When Jesus teaches us to pray, “Our Father, who art in heaven…” He was not giving some secret formula or magic words. As Luther reminds us, “God’s name is holy…
Judgment and lamentation arise from the mouth of Amos, but Paul’s words to the Colossians brings forth the hope that in Christ we are reconciled to God. Even those who…
“Who is my neighbor?” It’s such a deceptively simple question. Rather than answering it, Jesus tells us the story of the good Samaritan, one of Scripture’s most profound examples of…
Jesus performs his work in the world by calling a group of ordinary people (like us!) to work with Him—even sending us away (on our own!) to do so. The…
The steadfast love of God is evident throughout the lessons for this day. Elijah becomes the expression of resolute and determined faith, and example rewarded by God carrying him to…
Judgment and forgiveness are the focus of our lessons this week. We have people acting badly, people in distress, people who commit sins of omission, plus people who are deeply…
Today’s lessons proclaim new life in places filled with death. The gift of life occurs twice—to widows whose sons are struck down too early, but restored by Elijah and Jesus.…
Even those who praise God with their lips still limit His impact in our world today, or restrict His abiding presence. Solomon dedicates his temple (or is it God’s temple?)…
Early Christians began to speak of the One God in three persons in order to fully describe the wonder of salvation. God is above us, beside us, within us. God…
Wind, fire, surprise, cacophony of languages, promises fulfilled, dreams, visions, gifts given and received, solidarity, and most of all the Spirit—these are all parts of what make up the Pentecost…