Table Manners

One of the things that amazed Jenny and I when we were living in Canberra was the attention paid to status. Many of the people we served worked for the government. One’s status was reflected by the designation and level within the department one served, and the suburb you were expected to live in commensurateContinue reading “Table Manners”

The AFL’s Moral Quandary

I am often struck by how often the lectionary speaks into current events. This week Luke 13 gives a slant to the AFL (Australian Football League) Snoop Dogg Dilemma. In Luke 13:10–17, Jesus heals a woman who has been bent over for eighteen years. He does this on the Sabbath, provoking outrage from the synagogueContinue reading “The AFL’s Moral Quandary”

Gardeners in the Dark

The folk gathering for worship this morning were surprised when the power went out. They were left without lyrics and music or a public address system. Further, the church kitchen was out of order for the much anticipated post service pot luck. Our experienced worship leader (96 years young) handled the situation with ease. SheContinue reading “Gardeners in the Dark”

Thoughts and Prayers – do they work?

Luke 11:1-13 As I read through Luke’s gospel, I try to see in myself how one thought leads to another. I don’t know that this was Luke’s process, for he begins his work by stating his intention to set out an orderly account  “of the things that have been fulfilled among us, just as theyContinue reading “Thoughts and Prayers – do they work?”

Accessing the Good Book

        Bibledex – Expert videos about every book in the Bible. A colleague just posted a link to this fascinating site that offers a quick video intro to each book of the bible that is intelligent and non-condescending. Produced by the University of Nottingham, the series succinctly surveys the theme of eachContinue reading “Accessing the Good Book”

The Book of Eli

The Book of Eli joins the current spate of post-apocalyptic films, perhaps riding high on the uncertainty of the times. Is the strong violence gratuitous or meant to give expression to the ultimate manifestation of dog-eat-dog society? Are the motives behind hunger for possession of the sacred book aimed at self-aggrandisement or service  of others?Continue reading “The Book of Eli”