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”
Category Archives: Personal
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?”
Lectionary Haiku 5 March 2022
The Psalmist’s assurance is for all seasons, even those most challenging and catalogued in Ecclesiastes. On our Lenten pilgrimage, we hear Jesus forecast his own season of suffering but holding out a promise of light in the darkness. Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 Call out in dark voidCan there be a sound response?Voice felt and heard! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 5 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 4 March 2022
The theme of Moses calling on Pharaoh to let his people go runs through today’s texts, even to Stephen’s defence. We seek similar release from that which enslaves us. Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 Hostility all roundYet security is assuredWe know whose we are! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Exodus 6:1-13 Once you know His NameAnd though poor of speech andContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 4 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 3 March 2022
The Psalm reminds us that the quest for freedom stems from an inner assuredness regardless of circumstance. The Exodus text provides a glimpse of an instance where deeper suffering accompanies the initial steps of freedom. In Acts, the first Christian martyr, Stephen, draws on Moses’ inspiration on discovering the nature of Yahweh who leads toContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 3 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 2/3/2022 (Ash Wednesday)
Ash Wednesday begins the fasting season of Lent, inviting pilgrimage with Jesus on the road to Good Friday (that which was described on Transfiguration Sunday as his (and our) exodus – or way out of our human dilemma). A range of texts today carries this theme of penitence and reflection on the human condition. JoelContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 2/3/2022 (Ash Wednesday)”
Lectionary Haiku 1 March 2022
Seismic shifts take place in the long sweep of human history. Our reactions can be scornful (check out the Psalm). Or they can be open and attentive in the deepest experiences of dispossession (Ezekiel). They can see new possibilities when old taboos and barriers fall (Acts). Psalm 35:11-28 They smugly rub handsCalamity claims my crownDeeperContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 1 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 28 February 2022
Yearning for vindication against mocking injustice burns in the Psalmist’s heart. Elaborate and precise instructions are given for constructing the portable tent of God’s presence amongst the desert wandering Israelites. A vision and a dream bring a Hebrew fisher and a Roman military commander to what promises to be a freshly enlightening meeting of mind,Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 28 February 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 27 February 2022
Transfiguration Sunday What a conflicted day on the church calendar! It climaxes the season of Epiphany that celebrates the full glorious manifestation of the divine in Creation and in the coming of the Christ. It heralds the imminent season of Lent, the journey of penitence to the Cross. In a greater, more ancient context itContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 27 February 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 25 February 2022
The Psalm keeps God’s people oriented. Moses prepares his people to occupy the land, not with hubris, but humility. Then a tale of the bridging of the chasm between Jew and Gentile begins Psalm 99 There is a sure planWhen forgetting remembranceRelive your story +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Deuteronomy 9:6-14 You think your laurelsHave won you this fineContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 25 February 2022”
Wondering Pilgrim 