“When the time for Pentecost was fulfilled, they were all in one place together. And suddenly there came from the sky a noise like a strong driving wind, and it filled the entire house in which they were. Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each … Continue reading “Spirit Filled ‘Yes’”
Author: Editor
Adulting
“Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.” In my name you “will drive out demons,… speak new languages,… lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.’ So then Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven.” “They went forth and preached … Continue reading “Adulting”
Showing Partiality
After Jesus is murdered by rulers of the Roman Empire, his disciples do their best to “love one another.” Disciples start expanding Jesus’ Community of God to diverse members and to expanding their love to those diverse members. Peter is struggling though. He is initially inclined to be loving and show partiality to those who … Continue reading “Showing Partiality”
Warrior Victims
The political rulers and their soldiers persecuted disciples after Jesus’ death. For example, Stephen’s persecutors “threw him out of the city, and began to stone him. They laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul,” a soldier persecutor. Saul had a conversion and was renamed Paul. Paul set a precedent … Continue reading “Warrior Victims”
Good Persons and Good Deeds
Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said: “Leaders of the people and elders: If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a cripple, namely, by what means he was healed, then all of you… should know that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified, and … Continue reading “Good Persons and Good Deeds”
Making Peace Known
Jesus’ “two disciples recounted what had taken place on the way to Emmaus, and how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking about this, Jesus stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” People who know Jesus know he spends his life … Continue reading “Making Peace Known”
A Community of One Heart and One Mind
“The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common.” Early disciples put their lives in jeopardy to create a community of love and thoughtfulness. They were constantly targeted by divisive supporters of the Roman Empire intent … Continue reading “A Community of One Heart and One Mind”
From Pain to Joy
“On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb… she ran and went to Simon Peter and another disciple.” ”Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb.” Peter did … Continue reading “From Pain to Joy”
Moral Exercise
Sunday’s Gospel spans Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem through to his crucifixion. Jesus has brought goodness to countless people, especially through his healings. When he enters Jerusalem, “many people spread their cloaks on the road,” in appreciation for that goodness. Jerusalem’s “chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin,” are not appreciative. They know Jesus’ goodness, his conscientious … Continue reading “Moral Exercise”
Emotional Exercise
The Gospel for this time in Lent draws from Jesus nearing the end of his life. He has lived a compassionate and generous life though he has been met with vehement opposition by rulers. He understands the deadly intent of the rulers and yet he is still feeling forgiving and generous, “I say to you, … Continue reading “Emotional Exercise”