We enter the biblical text at the place they call the Skull, where Jesus is being crucified between two criminals. Onlookers sneer and sob. Mockers exclaim, “Save yourself as you saved...

After nine months of silence, Zechariah has much to say. His prophetic song, known as the Benedictus, is a song of praise and thanksgiving. Zechariah proclaims that God has looked favorably...

It seems appropriate that we share part of the birth story of John the Baptist—Jesus’ forerunner—on Christ the King Sunday, which ends the Christian year. Today we get a glimpse of...

When ungodly leaders rule, the results can be devastating. We all suffer when our political and spiritual leaders fail to lead, support, strengthen, and govern in a way that protects all...

As we reflect on the reign of Christ through scripture this week, we are reassured that God continues to watch over this world and responds to our cries for leadership that...

Today’s text predicts wars, uprisings, earthquakes, famines, and disease. Jesus says that we will be persecuted and imprisoned, but that we will have “opportunity to testify” to our faith in him....

This is the beginning of the end for Jesus, and Jesus knows it. Jesus’ contemporaries believe that those nearing death have an extra ability to see things more clearly. Nearing death,...

Idleness and disruption can damage a group of people trying to live and work together. Every ship’s crew is grouped together in teams of members who have been trained to do...

The US military is an apprentice organization. It hires personnel with the intent for senior personnel to teach them how to do specific jobs. When I was a beginner chaplain, experienced...

Our words carry meaning. When we speak our ideas, thoughts, desires, and fears, others hear them and process them for a meaning in their own lives. Sometimes this valuable exercise can...