Making Things New

Sunday’s readings coalesce around the theme of making things new. Acts of the Apostles describes early disciples being missionaries, bringing Jesus’ new message to Gentiles. The Book of Revelation describes a new heaven and a new earth. In the Gospel Jesus is letting disciples know he is going to be killed. How will they go … Continue reading “Making Things New”

They Are Going To Kill Me

“Jesus was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him.” What does it feel like to be a good man and know you are going to be killed? It is so incredibly sad. A life will be taken and the takers … Continue reading “They Are Going To Kill Me”

Possessing a War Bonnet

Ecclesiastes tells us, “All things are vanity! Here is one who has labored.. and yet to another must leave his property and possessions.” In the Gospel Jesus responds to a man worried about his property and possessions by telling him, “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life … Continue reading “Possessing a War Bonnet”

Mission for All Time

Disciples had been sent on a healing mission by Jesus. After returning they “told him all they had done and taught. He said to them, ‘Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest awhile.’ But people were coming in great numbers.” When he “saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with compassion … Continue reading “Mission for All Time”

Violating Borders

Sunday’s first reading uses a dominating tree to symbolize their God, Yahweh. The tree represents Yahweh’s protected empire and the submission all will pay to the deity, “Every tree of the field will know that I am the Lord.” Jesus has no interest in empires, their borders, or their violent warlords who protect and sanctify … Continue reading “Violating Borders”