Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment. — Matt. 15:28
Continue reading “Push us, Lord, past our cramped definitions of compassion”Author: Dan
Prayer for the day
You have ordained a new order in which the first are last and the last are first. Turn us away from the false values of the world, that we may pursue your priorities, that which makes you happy: steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. Amen. (Walter Brueggemann, A Way Other Than Our Own)
The agendas that ruin us
Here is the message from Jesus: The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel. (Mark 1:15, ESV)
I like the Common English Bible on this one: Now is the time! Here comes God’s kingdom! Change your hearts and lives, and trust this good news!
Continue reading “The agendas that ruin us”The competing voices of Lent
As we enter this Lenten Season there is the call to the wilderness. It is the call to be with the Lord. It is the call to encounter him. In that call come these assuring words: “I will be with you. I will hear you. You will hear me.”
Continue reading “The competing voices of Lent”We don’t talk about sin much anymore
These are the opening two paragraphs in David Brooks’ recent column in the New York Times. The column is hard hitting and thoughtful and will be incredibly controversial (if anyone will pay attention). But those opening two paragraphs are stunning:
Continue reading “We don’t talk about sin much anymore”There is no human justice without God’s righteousness
“…human justice derives from God’s righteousness.” — Fleming Rutledge, The Crucifixion: Understanding the Death of Jesus Christ
Continue reading “There is no human justice without God’s righteousness”Prayers for Ash Wednesday
Almighty and everlasting God, you hate nothing you have made and forgive the sins of all who are penitent: Create and make in us new and contrite hearts, that we, worthily lamenting our sins and acknowledging our wretchedness,may obtain of you, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
A Collect for Peace
Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
