The minor characters matter in stories seen on the stage and screen. In detective shows, you have to pay attention to the minor characters because one of them may be the...

Throughout scripture we sense a focus on communities rather than individuals. Yet, in my own experience and cultural pattern, the category of individual rather than community receives emphasis. This assumption of...

The apostle Paul writes to a community of faith that suffers persecution due to their Christian beliefs and practices. Paul expresses gratitude for this community and encourages them to keep the...

Yesterday we reflected on God’s actions toward humanity and creation. Today we reflect on humanity’s response to God’s mercy and our receipt of God’s holiness. Psalm 25:4, 5, 8-10 mention the...

This psalm describes God’s character and relationship with all creation. Also, God’s promises of steadfast love and mercy are not new but long-standing promises “from of old” that continue to be...

Signs point to the coming of the Son of Man and the kingdom of God: “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth.”...

Our God makes and keeps promises. This chapter begins with God’s promises of restoration, forgiveness, and steadfast love to Jerusalem and Judah. The following verses in the chapter remind us of...

This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent, a season of hopeful preparation for and expectation of Jesus Christ’s coming. Advent is an ancient Christian tradition and, for most faith communities, it...

Today we celebrate the reign of Christ. It’s not my favorite liturgical moment in the life of the church. To me it sounds hierarchical and authoritarian. But Reign of Christ Sunday...

Soon and very soon. “Look! He is coming with the clouds.” Not long ago, I cooked up a series on the book of Revelation, going to people’s homes in various neighborhoods...