There is a context in which remorse is expressed – either despair or confidence in having another go. Our texts today offer such confidence through the Psalm. Meanwhile, the wandering tribe of Israel pauses on the brink of occupation against hostile tribes while being reminded of the nature of their backing. Peter and John callContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 24 Feb 2022”
Category Archives: Personal
Sterling First – from Worst to Verse
The almost-three-year-old story of the Sterling retirement housing collapse continues as campaign leader Denise Brailey prepares her run for the Senate. The unfolding saga deserves to be immortalised in some bush poetry. Here is one poor attempt. https://youtu.be/O0G7IEJsjQM
Lectionary Haiku 23 Feb 2022
An earlier media debate today contested secular vs religious influences on the degree to which individual rights have risen against the common good. Our set texts may offer some nuance. The Psalm continues its remorse. We peek into the strict rules of maintaining holy order within a dedicated tribal society, with some surprising concessions. JesusContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 23 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 22 Feb 2022
Stay with the Psalm as uncomfortable as it is. Remorse isn’t pretty but it’s plentiful in today’s readings! David and Saul from their regret at trying to kill each other and what amounts to a passive food fight over the Lord’s Supper in Corinth! Lord have mercy! Psalm 38 My pain stays with meI stumbleContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 22 Feb 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 21 Feb 2022
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”
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”
Wondering Pilgrim 