Most of us know that stress is bad. And in recent years we’ve been finding out just how bad. As it turns out, stress affects our sleep, our health, our sense of wellbeing, our relationships. Yes, most of us know that stress is bad. Or is it? That’s the question that researcher, teacher,...
Luke 9:10-11
posted by DJL
On their return the apostles told Jesus all they had done. He took them with him and withdrew privately to a city called Bethsaida. When the crowds found out about it, they followed him; and he welcomed them, and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed to be...
Can We Talk About Money at Church?
posted by DJL
Over the next few weeks, folks who attend churches following the Revised Common Lectionary (a pattern of readings following the church year) will be treated to a number of parables in Luke’s Gospel that have to do with money. Luke, more than any of the other Evangelists, seems quite interested in helping Christians think through the relationship between their faith and their finances. And so he shares a number of the stories Jesus tells about people and how they handle their money. Of these parables, one of the most confusing is the one about the “Dishonest Manager” which is the reading appointed for this Sunday. It revolves around the...
Luke 9:7-9
posted by DJL
Now Herod the ruler heard about all that had taken place, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the ancient prophets had arisen. Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this...
In the Meantime Reboot
posted by DJL
After a three month sabbatical from this blog, I’m eager to be back. The time away was very helpful with navigating a move and the need to make some sustained progress on a few larger writing projects, but I was surprised at how much I missed the regular discipline of bible study and reflecting on faith and life that this blog has provided me. So tomorrow I’ll start posting daily bible devotions in the morning and share thoughts and resources on connecting faith and life later each day. As I’ve been thinking about jumping back into this daily routine, I’ve realized there are a few things I’d like to focus on a bit more in the...