In his book, Meeting St. Paul Today (2008), Daniel Harrington offers this description of Paul: Next to Jesus, Paul is the most prominent figure in the New Testament. Of the twenty-seven documents that constitute the New Testament, thirteen are letters attributed to Paul. Also, more than half of the Acts of the Apostles describes Paul’s conversion and subsequent activities on behalf of the spread of the good news about Jesus (the gospel).**

Who was this guy? Born in Tarsus, a city in the Roman province of Cilicia (modern day Turkey), Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin and steeped in Judaism (his Hebrew name was Saul). Though contemporaries, Paul never met the earthly Jesus, but around CE 32, he experienced a dramatic conversion to Christianity (recounted in Acts 9, 22, and 26). Roughly ten years later, Paul began a series of missionary journeys that lasted for twelve years. Legend suggests that Paul died a martyr’s death in CE 67 at the hands of Nero, the Roman Emperor of the time.

Paul’s letters were mainly written in response to challenges that arose in Chrisian communities he had founded. 2 Corinthians, for example, comes from Paul and his companion Timothy, addressed to “the church of God that is in Corinth.” Though not full of detail, it is clear that Paul wrote the letter to defend his apostolic authority against a group of critics and false apostles who were undermining his ministry and questioning his legitimacy. In the portion of the letter we’re reading for Sunday, Paul speaks about faith and the eternal hope Christians have despite present sufferings. He acknowledges the hardships faced in life but contrasts them with the eternal glory that awaits. He reminds readers that their current physical bodies are temporary “earthly tents,” but they have the assurance of an eternal, heavenly dwelling from God.

There is much to process in this passage, but one thing stands out to me (note: I am indebted to Associate Professor of New Testament at Luther Seminary, Jennifer Vija Pietz, for her interpretation).  Focusing on verses 14 and 16, we hear that powerful promise of eternal life (14), followed by Paul’s admonition not to “lose heart” in the face of present difficulties, and to realize that we are renewed every day in our inner nature (16). In other words, the resurrection, in some mysterious way, is ALREADY PRESENT in us today, that “believers live in a time ‘in-between,’ when their embodied lives can still be wounded by sin and decay even while Christ’s Spirit sustains and renews them” (Professor Pietz). This is what authentic renewal looks like. Nothing can defeat us in this life! This is the authentic joy and optimism of the Christian in a broken world. This is good news that we need to share with others!

Soli Deo Gloria

**Scholars are in broad agreement that seven of the thirteen letters attributed to Paul are directly from Paul’s hand. Here is a list of those, including dates: 1Thessalonians (CE 50 or 51), Galatians (53 or 54), 1 Corinthians (54 or 55), Philippians (54 or 55), Philemon (54 or 55), Corinthians (54 or 55), and Romans (56 or 57). The other six — known as Deuteropaulines — are thought to have been in Paul’s name by his students, most likely after he died: 2 Thessalonians, Colossians, Ephesians, 1 and 2 Timothy, and Titus).

Prayer inspired by psalm 130

Dear God, in our deepest struggles, we call out to You for mercy and place our hope in Your unfailing love and forgiveness. Guide us through our hardships and fill us with the strength that comes from Your steadfast presence. Amen.

finally, if you enjoy inspirational music . . .

The Stellanbosch University Choir (South Africa) is marvelous. This interpretation of Jake Runestad’s “Let My Love Be Heard,” fits well with Psalm 130. The story behind the music is compelling as well. Here is the text:

Angels, where you soar
Up to God’s own light
Take my own lost bird
On your hearts tonight;
And as grief once more
Mounts to heaven and sings
Let my love be heard
Whispering in your wings

Join us after the 8:30 service at elc on 9 June for some in-person discussion of this week’s readings. No special expertise or prior knowledge is necessary! all are welcome!