Today’s texts reveal that it is no easy thing to live out a developing faith tradition. The Psalm rehearses the remembered history, warts and all, as a basis for confidence in YHWH, whose necessarily harsh discipline (see the Exodus link) has moulded Israel as a “people of promise.” Nevertheless, Paul argues from Abraham’s example thatContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 14 March 2022”
Category Archives: Personal
Lectionary Haiku 13 March 2022
Second Sunday in Lent YHWH terrifyingly seals a promise to Abraham. The Psalm reiterates confidence. Philippians expands on Christ as the ultimate source of fulfilment and the Gospel returns us to the painful cost to be embraced. Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 Smoke and fire at nightMysteriously pass byA promise is made +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Psalm 27 Wait forContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 13 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 12 March 2022
There are two Psalms for the price of one today, both pursuing the theme of confidence in a sound relationship with YHWH. From this place, true lament can be expressed, as Jesus does over Jerusalem. Psalm 27 Though evil surrounds meMy heart remains in YahwehAnd I sing to God ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Psalm 118:26-29 Steadfast love enduresEverContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 12 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 11 March 2022
Today’s texts, again based on Psalmic confidence, involve Abraham’s encounter with the mysterious Melchizedek, the hospitality customs evoking long-lasting sacramental depth before any decreed rites are in place. Likewise, Paul appeals to living by “our citizenship in heaven” rather than contemporary lesser standards. (Click on Bible Reference link to see text) Psalm 27 They rageContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 11 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 10 March 2022
A new Psalm depicting confidence in Israel’s relationship with YHWH, come what may. In Genesis, We see the working out of complex relationship claims as Abraham works out the implications of covenant. In Philippians, Paul must break with his past to oppose those seeking to impose Old Law requirements on new Gentile Christians. Psalm 27Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 10 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 9 March 2022
Why do bad things happen to good people? Surely a question being asked a lot during these excruciating times. The Psalm again gives us a faith-based launching pad. The opening chapter of Job begins a classic Judaic wisdom story. The Luke passage raises the issue of just how much agency Satan (The Accuser) has. DidContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 9 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 8 March 2022
The assurance of the Psalmist and his trust in YHWH prepares us for the exotic vision in Zechariah and the harangue in 2 Peter regarding mixed motives. Each elicits thoughtful reflection. Psalm 17 Shadow of your wingsA hiding place from maliceI am protected ************************************* Zechariah 3:1-10 Visions can inspireAlso confuse and frightenFear not, clear theContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 8 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 7 March 2022
The boldness with which David approaches YHWH reveals the depth of their relationship. Very pertinent when one considers what happens when David oversteps the mark in Chronicles. The relationship for us all finds its home in the text from John. Psalm 17 Bold I approach GodSpeaking my virtues splendidAwaiting his Yes! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1 Chronicles 21:1-17Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 7 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 6 March 2022
First Sunday in Lent Typically, today commemorates Jesus’ testing in the Judean wilderness at the commencement of his public ministry. He was “tested in every way as we were” which invites us to reflect on his and our humanity when under duress or discerning a straight course through a minefield of lesser callings. Deuteronomy revealsContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 6 March 2022”
Why a Daily Psalm?
“A psalm implies serenity of Soul; it is the author of peace, which calms bewildering and seething thoughts. For, it softens the wrath of the soul, and what is unbridled it chastens. A psalm forms friendships, unites those separated, conciliates those at enmity. Who, indeed, can still consider as an enemy him with whom heContinue reading “Why a Daily Psalm?”