Luke’s sequel to his Gospel – the Acts of the Apostles – begins with the final act of Jesus’s earthly ministry. The Risen Lord gives instruction and words of commission, and then ascends into heaven. Though Jesus goes “up”, he does not go away. He ascends but is not absent. Instead he is powerfully present in a new transcendent way – a…
In this story from Acts, Paul witnesses of his faith in the intellectual center of Athens. Paul accommodates his message to this unique setting by commending his listener’s spiritual curiosity, finding common ground, and speaking of God’s revelation in Christ. Though the idolatry of the city outrages him, Paul speaks with great grace and respect toward his listeners, providing a model for…
Easter 5 Service is now online and streaming. The Apostle Peter admonishes a suffering church community to embody the truth that they are “living stones” in God’s “spiritual house”. To this end he encourages them to nurture an appetite for spiritual growth so they can “grow together” into the truth that they are God’s people in the world. “Living stones” should be…
Psalm 23 is one of the most familiar and beloved passages in the entirety of sacred scripture. Though deeply treasured, it is often confined to use in hospitals and at funerals, when, in reality, the Psalm is a Song of Confidence for all Seasons of Life.
Christ’s presence goes unrecognized by the two disciples with broken hearts seeking to escape their troubles by fleeing to Emmaus. But as Jesus opens the scriptures to them and then shares a meal with them, their despair transforms to joy as their “hearts burn within them.” No matter what road we travel – with broken hearts to Emmaus or burning hearts back…
On this Sunday after Easter, we reflect on Peter’s admonition to a church going through “various trials” to be people of proven faith, living hope, and divine love. Though the Party’s over, the call to be God’s “Easter People” in the world remains.