ISSL Reflections March 6 2022 Ezra 1:1–8, 11; 2:64–70 Post 1

I.WIth this reading in Ezra we begin reading a set of Scriptures that invite us to think about restoration, liberation, and freedom. And in the background of that is this remark from Ezra 1:11, … the exiles were brought up … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 27 2022 Job 19:19-27; 42:1–6, Post 3

VIII.As we reflect on our two focus Scripture passages for this week, hold these two statements of Job in mind         “… I know that my Redeemer lives …” Job 19:25        “I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 27 2022 Job 19:19-27; 42:1–6, Post 2

V.As we return to Job’s words, I wonder what we should make of his statement – “… therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” (Job 42:6) VI.Job 19:19-27 (New Revised Standard Version) All my intimate friends abhor … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 27 2022 Job 19:19-27; 42:1–6, Post 1

I.When I started this project of sharing prompts for reflections, I elected to follow the Scripture passages selected for the International Sunday School Lesson series (also referred to as the Uniform Series). While it is not used by as many … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 20 2022 Job 8:1–10, 20–22 Post 3

VIII.Let’s read Bildad’s words again. After you read them, give some thought to how and where you might have heard any echoes of these words. IX.Job 8:1-10 (New Revised Standard Version) Then Bildad the Shuhite answered:“How long will you say … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 20 2022 Job 8:1–10, 20–22 Post 2

IV.Let’s pick up with the question about Bildad we left with the other day – “What kind of friend is he?” V.Job 8:1-10 (New Revised Standard Version) Then Bildad the Shuhite answered:“How long will you say these things,and the words … Continue reading

How About Spending Time with Dietrich Bonhoeffer this Lent?

You do not usually hear from me on Tuesdays but I wanted to let you know about some emails I will be sending out during Lent. I’ve been thinking about Ash Wednesday and Lent for several weeks and wondering if … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 20 2022 Job 8:1–10, 20–22 Post 1

I.We turn our attention to the plight of Job. This week we will hear from one of Job’s friends who has come to Job’s side to comfort him. Next week we will listen to Job. In the first two chapters … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 13 2022 Ezra 7:1–10, 23–26 Post 3

VII.A few days ago I asked what we might find to be the core of Ezra’s being. What do you notice in this passage? VIII.Ezra 7:1-10 (New Revised Standard Version) After this, in the reign of King Artaxerxes of Persia, … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections February 13 2022 Ezra 7:1–10, 23–26 Post 2

ISSL Reflections February 13 2022 Ezra 7:1–10, 23–26 Post 2IV.Much of Ezra chapter 7 is attributed to decrees of King Artaxerxes. For instance, a few words not found in our focus reading might open our way to a few more … Continue reading