IV.As we turn to this parable today let’s pay attention to the one sowing. His actions, his behavior, his words and even his intentions (if you think you might have a handle on that). V.Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 (NRSVue) He put … Continue reading
I.We’re still in Matthew 13 this week and have one of Jesus’ parables that is clearly linked to us understanding the Kingdom of God. Yes, Matthew writes “kingdom of heaven,” but that is Matthew’s characteristic way of referring to the … Continue reading
VII.This week we are listening to Jesus’ “Parable of the Sower.” While he does not say, “The Kingdom of God is like a sower who ….” He does suggest the hearing of the parable is about “anyone who hears the … Continue reading
IV.Do you agree with Jesus that calling this story “the parable of the sower” a good description? As you spend time today considering the parable, pay attention to the sower, the seeds and the soils. What stands out to you … Continue reading
I.Our passage for this week is a very familiar parable of Jesus. The parable of the seeds? Or is it the parable of the soils? Or maybe even the parable of the sower? Take some time to read (and reread) … Continue reading
VII.As we started our reflections on this passage, I asked – “How is it possible for two groups (or two persons) to see the same thing, and yet be in such disagreement about what has happened right in front of … Continue reading
IV.What do we have in our passage this week? A man healed; an amazed crowd; accusations from the Pharisees; “the ruler of the demons” given credit for healing a man; a claim by Jesus that “the kingdom of God has … Continue reading
I.This week we turn to the Gospel of Matthew as we continue to consider the Kingdom of God. We hear from the crowd and from the Pharisees as both see Jesus heal a man, and both apparently agree the man … Continue reading
VII.As you spend time with the Zechariah’s words today, make sure you notice how God speaks of those “God will save.” What various ways are they described? VIII.Zechariah 9:9-13, 16-17 (NRSVue) Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem!See, … Continue reading
IV.The prophet uses the image of “prisoners” several times. Notice what he tells us about these “prisoners.” V.Zechariah 9:9-13, 16-17 (NRSVue) Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem!See, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he,humble and … Continue reading