Saturday - Luke 23: 50-56
Following last nights good Friday services, I woke up this morning imagining this last scene with Jesus disciples at the grave. I imagine myself standing next to the tomb with the stone rolled in front. I imagine the pain that all who have gathered, because I to have stood by the grave of friends and family members in my own life.
This must have been the longest day ever for his disciples. They could do nothing, but sit and wait. I am sure there was some story telling. I am pretty sure it was being done in secret. For they feared they might have the same fate as Jesus.
Imagining yourself there, what might you do to console others? What might you want to share with the group as you waited for the Sabbath to end?
Questions for reflection and comment:
After months or even years, imagine yourself for the first time with out Jesus. You are sitting under a tree.
Take a few moments and recall the moments that linger with you. Remember how you felt, what you heard, and what you saw along the journey.
What was your favorite moment?
What do you want to share with others about Jesus and what he stirred in you?
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Day 39 on the Journey
Friday - Luke 23:32-49
Good Friday... What is so good about it. I can only imagine if I had been there I would have wanted to flee. I would not have wanted to watch the execution. At the same Time I would want to be near Jesus. I am torn as to what I would do.
What would you do?
Occasionally I look away in hopes to distance myself from the awful scene. Yet I stay there with the crowd. I listen to the dreadful sounds of the place. I listen to the two criminals arguments and pleading turn into gasps for air. I hear the animals and insects in the area. The whole time I find myself wanting to withdraw and pray.
What do I pray?
What would my prayers for Jesus be during these last hours?
Questions for reflection and comment:
When Jesus speaks his last words, What does his voice sound like?
Which of the three statements resonates most with you?
What are the people around you saying?
Do some people keep scoffing and joking?
Good Friday... What is so good about it. I can only imagine if I had been there I would have wanted to flee. I would not have wanted to watch the execution. At the same Time I would want to be near Jesus. I am torn as to what I would do.
What would you do?
Occasionally I look away in hopes to distance myself from the awful scene. Yet I stay there with the crowd. I listen to the dreadful sounds of the place. I listen to the two criminals arguments and pleading turn into gasps for air. I hear the animals and insects in the area. The whole time I find myself wanting to withdraw and pray.
What do I pray?
What would my prayers for Jesus be during these last hours?
Questions for reflection and comment:
When Jesus speaks his last words, What does his voice sound like?
Which of the three statements resonates most with you?
What are the people around you saying?
Do some people keep scoffing and joking?
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Day 38 on the Journey
Thursday - Luke 23:26-31
We know Jesus is making his way to the place of the skull to be put to death. In these last days. I wonder about what the disciples and those whom had been journeying with him might have been thinking.
As you have followed him in this journey of lent and in your own life, do you think people really understand Jesus?
I wonder if some of the disciples were thinking:
What if his riddles remain riddles?
What if his miracles do not point to anything beyond a wonder worker?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Ambiguity feels either inviting or off-putting. How does ambiguity feel to you?
Are you more comfortable regarding Jesus' parables as having many possible interpretations or at having only one interpretation?
Why?
We know Jesus is making his way to the place of the skull to be put to death. In these last days. I wonder about what the disciples and those whom had been journeying with him might have been thinking.
As you have followed him in this journey of lent and in your own life, do you think people really understand Jesus?
I wonder if some of the disciples were thinking:
What if his riddles remain riddles?
What if his miracles do not point to anything beyond a wonder worker?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Ambiguity feels either inviting or off-putting. How does ambiguity feel to you?
Are you more comfortable regarding Jesus' parables as having many possible interpretations or at having only one interpretation?
Why?
Day 37 on the Journey
Wednesday - Luke 23: 13-25
Have you ever wondered about the day Pilot asked who the people wanted to release? I never really understood why they would want a murder let go free and to put Jesus to death. I always thought it was just the work of the religious leaders talking to people in the crowds. It was only this year in my reading through the Gospel of Luke, that something new occurred to me.
Imagined myself in the crowd of people gathered that day. Thought it is hard for me to imagine hating someone enough to inflect the kind of horrible torture we witnessed. It was then when I heard the choices that were before the people. Did we want Jesus or Barabbas. As for the crowd gathered more people knew Barabbas than Jesus in Jerusalem. Barabbas was a murderer, but his crimes were against the Roman soldiers who were occupying our land. Barabbas was insurrectionist. He was known for his boorishness. He killed a Roman soldier and was sentenced to jail.
Jesus on the other hand might have been known by me and others from the north. He was largely unknown in this city.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
If I had spoken out for Jesus then I was putting myself subject to the sword. I wonder how many in the crowd were like myself. They were afraid to speak up against the injustice because of the fear of being killed or being seen as a roman supporter?
What could you do?
Now consider your life today.
Is there a circumstance in which you wish you could have done more, in which you could have been stronger if not heroic?
Now Imagine speaking to Jesus. What do you want to tell him?
Have you ever wondered about the day Pilot asked who the people wanted to release? I never really understood why they would want a murder let go free and to put Jesus to death. I always thought it was just the work of the religious leaders talking to people in the crowds. It was only this year in my reading through the Gospel of Luke, that something new occurred to me.
Imagined myself in the crowd of people gathered that day. Thought it is hard for me to imagine hating someone enough to inflect the kind of horrible torture we witnessed. It was then when I heard the choices that were before the people. Did we want Jesus or Barabbas. As for the crowd gathered more people knew Barabbas than Jesus in Jerusalem. Barabbas was a murderer, but his crimes were against the Roman soldiers who were occupying our land. Barabbas was insurrectionist. He was known for his boorishness. He killed a Roman soldier and was sentenced to jail.
Jesus on the other hand might have been known by me and others from the north. He was largely unknown in this city.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
If I had spoken out for Jesus then I was putting myself subject to the sword. I wonder how many in the crowd were like myself. They were afraid to speak up against the injustice because of the fear of being killed or being seen as a roman supporter?
What could you do?
Now consider your life today.
Is there a circumstance in which you wish you could have done more, in which you could have been stronger if not heroic?
Now Imagine speaking to Jesus. What do you want to tell him?
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Day 36 on the Journey
Tuesday - Luke 22:63-71
The last week of Jesus' earthly ministry was full of conflict and violence.
We hear from Luke's gospel one of the most brutal moments in all of scripture. The police mock and beat Jesus before they interrogated him. As you read were you able to imagine yourself close to Jesus?
If you can imagine yourself outside the cell in which Jesus is being held. You are close enough that you can hear the sounds of the mean beating Jesus. Listen to the grunts of the men trying to hurt another man. The you hear Jesus speak. He only utters a few words. What does he say?
Questions for reflection and comment:
Imagine you are standing with Peter. He turns to you and asks, "What can you do?"
What do you want to do?
You must answer Peter, What do you say?
I think I might suggest we pray.
You and Peter utter a prayer together on behalf of Jesus.
What do you pray?
The last week of Jesus' earthly ministry was full of conflict and violence.
We hear from Luke's gospel one of the most brutal moments in all of scripture. The police mock and beat Jesus before they interrogated him. As you read were you able to imagine yourself close to Jesus?
If you can imagine yourself outside the cell in which Jesus is being held. You are close enough that you can hear the sounds of the mean beating Jesus. Listen to the grunts of the men trying to hurt another man. The you hear Jesus speak. He only utters a few words. What does he say?
Questions for reflection and comment:
Imagine you are standing with Peter. He turns to you and asks, "What can you do?"
What do you want to do?
You must answer Peter, What do you say?
I think I might suggest we pray.
You and Peter utter a prayer together on behalf of Jesus.
What do you pray?
Monday, March 17, 2008
Day 35 on the Journey
Monday – Luke 22: 31 – 62
I love to read and watch movies. And in any great story there is a hero or heroine. I think that for many of us we want to be a hero or heroine in community or at least for our family. And sometimes in life it is easy to act heroically, but in other situations it becomes difficult. I think most children whom see themselves as superheros in their dreams and playing imagine performing heroically in the midst of terrifying events. The problem is we really do not know how we will react in a real life-and-death situation. I wonder if this is not what happened to Peter, one of the strongest disciples of Jesus.
Peter claimed he was ready to go to Prison with Jesus. He claimed even if none of the other disciples would, he would have the courage need to stand firm.
How do you imagine Jesus responding to Peter?
What tone of voice does he use?
Imagine yourself in the courtyard when Jesus was arrested. You hear a voice say to you, “Did not I see you with him?”
How do you respond?
Questions for reflection and comment:
You are their when Peter denies Jesus three times and you watch him run off by himself. You run after him and try to help him.
What do you say to him?
Do you talk about forgiveness?
Now you are with Jesus and he asks you of a time when you felt like you had failed him, when you had denied Jesus.
What do you want to say to Jesus?
How does Jesus say to you?
Listen to Jesus say to you, “You are forgiven.”
What response do you make?
What promises do you make?
I love to read and watch movies. And in any great story there is a hero or heroine. I think that for many of us we want to be a hero or heroine in community or at least for our family. And sometimes in life it is easy to act heroically, but in other situations it becomes difficult. I think most children whom see themselves as superheros in their dreams and playing imagine performing heroically in the midst of terrifying events. The problem is we really do not know how we will react in a real life-and-death situation. I wonder if this is not what happened to Peter, one of the strongest disciples of Jesus.
Peter claimed he was ready to go to Prison with Jesus. He claimed even if none of the other disciples would, he would have the courage need to stand firm.
How do you imagine Jesus responding to Peter?
What tone of voice does he use?
Imagine yourself in the courtyard when Jesus was arrested. You hear a voice say to you, “Did not I see you with him?”
How do you respond?
Questions for reflection and comment:
You are their when Peter denies Jesus three times and you watch him run off by himself. You run after him and try to help him.
What do you say to him?
Do you talk about forgiveness?
Now you are with Jesus and he asks you of a time when you felt like you had failed him, when you had denied Jesus.
What do you want to say to Jesus?
How does Jesus say to you?
Listen to Jesus say to you, “You are forgiven.”
What response do you make?
What promises do you make?
Sixth Sunday in Lent
Sunday - Luke 13:31
What a day yesterday!
I wanted to take a moment to say as much as when we read Luke we see the Pharisees as opponents of Jesus. It would be remiss if I did we as Christians need to be careful not to lump people together into one group. So let us not lump all Pharisees together, and let us not lump all Jews into the category of the Pharisees. Jesus was a Jew. Not all Pharisees harbored animosity toward Jesus.
When we read Luke 13:31 we see that some of the Pharisees had concern for Jesus’ life. They warned him that he was rubbing people the wrong way. They showed a genuine concern for Jesus safety. It seems to me that Jesus does not seem surprised by the information shared and he seems unbothered by it.
You have a chance sit with Jesus and talk with him about this information.
Do you try to convince him to listen to what he has been told?
What do you want to ask him?
How does he answer you?
What does he say when you when you share your prejudice against the Pharisees?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Has Jesus offended you yet?
If not, why?
What a day yesterday!
I wanted to take a moment to say as much as when we read Luke we see the Pharisees as opponents of Jesus. It would be remiss if I did we as Christians need to be careful not to lump people together into one group. So let us not lump all Pharisees together, and let us not lump all Jews into the category of the Pharisees. Jesus was a Jew. Not all Pharisees harbored animosity toward Jesus.
When we read Luke 13:31 we see that some of the Pharisees had concern for Jesus’ life. They warned him that he was rubbing people the wrong way. They showed a genuine concern for Jesus safety. It seems to me that Jesus does not seem surprised by the information shared and he seems unbothered by it.
You have a chance sit with Jesus and talk with him about this information.
Do you try to convince him to listen to what he has been told?
What do you want to ask him?
How does he answer you?
What does he say when you when you share your prejudice against the Pharisees?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Has Jesus offended you yet?
If not, why?
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Day 34 on the Journey
Saturday - Luke 22: 14 – 38
Throughout the bible, there are many different memorable meals. I love the story of the unnamed visitors to Abraham and Sarah. Abraham welcomed them without question and hosted them for a meal. Those same visitors announced Sarah’s impending pregnancy. Elisha set a banquet table for a captured army and thus set into motion a cease-fire agreement. We also have all the meals Jesus shared. Jesus must of loved to eat.
Sharing a meal with others has a way of evoking memories, don’t they? The final meal with Jesus was for sure full of memorable moments.
Imagine you are there with Jesus and the disciples for their final meal.
What are the smells that fill the room?
What foods are on the table?
Where do you sit?
What is Jesus posture and facial expressions during the meal?
More Questions for reflection and comment:
During the meal, individuals begin sharing their favorite stories and memories of their journey together.
What story do you tell?
Why do you share that story as your favorite?
Throughout the bible, there are many different memorable meals. I love the story of the unnamed visitors to Abraham and Sarah. Abraham welcomed them without question and hosted them for a meal. Those same visitors announced Sarah’s impending pregnancy. Elisha set a banquet table for a captured army and thus set into motion a cease-fire agreement. We also have all the meals Jesus shared. Jesus must of loved to eat.
Sharing a meal with others has a way of evoking memories, don’t they? The final meal with Jesus was for sure full of memorable moments.
Imagine you are there with Jesus and the disciples for their final meal.
What are the smells that fill the room?
What foods are on the table?
Where do you sit?
What is Jesus posture and facial expressions during the meal?
More Questions for reflection and comment:
During the meal, individuals begin sharing their favorite stories and memories of their journey together.
What story do you tell?
Why do you share that story as your favorite?
Day 33 on the Journey
Friday - Luke 22: 1 - 13
Tension was rising and the officials were still trying to find a way to trip Jesus up. So they decided in order to get Jesus they had to do something different. So they found someone to help them. They needed someone whom Jesus trusted.
Imagine yourself in the room with Judas and the authorities.
What conversation do you hear?
How do you picture the officials?
What reason does Judas give for revealing the location where Jesus can be found?
In what way can you identify with Judas?
Tension was rising and the officials were still trying to find a way to trip Jesus up. So they decided in order to get Jesus they had to do something different. So they found someone to help them. They needed someone whom Jesus trusted.
Imagine yourself in the room with Judas and the authorities.
What conversation do you hear?
How do you picture the officials?
What reason does Judas give for revealing the location where Jesus can be found?
In what way can you identify with Judas?
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Day 32 on the Journey
Thursday – Luke 21: 5-36
As tension builds and the number of people in Jerusalem swells for the celebration of Passover, Jesus shares words about catastrophic events that will engulf the faithful people. As Jesus tells of the impending events what does his face look like as he speaks? Look into his eyes. What do you see? Do they show any weariness from the stress and tension of the past few weeks of ministry in Jerusalem?
As you have journeyed with Jesus over the eyes and especially this lent, is there one moment you would like to back? Is there one moment in Jesus ministry you would like to go back to and have Jesus talk with you about?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
I want to do something different today. I want you to think about Jesus in our contemporary history. Let’s say you have the chance to sit down with Jesus and talk with him about the events of September 11, 2001. You have the opportunity to ask Jesus how he interprets those dramatic events. Imagine Jesus sharing about 911 in a similar fashion to the depiction of the events that would engulf Jerusalem.
What do you want to know?
You ask Jesus to pray. Whom does he pray for?
What does Jesus say about enemies?
How do you feel as Jesus insists that he means it when he says we should pray for our enemies?
As tension builds and the number of people in Jerusalem swells for the celebration of Passover, Jesus shares words about catastrophic events that will engulf the faithful people. As Jesus tells of the impending events what does his face look like as he speaks? Look into his eyes. What do you see? Do they show any weariness from the stress and tension of the past few weeks of ministry in Jerusalem?
As you have journeyed with Jesus over the eyes and especially this lent, is there one moment you would like to back? Is there one moment in Jesus ministry you would like to go back to and have Jesus talk with you about?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
I want to do something different today. I want you to think about Jesus in our contemporary history. Let’s say you have the chance to sit down with Jesus and talk with him about the events of September 11, 2001. You have the opportunity to ask Jesus how he interprets those dramatic events. Imagine Jesus sharing about 911 in a similar fashion to the depiction of the events that would engulf Jerusalem.
What do you want to know?
You ask Jesus to pray. Whom does he pray for?
What does Jesus say about enemies?
How do you feel as Jesus insists that he means it when he says we should pray for our enemies?
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Day 31 on the Journey
Wednesday – Luke 20: 19-26
Jesus finds himself in a pickle again today. Some spies come to him trying to trip him up. They asked him if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not. I think they thought they had him. If he answered “yes” then Jesus would be at odds with the entire nationalist population and if he answered “no,” he would lay himself open to the charge of Treason. Jesus was not non committal as some might think in his answer, but he was crafty. The “denarius” was a silver coin that was minted by the Romans bearing the likeness and inscription of Augustus of Tiberius. However the coinage issued by Judea was made of bronze or copper and carried emblems like an olive branch or a palm branch. This was because the Jewish law prohibited the deified emperors.
Jesus answer also showed that the two loyalties were not incompatible.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagining yourself there when Jesus answered the spies.
What was their reaction?
What tone of voice did Jesus use in his answer?
What question do you want to ask Jesus about his answer?
Can we be loyal to our state and God today?
What would that look like?
Jesus finds himself in a pickle again today. Some spies come to him trying to trip him up. They asked him if it was lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not. I think they thought they had him. If he answered “yes” then Jesus would be at odds with the entire nationalist population and if he answered “no,” he would lay himself open to the charge of Treason. Jesus was not non committal as some might think in his answer, but he was crafty. The “denarius” was a silver coin that was minted by the Romans bearing the likeness and inscription of Augustus of Tiberius. However the coinage issued by Judea was made of bronze or copper and carried emblems like an olive branch or a palm branch. This was because the Jewish law prohibited the deified emperors.
Jesus answer also showed that the two loyalties were not incompatible.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagining yourself there when Jesus answered the spies.
What was their reaction?
What tone of voice did Jesus use in his answer?
What question do you want to ask Jesus about his answer?
Can we be loyal to our state and God today?
What would that look like?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Day 30 on the Journey
Tuesday – Luke 20: 1-18
Jesus was asked by the religious leaders where he gets his authority. Once again Jesus does not answer them, but poses his own question. After experience this story today, it struck me that Power, Authority, and Control seem to be the three issues that Jesus encounters with his opponents. In fact, if you boil down the discussions, the arguments, and the positions to there essence, you find these three dynamics are in play.
Jesus seems to have little concern for their emphasis on minuscule points of tradition and law. Clearly he threatens their authority. He can take a question intended to trip him up and turn it to make his point.
Jesus also has a power to make real things happen over and over again. People has healed, given sight back to people, and enabled individuals to walk again. Jesus’ power by way of contrast to the priest and scholars seems to release creativity and imagination. Monitoring how people live, act, and think doesn’t really help. I remain greatful for what he has allowed me to learn and how he has set my imagination free. I respect the power and authority of those whom speak and share God’s love as a father cares and those whom care for individuals the way Jesus does.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagine yourself hearing Jesus finish telling the story of the vineyard owner for the first time. You witness some in the crowd that erupt with God forbid!
Who is the vineyard owner?
How do the other disciples react to the story?
Do they understand and recognize death is the conclusion to Jesus ministry?
Do you want to flee now that you realize the danger around Jesus?
All you can do at this point is pray… What do you pray for?
Jesus was asked by the religious leaders where he gets his authority. Once again Jesus does not answer them, but poses his own question. After experience this story today, it struck me that Power, Authority, and Control seem to be the three issues that Jesus encounters with his opponents. In fact, if you boil down the discussions, the arguments, and the positions to there essence, you find these three dynamics are in play.
Jesus seems to have little concern for their emphasis on minuscule points of tradition and law. Clearly he threatens their authority. He can take a question intended to trip him up and turn it to make his point.
Jesus also has a power to make real things happen over and over again. People has healed, given sight back to people, and enabled individuals to walk again. Jesus’ power by way of contrast to the priest and scholars seems to release creativity and imagination. Monitoring how people live, act, and think doesn’t really help. I remain greatful for what he has allowed me to learn and how he has set my imagination free. I respect the power and authority of those whom speak and share God’s love as a father cares and those whom care for individuals the way Jesus does.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagine yourself hearing Jesus finish telling the story of the vineyard owner for the first time. You witness some in the crowd that erupt with God forbid!
Who is the vineyard owner?
How do the other disciples react to the story?
Do they understand and recognize death is the conclusion to Jesus ministry?
Do you want to flee now that you realize the danger around Jesus?
All you can do at this point is pray… What do you pray for?
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Day 29 on the Journey
Monday - Luke 19: 28-32
Have you ever really wondered how this deal got set up for Jesus to ride into town on a colt?
Imagine yourself as the disciple who went to pick up the colt. You have an opportunity to visit with him. So you ask him some questions:
How do you know Jesus?
How were the arrangements made for your colt to be available?
Who contacted you?
What assurances did you receive?
What prompted you to collaborate with Jesus’ movement?
More questions for Reflection and comment:
In listening to these instructions Jesus gave it sounds like we are part of an underground movement or secret society.
How is being a disciple and being part of the Jesus movement risky?
Can you see similarities between the Underground Railroad , those who hid Jews from the Nazis during World War II, and Jesus’ disciples in Jerusalem?
Have you ever really wondered how this deal got set up for Jesus to ride into town on a colt?
Imagine yourself as the disciple who went to pick up the colt. You have an opportunity to visit with him. So you ask him some questions:
How do you know Jesus?
How were the arrangements made for your colt to be available?
Who contacted you?
What assurances did you receive?
What prompted you to collaborate with Jesus’ movement?
More questions for Reflection and comment:
In listening to these instructions Jesus gave it sounds like we are part of an underground movement or secret society.
How is being a disciple and being part of the Jesus movement risky?
Can you see similarities between the Underground Railroad , those who hid Jews from the Nazis during World War II, and Jesus’ disciples in Jerusalem?
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Luke 19:1-27
These two stories of Jesus in Jericho to me share a common theme of risk taking. If you want to know more about Zacchaeus and the risk you took you should listen to my sermon today (3-9-2008). http://www.fumcr.com/pages/sermons
In the second story about the three servants is also about taking risks. This is hard to hear this story, because the challenge can lead to failure. Two of these men risked what they have been entrusted with and invested in hope of great returns. One played it safe. Here is the part that challenges me. Jesus says the one who played it safe was punished.
It sounds like from this story that Jesus wants us or even expects us to take risks on his behalf and on behalf o what he calls the kingdom of God. I don’t know about risking it all. I like to think things through. I like having things under my control. This message sounds similar to his message of “we have to lose our life in order to save it.”
In this journey, I have found when Jesus issues a challenge us to risk, he matches his words with action. When he issues challenges to people, he also issues them to himself. I experience these stories of risk as more authentic now that we are in Jerusalem. It is not safe in Jerusalem for Jesus as it was in Galilee. I don’t think these stories would mean as much if Jesus had stayed in his comfort zone of Galilee. Jesus own risk taking actions lends to his stories. In the shadow of Roman military rule and great tension, Jesus can not be accused of demanding more from others than he demands of himself.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
You hear this parable about the servant who was careful and played it safe. You want to ask Jesus questions for clarification.
What do you ask?
How do you pose the question to him?
He shares with you his belief that he does not think he will get out of Jerusalem alive. Jesus asks you to pray for him.
What do you ask him about this perceived risk?
What do you pray for?
What risk do you need to take?
What risk does our church need to take?
These two stories of Jesus in Jericho to me share a common theme of risk taking. If you want to know more about Zacchaeus and the risk you took you should listen to my sermon today (3-9-2008). http://www.fumcr.com/pages/sermons
In the second story about the three servants is also about taking risks. This is hard to hear this story, because the challenge can lead to failure. Two of these men risked what they have been entrusted with and invested in hope of great returns. One played it safe. Here is the part that challenges me. Jesus says the one who played it safe was punished.
It sounds like from this story that Jesus wants us or even expects us to take risks on his behalf and on behalf o what he calls the kingdom of God. I don’t know about risking it all. I like to think things through. I like having things under my control. This message sounds similar to his message of “we have to lose our life in order to save it.”
In this journey, I have found when Jesus issues a challenge us to risk, he matches his words with action. When he issues challenges to people, he also issues them to himself. I experience these stories of risk as more authentic now that we are in Jerusalem. It is not safe in Jerusalem for Jesus as it was in Galilee. I don’t think these stories would mean as much if Jesus had stayed in his comfort zone of Galilee. Jesus own risk taking actions lends to his stories. In the shadow of Roman military rule and great tension, Jesus can not be accused of demanding more from others than he demands of himself.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
You hear this parable about the servant who was careful and played it safe. You want to ask Jesus questions for clarification.
What do you ask?
How do you pose the question to him?
He shares with you his belief that he does not think he will get out of Jerusalem alive. Jesus asks you to pray for him.
What do you ask him about this perceived risk?
What do you pray for?
What risk do you need to take?
What risk does our church need to take?
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Day 28 on the Journey
Saturday – Luke 19: 41 – 44
Jesus cares for all sorts of people and in all sorts of ways. Over the course of our journey, we have witnessed Jesus touch the crippled, speak to the forgotten, eat meals with outcasts, and spend countless hours with deeply troubled people. At the same time, others have argued with him and picked fights. All who encounter him are touched deeply and changed in some way.
I imagine myself sitting next to Jesus at the end of a long day of traveling. We are just outside of Jerusalem. I can see the weariness in his face. Jesus has been weeping for some time. I want to ask him what makes him weep, but I am not completely comfortable asking. I have overheard him in his tears say something about peace. I wonder what I should know in order to pursue peace.
At that moment Jesus turns and asks you questions:
Have you ever cried at the terrible possibilities that may befall people?
What do you think makes for peace?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Look at your own city / community / church as Jesus might.
What does Jesus see that other might not see?
What does Jesus feel deeply about that others might not yet have begun to feel?
What does Jesus see?
What stirs his soul to the verge of tears?
What stirs your soul to the verge of tears?
Jesus cares for all sorts of people and in all sorts of ways. Over the course of our journey, we have witnessed Jesus touch the crippled, speak to the forgotten, eat meals with outcasts, and spend countless hours with deeply troubled people. At the same time, others have argued with him and picked fights. All who encounter him are touched deeply and changed in some way.
I imagine myself sitting next to Jesus at the end of a long day of traveling. We are just outside of Jerusalem. I can see the weariness in his face. Jesus has been weeping for some time. I want to ask him what makes him weep, but I am not completely comfortable asking. I have overheard him in his tears say something about peace. I wonder what I should know in order to pursue peace.
At that moment Jesus turns and asks you questions:
Have you ever cried at the terrible possibilities that may befall people?
What do you think makes for peace?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Look at your own city / community / church as Jesus might.
What does Jesus see that other might not see?
What does Jesus feel deeply about that others might not yet have begun to feel?
What does Jesus see?
What stirs his soul to the verge of tears?
What stirs your soul to the verge of tears?
Friday, March 7, 2008
Day 27 on the Journey
Friday – Luke 18: 35 – 42
As the days role by and the closer we get to Easter, Jesus ministry becomes more intense. As Jesus gets closer to Jerusalem the more the tension seems to arise around his ministry.
Today Jesus approached the city of Jericho. It was in this place that Jesus was met with shouts from a man seeking him. This blind man heard the crowd going by and asked another person what was happening. They told him it was Jesus. He then cried out, Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stopped and walked over to the man. It was obvious to all of us in the crowd that the man was blind. His eyes were encrusted. It was at this time Jesus asked an interesting question. “What do you want from me?”
Why would Jesus ask such a question? Was it an unnecessary or silly question? Didn’t Jesus see his eyes? What else would he rather have Jesus do?
I find this interesting that Jesus would ask an open ended question. It implies to me that Jesus could do whatever the man asked him to do. At the same time, Jesus asking the blind man the question in a way Jesus puts some responsibility on the man for his own healing.
One last thing I notice is the Jesus models for us how we can minister to others as disciples. He first pays attention to people, he listens carefully, and then he heals. So as we encounter people we should give them our attention and listen carefully to their situation and needs. It is only at that point we can more forward in ministering to them. We can not assume we know what people need.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Disfigurement, blindness, abnormalities often threatens us. Do you feel uncomfortable when you see people who are afflicted in some way?
You and Jesus are walking down the street and you encounter a blind person. Jesus beings to share with you what he sees when he looks at that person or hears a persons request for help.
What does Jesus see in street people?
What does Jesus note about this person you encounter?
What does Jesus point out to you?
As the days role by and the closer we get to Easter, Jesus ministry becomes more intense. As Jesus gets closer to Jerusalem the more the tension seems to arise around his ministry.
Today Jesus approached the city of Jericho. It was in this place that Jesus was met with shouts from a man seeking him. This blind man heard the crowd going by and asked another person what was happening. They told him it was Jesus. He then cried out, Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stopped and walked over to the man. It was obvious to all of us in the crowd that the man was blind. His eyes were encrusted. It was at this time Jesus asked an interesting question. “What do you want from me?”
Why would Jesus ask such a question? Was it an unnecessary or silly question? Didn’t Jesus see his eyes? What else would he rather have Jesus do?
I find this interesting that Jesus would ask an open ended question. It implies to me that Jesus could do whatever the man asked him to do. At the same time, Jesus asking the blind man the question in a way Jesus puts some responsibility on the man for his own healing.
One last thing I notice is the Jesus models for us how we can minister to others as disciples. He first pays attention to people, he listens carefully, and then he heals. So as we encounter people we should give them our attention and listen carefully to their situation and needs. It is only at that point we can more forward in ministering to them. We can not assume we know what people need.
Questions for reflection and comment:
Disfigurement, blindness, abnormalities often threatens us. Do you feel uncomfortable when you see people who are afflicted in some way?
You and Jesus are walking down the street and you encounter a blind person. Jesus beings to share with you what he sees when he looks at that person or hears a persons request for help.
What does Jesus see in street people?
What does Jesus note about this person you encounter?
What does Jesus point out to you?
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Day 26 on the Journey
Thursday – Luke 18: 9-14
Eventually we will find ourselves caught in one of Jesus’ stories. In today’s reading, I find myself as the object of the lesson. Jesus tells of two men who went to the temple to pray. The first was a high-profile member of the congregation, well known for his contributions to the church and the community. The other man was known as Otis. Otis was always drinking and stirring things up in the community.
The way Jesus tells the story, the first man starts praying out loud and giving thanks for all he has and also for the fact that he is different than Otis. Otis on the other hand has trouble even looking up and around the room. Otis only muttered something about his sins and then left.Jesus concludes the story; I think to myself, I am glad that I am different from the rich fellow. Then embarrassment hits me. It makes me uncomfortable. As much as the rich man had judge Otis, I to was judging the rich man. I have at times fallen into the same trap Jesus was teaching about in this story. I was placing myself above others in God’s eyes. I was equating my sins were less than others sins were.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Have you been caught in the story before?
What embarrasses you?
Does God hear prayers of certain people more readily than the prayers of others?
Imagine standing next to someone you do not like or have considered different from you.
Jesus is next to you and begins to tell you what he sees in the person next to you.
What does Jesus see?
You ask Jesus how can I pray for this other person?
How does Jesus answer you?
What prayer did he say?
Eventually we will find ourselves caught in one of Jesus’ stories. In today’s reading, I find myself as the object of the lesson. Jesus tells of two men who went to the temple to pray. The first was a high-profile member of the congregation, well known for his contributions to the church and the community. The other man was known as Otis. Otis was always drinking and stirring things up in the community.
The way Jesus tells the story, the first man starts praying out loud and giving thanks for all he has and also for the fact that he is different than Otis. Otis on the other hand has trouble even looking up and around the room. Otis only muttered something about his sins and then left.Jesus concludes the story; I think to myself, I am glad that I am different from the rich fellow. Then embarrassment hits me. It makes me uncomfortable. As much as the rich man had judge Otis, I to was judging the rich man. I have at times fallen into the same trap Jesus was teaching about in this story. I was placing myself above others in God’s eyes. I was equating my sins were less than others sins were.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Have you been caught in the story before?
What embarrasses you?
Does God hear prayers of certain people more readily than the prayers of others?
Imagine standing next to someone you do not like or have considered different from you.
Jesus is next to you and begins to tell you what he sees in the person next to you.
What does Jesus see?
You ask Jesus how can I pray for this other person?
How does Jesus answer you?
What prayer did he say?
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Day 25 on the Journey
Wednesday – Luke 18: 1-8
Jesus tells a great tale of a Judge today in response to someone question about how we are to pray.
Can you imagine the hardnosed judge, who has little compassion for anyone? This judge is however, a proficient judge who graduated first in his class from SMU Law. Some would say her problem is that she cares more about the fees, court cost, and fines, than she cares about the law. It not surprising when an old poor widow tries to get the judge to hear her case the judge ignores her motions. In fact the poor woman couldn’t even get past the court clerk. The poor woman badgered the clerk for weeks with no results.
Finally, the woman had worn down the clerk that he was willing to face the consequence of letting her in to see the judge. The judge was at her limits as well. The judge relented because she and her clerk were so annoyed by the woman’s badgering. This clerk was getting very little work done.
So what does this have to do with prayer?
Does the story illustrate the urgency and intensity of prayer?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagine Jesus surprises you with his request today. Jesus asks you to pray for him as you all journey on to the cross. Jesus asks you to pray for a part of his ministry that is particularly important to you.
What ministry do you pray for?
How does that ministry touch your heart?
Why?
Jesus tells a great tale of a Judge today in response to someone question about how we are to pray.
Can you imagine the hardnosed judge, who has little compassion for anyone? This judge is however, a proficient judge who graduated first in his class from SMU Law. Some would say her problem is that she cares more about the fees, court cost, and fines, than she cares about the law. It not surprising when an old poor widow tries to get the judge to hear her case the judge ignores her motions. In fact the poor woman couldn’t even get past the court clerk. The poor woman badgered the clerk for weeks with no results.
Finally, the woman had worn down the clerk that he was willing to face the consequence of letting her in to see the judge. The judge was at her limits as well. The judge relented because she and her clerk were so annoyed by the woman’s badgering. This clerk was getting very little work done.
So what does this have to do with prayer?
Does the story illustrate the urgency and intensity of prayer?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Imagine Jesus surprises you with his request today. Jesus asks you to pray for him as you all journey on to the cross. Jesus asks you to pray for a part of his ministry that is particularly important to you.
What ministry do you pray for?
How does that ministry touch your heart?
Why?
Day 24 on the Journey
Tuesday – Luke 17: 20-37
The Kingdom of God is among us. When we talk about this with others who have not been following Jesus, I think, see us as crazy. They point out to us all the evil, hate, and hurting that is happening in our community and world. They say, “the Kingdom is suppose to be perfect and the world is far from perfect.” How can you talk about the Kingdom of God in our midst? Can you think of a time when you were driving or walking and you witnessed a touching scene? In the actions of the people you thought to yourself, “That’s what the Kingdom of God among us means.” Can you share your own stories of how you have witness and experience the pieces of the Kingdom in your own life?
If so describe some of what you see.
What makes you think of the presence of the kingdom in that persons actions?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Today, I invite you to reread this passage and imagine yourself sitting with Jesus as he spoke these words. Imagine what expressions you see on others face as Jesus talked about the Kingdom of God in the midst of us. Were people nodding their heads in agreement? Were people confused?
Then imagine Jesus coming to you and asking you these questions:
What comes to your mind when you hear me speak of the Kingdom?
What images come to your mind?
What event or people do you describe to him?
The Kingdom of God is among us. When we talk about this with others who have not been following Jesus, I think, see us as crazy. They point out to us all the evil, hate, and hurting that is happening in our community and world. They say, “the Kingdom is suppose to be perfect and the world is far from perfect.” How can you talk about the Kingdom of God in our midst? Can you think of a time when you were driving or walking and you witnessed a touching scene? In the actions of the people you thought to yourself, “That’s what the Kingdom of God among us means.” Can you share your own stories of how you have witness and experience the pieces of the Kingdom in your own life?
If so describe some of what you see.
What makes you think of the presence of the kingdom in that persons actions?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
Today, I invite you to reread this passage and imagine yourself sitting with Jesus as he spoke these words. Imagine what expressions you see on others face as Jesus talked about the Kingdom of God in the midst of us. Were people nodding their heads in agreement? Were people confused?
Then imagine Jesus coming to you and asking you these questions:
What comes to your mind when you hear me speak of the Kingdom?
What images come to your mind?
What event or people do you describe to him?
Monday, March 3, 2008
Day 23 on the Journey
Monday – Luke 17: 7-10
Jesus continues to teach the disciples and us. Most of the time, it has been in the form of stories and actions. However today Jesus uses brief saying, like proverbs, that have intrinsic meaning rather than contextual.
What do you think of Jesus sayings?
When I hear them, I want to sit down and read them. I want to hear the several times, because they are not clear. Once again, Jesus teaching style does not give me the answers, but makes me think and wonder.
Jesus says, “Who among you would say…” I am sure the answer is suppose to No One. I however do not find this as easy as Jesus makes it out to be. It sounds like he is telling us that the work will never be done. It also sounds like even after serving for years faithfully the servant has no claim for rest or reward.
Once again, Jesus makes it sound as if being his disciple is going to tough. Is Jesus saying we, disciples, have no grounds for assuming reward or for boasting?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
What do you think Jesus is trying to communicate?
What are the rewards of being a servant of God?
This is making my brain hurt on a Monday morning. I may write some more later… until then I will just keep walking and listening.
Jesus continues to teach the disciples and us. Most of the time, it has been in the form of stories and actions. However today Jesus uses brief saying, like proverbs, that have intrinsic meaning rather than contextual.
What do you think of Jesus sayings?
When I hear them, I want to sit down and read them. I want to hear the several times, because they are not clear. Once again, Jesus teaching style does not give me the answers, but makes me think and wonder.
Jesus says, “Who among you would say…” I am sure the answer is suppose to No One. I however do not find this as easy as Jesus makes it out to be. It sounds like he is telling us that the work will never be done. It also sounds like even after serving for years faithfully the servant has no claim for rest or reward.
Once again, Jesus makes it sound as if being his disciple is going to tough. Is Jesus saying we, disciples, have no grounds for assuming reward or for boasting?
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
What do you think Jesus is trying to communicate?
What are the rewards of being a servant of God?
This is making my brain hurt on a Monday morning. I may write some more later… until then I will just keep walking and listening.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Fourth Sunday in Lent
Sunday – Luke 14: 15-26
When reading Jesus teachings at times I see why someone on the outside might think Christianity was foolish. Jesus casts a vision and gives instructions that go against the grain.
For example, Jesus calls us to see people as people. He says that money makes no difference, social standing makes not difference, and success or failure makes no difference. Most people would argue with Jesus and say that these things do make a difference. They make a difference in who is elected to public office. They make a difference in who takes with you. They make a difference in what kind of job you can get. Jesus says they do not mean anything to him.
Jesus also continues to paint a picture of the kingdom of God as he teaches. It seems the more he talks about the Kingdom that it has less to do with a time in an indistinct future and more about something that happens here and now. This is important to keep in mind how bold we might be to pray the Lord’s Prayer, to ask God, to bring his Kingdom and will here and now. In the Lord’s Prayer, we ask for the Kingdom of God to be on earth as it is in heaven. I think that is a bold prayer.
Are we ready to break bread with persons from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds? Are we ready to be invited to a dinner party where everyone is different? Are we ready to share our lives with people who are broken or who have been ignored in current society? At least in the reading today that is the image I got.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
When you imagined the story Jesus told, where were you in the story?
Who was sitting next to Jesus at the banquet table?
Who was sitting next to you?
What was served for dinner?
What is the hardest part of this story that Jesus tells?
If you could ask Jesus a follow up question to this story what would it be?
When reading Jesus teachings at times I see why someone on the outside might think Christianity was foolish. Jesus casts a vision and gives instructions that go against the grain.
For example, Jesus calls us to see people as people. He says that money makes no difference, social standing makes not difference, and success or failure makes no difference. Most people would argue with Jesus and say that these things do make a difference. They make a difference in who is elected to public office. They make a difference in who takes with you. They make a difference in what kind of job you can get. Jesus says they do not mean anything to him.
Jesus also continues to paint a picture of the kingdom of God as he teaches. It seems the more he talks about the Kingdom that it has less to do with a time in an indistinct future and more about something that happens here and now. This is important to keep in mind how bold we might be to pray the Lord’s Prayer, to ask God, to bring his Kingdom and will here and now. In the Lord’s Prayer, we ask for the Kingdom of God to be on earth as it is in heaven. I think that is a bold prayer.
Are we ready to break bread with persons from all socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds? Are we ready to be invited to a dinner party where everyone is different? Are we ready to share our lives with people who are broken or who have been ignored in current society? At least in the reading today that is the image I got.
Questions for Reflection and Comment:
When you imagined the story Jesus told, where were you in the story?
Who was sitting next to Jesus at the banquet table?
Who was sitting next to you?
What was served for dinner?
What is the hardest part of this story that Jesus tells?
If you could ask Jesus a follow up question to this story what would it be?
Day 22 on the Journey
Saturday – Luke 15:11 – 16:13
The more I follow Jesus the more I love to hear him tell stories. It is through his storytelling that he brings his ideas to life. At the same time Jesus explanations at times leave people cold. In the readings today we experience two of those great stories Jesus tells.
As you read the story of the prodigal son…
Imagine yourself hearing Jesus tell this story for the first time… Which character in the story do you immediately like? Why?
Which character do you not like? Why?
I am sure that as people heard Jesus tell this story they did not like the older son being shortchanged. I am sure people were whispering to each other trying to figure out why Jesus told this story.
In the story of the dishonest manager…
Which character in the story did you immediately like? Why?
Which character did you not like? Why?
What Kind of Business Ethic is Jesus teaching?
If you could ask Jesus about one of these stories, which one would it be?
What would you ask?
Jesus tells these stories to change, challenge, and grow his disciples (then and now). What tone of voice do you think Jesus used when he was telling these stories? As he finished each story what do you think he did? Who was he looking at? Was he watching for a reaction?
The more I follow Jesus the more I love to hear him tell stories. It is through his storytelling that he brings his ideas to life. At the same time Jesus explanations at times leave people cold. In the readings today we experience two of those great stories Jesus tells.
As you read the story of the prodigal son…
Imagine yourself hearing Jesus tell this story for the first time… Which character in the story do you immediately like? Why?
Which character do you not like? Why?
I am sure that as people heard Jesus tell this story they did not like the older son being shortchanged. I am sure people were whispering to each other trying to figure out why Jesus told this story.
In the story of the dishonest manager…
Which character in the story did you immediately like? Why?
Which character did you not like? Why?
What Kind of Business Ethic is Jesus teaching?
If you could ask Jesus about one of these stories, which one would it be?
What would you ask?
Jesus tells these stories to change, challenge, and grow his disciples (then and now). What tone of voice do you think Jesus used when he was telling these stories? As he finished each story what do you think he did? Who was he looking at? Was he watching for a reaction?
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