There are three scenes in this Sunday’s Gospel that give me an odd sort of comfort. The first scene takes place in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus has gone to pray. We are not told this explicitly, but I get the sense that Jesus just needed to get away from it all at this […]
We Are Only Human: An Odd Comfort Read More »
When we remember the passion of Jesus, we also remember the struggles and suffering that many in our communities face every day. This is a day to learn more about their needs, pray for them, and find ways to help. Like the story of Jesus’ passion, the song “Pompeii” reminds us of the need to
Music and the Gospel: Palm Sunday and “Pompeii” by Bastille Read More »
About three o’clock Jesus cried out in a loud tone, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” This means, “My God, my God. Why have you forsaken me?” Matthew 27.46 The events of the passion test and manifest Jesus’ love for God, for the world, for his friends, and for the community that still gathers in his name.
Gospel Reflection for April 13, 2014, Palm/Passion Sunday Read More »
Jesus puts his own life on the line when he calls Lazarus out of his tomb and back to life. Following Jesus can also lead us to surprising places. The song “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” reminds us that our faith can lead us places we never expected. Key Lines: You call me out upon
Current Music and the Gospel, “Oceans,” Hillsong UNITED Read More »
Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life: whoever believes in me, though they will die, will come to life; and whoever is alive and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Martha responded, “Yes, Lord, I have come to believe that you are the messiah, the son of God: he
Gospel Reflection for April 6, 5th Sunday of Lent Read More »
Jesus gave sight to a man born blind. The Pharisees questioned the man as to who could perform this miracle. The man said he did not know, but the person capable of such things must come from God. This outraged the Pharisees. Jesus heard about this and went to the man born blind. Jesus said,
Gospel Reflection for March 30, 2014, 4th Sunday of Lent Read More »
Just as Jesus makes a blind man see in Sunday’s gospel, Lent can be a time when we wash away things that are distracting us or holding us back. “Break the Walls” is about breaking through those challenges to become who we want to be. Key Lines: Give me a sledgehammer and give me strength
Current Music & The Gospel: “Break the Walls,” Fitz & The Tantrums Read More »
Jesus chooses to talk to a Samaritan woman even though most Jews shun and look down on Samaritan as heretics. The woman’s testimony about who Jesus is brings many others in her community to believe in him. They trust her word. The song “Kids” reminds us that even with faults and mistakes, our stories matter.
Current Music & The Gospel: “Kids,” Saints of Valory Read More »
Jesus was transfigured in front of his disciples. Out of the cloud came a voice, “This is my beloved Son, on whom my favor rests. Listen to him.” Matthew 17.5 His transfiguration takes place just after Jesus tells his disciples for the first time he will suffer, die, and rise on the third day. This
Gospel Reflection for March 16, 2014, 2nd Sunday of Lent Read More »
http://youtu.be/-4eisxHT7P4 On the mountain of transfiguration three friends glimpse Jesus’ true self. We take a risk when we share our true selves with the world. Our hopes, dreams, values, and everything that makes us unique are gifts that only we can share with the world. “We Remain” reminds us that these things, which make up
Current Music & The Gospel: “We Remain” and the 2nd Sunday of Lent Read More »