Today’s New Testament reading from Timothy begins with the author, either Paul of Tarsus or one of his followers, asking “that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life.” The life witness Paul promotes for disciples differs from … Continue reading “Being Powerful Amidst Tyranny”
Tag: Power
To the Ends of the Earth
Luke writes the Acts of the Apostles after he wrote his Gospel, “In the first book… I dealt with all that Jesus did until the day he ascended.” At his ascension Jesus told the people, “You will receive power when the Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses… to the ends of … Continue reading “To the Ends of the Earth”
Authority and Autonomy: Abortion
Jesus sent out the disciples “two by two and gave them authority over unhealthy spirits.” “So the disciples… drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and healed them.” Authority has roots in the term auger, the farm implement used to open the soil. Auger, and thus authority, means we … Continue reading “Authority and Autonomy: Abortion”
Women Are Powerful
Spending time this Advent with Mary, and women in general, we can discover women are powerful. We would not know that power from today’s Old Testament reading. It promotes atonement, meaning it promotes “sin” and “guilt.” The Gospel reading does not promote atonement but does address it with John in the desert. He proclaims “a … Continue reading “Women Are Powerful”