ISSL Reflections May 19 2024 Romans 5:1–11 Post 1

I.This week we continue our reflections on faith. Let’s start with the first phrase in this week’s focus passage – “Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have …..” As you spend time with this passage, take note of … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 12 2024 Romans 4:13–25 Post 3

VII.Did you pay attention to – “… the words, ‘it was reckoned to him,’ were writtennot for his sake alonebut for ours also. It will be reckoned to us… “ How do we fully catch on “… to us …”? … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 12 2024 Romans 4:13–25 Post 2

IV.This passage begins with the claim that “the promise to Abraham [came] through the righteousness of faith.” Take that as your starting point and as the lens through which you view this passage. Then ask yourself, “How can Paul make … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 12 2024 Romans 4:13–25 Post 1

I.Paul puts a lot before us in this passage and I begin to wonder where might be the best place to start our reflections. Do we start by a focus on what he says of “law” or what he says … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 5 2024 Romans 3:21–30 Post 3

VII.Today let’s return to the idea of God’s “demonstration of his righteousness.” As you spend time with the passage, what do you notice about how righteousness is demonstrated? VIII.Romans 3:21-30 (NRSVue) But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 5 2024 Romans 3:21–30 Post 2

IV.Returning to our focus passage today, notice the comment, “Through what kind of law?” What kinds of “law” does Paul put before us? V.Romans 3:21-30 (NRSVue) But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been disclosed and … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections May 5 2024 Romans 3:21–30 Post 1

I.As you read this passage (a couple to times at least), what word or phrase captures your attention. Once you have a word or phase in mind that holds you attention, notice if it bothers you or reassures you. II.Romans … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections April 28 2024 Matthew 15:21–28 Post 3

VII.What have you come to think of the conversation between the Canaanite woman and Jesus (and the disciples perspective and comment)? Let’s slowly read this passage once again and try to see the entire scene as it unfolds before you. … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections April 28 2024 Matthew 15:21–28 Post 2

IV.What have you made of the exchange between the Canaanite woman and Jesus? As you read and meditate on these words, do you notice anything in the face of the Canaanite woman or Jesus that helps you understand what is … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections April 28 2024 Matthew 15:21–28 Post 1

I.Once again we take note of an individual who is recognized to have great faith. But on the way to that recognition we have a conversation between a woman and Jesus which presents a number of questions for us to … Continue reading