In the beginning was the Word…. Readers of Scripture over the centuries have been taken by John’s choice of words in these introductory verses of his Gospel. People often refer to these first eighteen verses as the Prologue, the words before the main word. Prologues open up a story, set...
Advent 2 B: Active Waiting
posted by DJL
Dear Partner in Preaching, There’s waiting…and then there’s waiting. Do you know what I mean? Some waiting is, well, just waiting, the pointless exercise we all have to endure from time to time. Like sitting in the doctor’s office, just waiting for your name to be called so you can get your flu shot. But other waiting seems to matter. Like waiting in the doctor’s office for the results of the biopsy to come back or waiting to see the ultrasound of your coming baby. I suspect you know what I mean. Some waiting feels empty and pointless, while other waiting is weighty, significant, and really matters. Too often, I think, the kind of...
John 1:1a
posted by DJL
In the beginning…. You gotta love John’s chutzpah. I mean, there’s absolutely no question what line he’s imitating when he starts his Gospel. “In the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth….” That’s right — Genesis 1:1. It’s as if I were going to...
The Second Coming
posted by DJL
The Gospel readings for Advent begin not by anticipating the birth of Jesus at Bethlehem but instead by looking forward to the end of time and Jesus’ “second coming” in glory. Given that the church year moves toward its end with several weeks of parables looking toward judgment and then...
Thanksgiving Links
posted by DJL
As we approach one of my favorite holidays of the year, I thought I’d share a few of the links I’ve found interesting about Thanksgiving Day. Have a blessed celebration with whomever is near you! Interested in learning more about the Pilgrims? Check out this article over at...