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”
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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”
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”