Rescue through suffering and sacrifice is a universal theme that finds a particularly focused emphasis in the Hebrew and Christian traditions. The single word “Passover” evokes strong sacred memory in both traditions. Psalm 126 Well may they declareThe goodness of God to usWe know the high cost. ************************** Exodus 12:21-27 A young lamb suffersFor theContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 2 April 2022”
Tag Archives: Lent
Lectionary Haiku 1 April 2022
Today’s texts, following the Psalm, arise from contexts of raw living that have their parallels today, the survival of a people when their country is occupied – and adjusting to the task of maintaining community when sickness and prison chains bind us. Psalm 126 It happened beforeGod restored life to fullness‘Twill happen again. ***************************** IsaiahContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 1 April 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 31 March 2022
When one has been through the storm and come out the other side, one might sing a Psalm of reorientation. Such are today’s texts. Psalm 126 Restore us O GodAs we lick our fest’ring woundsreceiving your balm. **************************** Isaiah 43:1-7 Pass through the watersWalk through the hot fires unscorchedFor I am with you. ************************** PhilippiansContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 31 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 30 March 2022
When the foolish turn to God’s ways they discover an economy of abundance for the sake of Shalom, fulfilment for all (not the pale aberration of today’s prosperity doctrines). Psalm 53 Gladness enters inAnd blessing is well restoredWhen God is welcomed. ***************************** 2 Kings 4:1-7 The good oil is pouredBlessing that never runs outFeeds widowContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 30 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 29 March 2022
No wonder the Psalmist mocks the fools who say there is no God. God’s economy requires Jubilee balance which does not make unbridled profit a priority. It is measured not by hierarchy, but by mutual service epitomised in Revelation’s heavenly vision. Psalm 53 When all’s said and done It’s easier to deny God than toContinue reading “Lectionary Haiku 29 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 28 March 2022
The Psalm is almost, but not quite imprecatory, perhaps because it is a choir piece intended for worship and it’s hard to curse and worship simultaneously! Leviticus lays out the ground rules for some festivals. Revelation affords us a peek into heaven. Psalm 53 Divine head must shakeAs foolish men run hitherWhisp’ring their nonsense *********************************Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 28 March 2022”
Lectionary Haiku 27 March 2022
Third Sunday in Lent Against all our striving, it is possible to live from a place of renewal. This theme runs through all of today’s texts, culminating in the Bible’s favourite story – the restoration of the Prodigal Son. Joshua 5:9-12 Gilgal they called itCaptive shame is rolled awayA new phase begins! ********************************* Psalm 32Continue reading “Lectionary Haiku 27 March 2022”
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 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”
Please, come home, son! (But which one is he begging?)
He had already run down the road to greet the returning wasteful prodigal. He had already thrown the best robe around his shoulders and was now feting him with a roast calf on the spit and having all his old friends around. His youngest was home, bewildered, hosed and feted, hardly believing the turn ofContinue reading “Please, come home, son! (But which one is he begging?)”
Wondering Pilgrim 