The joy of a restored and previously strained relationship is the Psalm that sets the tone for today. A solemn rite underlines Israel’s taking possession of a sacred promise while the Apostle Paul speaks of the “weight of glory” that awaits the faithful. Psalm 32 I declare myselfTo come clean is to be cleansedRestored toContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 24 March 2022”
Category Archives: Personal
Lectionary Haiku 23 March 2022
Today’s texts reflect on hidden purposes. The Psalmist yields to divine purpose. What seems, to contemporary sensitivities, preparation for a divinely sanctioned land grab has long-range hidden purpose. Jesus’ parables speak of the hiddenness of the Kingdom of God. Psalm 39 Your knowledge of meIs hidden even from meHow can I not trust? **************************** NumbersContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 23 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 22 March 2022
The Hebrew perspective on “law” refers to “right teaching” rather than modern jurisprudence. Understanding this gives greater access to today’s readings Psalm 39 My tongue is silentUntil it knows worthy thoughtsThen my heart speaks ********************************** Ezekiel 17:1-10 Eagles and vineyardsPerplexing riddles confoundThe heart understands ********************************* Romans 2:12-16 Be careful judging –Bearer of divine wisdomMay theContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 22 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 21 March 2022
Accessing wisdom is tricky. Acting on it is even more hazardous. It involves knowing ourselves and our tendency to deny and deflect. Today’s passages hold up a mirror, not to discourage, but correct. Psalm 39 How fleeting my lifeLike a shade, it passes byBut I would be known **************************** Jeremiah 11:1-17 Broken covenantBy you whoContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 21 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 20 March 2022
Third Sunday in Lent “Know where your true nourishment comes from!” seems to be the theme running through today’s lections. Isaiah 55:1-9 No, not just waterbut wine, milk and sweet honeyfor those who know where ****************************** Psalm 63:1-8 Soul’s sanctuaryThere my strength will be renewedDwelling with my God! ****************************** 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 With Christ asContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 20 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 19 March 2022
Today’s texts will appeal to passionate gardeners! Psalm 63:1-8 Dry and weary landCries out for drenching waterJust like my parched soul ************************** Isaiah 5:1-7 Passion poured out onThe vineyard that would not yieldPerhaps compost it. ************************* Luke 6:43-45 A gardener seesEach tree is known by its fruitGood and bad alike *************************
Lectionary Haiku 18 March 2022
Apocalyptic writings are full of hidden messages for troubled times. They are written to specific communities facing specific times of duress, but with an everlasting theme – no matter how devastating your experience, there is good reason for faith to endure. Psalm 63:1-8 I gaze on your goodNo matter how I’m worn downThis act sustainsContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 18 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 17 March 2022
Each of today’s readings arises from contexts of acute awareness of danger. The Psalm is from David as a fugitive from Saul. The fiery furnace of Daniel and the missive in Revelation both speak of times of holding fast against persecution, both external and from our own thoughts within. Psalm 63:1-8 Outside all is bleakWithin,Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 17 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 16 March 2022
There is no escaping conflict, but there is always a firm foundation from which to meet it. Ukraine is a current example as is our continuing Psalm for the day. The Book of Chronicles peeks into a pending invasion of Judah that also reveals this principle. Luke reminds us of the razor-sharp focus required. PsalmContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 16 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 15 March 2022
Beware the Ides of March! Today’s texts are full of warnings. The Psalmist summons the people to always remember their salvation history. The remaining texts dwell on rebellion by those whom Moses was leading through the wilderness. YHWH never abandoned the Promise but neither are the people of God freed from the self-enacted consequences ofContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 15 March 2022”
Wondering Pilgrim 