Friday – Luke 14:25-35
What can I say after hearing Jesus requirements of being a disciple? So I guess I will start by asking you your responses.
As you imagine yourself standing with the crowd around Jesus and he says, “Whoever comes to me and does not hate father, mother, wife and children, sister and brother, and yes life itself, cannot be my disciple.”
What is the crowds response?
I imagine there are more than a few people who are hopping mad.
Is Jesus asking to much?
What are people saying?
What do you think about the absolute demand Jesus has laid down?
Something you might want to know…
“In the ancient world, the terms love and hate referred less to emotions than to behavior that either honored or dishonored someone else. Hating one's family meant doing something that injured them, particularly by disgracing them. Life was family centered, and the honor of the family was very highly valued. Every family member was expected to protect the honor of the family. If some members joined a suspect movement and abandoned their home, this brought disgrace on the family, particularly if done in disobedience to the patriarch.” (Abington Commentary)
Another something to think about…
Think about this idea of putting God above family is not something only Jesus taught. Do you remember the story of Abraham and his son? How God asked him to take his son to Mount Moriah and perform a ritual sacrifice. It was only at a critical moment an angel speaks, a ram appears, and Abraham son’s life is spared.
And I will leave you with this…
In Jesus warning, he outlines three kinds of sacrifice that disciples must be willing to make. All three have already been talked about several times. However, Jesus’ language is very sharp. He says following Christ means hating one's family, carrying one's cross, and taking leave of all one's possessions. These three conditions are made clear as what is required by a disciple.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Share your experience...
Please take a minute and share how the first half of the journey has been going.
I have no clue how many people have joined me on this journey for Lent. So I created a small poll to get some instant feedback. On the right side bar you can scroll down and vote as to how your experience has been thus far.
I am having a great time. I appreicate all the comments and reflections thus far and I look forward to the rest of our Journey. Easter will be here very soon.
Keep on walking, listening, and following Jesus,
rcw
I have no clue how many people have joined me on this journey for Lent. So I created a small poll to get some instant feedback. On the right side bar you can scroll down and vote as to how your experience has been thus far.
I am having a great time. I appreicate all the comments and reflections thus far and I look forward to the rest of our Journey. Easter will be here very soon.
Keep on walking, listening, and following Jesus,
rcw
Day 20 on the Journey
Thursday – Luke 14: 7 – 14
Jesus continue to teach us about dinner parties. This time instead of talking about seating arrangements, he talks about the invitation list. I can imagine how the crowd was confused when Jesus said, “when you throw a dinner party we shouldn’t invite A list people, but we should invite people who would never stand a chance of being on anyone else’s invitation list.
Invite the convenience store clerk whose hourly wage barely allows for a home, food, and his children’s necessities. And invite the poor college student who is away from home, working part-time, and receives financial ad just to get through school. And the also invite street people who push their grocery carts filled with broken items.
Can you imagine the dinner party Jesus is throwing?
Who is there?
I see a blind man, a disabled vet, and a single mom and son who are dressed in the only cloths they own. I think Jesus banquet would have more real humanity, more authentic humanity than the folks who attend the black tie affairs and elegant gatherings in our society. I see laughter and joy.
The longer I am on the journey with Jesus I long to live and experience the world he talks about. At the same time I also wish to live a life of luxury.
Don’t we all at some level long for what money can buy?
I would love to pull Jesus aside and ask him if he honestly believes anyone can live the way he is teaching.
If we lived this way people will think we are crazy?
At the same time Jesus makes sense and paints a picture of a life which is appealing. Who wouldn't want to live in a world were everyone was treated with respect and dignity. Who wouldn't want to live in a world where the lost were looked for, cared for, and not over looked and forgotten.
Other questions for reflection and Comment:
Who is on you’re “A” list?
When was the last time you ate dinner with some complete strangers?
Imagine Jesus shows up at your house and says, “let’s have a party.” Whom will you invite and why?
At the party Jesus offers a blessing of the food and then asks everyone to share what they are thankful for. What does your guest say?
Would you be willing to have dinner with the homeless?
(Every Sunday we have a members from our church that go and provide a meal for the homeless in Dallas. Check out the ministry of Body and Soul. )
Jesus continue to teach us about dinner parties. This time instead of talking about seating arrangements, he talks about the invitation list. I can imagine how the crowd was confused when Jesus said, “when you throw a dinner party we shouldn’t invite A list people, but we should invite people who would never stand a chance of being on anyone else’s invitation list.
Invite the convenience store clerk whose hourly wage barely allows for a home, food, and his children’s necessities. And invite the poor college student who is away from home, working part-time, and receives financial ad just to get through school. And the also invite street people who push their grocery carts filled with broken items.
Can you imagine the dinner party Jesus is throwing?
Who is there?
I see a blind man, a disabled vet, and a single mom and son who are dressed in the only cloths they own. I think Jesus banquet would have more real humanity, more authentic humanity than the folks who attend the black tie affairs and elegant gatherings in our society. I see laughter and joy.
The longer I am on the journey with Jesus I long to live and experience the world he talks about. At the same time I also wish to live a life of luxury.
Don’t we all at some level long for what money can buy?
I would love to pull Jesus aside and ask him if he honestly believes anyone can live the way he is teaching.
If we lived this way people will think we are crazy?
At the same time Jesus makes sense and paints a picture of a life which is appealing. Who wouldn't want to live in a world were everyone was treated with respect and dignity. Who wouldn't want to live in a world where the lost were looked for, cared for, and not over looked and forgotten.
Other questions for reflection and Comment:
Who is on you’re “A” list?
When was the last time you ate dinner with some complete strangers?
Imagine Jesus shows up at your house and says, “let’s have a party.” Whom will you invite and why?
At the party Jesus offers a blessing of the food and then asks everyone to share what they are thankful for. What does your guest say?
Would you be willing to have dinner with the homeless?
(Every Sunday we have a members from our church that go and provide a meal for the homeless in Dallas. Check out the ministry of Body and Soul. )
Day 19 on the Journey
Wednesday – Luke 14: 7 – 14
As I have been journeying with Jesus for the last three weeks, I have been reminded about what draws me to Jesus. Hearing and imagining myself in the walk with Jesus towards the cross gives reminds me of how Jesus use and uses everyday human occurrences and human behavior in his teaching. He has a knack for seeing into the nature of things and drawing insight from matter-of-fact events. He also uses illustrations from everyday life and common day occurrences, such as a woman finding a coin, brothers arguing, and a father watching his wayward son’s departure. At the same time, even though Jesus talks in common experiences, not everyone understands him.
For example, (Luke 15:1-7) Jesus has lunch with a tax collector (pick a sinner). One of the religious folks saw them eating together and said to his companions “You’d think a rabbi would have better sense than to associate with that tax collector.” Just overheard them, and he the told a story about a Shepard going to look for a lost sheep. The group did understand why Jesus was talking about a Shepard’s work, when they were addressing his choices he was making on who he eat with.
In today’s eyewitness account we witness a very embarrassing moment. We are with Jesus at a dinner party. There are many guests who are jockeying for position so they might sit next to the host at the banquet table. The man who took the seat of honor was then asked by the host to move so someone else might sit there. The man had to go the end of the table. As the man moved his face was bright red with embarrassment.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Does hearing Jesus speak stir something deep inside of you?
How do you understand Jesus story in our modern day banquets or dinner you attend?
What is Jesus trying to teach us and his disciples with this event?
As I have been journeying with Jesus for the last three weeks, I have been reminded about what draws me to Jesus. Hearing and imagining myself in the walk with Jesus towards the cross gives reminds me of how Jesus use and uses everyday human occurrences and human behavior in his teaching. He has a knack for seeing into the nature of things and drawing insight from matter-of-fact events. He also uses illustrations from everyday life and common day occurrences, such as a woman finding a coin, brothers arguing, and a father watching his wayward son’s departure. At the same time, even though Jesus talks in common experiences, not everyone understands him.
For example, (Luke 15:1-7) Jesus has lunch with a tax collector (pick a sinner). One of the religious folks saw them eating together and said to his companions “You’d think a rabbi would have better sense than to associate with that tax collector.” Just overheard them, and he the told a story about a Shepard going to look for a lost sheep. The group did understand why Jesus was talking about a Shepard’s work, when they were addressing his choices he was making on who he eat with.
In today’s eyewitness account we witness a very embarrassing moment. We are with Jesus at a dinner party. There are many guests who are jockeying for position so they might sit next to the host at the banquet table. The man who took the seat of honor was then asked by the host to move so someone else might sit there. The man had to go the end of the table. As the man moved his face was bright red with embarrassment.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Does hearing Jesus speak stir something deep inside of you?
How do you understand Jesus story in our modern day banquets or dinner you attend?
What is Jesus trying to teach us and his disciples with this event?
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Day 18 on the Journey
Tuesday – Luke 14: 1-6
Once again, Jesus is debating with the Pharisees about the Sabbath day. It has been only through reading Luke all they way through the Lenten season that I noticed how many times this happens.
I can just imagine that the disciples and those who were following Jesus got tired of hearing this debate. I do you think they were not getting it or do you think the religious leaders were not getting it? Jesus wants us to act, to care for others, to embrace an enemy, to feed the hungry, and to behave graciously. That is what is closer to being faithful than following strict religious rules about the Sabbath.
I know and you know the Sabbath is important. It is one of the Ten Commandments! The prophet Amos railed against merchants and Sabbath keeping. Sabbath keeping help the captives in Exile to maintain their identity. And after the exile the keeping of the Sabbath was the way new people came to the faith. So we cannot get to upset with the Pharisees can we?
I think Jesus was trying to make a point that tradition for tradition sake is stifling and harmful to the faith. It puts people at risk of losing conscious purpose. Jesus wanted us to remember the content and not just the form.
Questions for reflection and Comment:
If you were there when this came up on the journey…
What would you like say to Jesus?
What would you say to the Pharisees?
When you ask Jesus your question(s) how does he respond?
Imagine after you have shared your questions (maybe even your frustration) with Jesus about this ensuing debate.
How does he respond?
I think I might want to sit them both down and say why can’t you all get along. I would tell them they both have so much to offer. Then I would ask them why they insist on this continued circular discussion.
I also wonder, if Jesus had been challenged by others on this point and asked him to clarify his actions what he might have taught. I wonder if he might have leaned forward in his seat and whispered, No, what I have always had in mind is….”
What does he say?
Once again, Jesus is debating with the Pharisees about the Sabbath day. It has been only through reading Luke all they way through the Lenten season that I noticed how many times this happens.
I can just imagine that the disciples and those who were following Jesus got tired of hearing this debate. I do you think they were not getting it or do you think the religious leaders were not getting it? Jesus wants us to act, to care for others, to embrace an enemy, to feed the hungry, and to behave graciously. That is what is closer to being faithful than following strict religious rules about the Sabbath.
I know and you know the Sabbath is important. It is one of the Ten Commandments! The prophet Amos railed against merchants and Sabbath keeping. Sabbath keeping help the captives in Exile to maintain their identity. And after the exile the keeping of the Sabbath was the way new people came to the faith. So we cannot get to upset with the Pharisees can we?
I think Jesus was trying to make a point that tradition for tradition sake is stifling and harmful to the faith. It puts people at risk of losing conscious purpose. Jesus wanted us to remember the content and not just the form.
Questions for reflection and Comment:
If you were there when this came up on the journey…
What would you like say to Jesus?
What would you say to the Pharisees?
When you ask Jesus your question(s) how does he respond?
Imagine after you have shared your questions (maybe even your frustration) with Jesus about this ensuing debate.
How does he respond?
I think I might want to sit them both down and say why can’t you all get along. I would tell them they both have so much to offer. Then I would ask them why they insist on this continued circular discussion.
I also wonder, if Jesus had been challenged by others on this point and asked him to clarify his actions what he might have taught. I wonder if he might have leaned forward in his seat and whispered, No, what I have always had in mind is….”
What does he say?
Monday, February 25, 2008
Day 17 on the Journey
Monday - Luke 13: 1-35
Two Tragedies - Verses 1-5
A group of people came to Jesus with questions about to tragedies that had occurred. The first occurred at the hands of a Governor who wanted to silence the crowds and keep a revolt from happening. In an attempt to frighten the people into submission, the governor executed some Galileans and then had their blood mixed with religious sacrifice.
In the second tragedy, a building/tower accidentally collapsed, injuring and killing several people. This group of people wanted answers and explanations to make sense of these things. They asked probably the same questions we have when we witness tragedies today. They want to know why. They wanted to know where God was when this happened. It even appears that they might have suggested that one reason was because these people were sinful and God was punishing them.
Can Accidents happen just happen?
Does God act through natural and human tragedies as punishment for sin? (Me… I think not).
Jesus once again, does not take the bait. He does not try to explain why these events happened. It sounds like he was saying God does not make all events happen and some events seem to have a life of their own.
Jesus did go on to say, if people do not get their lives in order, they would be just as dead. How do you understand this teaching? Do you suppose he meant it literally?
How many times have we known someone or experience for ourselves how decisions we make end up shipwrecking our lives? Isn’t it in some ways just as dead as those victims of war or accident. Life is upside down in these times. Once decisions like this are made an irretrievable future whirls into motion. The future might find death in relationships, career, and even spiritual death.
Questions for reflection and comment: (I could not talk about all this passages, because there is so much, but these questions cover a lot of the other verses from chapter 13.)
What questions do you have about repentance?
What would you like for Jesus to clarify in his teaching about repentance?
The four parables, Luke 13: 6-9, 18-19,20-21, and 22-30
What is Jesus attempting to teach his disciples and us?
How much faith is enough?
Luke 13: 10-17 - The crippled woman
What is weighting down woman today in our society?
What is weighting you down?
As any eyewitness to this healing, why do you think the leader of the synagogue so angry?
Was it just because it was the Sabbath? Or something else?
Two Tragedies - Verses 1-5
A group of people came to Jesus with questions about to tragedies that had occurred. The first occurred at the hands of a Governor who wanted to silence the crowds and keep a revolt from happening. In an attempt to frighten the people into submission, the governor executed some Galileans and then had their blood mixed with religious sacrifice.
In the second tragedy, a building/tower accidentally collapsed, injuring and killing several people. This group of people wanted answers and explanations to make sense of these things. They asked probably the same questions we have when we witness tragedies today. They want to know why. They wanted to know where God was when this happened. It even appears that they might have suggested that one reason was because these people were sinful and God was punishing them.
Can Accidents happen just happen?
Does God act through natural and human tragedies as punishment for sin? (Me… I think not).
Jesus once again, does not take the bait. He does not try to explain why these events happened. It sounds like he was saying God does not make all events happen and some events seem to have a life of their own.
Jesus did go on to say, if people do not get their lives in order, they would be just as dead. How do you understand this teaching? Do you suppose he meant it literally?
How many times have we known someone or experience for ourselves how decisions we make end up shipwrecking our lives? Isn’t it in some ways just as dead as those victims of war or accident. Life is upside down in these times. Once decisions like this are made an irretrievable future whirls into motion. The future might find death in relationships, career, and even spiritual death.
Questions for reflection and comment: (I could not talk about all this passages, because there is so much, but these questions cover a lot of the other verses from chapter 13.)
What questions do you have about repentance?
What would you like for Jesus to clarify in his teaching about repentance?
The four parables, Luke 13: 6-9, 18-19,20-21, and 22-30
What is Jesus attempting to teach his disciples and us?
How much faith is enough?
Luke 13: 10-17 - The crippled woman
What is weighting down woman today in our society?
What is weighting you down?
As any eyewitness to this healing, why do you think the leader of the synagogue so angry?
Was it just because it was the Sabbath? Or something else?
Sunday, February 24, 2008
The Third Sunday in Lent
Luke 12:35-48
Can you imagine Jesus warning his disciples about the coming of the Lord? He did it by teaching in stories that most everyone can understand.
In the first story, Jesus likens our waiting-for God, waiting-for-the-Son, with that of a household of servants waiting up for their master's arrival home. The watchful, faithful servants are awake and alert, prepared to jump up and open the door the moment the master crosses the threshold.
But no matter how prepared these servants may have thought themselves they may have the master's night clothes laid out, a favorite wine ready to pour, a late-night snack ready to be served there's no way these watchful domestics could have been prepared for what Jesus next suggests.
Jesus puts a twist in his teaching. Once the master arrives home, when his household servants greet him promptly, this master suddenly takes on the role of servant to the servants. His unknown arrival time pales in significance to this unexpected, unbelievable behavior. Imagining this scene in today’s culture would be like offering your vacuum cleaner a steak dinner, or putting your washing machine in a bubble bath.
Questions for reflection and comment:
How do you think people reacted as Jesus told these stories?
Do think people understood the warning?
Do you think they thought the warnings were important for their attention immediately?
Do you think people were fearful?
At least in the second parable Jesus says the master would cut the unfaithful servant into pieces… I think that might cause some fear.
Eugene Peterson translates that sentence differently. He says, the master “gives him the thrashing of his life, and put him back in the kitchen peeling potatoes.”
How do you imagine Jesus telling this story?
Does the translation make a difference to what Jesus is trying to teach?
Can you imagine Jesus warning his disciples about the coming of the Lord? He did it by teaching in stories that most everyone can understand.
In the first story, Jesus likens our waiting-for God, waiting-for-the-Son, with that of a household of servants waiting up for their master's arrival home. The watchful, faithful servants are awake and alert, prepared to jump up and open the door the moment the master crosses the threshold.
But no matter how prepared these servants may have thought themselves they may have the master's night clothes laid out, a favorite wine ready to pour, a late-night snack ready to be served there's no way these watchful domestics could have been prepared for what Jesus next suggests.
Jesus puts a twist in his teaching. Once the master arrives home, when his household servants greet him promptly, this master suddenly takes on the role of servant to the servants. His unknown arrival time pales in significance to this unexpected, unbelievable behavior. Imagining this scene in today’s culture would be like offering your vacuum cleaner a steak dinner, or putting your washing machine in a bubble bath.
Questions for reflection and comment:
How do you think people reacted as Jesus told these stories?
Do think people understood the warning?
Do you think they thought the warnings were important for their attention immediately?
Do you think people were fearful?
At least in the second parable Jesus says the master would cut the unfaithful servant into pieces… I think that might cause some fear.
Eugene Peterson translates that sentence differently. He says, the master “gives him the thrashing of his life, and put him back in the kitchen peeling potatoes.”
How do you imagine Jesus telling this story?
Does the translation make a difference to what Jesus is trying to teach?
Day 16 on the Journey
Saturday – Luke 12: 13-34
Sometimes life happens for a disciple on the journey. That is what happened to me over the last couple of days. But I am back and we are on track.
In the reading for today, Jesus tries to stay out of an argument between two brothers. I think Jesus was smart in his decision. One brother was looking for Jesus to take his side in the one going family argument. The argument was about the family inheritance. In the story, it appears that Jesus just remains silent on the issue and holds back any opinion he might hold. Jesus however uses this situation to launch into a teaching on wealth and material possessions.
Can you imagine yourself their when Jesus was teaching on wealth? How does it make you feel? Jesus teaching about wealth always makes me uncomfortable. How do you think the brother felt?
Questions for reflection and comment:
What is Jesus trying to get the crowd around him and us to understand?
Are these stories all about money? Or are they about priorities? Or both?
If you could sit down with Jesus at this point along the journey what questions of clarification would you ask?
How would Jesus answer you?
Sometimes life happens for a disciple on the journey. That is what happened to me over the last couple of days. But I am back and we are on track.
In the reading for today, Jesus tries to stay out of an argument between two brothers. I think Jesus was smart in his decision. One brother was looking for Jesus to take his side in the one going family argument. The argument was about the family inheritance. In the story, it appears that Jesus just remains silent on the issue and holds back any opinion he might hold. Jesus however uses this situation to launch into a teaching on wealth and material possessions.
Can you imagine yourself their when Jesus was teaching on wealth? How does it make you feel? Jesus teaching about wealth always makes me uncomfortable. How do you think the brother felt?
Questions for reflection and comment:
What is Jesus trying to get the crowd around him and us to understand?
Are these stories all about money? Or are they about priorities? Or both?
If you could sit down with Jesus at this point along the journey what questions of clarification would you ask?
How would Jesus answer you?
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Day 15 on the Journey
Friday - Luke 10: 29-37
What a familiar story we read. When you read it are you able to place yourself within the text? Are you able to let what you always heard preach be lost… so you might experience this story fresh and from an eye witness account?
I am sure people were not to happy with the hero being a Samaritan. I have already shares some of my thought about this passage a few days ago (Tuesday). I want to focus my thoughts, reflections, and questions around the topic of our neighbors.
Questions for reflection and comment:
If Jesus was telling this story this to a group of disciples in 2008 who might be the hero?
We strive to welcome, love, forgive, and show compassion, but there are still people who would not be genuinely welcomed at next Sunday’s fellowship meal. Be brutally honest with yourself.
Who are the individuals of our society that our church does not welcome?
What questions would you want to ask Jesus about this story?
I think I would want to know how this story relates to our modern world. For example I would want to know are we supposed to stop and help someone even if it puts our life in danger. We live in a time when “good Samaritans” are prayed upon by robbers and thieves.
I wonder if the story would be different if he told it today. Would Jesus change the situation in which people were going past or ignoring? Would it be someone injured on the street or side of the highway?
Might it be a homeless person in down town Dallas?
What a familiar story we read. When you read it are you able to place yourself within the text? Are you able to let what you always heard preach be lost… so you might experience this story fresh and from an eye witness account?
I am sure people were not to happy with the hero being a Samaritan. I have already shares some of my thought about this passage a few days ago (Tuesday). I want to focus my thoughts, reflections, and questions around the topic of our neighbors.
Questions for reflection and comment:
If Jesus was telling this story this to a group of disciples in 2008 who might be the hero?
We strive to welcome, love, forgive, and show compassion, but there are still people who would not be genuinely welcomed at next Sunday’s fellowship meal. Be brutally honest with yourself.
Who are the individuals of our society that our church does not welcome?
What questions would you want to ask Jesus about this story?
I think I would want to know how this story relates to our modern world. For example I would want to know are we supposed to stop and help someone even if it puts our life in danger. We live in a time when “good Samaritans” are prayed upon by robbers and thieves.
I wonder if the story would be different if he told it today. Would Jesus change the situation in which people were going past or ignoring? Would it be someone injured on the street or side of the highway?
Might it be a homeless person in down town Dallas?
Day 14 on the Journey
Thursday - Luke 11: 29- 12: 3
Sorry about the delay in posting…
When witnessing Jesus with the Scribes and Pharisees, the easiest emotion for me to imagine is anger. (We cannot see emotion in Luke’s text). I wonder if Jesus was just debating. I wonder if Jesus was having more conversational encounters than heated debates. Of course what Jesus is debating or discussing with the Scribes and Pharisees are important topics. I think, Jesus is trying to describe the differences in his own (God’s) attitude and the Pharisee's attitudes about what is important.
How do you envision and hear Jesus’ voice?
In the New Testament, the Scribes and Pharisees really do get a lot of bad press. The Pharisaical movement was more than likely a survival tool for the Jewish people. The Pharisees were a lay renewal movement of Jesus time. They wanted a back to the scripture and tradition emphasis. They saw the law and rules as solid boundaries to help keep the faith in bounds. Without laws and rules we would have Chaos. Right? And we cannot live in Chaos. They where trying to keep people from giving up their identity as Jews; therefore they emphasized scripture and learning.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Isn’t keeping certain tradition important?
Jesus was critiquing their tradition bound attitudes and I am sure they felt threaten. Don’t you?
There are still scribes and Pharisees in our churches today… And some of their views appeal to contemporary Christians. Hearing someone belittle a tradition that we hold dear hurts us.
Might Jesus be critiquing a practice or belief you have always considered critical to faith?
How would you feel when Jesus says, “A person does not have to say that phrase, practice that discipline, or dress that way, in order to be a Christian?
How do we keep from falling into chaos, without rules?
At the same time not let rules take precedence over relationships?
Sorry about the delay in posting…
When witnessing Jesus with the Scribes and Pharisees, the easiest emotion for me to imagine is anger. (We cannot see emotion in Luke’s text). I wonder if Jesus was just debating. I wonder if Jesus was having more conversational encounters than heated debates. Of course what Jesus is debating or discussing with the Scribes and Pharisees are important topics. I think, Jesus is trying to describe the differences in his own (God’s) attitude and the Pharisee's attitudes about what is important.
How do you envision and hear Jesus’ voice?
In the New Testament, the Scribes and Pharisees really do get a lot of bad press. The Pharisaical movement was more than likely a survival tool for the Jewish people. The Pharisees were a lay renewal movement of Jesus time. They wanted a back to the scripture and tradition emphasis. They saw the law and rules as solid boundaries to help keep the faith in bounds. Without laws and rules we would have Chaos. Right? And we cannot live in Chaos. They where trying to keep people from giving up their identity as Jews; therefore they emphasized scripture and learning.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Isn’t keeping certain tradition important?
Jesus was critiquing their tradition bound attitudes and I am sure they felt threaten. Don’t you?
There are still scribes and Pharisees in our churches today… And some of their views appeal to contemporary Christians. Hearing someone belittle a tradition that we hold dear hurts us.
Might Jesus be critiquing a practice or belief you have always considered critical to faith?
How would you feel when Jesus says, “A person does not have to say that phrase, practice that discipline, or dress that way, in order to be a Christian?
How do we keep from falling into chaos, without rules?
At the same time not let rules take precedence over relationships?
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Wednesday - Day 13 on the Journey
Wednesday – Luke 11: 1 – 28
Today was full of Jesus teaching and healing. We witnessed Jesus cast out demons and watched him confront religious leaders who though he was doing this in Beelzebul’s name. He talked a lot about evil and how the “Son of Man” has come to this generation as Jonah came to the Ninevehites.
I found it interesting of all the things the disciples would ask for from Jesus, they asked him to teach them to pray. They had not asked him how to heal, or how to cast out demons, but they asked him to teach them to pray. I drew in close as Jesus began to teach. The form of Jesus prayer was similar to those we said in the Jewish tradition. I watched as the taught the disciples were intently listening, but also stopping and asking him questions.
Questions for reflection and comment:
What portions of the prayer would you want Jesus to explain to you?
What would Jesus say to you?
What part of the prayer would you like to avoid or ignore?
As you hear Jesus teaches about evil, satan, and unclean spirits, what questions do you have for Jesus?
How do you think the people heard these teachings?
Today was full of Jesus teaching and healing. We witnessed Jesus cast out demons and watched him confront religious leaders who though he was doing this in Beelzebul’s name. He talked a lot about evil and how the “Son of Man” has come to this generation as Jonah came to the Ninevehites.
I found it interesting of all the things the disciples would ask for from Jesus, they asked him to teach them to pray. They had not asked him how to heal, or how to cast out demons, but they asked him to teach them to pray. I drew in close as Jesus began to teach. The form of Jesus prayer was similar to those we said in the Jewish tradition. I watched as the taught the disciples were intently listening, but also stopping and asking him questions.
Questions for reflection and comment:
What portions of the prayer would you want Jesus to explain to you?
What would Jesus say to you?
What part of the prayer would you like to avoid or ignore?
As you hear Jesus teaches about evil, satan, and unclean spirits, what questions do you have for Jesus?
How do you think the people heard these teachings?
Monday, February 18, 2008
Tuesday - Day 12 on the Journey
Luke 10: 1 – 37
Jesus was at it again today. A lawyer asked Jesus a loaded question, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus response was brief and it wasn’t even a statement, but a question. “What does the law require?” We all know the answer don’t we. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all you mind; and your neighbor as yourself.”
Then Jesus told a story to all of us as to who the neighbor was. To everyone’s surprise he makes the hero of the story and the neighbor as a Samaritan. You would think Jesus would be more careful as many times as he has already upset people with his stories. In a very short time of following Jesus around, I think he has come into contact with just about every unwelcome, despicable, and otherwise unlikely character. And through his interactions he has treated them with hospitality, welcome, kindness, and as friends. Doesn’t he know his interactions with those people and telling stories like today that he is going to have a hard time attracting followers?
While I am talking about attracting followers, I should go ahead and say something about other things he has said. Just the other day Jesus said, “foxes have holes and birds have nest as safe havens.” Then he warns those who want to follow him that they will be lambs in midst of the wolves. Does he really think he is going to get more followers this way?
Should we put up warning signs for people who want to become disciples today?
What might they say?
Another thought I had. Was Jesus really interested in gaining a large following? It really does not appear so. Neither does it appear that Jesus had any interest in being an answer man. He refused to give easy answers. He always forces people to make their own decisions.
Questions for reflection and comment:
If you had a chance to sit by yourself with Jesus at this point in the journey, what questions would you ask?
Do you think Jesus senses any treat of persecution or death?
How do you regard his warnings about the cost of discipleship?
What part of Jesus preaching and teaching do you find most difficult?
Jesus was at it again today. A lawyer asked Jesus a loaded question, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus response was brief and it wasn’t even a statement, but a question. “What does the law require?” We all know the answer don’t we. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all you mind; and your neighbor as yourself.”
Then Jesus told a story to all of us as to who the neighbor was. To everyone’s surprise he makes the hero of the story and the neighbor as a Samaritan. You would think Jesus would be more careful as many times as he has already upset people with his stories. In a very short time of following Jesus around, I think he has come into contact with just about every unwelcome, despicable, and otherwise unlikely character. And through his interactions he has treated them with hospitality, welcome, kindness, and as friends. Doesn’t he know his interactions with those people and telling stories like today that he is going to have a hard time attracting followers?
While I am talking about attracting followers, I should go ahead and say something about other things he has said. Just the other day Jesus said, “foxes have holes and birds have nest as safe havens.” Then he warns those who want to follow him that they will be lambs in midst of the wolves. Does he really think he is going to get more followers this way?
Should we put up warning signs for people who want to become disciples today?
What might they say?
Another thought I had. Was Jesus really interested in gaining a large following? It really does not appear so. Neither does it appear that Jesus had any interest in being an answer man. He refused to give easy answers. He always forces people to make their own decisions.
Questions for reflection and comment:
If you had a chance to sit by yourself with Jesus at this point in the journey, what questions would you ask?
Do you think Jesus senses any treat of persecution or death?
How do you regard his warnings about the cost of discipleship?
What part of Jesus preaching and teaching do you find most difficult?
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Monday - Day 11 on the Journey
Luke 9: 51-62
Well it is Monday. This marks the second full week of our Journey with Jesus. Jesus turns his attention away from the comfort of the North and the area he grew up. Our eyewitness account today marks Jesus heading toward Jerusalem.
Jesus had sent some of his disciples ahead of him to set up his accommodations. The problem was they were not welcomed. The people I imagine were giving vague reasons for why they would not provide a place for Jesus to stay. I can imagine the disciples got a little mad. According to the text they were ready to condemn the people and wish disaster upon them. Being one of those people who have been watching from the edge of the crowd, I was wondering what Jesus was going to do? Earlier he had taught the disciples to stay where they were welcomed and where they were not welcome to shake the dust off their shoes and move on. This is easy to talk about, but harder to practice. I was happy to see Jesus put this teaching into practice. Jesus scolded them and they set off for the next village. Jesus showed us the ethic of love in this story.
What if people who follow Jesus forgot what Jesus taught about opponents?
Do you suppose the time might come when disciples would actually do harm to others in the name of Jesus?
Could there be a time when disciples confuse their own anger with the intentions of Jesus?
Other Questions for reflection and comment:
Can you understand why someone would not want to encounter Jesus?
In verses 57-62, do you think that these want a be disciples took on Jesus Challenge? Why or why not?
Well it is Monday. This marks the second full week of our Journey with Jesus. Jesus turns his attention away from the comfort of the North and the area he grew up. Our eyewitness account today marks Jesus heading toward Jerusalem.
Jesus had sent some of his disciples ahead of him to set up his accommodations. The problem was they were not welcomed. The people I imagine were giving vague reasons for why they would not provide a place for Jesus to stay. I can imagine the disciples got a little mad. According to the text they were ready to condemn the people and wish disaster upon them. Being one of those people who have been watching from the edge of the crowd, I was wondering what Jesus was going to do? Earlier he had taught the disciples to stay where they were welcomed and where they were not welcome to shake the dust off their shoes and move on. This is easy to talk about, but harder to practice. I was happy to see Jesus put this teaching into practice. Jesus scolded them and they set off for the next village. Jesus showed us the ethic of love in this story.
What if people who follow Jesus forgot what Jesus taught about opponents?
Do you suppose the time might come when disciples would actually do harm to others in the name of Jesus?
Could there be a time when disciples confuse their own anger with the intentions of Jesus?
Other Questions for reflection and comment:
Can you understand why someone would not want to encounter Jesus?
In verses 57-62, do you think that these want a be disciples took on Jesus Challenge? Why or why not?
Second Sunday of Lent - Still on the Journey
Luke 7: 11-17
This story was hard for me to imagine in our modern setting -- someone halting the hearse, opening the door of the limousine, telling the widowed mother in mourning black not to weep, and then saying beside the coffin, "Young man, I say to you, arise."
That would be startling indeed. And I am sure it was startling enough in first century Palestine. I not sure they were startled as much by the resurrection because they might have had biblical De ja Vu. They would have a couple of old Testament miracle stories of great prophets like Elijah and Elisha raising widows' sons from the dead which would be part of their history. They would of for sure been startled how Jesus reached out and touched the young man. No Jew in his right mind would do that. They would have been unclean and had to go through ritual cleansing. Jesus does it any way and the young man sat up and began to speak. Just like Elijah and Elisha before Jesus, the new great prophet gave the son back to his mother. (look at 1 Kings 17 and 2 Kings 4).
Imagine the shock that went through the gathering as the young man sat straight up. Imagine Jesus speaking to a circumstance that seems as unfixable to you as the young man’s death seem irreversible to his mother.
What circumstances do you describe?
What does Jesus say about this circumstance?
What is the point to the story?
I wonder if this miracle helps us remember that God does not always act one way only. God does things which we cannot understand.
I think Jesus was trying to teach us about God’s Grace and love. I think Jesus wanted his disciples and us to be eyewitnesses to God’s fixing and reversing, a situation that is considered broken and unfixable or irreversible. God’s power works in mysterious ways and fixes and reverses things. It might not be in physical resurrection of someone’s physical death, but it might be in forgiving a murder, healing a marriage, or physical healing from disease. God’s grace and love and transform lives… Jesus can and will interrupt ours and others lives that might be in a funeral march. In the interruption, Jesus transforms our lives. He brings new life to our brokenness.
This funeral turned into a celebrate and I have hope for myself and others will continue to experience the uncompressible grace of God, that transforms us and gives us new life.
Have you experiened God's saving grace in your life?
This story was hard for me to imagine in our modern setting -- someone halting the hearse, opening the door of the limousine, telling the widowed mother in mourning black not to weep, and then saying beside the coffin, "Young man, I say to you, arise."
That would be startling indeed. And I am sure it was startling enough in first century Palestine. I not sure they were startled as much by the resurrection because they might have had biblical De ja Vu. They would have a couple of old Testament miracle stories of great prophets like Elijah and Elisha raising widows' sons from the dead which would be part of their history. They would of for sure been startled how Jesus reached out and touched the young man. No Jew in his right mind would do that. They would have been unclean and had to go through ritual cleansing. Jesus does it any way and the young man sat up and began to speak. Just like Elijah and Elisha before Jesus, the new great prophet gave the son back to his mother. (look at 1 Kings 17 and 2 Kings 4).
Imagine the shock that went through the gathering as the young man sat straight up. Imagine Jesus speaking to a circumstance that seems as unfixable to you as the young man’s death seem irreversible to his mother.
What circumstances do you describe?
What does Jesus say about this circumstance?
What is the point to the story?
I wonder if this miracle helps us remember that God does not always act one way only. God does things which we cannot understand.
I think Jesus was trying to teach us about God’s Grace and love. I think Jesus wanted his disciples and us to be eyewitnesses to God’s fixing and reversing, a situation that is considered broken and unfixable or irreversible. God’s power works in mysterious ways and fixes and reverses things. It might not be in physical resurrection of someone’s physical death, but it might be in forgiving a murder, healing a marriage, or physical healing from disease. God’s grace and love and transform lives… Jesus can and will interrupt ours and others lives that might be in a funeral march. In the interruption, Jesus transforms our lives. He brings new life to our brokenness.
This funeral turned into a celebrate and I have hope for myself and others will continue to experience the uncompressible grace of God, that transforms us and gives us new life.
Have you experiened God's saving grace in your life?
Friday, February 15, 2008
Day 10 on the Journey
Feeding the masses - Luke 9: 1-17
I hope this these first 10 days of Lent have been as much fun for you as they have been for me. The Journey is moving quickly. It is always amazing to see how each of us see Jesus in different ways.
Today we witnessed Jesus commissioning the twelve. I watched from a distance as he gave them directions. He authorizes them to go out and in essence do what he had been doing. Jesus was willing to share his power and authority with others. He did not appear that he needed to be the only one people were changing lives. It also impressed me that Jesus trusted them completely to do the right thing. Jesus modeled for me how as leaders at work, home, or church, we need to share the work with others.
Upon the disciples return, they were all a buzz. Their was great energy and excitement in their voices. I even think I noticed a few of them swaggering as they came back in to town. Jesus called them to follow him. I guess he was trying to get them off somewhere less public where he could listen to their stories and they could relax without large crowds around them.
Jesus didn’t know it, but someone heard Jesus and his disciples were hanging out near the town of Bethsaida. So we all went to go and see what Jesus was going to do next. Jesus welcomes all who showed up. He healed those who needed healing.
It was getting late in the day, but no one was leaving. The crowd had grown to over 5000 people. We all wanted to listen to what Jesus was teaching. I was getting hungry, but I didn’t want to leave. Then all of a sudden the disciples were instructing us to break into small groups. About an hour later, Jesus began to pray a prayer of blessing over a small group of loaves and fishes. I was not sure what Jesus was doing. Why was he blessing food for just him and his disciples? What about us?
The disciples did not eat, but they started walking out into the crowd with food. I was in the back, so I knew I was not going to get anything. It wasn’t long until one of the disciples showed up to our group. I was amazed. He had a full basket with fish and bread for us. We all eat from the basket and we even had a little left over. What an amazing day.
Questions for reflection and comment:
How would you respond to Jesus instructions to go and heal the sick?
Where would he be sending you today?
What part of the work would excite you most?
What part of the work would scare you?
What would your reaction been when Jesus said he was going to feed the crowd?
Would you have protested? Why?
I hope this these first 10 days of Lent have been as much fun for you as they have been for me. The Journey is moving quickly. It is always amazing to see how each of us see Jesus in different ways.
Today we witnessed Jesus commissioning the twelve. I watched from a distance as he gave them directions. He authorizes them to go out and in essence do what he had been doing. Jesus was willing to share his power and authority with others. He did not appear that he needed to be the only one people were changing lives. It also impressed me that Jesus trusted them completely to do the right thing. Jesus modeled for me how as leaders at work, home, or church, we need to share the work with others.
Upon the disciples return, they were all a buzz. Their was great energy and excitement in their voices. I even think I noticed a few of them swaggering as they came back in to town. Jesus called them to follow him. I guess he was trying to get them off somewhere less public where he could listen to their stories and they could relax without large crowds around them.
Jesus didn’t know it, but someone heard Jesus and his disciples were hanging out near the town of Bethsaida. So we all went to go and see what Jesus was going to do next. Jesus welcomes all who showed up. He healed those who needed healing.
It was getting late in the day, but no one was leaving. The crowd had grown to over 5000 people. We all wanted to listen to what Jesus was teaching. I was getting hungry, but I didn’t want to leave. Then all of a sudden the disciples were instructing us to break into small groups. About an hour later, Jesus began to pray a prayer of blessing over a small group of loaves and fishes. I was not sure what Jesus was doing. Why was he blessing food for just him and his disciples? What about us?
The disciples did not eat, but they started walking out into the crowd with food. I was in the back, so I knew I was not going to get anything. It wasn’t long until one of the disciples showed up to our group. I was amazed. He had a full basket with fish and bread for us. We all eat from the basket and we even had a little left over. What an amazing day.
Questions for reflection and comment:
How would you respond to Jesus instructions to go and heal the sick?
Where would he be sending you today?
What part of the work would excite you most?
What part of the work would scare you?
What would your reaction been when Jesus said he was going to feed the crowd?
Would you have protested? Why?
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Day 9 on the Journey
And the Power went out… Luke 8: 40 – 56
In today’s reading, I found myself imagining Jesus in a rush to help another person, but the crowd was pressed in upon. It was wall to wall people. I reminded me of what I think the sidewalks in New York City are like at rush hour. Jesus was being jostled as he made his way through the crowd.
I imagined a frail woman who was walking several steps behind him. She was moving as quickly as she could. She was shoving her way through the crowd. She come to see Jesus and she was afraid that she would not see him again. This was her only chance. Desperately trying to get to Jesus she lunges forward and catches his robe.
Then Jesus stopped suddenly causing a human traffic jam. Surely she was not expecting the entire crowd to stop, but it did. I am sure she was delighted to be healed. At the same time I bet she was also terrified at being singled out.
Questions for reflection and comments:
What happens next?
How does Jesus voice sound when he asks, “who touched me?”
What kind of risk do you need to take with Jesus so you can be whole?
Luke 8: 54 – 56
Why does Jesus keep telling people not to tell about their experience of Jesus’ power?
Do you think the family really would not tell? Why or Why not?
In today’s reading, I found myself imagining Jesus in a rush to help another person, but the crowd was pressed in upon. It was wall to wall people. I reminded me of what I think the sidewalks in New York City are like at rush hour. Jesus was being jostled as he made his way through the crowd.
I imagined a frail woman who was walking several steps behind him. She was moving as quickly as she could. She was shoving her way through the crowd. She come to see Jesus and she was afraid that she would not see him again. This was her only chance. Desperately trying to get to Jesus she lunges forward and catches his robe.
Then Jesus stopped suddenly causing a human traffic jam. Surely she was not expecting the entire crowd to stop, but it did. I am sure she was delighted to be healed. At the same time I bet she was also terrified at being singled out.
Questions for reflection and comments:
What happens next?
How does Jesus voice sound when he asks, “who touched me?”
What kind of risk do you need to take with Jesus so you can be whole?
Luke 8: 54 – 56
Why does Jesus keep telling people not to tell about their experience of Jesus’ power?
Do you think the family really would not tell? Why or Why not?
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Day 8 on the Journey
Jesus heals again – Luke 8: 11-17
Today, I got to see something powerful and amazing. Jesus encountered a raving lunatic who many times ran around naked. When this man ran up to Jesus and asked him, “What have you to do with me?” Jesus responded calmly. He said what is your name. The name was struck and confused by Jesus actions. No one had ever talked with him before. I watched as Jesus and this man had a conversation. The man was transformed and healed. By the end of their time together, the man was dressed and sitting at Jesus feet and learning from him.
The more I think about this story, I wonder which was more miraculous – That Jesus had spoken to the man or that the man had somehow regained his sanity.
What do you think?
I think I witnessed a miracle when the man understood Jesus’ care for him as a person. This man was alone and cut off from society. No one ever wanted to know his name and most were afraid of him. He was known as the madman or lunatic in the area. Jesus however wanted to know his name. Jesus changed his life.
Questions for Reflection and comment:
What else captured you in the story?
In our current society there are numerous people who may not be living in a graveyard, but who are cut off from society. Individuals who are filled with demons (hatred, addiction, abuse, etc.) which keep them isolated.
As a disciple can we be bold enough to stop and ask them their name?
Can we take time to get to know them and show them they are valued and cared for?
I think that is what Jesus is trying to teach us in this story… beyond the message of Jesus power over evil. The good news is that with Christ’s help demons can be driven out of our lives.
Today, I got to see something powerful and amazing. Jesus encountered a raving lunatic who many times ran around naked. When this man ran up to Jesus and asked him, “What have you to do with me?” Jesus responded calmly. He said what is your name. The name was struck and confused by Jesus actions. No one had ever talked with him before. I watched as Jesus and this man had a conversation. The man was transformed and healed. By the end of their time together, the man was dressed and sitting at Jesus feet and learning from him.
The more I think about this story, I wonder which was more miraculous – That Jesus had spoken to the man or that the man had somehow regained his sanity.
What do you think?
I think I witnessed a miracle when the man understood Jesus’ care for him as a person. This man was alone and cut off from society. No one ever wanted to know his name and most were afraid of him. He was known as the madman or lunatic in the area. Jesus however wanted to know his name. Jesus changed his life.
Questions for Reflection and comment:
What else captured you in the story?
In our current society there are numerous people who may not be living in a graveyard, but who are cut off from society. Individuals who are filled with demons (hatred, addiction, abuse, etc.) which keep them isolated.
As a disciple can we be bold enough to stop and ask them their name?
Can we take time to get to know them and show them they are valued and cared for?
I think that is what Jesus is trying to teach us in this story… beyond the message of Jesus power over evil. The good news is that with Christ’s help demons can be driven out of our lives.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Day 7 on the Journey - Luke 7: 1-10
Jesus Heals –
Jesus heals another person. In the story a man’s faith heals his beloved servant. I have read this story before many times. I have always seen the main topic as faith. Don’t get me wrong faith and healing are important for us to recognize and remember from our followings of Jesus.
However, because we are walking with Jesus everyday and I am encountering Jesus everyday in the way Luke shares his life. I noticed something else. This story is also about loving our enemies. Remember Jesus had just taught us about loving our enemies and then we encounter Jesus living it out.
The Roman occupation was not well received by most of the people. These soldiers used their force in unjust and cruel ways. They would make the Jewish people carry their packs for a mile. They would call them racist and nasty names. The conflict between the Jewish people and the Roman army was clear. It would not have been uncommon for the Jewish community to have made comments like, “the only good Roman is a dead Roman.”
From this story apparently there were some Roman Soldiers who treated citizens kindly. The one in this story not only treated people kindly, but he also helped support the local synagogue in Capernaum. Jesus showed that love for all people no matter where they are from or who they work for they are received with compassion and love.
Questions for reflection and comment:
You are the friend of the Centurion who has been sent to speak to Jesus. How does Jesus receive you?
What does he say to you?
What tone of voice do you hear?
Or
Imagine you have a friend who needs healing and has an equally important need as the centurion’s servant.
Will you go see Jesus?
How do you say to him about your friend?
What request do you want to make of Jesus?
Jesus heals another person. In the story a man’s faith heals his beloved servant. I have read this story before many times. I have always seen the main topic as faith. Don’t get me wrong faith and healing are important for us to recognize and remember from our followings of Jesus.
However, because we are walking with Jesus everyday and I am encountering Jesus everyday in the way Luke shares his life. I noticed something else. This story is also about loving our enemies. Remember Jesus had just taught us about loving our enemies and then we encounter Jesus living it out.
The Roman occupation was not well received by most of the people. These soldiers used their force in unjust and cruel ways. They would make the Jewish people carry their packs for a mile. They would call them racist and nasty names. The conflict between the Jewish people and the Roman army was clear. It would not have been uncommon for the Jewish community to have made comments like, “the only good Roman is a dead Roman.”
From this story apparently there were some Roman Soldiers who treated citizens kindly. The one in this story not only treated people kindly, but he also helped support the local synagogue in Capernaum. Jesus showed that love for all people no matter where they are from or who they work for they are received with compassion and love.
Questions for reflection and comment:
You are the friend of the Centurion who has been sent to speak to Jesus. How does Jesus receive you?
What does he say to you?
What tone of voice do you hear?
Or
Imagine you have a friend who needs healing and has an equally important need as the centurion’s servant.
Will you go see Jesus?
How do you say to him about your friend?
What request do you want to make of Jesus?
Monday, February 11, 2008
Day 6 on the Journey - Luke 6: 27-36
Can you image yourself sitting with Jesus as he was giving this teaching? I did. I imagined how I listened and listened to these instructions he was giving his disciples, but I was not sure how I or any of them could really do what he was asking.
As the day went on I got my chance. Jesus and I were alone and I was able to ask my questions. I began by saying, Jesus what you taught earlier sounds really foreign and made me uncomfortable…
Imagine for yourself what you might ask. I first would ask Jesus where he came up with these radical ideas. How will you ask him? Imagine yourself asking Jesus, “what made you say that?” Go ahead and keep asking the difficult questions you might have. My question was, “Jesus, can this ethic of love really happen in this world?” What are your questions?
Questions for reflection and comment:
How does he look at you when you ask these questions?
What does he say?
What is the source of his inspiration?
How did if feel to be asking Jesus these questions?
As the day went on I got my chance. Jesus and I were alone and I was able to ask my questions. I began by saying, Jesus what you taught earlier sounds really foreign and made me uncomfortable…
Imagine for yourself what you might ask. I first would ask Jesus where he came up with these radical ideas. How will you ask him? Imagine yourself asking Jesus, “what made you say that?” Go ahead and keep asking the difficult questions you might have. My question was, “Jesus, can this ethic of love really happen in this world?” What are your questions?
Questions for reflection and comment:
How does he look at you when you ask these questions?
What does he say?
What is the source of his inspiration?
How did if feel to be asking Jesus these questions?
Day 5 on the Journey - Luke 6: 12 - 26
Luke 6: 12-19
When I was reading the calling of the disciples, I found myself in a different place than ever before. I was one of many people who had been following Jesus around the last several weeks and months. One day Jesus went off and prayed all night and when he returned the next day he began to list those whom were to be his disciples.
I was listening and waiting to hear if my name was to be called. I was nervous. I was not sure I really was ready to be his disciple. I had really mixed feelings. I was not sure if I was qualified. I wasn’t sure I wanted to be on the inner circle. Yes Jesus was healing people, but at the same time he was instantiating confrontation. I don’t like conflict. Then I started hearing so of the names he called, and thinking why would he choose them? One was a zealot and a couple of others were real hotheads. I am sure Jesus had a reason. Jesus kept calling names and I waited…
Where you chosen?
How do you think those who did not get chosen might have felt?
What was Jesus reason for picking you?
Luke 6: 20 – 26
It is hard to understand Jesus at times. He speaks in riddles and I am not sure how I feel about that.
As I read these verses from Luke my mind jumped to modern times. I saw Jesus speaking these words at the door of the food stamp distribution center. These people had gathered to receive there month’s allotment of food stamps. And Jesus says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Bless are you who are hungry no, for you will be filled.”
How do you think people reacted?
How would you feel if you were with Jesus when he was teaching this?
What was Jesus trying to teach us and others?
I can imagine people hearing Jesus and saying, “he speaks in contradictions. A person is either rich or poor, hungry or fed. How could he speak to us about being poor, hungry, and blessed at the same time? Life is not like that.”
What would you say to Jesus?
What would you say to those who were standing in line?
What was Jesus trying to get us to understand?
When I was reading the calling of the disciples, I found myself in a different place than ever before. I was one of many people who had been following Jesus around the last several weeks and months. One day Jesus went off and prayed all night and when he returned the next day he began to list those whom were to be his disciples.
I was listening and waiting to hear if my name was to be called. I was nervous. I was not sure I really was ready to be his disciple. I had really mixed feelings. I was not sure if I was qualified. I wasn’t sure I wanted to be on the inner circle. Yes Jesus was healing people, but at the same time he was instantiating confrontation. I don’t like conflict. Then I started hearing so of the names he called, and thinking why would he choose them? One was a zealot and a couple of others were real hotheads. I am sure Jesus had a reason. Jesus kept calling names and I waited…
Where you chosen?
How do you think those who did not get chosen might have felt?
What was Jesus reason for picking you?
Luke 6: 20 – 26
It is hard to understand Jesus at times. He speaks in riddles and I am not sure how I feel about that.
As I read these verses from Luke my mind jumped to modern times. I saw Jesus speaking these words at the door of the food stamp distribution center. These people had gathered to receive there month’s allotment of food stamps. And Jesus says, “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Bless are you who are hungry no, for you will be filled.”
How do you think people reacted?
How would you feel if you were with Jesus when he was teaching this?
What was Jesus trying to teach us and others?
I can imagine people hearing Jesus and saying, “he speaks in contradictions. A person is either rich or poor, hungry or fed. How could he speak to us about being poor, hungry, and blessed at the same time? Life is not like that.”
What would you say to Jesus?
What would you say to those who were standing in line?
What was Jesus trying to get us to understand?
Sunday, February 10, 2008
A quick note about the Lent postings...
I have been asked to post a day in advance...
I hope posting in advance will not confuse you.
Please note that the 40 days of our journey do not count the 6 Sundays in lent. So my post each Sunday does not have a number on it.
To try to keep everyone on the same day of readings, I will always post the scripture reading the post is related to.
Thanks for all who have commented and who are going to comment. Your ideas and questions will help us all as we try to keep going and following Jesus all the way to the Cross.
Have Fun with this... I know I am!
I hope posting in advance will not confuse you.
Please note that the 40 days of our journey do not count the 6 Sundays in lent. So my post each Sunday does not have a number on it.
To try to keep everyone on the same day of readings, I will always post the scripture reading the post is related to.
Thanks for all who have commented and who are going to comment. Your ideas and questions will help us all as we try to keep going and following Jesus all the way to the Cross.
Have Fun with this... I know I am!
First Sunday in Lent - February 10, 2008
Questions or Conflicts about the Sabbath – Luke 6: 1- 11
Is keeping the Sabbath day not important? When not keeping the Sabbath day holy we are breaking one of the 10 commandments. Are laws and commandments not important?
I think Jesus was arguing that the letter of the law, but the Spirit of the law. I think what Jesus was trying to get the Pharisees and us to see is that God’s intentions or desires for us, must consist of something other than endless debates, rule setting, and discussions. Sabbath keeping was important not because it was a rule, but because it helps foster our relationship with God.
Jesus and his companions receiving nourishment was more important than following the law. God’s desire is not a group of people that know how to say all the right words or follow a set of rules perfectly. God desires our relationship. God desires right relationships with him, others, and creation.
I am not sure the point was as much about the law, but the arguments around the law. If you think about it, debates sometimes constitute ways to avoid the difficult task of actually helping people. Moreover, if we are not careful our talk about an issue might get confused with work. For example, we might confuse our talking or arguing about the poor the same as involvement with the poor. A debate about what may be done on the Sabbath does not mean the same as helping a crippled man on the Sabbath. Our words are not always the same as our actions.
I think Sabbath keeping is important. Yes, but not to the extreme level the Pharisees were seeking. Plus, I do not think it is important because of a list of rules. I hold the conviction because it is important and beneficial to be connected to God and to find rest. I also would say relationships, healing, and care for neighbors are not to be avoided, just because it is Sunday. Sabbath keeping is giving a whole day to allow God to restore you, like Jesus restored the man’s hand. And it might just happen when you are doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with God.
Some questions to answer and comment upon:
What if Jesus did not heal the man?
Would Jesus not healing the man change our understanding of God? (Jesus came so we might have a living, breathing, and visual understanding of God… Emanuel – God with us. Jesus was God incarnate.)
Does God only work 6 days a week?
What do you think is most important for us today, with what Jesus was teaching in this passage?
Is keeping the Sabbath day not important? When not keeping the Sabbath day holy we are breaking one of the 10 commandments. Are laws and commandments not important?
I think Jesus was arguing that the letter of the law, but the Spirit of the law. I think what Jesus was trying to get the Pharisees and us to see is that God’s intentions or desires for us, must consist of something other than endless debates, rule setting, and discussions. Sabbath keeping was important not because it was a rule, but because it helps foster our relationship with God.
Jesus and his companions receiving nourishment was more important than following the law. God’s desire is not a group of people that know how to say all the right words or follow a set of rules perfectly. God desires our relationship. God desires right relationships with him, others, and creation.
I am not sure the point was as much about the law, but the arguments around the law. If you think about it, debates sometimes constitute ways to avoid the difficult task of actually helping people. Moreover, if we are not careful our talk about an issue might get confused with work. For example, we might confuse our talking or arguing about the poor the same as involvement with the poor. A debate about what may be done on the Sabbath does not mean the same as helping a crippled man on the Sabbath. Our words are not always the same as our actions.
I think Sabbath keeping is important. Yes, but not to the extreme level the Pharisees were seeking. Plus, I do not think it is important because of a list of rules. I hold the conviction because it is important and beneficial to be connected to God and to find rest. I also would say relationships, healing, and care for neighbors are not to be avoided, just because it is Sunday. Sabbath keeping is giving a whole day to allow God to restore you, like Jesus restored the man’s hand. And it might just happen when you are doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with God.
Some questions to answer and comment upon:
What if Jesus did not heal the man?
Would Jesus not healing the man change our understanding of God? (Jesus came so we might have a living, breathing, and visual understanding of God… Emanuel – God with us. Jesus was God incarnate.)
Does God only work 6 days a week?
What do you think is most important for us today, with what Jesus was teaching in this passage?
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Day 4 of the Journey
Two individuals received forgiveness from Jesus in the readings…
Healing the Paralytic - Luke 5: 17-26
I have always imaged this story as one of healing, but I also have been amazed by the determination and care of the paralyzed man’s friends. He does not come alone, but is brought by his friends.
Do you know someone who needs to be carried to Jesus?
Another thought came to me about this healing story. Forgiveness and paralysis are intertwined. Now we know that today persons who become paralyzed because of medical and human actions have nothing to do with their sins. There are medical reasons they are unable to walk and God is with them.
I am talking about another form of paralysis.
It struck me, when sin pervades our lives we do become paralyzed. Do we not? Sin sucks us into habits, choices, and actions, which can paralyze us to the point we are unable to function or feel worthy of God’s love. The paralysis keeps us from coming close to Jesus or willing to even come close. One example is addictions. Over coming addictions takes healing, forgiveness, and changing of our lives.
Eating with Levi (someone detested in society) - Luke 5: 26 - 32
Have you ever thought about how forgiveness can be misinterpreted as condoning the wrong committed? When someone receives forgiveness, the people who have done the forgiving don’t stand off at a distance either physically or emotionally.
Jesus was in the home of a tax collector, Levi. I can image Jesus sitting in the living room of Levi’s home and other religious folks walking and seeing the two of them having dinner together. The dinning table was in front of the big picture window. I could see how those who walked by might confuse Jesus forgiveness as somehow approving Levi’s past. It was powerful to watch. Jesus had a lot of courage. Jesus dared to sit with, break bread with, and talk with someone whom others detested. At the same time, I also imagine myself worrying and wondering if his bold actions might affect his reputation.
Some Questions for reflection and comment:
Is the company he is keeping challenging Jesus character?
How hard is it for us to reach out to others who society detests? Why?
Healing the Paralytic - Luke 5: 17-26
I have always imaged this story as one of healing, but I also have been amazed by the determination and care of the paralyzed man’s friends. He does not come alone, but is brought by his friends.
Do you know someone who needs to be carried to Jesus?
Another thought came to me about this healing story. Forgiveness and paralysis are intertwined. Now we know that today persons who become paralyzed because of medical and human actions have nothing to do with their sins. There are medical reasons they are unable to walk and God is with them.
I am talking about another form of paralysis.
It struck me, when sin pervades our lives we do become paralyzed. Do we not? Sin sucks us into habits, choices, and actions, which can paralyze us to the point we are unable to function or feel worthy of God’s love. The paralysis keeps us from coming close to Jesus or willing to even come close. One example is addictions. Over coming addictions takes healing, forgiveness, and changing of our lives.
Eating with Levi (someone detested in society) - Luke 5: 26 - 32
Have you ever thought about how forgiveness can be misinterpreted as condoning the wrong committed? When someone receives forgiveness, the people who have done the forgiving don’t stand off at a distance either physically or emotionally.
Jesus was in the home of a tax collector, Levi. I can image Jesus sitting in the living room of Levi’s home and other religious folks walking and seeing the two of them having dinner together. The dinning table was in front of the big picture window. I could see how those who walked by might confuse Jesus forgiveness as somehow approving Levi’s past. It was powerful to watch. Jesus had a lot of courage. Jesus dared to sit with, break bread with, and talk with someone whom others detested. At the same time, I also imagine myself worrying and wondering if his bold actions might affect his reputation.
Some Questions for reflection and comment:
Is the company he is keeping challenging Jesus character?
How hard is it for us to reach out to others who society detests? Why?
Friday, February 8, 2008
Day 3 of the Journey
A Fishing Story – Luke 5: 1-11
First, can you imagine being a professional (insert your job) fisherman and a carpenter walking up and telling you how to do your job. How that make you feel? What might have been your response? Think about working all night to catch some food and coming up with nothing and then Jesus comes along and wants you to go back out again. How would you have felt then?
Even if Jesus was my friend, (which I think is safe to say he was friends with these men by this time in his ministry) I am not sure I would have liked being told how to do my job. I can imagine they must have put up a few objections before they gave in to Jesus instructions.
Once they went, they were rewarded. How is Jesus urging or instructing you?
A Healing Story Luke 5: 12-16
When I read this passage this morning, I was wondering, how could Jesus do anything else but heal this man with leprosy? The man actually told Jesus he could heal him if he wanted to. Why wouldn’t he want to? Was the man trying to make Jesus feel guilty? It was obvious that the man need to be healed. Why couldn’t he just say so?
How did Jesus feel?
Other Questions to think about and comment upon:
Why did Jesus tell him not to tell?
Also why did he send him to the priest?
He was already cleans, why did he need the priest to sign off on things?
Did the healed man follow Jesus command?
Did he go and tell others?
Did he ever get to the priest?
One last idea:
The disciples initially balk at Jesus instructions to go out to deeper water. Jesus is urging you today... so what keeps you from go to the deeper water?
First, can you imagine being a professional (insert your job) fisherman and a carpenter walking up and telling you how to do your job. How that make you feel? What might have been your response? Think about working all night to catch some food and coming up with nothing and then Jesus comes along and wants you to go back out again. How would you have felt then?
Even if Jesus was my friend, (which I think is safe to say he was friends with these men by this time in his ministry) I am not sure I would have liked being told how to do my job. I can imagine they must have put up a few objections before they gave in to Jesus instructions.
Once they went, they were rewarded. How is Jesus urging or instructing you?
A Healing Story Luke 5: 12-16
When I read this passage this morning, I was wondering, how could Jesus do anything else but heal this man with leprosy? The man actually told Jesus he could heal him if he wanted to. Why wouldn’t he want to? Was the man trying to make Jesus feel guilty? It was obvious that the man need to be healed. Why couldn’t he just say so?
How did Jesus feel?
Other Questions to think about and comment upon:
Why did Jesus tell him not to tell?
Also why did he send him to the priest?
He was already cleans, why did he need the priest to sign off on things?
Did the healed man follow Jesus command?
Did he go and tell others?
Did he ever get to the priest?
One last idea:
The disciples initially balk at Jesus instructions to go out to deeper water. Jesus is urging you today... so what keeps you from go to the deeper water?
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Day Two of The Journey
What did you image as you read Luke 4: 31 - 44 today?
I imaged myself as someone in the crowd seeking Jesus after he withdrew from the city. Jesus was healing and curing people. Jesus I am sure had gotten frustrated with the large crowds and the large number of requests for healings. He is only one man. He can not heal everyone. I imaged how people might have gotten upset because Jesus left town and because they had not gotten a chance to have him meet their needs.
I imaged the deserted place Jesus withdrawing to was the old part of the downtown city. I imaged that he thought by getting into a part of town where people do not like to go at night he might find some peace and quiet. I image him warming himself by a 50-gallon barrel that has trash in it burning. As I arrive on the scene, I see the line has begun to wrap around the city block. I watch as Jesus welcomes each person. I watch as he touches, prays with, and listens to each person. This goes on through the night.
I notice that as each persons walks away they are changed… They are different because Jesus has touched them.
Then morning comes. The line is still long, but Jesus leaves. Jesus makes an announcement. He says, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities.”
Questions for reflections…
When you read this story where were you?
Are you one of the people who needs Jesus?
Are you one of the family members who experienced Jesus work within your loved ones life?
As you think about all the miracles being done how do you feel?
Can you believe what you are seeing?
How do you react when Jesus says he must move on?
What about all the people who were still in line, what are they thinking?
I imaged myself as someone in the crowd seeking Jesus after he withdrew from the city. Jesus was healing and curing people. Jesus I am sure had gotten frustrated with the large crowds and the large number of requests for healings. He is only one man. He can not heal everyone. I imaged how people might have gotten upset because Jesus left town and because they had not gotten a chance to have him meet their needs.
I imaged the deserted place Jesus withdrawing to was the old part of the downtown city. I imaged that he thought by getting into a part of town where people do not like to go at night he might find some peace and quiet. I image him warming himself by a 50-gallon barrel that has trash in it burning. As I arrive on the scene, I see the line has begun to wrap around the city block. I watch as Jesus welcomes each person. I watch as he touches, prays with, and listens to each person. This goes on through the night.
I notice that as each persons walks away they are changed… They are different because Jesus has touched them.
Then morning comes. The line is still long, but Jesus leaves. Jesus makes an announcement. He says, “I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities.”
Questions for reflections…
When you read this story where were you?
Are you one of the people who needs Jesus?
Are you one of the family members who experienced Jesus work within your loved ones life?
As you think about all the miracles being done how do you feel?
Can you believe what you are seeing?
How do you react when Jesus says he must move on?
What about all the people who were still in line, what are they thinking?
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Ash Wednesday - Day one of the journey
Can you believe what Jesus just did?
While reading Luke 4: 16-30, I imaged myself being in the congregation where Jesus was reading from the Prophet Isaiah. Jesus was always in worship and we all lived in the same small town (Nazareth) together. Today was different. Jesus did something I was not expecting.
It was so different that it made me feel uncomfortable. At the same time it made a lot of people around me angry. I'm not sure exactly sure why I felt this way or why people got so upset.
All he did was read the scripture for the day.
The only thing I can think of was the Jesus put the emphasis on me and not on the Spirit of the Lord. All the other rabbies always put the emphasis on the Spirit of the Lord.
I guess it was his personal identification that he was the one the Prophet Isaiah was talking about. That made people so upset.
I was also amazed at how quickly the congregation turned on Jesus. So many were talking about him positively before the service started, but at the end of it they were following him out in to the street and wishing him harm.
I do not understand why this would have been so radical… Can you?
Here are some other questions to reflect upon and comment upon…
Where were you in the story as you read the scripture?
Can you believe he did this so early in his ministry and in his hometown?
What questions does this scripture bring up for you?
What do you understand this scripture saying to you as someone looking in from the outside?
What does it say to you as someone who wants to follow Jesus?
While reading Luke 4: 16-30, I imaged myself being in the congregation where Jesus was reading from the Prophet Isaiah. Jesus was always in worship and we all lived in the same small town (Nazareth) together. Today was different. Jesus did something I was not expecting.
It was so different that it made me feel uncomfortable. At the same time it made a lot of people around me angry. I'm not sure exactly sure why I felt this way or why people got so upset.
All he did was read the scripture for the day.
The only thing I can think of was the Jesus put the emphasis on me and not on the Spirit of the Lord. All the other rabbies always put the emphasis on the Spirit of the Lord.
I guess it was his personal identification that he was the one the Prophet Isaiah was talking about. That made people so upset.
I was also amazed at how quickly the congregation turned on Jesus. So many were talking about him positively before the service started, but at the end of it they were following him out in to the street and wishing him harm.
I do not understand why this would have been so radical… Can you?
Here are some other questions to reflect upon and comment upon…
Where were you in the story as you read the scripture?
Can you believe he did this so early in his ministry and in his hometown?
What questions does this scripture bring up for you?
What do you understand this scripture saying to you as someone looking in from the outside?
What does it say to you as someone who wants to follow Jesus?
Are you ready? Will you join in the journey?
Ash Wednesday
Lent begins…
Will journey to the cross with me?
I am following Jesus as shared in Luke’s gospel…
Join the conversation by reading the daily scripture and posting your comments and reflections.
I hope we can walk together for the next 40 days.
Lent begins…
Will journey to the cross with me?
I am following Jesus as shared in Luke’s gospel…
Join the conversation by reading the daily scripture and posting your comments and reflections.
I hope we can walk together for the next 40 days.
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