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

ISSL Reflections December 31 2023 Matthew 2:1–12 Post 2

IV.Notice who has questions, who is frightened, who has answers, who is willing to travel in search of one who is due homage, who pays attention to stars, ancient writings, and dreams, and who finds joy. V.Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSVue) In … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections December 31 2023 Matthew 2:1–12 Post 1

I.As you read this passage, take note of each person mentioned, what they say and as best you can, what you can discern of their motives for their presence in this scene. II.Matthew 2:1-12 (NRSVue) In the time of King … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections December 17 2023 Matthew 1:1–17 Post 3

VII.As you read these names, pick out a couple of persons you know something about. VIII.Matthew 1:1-17 (NRSVue) An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections December 17 2023 Matthew 1:1–17 Post 2

IV.Returning to this long list of folk who were ancestors of Jesus, are all of them great spiritual models for us? V.Matthew 1:1-17 (NRSVue) An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections December 17 2023 Matthew 1:1–17 Post 1

I.What are we to make of the genealogy that the Gospel of Matthew offers? There are two temptations: One is to skip over it entirely; Second is to bog down in researching every name mentioned. Today, take time to read … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 30 2023 Matthew 13:44–52 Post 3

VII.If you had been with Jesus’ listeners that day, how would you have answered his question, “Have you understood all this?” With the “Yes” of the listeners or maybe with the silence of not knowing how to answer or maybe … Continue reading

ISSL Reflections July 30 2023 Matthew 13:44–52 Post 2

IV.In another mention of treasure (Matthew 19:21-22) Jesus tells a young man who had many possessions, “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; … Continue reading