“Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law… I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” But then Jesus proceeds to in fact abolish the Old Testament law and replace it. He says, for example, “You have heard the law, ‘An eye for an eye, a … Continue reading “Replacing Religion’s Tribalism with Community”
Author: Editor
Essential
Jesus is talking to commoners knowing that rulers “insult and persecute you and utter every kind of slander against you.” But Jesus tells them, “You are the salt of the earth.” Jesus describes people made to feel inessential as salt – essential for life. Essential became a designation for some people during the initial stages … Continue reading “Essential”
Taking Things Personally and Socially
Jesus is talking to people who are made “poor,” “hungry, and are “persecuted.” It is possible for these listeners to feel cursed and to become resentful over the pain done to them. But Jesus tells his “poor,” “hungry,” and “persecuted” listeners to know they are “Blessed” and to “Rejoice.” In one sense, Jesus is encouraging … Continue reading “Taking Things Personally and Socially”
Arrested
“When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee.” “From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Convert, for the Community of God is at hand.” John the Baptist has been a conscientious public witness, telling the truth about the ruler Herod. Like all rulers, Herod arrests the truth and … Continue reading “Arrested”
What Is The Sin of the World Jesus Takes Away?
“John the Baptist saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.’” What is the sin of the world? For millennia religious rulers have claimed the sin of the world is disobedience to a Supreme Lord who thus requires payment and death. The religious … Continue reading “What Is The Sin of the World Jesus Takes Away?”
Herod Is In The House
Magi travel to Jerusalem in search of an Epiphany, seeing God in a child born to goodness. They encounter a ruler trained otherwise, King Herod. Herod is “greatly troubled” by his meeting with these Wise Ones. The king has “assembled his chief priests and scribes” and deceptively tells the Magi, “Go and search diligently for … Continue reading “Herod Is In The House”
Making Peace Together
“The angel said to the Shepherds, ‘I proclaim to you tidings of great joy to be shared with all people.’” “‘Let this be a sign to you: in a manger you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes.’ Suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of angels saying, ‘Glory to God and peace … Continue reading “Making Peace Together”
Trimesters: Birthing
Joseph is loving, attentive, especially so on our forced journey. I am making the journey on the back of donkey and it is so very hard on my body. He is patient, tending to me every time I have to get off the donkey and attend to my body’s needs. He touches my belly and … Continue reading “Trimesters: Birthing”
Trimesters: Planning
Some things I planned. I planned to take care of myself, always, even from a young age. Thus, I planned to take care of my babies. I have spoken with older women who have already had babies – rather – they have spoken with me. I have listened. They wanted to share their wisdom and … Continue reading “Trimesters: Planning”
Trimesters: Preparing
I am waiting in fullness. I do not lie in wait to hurt. I am not waiting on guard; anxious something will be done to me. I am waiting in fullness. The fullness of life is stirring within me. I am waiting in preparation. I am preparing the way for fullness to be born. I … Continue reading “Trimesters: Preparing”