The Psalmist’s penitent lament, the ancient and elaborate reconciliation rites of two estranged brothers, and the apostle’s household etiquette reasoning sound strange to our ears. Nevertheless, is Paul dismissive when he concludes, “But if anyone is disposed to be contentious—we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God?” Psalm 38 Deep remorse andContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 21 Feb 2022”
Author Archives: wonderingpilgrim
Lectionary Haiku 20 Feb 2022
These are the texts you may hear in church this morning, folks. There are four today, and that Psalm keeps repeating but adds a little more. Joseph reveals himself as the long-disappeared brother, now well-placed to save his people from famine. Paul wrestles to articulate the duality of the resurrected body and Luke takes usContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 20 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 19 Feb 2022
This final repetition of the psalm draws attention to its conclusion that the meek will inherit the earth. Meekness is not passive but active, as illustrated by Judah’s impassioned pleading with the potentate yet unrevealed as Joseph, and Jesus’ emphatic advice to take initiative and settle out of court. Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40 No, meek isContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 19 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 18 Feb 2022
Looks like the Psalms are repeating several times at the moment – never mind, they yield multiple haikus! Joseph’s family reconciliation intrigue continues through kidnapping and ransom! Apostle John writes a tender pastoral letter. Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40 Don’t let the blightersGet ‘neath your epidermis.Stay cool; watch closely! ++++++++++++++ Genesis 44:1-17 To win hearts, play tricks!NoContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 18 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 17 Feb 2022
Today a fresh Psalm, a possible family reconciliation, and assurance on grace Psalm 37:1-11 In spite of it allGoodness lights your dim pathwaysTrust in your compass! +++++++++ Genesis 43:16-34 Nearing the tender conclusion of the long saga of Joseph”s abandonment, advance to power, and the beginning of a journey of reconciliation with his remorseful brothers.Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 17 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 16 Feb 2022
A short background on each of the day’s three texts might help. Psalm 120 is repeated yet again, yet this song of lament by a leader caught up in nefarious slander against him offers several points of connection. Sticks and stones don’t breakBones made of iron and steelBut, dear God, they sting! Jeremiah 22:11-17 revealsContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 16 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 15 Feb 2022
Okay, feedback supports this idea so let’s keep it rolling. Same Psalm; different take. Psalm 120 Lying lips seek rescueIs it my own or others?Truth burns dross away Ezra 1:1-11 A new dawn breaks brightHome coming to a new start –Farfetched Messiah! 2 Corinthians 1:12-19 Vacillating plansWith a people of trustHarbours a strong Yes!
Lectionary Haiku 14 Feb 2022
Now here’s a project and a way to reflect on daily readings from the Bible. If it yields the fruit that I hope, I’ll make it a tab on this blog. I propose to post haiku reflections on each of the three selections from the daily Revised Common Lectionary (the interchurch three year bible readingContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 14 Feb 2022”
Culling Books
One of the most vexing things about this new season of life is the need to cull – especially my books. Two thirds of them went three years ago when I “retired.” These were the more technical and somewhat obsolete “old friends” that had served their time and achieved their metaphorical gold watch from me,Continue reading “Culling Books”
Anger
Mild mannered retired cleric that I am, I have come to understand how much I am driven by anger. In my case it comes out in passive-aggressive stances that strive against thoughtless, disengaged or institutionalised incursions that thwart my altruistic efforts and directions. I have asked myself on more than one occasion whether my attractionContinue reading “Anger”
Wondering Pilgrim 