October 11, 2000, Lectionary

Israel gave up on God, made an image of a calf, and christened it their god. Moses' logic against God's plan to kill them included no claim of "such a little sin," but only God's vast reputation and promises. Exodus 32:1-14

Many of the Bible stories are about the fortunes of a whole people and I have wondered what it was like to be a little person experiencing the adventures and fortunes of the whole nation. Here is one example, "Remember me, O Lord, with the favor you show to your people." Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23

If you are stressed out right about now, or even if you are not, please read Philippians 4:4-9. This much could stand to be read every day. In following Paul's instructions here, you and I will have peace beyond the ken of humans. Philippians 4:1-9

Pondering this morning the fact that the parable of the wedding feast in Matthew 22:1-14 seems to have two peaks, two climaxes, since the story could have satisfyingly closed at verse 9 or 10.

Thoughts about Listening

Do you think the images we create and watch have any effect on our spirituality or on how we treat one another? Exodus 32:1-14

It takes a lot of listening to stand as peacemaker. Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23

What are you listening to? Is it true? Honorable? Fair? Clean? Pleasant? Commendable? Excellent? Praiseworthy? It really does matter, that with which we fill our minds. Philippians 4:1-9

To listen well, it helps not to disdain, disrespect, denigrate, diminish, or disparage the person being listened to. Matthew 22:1-14