The Son of Man feeds the Crowds
[Jesus’] disciples replied, “How can one feed these people with bread here in the desert?” He asked them, “How many loaves do you have?” They said, “Seven.” Then he ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground; and he took the seven loaves, and after giving thanks he broke them and gave them to his disciples to distribute; and they distributed them to the crowd. … They ate and were filed; and they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. Now there were about four thousand people. And he sent them away. Mark 8: 4-9
Imagine:
You are hungry. You and your family have been with the Son of Man for three days. It took you two days to find him. You ran out of food last night and so did your neighbors. You soon realize that everyone is out of food. Everyone is hungry.
The crowd grows restless - then suddenly quiet.
You notice a wave of calm fanning out from where the Son of Man stands. You see disciples moving through the crowd with baskets of bread and fish. You want to run toward the basket, but you stay in the back and wait. You are amazed that the disciple’s basket is still full when he reaches your family.
The Son of Man has supplied your need and you are grateful to God. You know that from now on the bread that nourishes your body will also nourish your spirit. You know God will supply your need in spirit and in truth.
You return home, eager to spread the word.
What has the Son of Man told you about who he is? How will you share what has been given you?
Bountiful Lord, we thank you for nourishing our spirits. Guide us and show us ways to share this food with the sons of man.
2/28/08
THURSDAY, THIRD WEEK OF LENT
The Son of Man calls Sinners
When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that [Jesus] was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” When Jesus heard this, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” Mark 2: 16-17
Jesus calls outcasts, the broken, sinners, us—
I invite you to spend some time with Jesus, the Son of Man.
Close your eyes, relax your body, and become aware of your breathing. Imagine you are in an empty room; there are only two chairs. The door is closed. You are waiting. Be aware of how you feel; what you are doing.
You hear a knock. You open the door. Jesus stands in the doorway. See him or her. Sense your reaction in body, mind, and spirit.
Jesus says, “Can I come in and be with you?” How will you respond?
Jesus asks, “Will you talk with me? I want to know you. I want to be with you.” Imagine the dialogue.
Finally there are no more words for now. But Jesus is not ready to leave just yet. “Can we dance?” Jesus says. What a strange request you think but maybe dancing is the way of healing, of becoming, of unity, so you agree.
Now Jesus must leave. Say your goodbyes. Close the door.
What is the meaning of this visit?
Who is the Son of Man for you?
Loving God, thank you for sending Jesus to dance with us, to be one with us, to bring us to you. Thank you Jesus for being with sinners, for seeing the good in us, for welcoming all into the kingdom. Help me to accept your forgiveness; help me to be forgiving as you are; help me to be a messenger of your spirit to all I meet. Continue to come, Lord Jesus, continue to call until the whole world is one in you. Amen.
When the scribes of the Pharisees saw that [Jesus] was eating with sinners and tax collectors, they said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” When Jesus heard this, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.” Mark 2: 16-17
Jesus calls outcasts, the broken, sinners, us—
I invite you to spend some time with Jesus, the Son of Man.
Close your eyes, relax your body, and become aware of your breathing. Imagine you are in an empty room; there are only two chairs. The door is closed. You are waiting. Be aware of how you feel; what you are doing.
You hear a knock. You open the door. Jesus stands in the doorway. See him or her. Sense your reaction in body, mind, and spirit.
Jesus says, “Can I come in and be with you?” How will you respond?
Jesus asks, “Will you talk with me? I want to know you. I want to be with you.” Imagine the dialogue.
Finally there are no more words for now. But Jesus is not ready to leave just yet. “Can we dance?” Jesus says. What a strange request you think but maybe dancing is the way of healing, of becoming, of unity, so you agree.
Now Jesus must leave. Say your goodbyes. Close the door.
What is the meaning of this visit?
Who is the Son of Man for you?
Loving God, thank you for sending Jesus to dance with us, to be one with us, to bring us to you. Thank you Jesus for being with sinners, for seeing the good in us, for welcoming all into the kingdom. Help me to accept your forgiveness; help me to be forgiving as you are; help me to be a messenger of your spirit to all I meet. Continue to come, Lord Jesus, continue to call until the whole world is one in you. Amen.
WEDNESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF LENT
The Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath
One Sabbath [Jesus] was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food? He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
Mark 2: 23-28
This story seems on first blush to have little pertinence to our lives. In our present time and culture when Sabbath adherence is honored more in the breach than in the observance, some wish that our own time were more like Jesus’ (or more like an earlier era when the blue laws existed). Some assume that there is just a quaint strangeness to the ancient Jewish world.
The book of Exodus stipulates that Sabbath observance is a sign of a perpetual covenant; in Deuteronomy there is a provision for picking grain from someone else’s field. Was picking grain work? Could it appropriately take place on the Sabbath? By Jesus’ time, the rabbis had conducted tortuous pros and cons on these questions, and it seems that some of the Pharisees might have been following Jesus just spoiling for a good argument.
They certainly conceded Jesus’ reference to the familiar story of David and his men eating grain on the Sabbath with the blessing of the priest. However, his final words were undoubtedly unbearable to them not only because they implied that his stature was equal to or greater than David, but also because they were tantamount to blasphemy. It is still something of a scandal when we proclaim that the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath and of all that exists!
Who is this Son of Man? What does he reveal about the One who commanded the Sabbath?
Son of Man, Lord of the Sabbath, who are you? What do you wish me to see? … Amen.
One Sabbath [Jesus] was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. The Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he and his companions were hungry and in need of food? He entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the bread of the Presence, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and he gave some to his companions.” Then he said to them, “The sabbath was made for humankind and not humankind for the sabbath; so the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
Mark 2: 23-28
This story seems on first blush to have little pertinence to our lives. In our present time and culture when Sabbath adherence is honored more in the breach than in the observance, some wish that our own time were more like Jesus’ (or more like an earlier era when the blue laws existed). Some assume that there is just a quaint strangeness to the ancient Jewish world.
The book of Exodus stipulates that Sabbath observance is a sign of a perpetual covenant; in Deuteronomy there is a provision for picking grain from someone else’s field. Was picking grain work? Could it appropriately take place on the Sabbath? By Jesus’ time, the rabbis had conducted tortuous pros and cons on these questions, and it seems that some of the Pharisees might have been following Jesus just spoiling for a good argument.
They certainly conceded Jesus’ reference to the familiar story of David and his men eating grain on the Sabbath with the blessing of the priest. However, his final words were undoubtedly unbearable to them not only because they implied that his stature was equal to or greater than David, but also because they were tantamount to blasphemy. It is still something of a scandal when we proclaim that the Son of Man is Lord of the Sabbath and of all that exists!
Who is this Son of Man? What does he reveal about the One who commanded the Sabbath?
Son of Man, Lord of the Sabbath, who are you? What do you wish me to see? … Amen.
2/25/08
TUESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF LENT
The Son of Man Forgives Sins
“…Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic—“I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.” And he stood up…
Mark 2: 9-12a
Various points in life offer themselves to us as opportunities for a fresh start: enrolling at a new school, moving, making a career change, welcoming New Year’s Day with a list of resolutions. I have had the best of intentions to get organized, have better posture, eat healthier, “seize the day,” talk more, talk less, quit stressing. And I continue to learn the truth of Alec Guinness’ wry comment, “The bad habits of a lifetime, when tackled head on, seem only to bend, not break.”
My clean-slate optimism is equally forthcoming each week in worship as we say, “In Jesus Christ, our sins are forgiven.” Maybe this time I’ll go my way and sin no more. It would seem, however, that my sins are just as flexible as my bad habits. So it’s a comfort to know there’s a new second chance right around the corner. Perhaps too much of a comfort. Because what I usually fail to recognize is that there’s also a chance right now, a chance to live toward God rather than myself. Perhaps it IS easier for Jesus to say “Your sins are forgiven” than it is for us to get up and start acting like it.
Can you hear the Son of Man say, “Your sins are forgiven. Get up and go home.”? Who is he? How will you respond?
Gracious God, your forgiveness is so much more precious than I usually treat it. And it is so much more forthcoming than my own feeble attempts to show mercy. Help me to live as a human being who IS forgiven and who therefore seeks to live with greater honesty, courage and love. Amen.
“…Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Stand up and take your mat and walk’? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic—“I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.” And he stood up…
Mark 2: 9-12a
Various points in life offer themselves to us as opportunities for a fresh start: enrolling at a new school, moving, making a career change, welcoming New Year’s Day with a list of resolutions. I have had the best of intentions to get organized, have better posture, eat healthier, “seize the day,” talk more, talk less, quit stressing. And I continue to learn the truth of Alec Guinness’ wry comment, “The bad habits of a lifetime, when tackled head on, seem only to bend, not break.”
My clean-slate optimism is equally forthcoming each week in worship as we say, “In Jesus Christ, our sins are forgiven.” Maybe this time I’ll go my way and sin no more. It would seem, however, that my sins are just as flexible as my bad habits. So it’s a comfort to know there’s a new second chance right around the corner. Perhaps too much of a comfort. Because what I usually fail to recognize is that there’s also a chance right now, a chance to live toward God rather than myself. Perhaps it IS easier for Jesus to say “Your sins are forgiven” than it is for us to get up and start acting like it.
Can you hear the Son of Man say, “Your sins are forgiven. Get up and go home.”? Who is he? How will you respond?
Gracious God, your forgiveness is so much more precious than I usually treat it. And it is so much more forthcoming than my own feeble attempts to show mercy. Help me to live as a human being who IS forgiven and who therefore seeks to live with greater honesty, courage and love. Amen.
2/24/08
MONDAY, THIRD WEEK OF LENT
The Son of Man, a Child,
a Part of Tradition
For a child has been born for us,
a son given to us;
authority rests upon his shoulders;
Isaiah 9:6b
Let the portrait draw you to ponder in your heart the child, the man. Imagine the man the child suggests. Imagine the child with authority resting on his shoulders.
"Baby Brother" Bowling Green, Ky., 1917
From childhood to charismatic leader—imagine one such today.
Will you recognize and follow today’s Son of Man or will you think him an imposter and a threat to our way?
Jesus, Son of Man, Lord of the earth, grow in my heart. Be the notions of my mind. Guide my feet this day. Amen.
2/23/08
THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
Jesus, Son of Man
He called himself Son of Man.
The most common name Jesus used for himself is for me the most vague. Early in Mark’s account Jesus uses the title Son of Man in reference to himself. He would call himself by that name as he disputed with the Pharisees over his authority. He would later use it as he described how he would suffer. What he meant however was not crystal clear. Like many of the stories Mark tells about Jesus it is up to the hearer with “ears to hear” to determine what is truth. Jesus’ ministry is for those who seek, who ponder, who are willing to risk believing.
Those of his time who heard the term may have been reminded of the dreams of Daniel. “One like a son of man” was to come and to have everlasting dominion over all the earth. As the years had passed Daniel’s visions had become a source of hope for Jews oppressed by the power of Rome. Perhaps Jesus was the one expected to come and judge the peoples according to God’s holy law. Others may have heard the term simply as it is—Jesus was a typical human being, a son of man. Both ideas probably resonated with those who walked with him and both perhaps have meaning for us if we but listen.
In both cases his authority is on earth rather than in heaven. How would we recognize him today? He could be a charismatic leader, one who challenges authority be it religious or political. Or we could see him as a prophet bringing words of coming vindication for the oppressed. Maybe we will see him as God’s messenger of end times. Or perhaps we will know him as an ordinary citizen with an extraordinary message of redemption and freedom.
How will you know the Son of Man?
Jesus, Son of Man let me see your face. Let me hear your call. Let me know your path. Amen.
He called himself Son of Man.
The most common name Jesus used for himself is for me the most vague. Early in Mark’s account Jesus uses the title Son of Man in reference to himself. He would call himself by that name as he disputed with the Pharisees over his authority. He would later use it as he described how he would suffer. What he meant however was not crystal clear. Like many of the stories Mark tells about Jesus it is up to the hearer with “ears to hear” to determine what is truth. Jesus’ ministry is for those who seek, who ponder, who are willing to risk believing.
Those of his time who heard the term may have been reminded of the dreams of Daniel. “One like a son of man” was to come and to have everlasting dominion over all the earth. As the years had passed Daniel’s visions had become a source of hope for Jews oppressed by the power of Rome. Perhaps Jesus was the one expected to come and judge the peoples according to God’s holy law. Others may have heard the term simply as it is—Jesus was a typical human being, a son of man. Both ideas probably resonated with those who walked with him and both perhaps have meaning for us if we but listen.
In both cases his authority is on earth rather than in heaven. How would we recognize him today? He could be a charismatic leader, one who challenges authority be it religious or political. Or we could see him as a prophet bringing words of coming vindication for the oppressed. Maybe we will see him as God’s messenger of end times. Or perhaps we will know him as an ordinary citizen with an extraordinary message of redemption and freedom.
How will you know the Son of Man?
Jesus, Son of Man let me see your face. Let me hear your call. Let me know your path. Amen.
SATURDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus can be Our TeacherAnd they addressed him as Rabbi, Teacher
Let this woman prompt you to imagine an amazingly different teacher. Let go of as many limits as you can. Ask Jesus.
What sort of teacher is Rabbi Jesus?
What is this Rabbi teaching you, us, now?
How do we teach for him?
Rabbi Jesus, let me hear your voice. Give me the discipline to know you. Give me the courage to reflect you. Give me the love to see you in all I meet. Amen.
2/21/08
FRIDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus taught by Meeting People where they Were
As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments…” He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions. Mark 10: 17-22
This is one of those passages most of us hold our breath over, waiting for some word or phrase that will let us off the hook. Finding none, we start looking for escape clauses in our own lives. “I’m not really rich.” True, compared to some, I’m not. And yet false. Compared to most of the world, I’m unbelievably wealthy. “I’m happy to give, so long as it doesn’t push me to make a noticeable shift in the lifestyle to which I’m accustomed.” “I have a lot of stuff, but I still put God first.” Or we make it society’s problem: “The issue of wealth and poverty is a systemic giant. Any change or sacrifice I make won’t really matter.”
But maybe we just need to let Jesus’ charge upset us. It certainly upset the rich man. I’ve always wondered, though, if we underestimate him. All we know is that he was grieved by what Jesus said, because he had a lot of stuff. But was his grief over having to say “No” to the tough thing Jesus asked of him? OR was it over having to say “Goodbye” to all the stuff he would soon be giving away?
Explore this passage with someone you trust. Wrestle and pray over it. Think about what it means within your own life to need, to want, and to have enough. What are you to learn?
Loving God, so many things seem impossible for me. But not for you; all things are possible for you. I am trying to be a faithful disciple, but some of the things Jesus asks of me are tough. Please strengthen me to keep going when I want to look for an easier path. And help me to live simply. This I ask in Jesus’ name.
As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up and knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments…” He said to him, “Teacher, I have kept all these since my youth.” Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said, “You lack one thing; go, sell what you own, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions. Mark 10: 17-22
This is one of those passages most of us hold our breath over, waiting for some word or phrase that will let us off the hook. Finding none, we start looking for escape clauses in our own lives. “I’m not really rich.” True, compared to some, I’m not. And yet false. Compared to most of the world, I’m unbelievably wealthy. “I’m happy to give, so long as it doesn’t push me to make a noticeable shift in the lifestyle to which I’m accustomed.” “I have a lot of stuff, but I still put God first.” Or we make it society’s problem: “The issue of wealth and poverty is a systemic giant. Any change or sacrifice I make won’t really matter.”
But maybe we just need to let Jesus’ charge upset us. It certainly upset the rich man. I’ve always wondered, though, if we underestimate him. All we know is that he was grieved by what Jesus said, because he had a lot of stuff. But was his grief over having to say “No” to the tough thing Jesus asked of him? OR was it over having to say “Goodbye” to all the stuff he would soon be giving away?
Explore this passage with someone you trust. Wrestle and pray over it. Think about what it means within your own life to need, to want, and to have enough. What are you to learn?
Loving God, so many things seem impossible for me. But not for you; all things are possible for you. I am trying to be a faithful disciple, but some of the things Jesus asks of me are tough. Please strengthen me to keep going when I want to look for an easier path. And help me to live simply. This I ask in Jesus’ name.
THURSDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus asks us to Listen
Jesus said: “…For there is nothing hidden, except to be disclosed; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!” Mark 4: 22-23
How well do you listen? Do you truly hear?
Close your eyes and listen to the sounds around you. What do you hear? Are they noises and distractions or pleasant music to your ears? Were you aware of the sounds before you closed your eyes? Sit in silence for five minutes or so listening to creation all around you.
Now open your eyes and ponder what you have heard.
Think of a conversation you had recently or be aware of one you are having. How do you listen to the other person? Do you hear each word as new? Do you assume you know what they will say? Do you plan your response before the other finishes talking? Does your mind wander to other ideas while you are listening? Be aware of the whole person to whom you are talking. What are they saying beyond the words? Be aware of your own body. What is it telling you, your dialogue partner?
Ponder—did you have “ears to hear"?
Be aware of your prayer time. Is it a dialogue, a monologue? How do you listen to God? How do you expect to hear?
How does Jesus teach us to hear God?
Jesus, teach me to listen. Give me ears to hear. Silence my noise, my insistent chatter, my controlling words. Let me hear your redeeming voice. Amen.
Jesus said: “…For there is nothing hidden, except to be disclosed; nor is anything secret, except to come to light. Let anyone with ears to hear listen!” Mark 4: 22-23
How well do you listen? Do you truly hear?
Close your eyes and listen to the sounds around you. What do you hear? Are they noises and distractions or pleasant music to your ears? Were you aware of the sounds before you closed your eyes? Sit in silence for five minutes or so listening to creation all around you.
Now open your eyes and ponder what you have heard.
Think of a conversation you had recently or be aware of one you are having. How do you listen to the other person? Do you hear each word as new? Do you assume you know what they will say? Do you plan your response before the other finishes talking? Does your mind wander to other ideas while you are listening? Be aware of the whole person to whom you are talking. What are they saying beyond the words? Be aware of your own body. What is it telling you, your dialogue partner?
Ponder—did you have “ears to hear"?
Be aware of your prayer time. Is it a dialogue, a monologue? How do you listen to God? How do you expect to hear?
How does Jesus teach us to hear God?
Jesus, teach me to listen. Give me ears to hear. Silence my noise, my insistent chatter, my controlling words. Let me hear your redeeming voice. Amen.
2/19/08
WEDNESDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus Taught by His Actions
A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But [Jesus] was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and [the disciples] woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” Mark 4: 37-41
Once upon a time, a young seminary student was anxious and frenzied: A loved one at college far away was being hounded by a classmate of hers who was mentally unbalanced. Although he communicated regularly with her via long distance in those pre-cellphone days, it was becoming more than he could bear to hear of her difficulties. Waves of helplessness, frustration, fear, and anger swept over him.
One of his friends sensed the emotional upheaval and asked what was bothering him. The student’s stormy responses included despair over an inability to do anything for her, exasperation over the distance of separation between the two of them and finally, questions about why he was in seminary in the first place.
“Let’s go for a walk,” said his friend. Non-judgmental questions, comments, and quiet conversation continued on the streets for two hours. After returning to the dorm, they hugged one another in tears. It was the first time that the young student had hugged a man other than a member of the family.
“Who do you trust?” asked his friend.
“You…and Steve, Val, and Jack.” responded the young man.
“Not good enough,” said the friend, “just not good enough.”
And it suddenly dawned on the seminarian what his friend meant. Who is it that even the winds and sea obey?
“Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”
Rabbi, teach me to trust in that which truly protects. Amen.
A great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already being swamped. But [Jesus] was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and [the disciples] woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” He woke up and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” Then the wind ceased, and there was a dead calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” Mark 4: 37-41
Once upon a time, a young seminary student was anxious and frenzied: A loved one at college far away was being hounded by a classmate of hers who was mentally unbalanced. Although he communicated regularly with her via long distance in those pre-cellphone days, it was becoming more than he could bear to hear of her difficulties. Waves of helplessness, frustration, fear, and anger swept over him.
One of his friends sensed the emotional upheaval and asked what was bothering him. The student’s stormy responses included despair over an inability to do anything for her, exasperation over the distance of separation between the two of them and finally, questions about why he was in seminary in the first place.
“Let’s go for a walk,” said his friend. Non-judgmental questions, comments, and quiet conversation continued on the streets for two hours. After returning to the dorm, they hugged one another in tears. It was the first time that the young student had hugged a man other than a member of the family.
“Who do you trust?” asked his friend.
“You…and Steve, Val, and Jack.” responded the young man.
“Not good enough,” said the friend, “just not good enough.”
And it suddenly dawned on the seminarian what his friend meant. Who is it that even the winds and sea obey?
“Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”
Rabbi, teach me to trust in that which truly protects. Amen.
TUESDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus Taught in Parables
[Jesus] began to teach them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and it sprang up quickly, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched; and since it had no root, it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. Other seed fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.” And he said, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”
Mark 4: 2-9
Jesus taught in parables. A parable is a metaphor with a moral or religious message. Jesus spoke on more than one level. Then, as now, language has a surface structure and a deep structure. The surface structure is what gets said and communicates a social meaning. The deep structure is everything else, including what’s left out. It holds the psychological and the spiritual meanings of the experience.
Jesus’ story has a surface structure and a deep structure. On the surface, it’s just a story about everyday, common knowledge. The disciples knew this story was about more than planting seeds, they just didn’t know exactly what else Jesus meant. The rabbi was planting a different kind of seed in both the followers and the disciples. He wove a simple story with deeper meaning.
Jesus overlaid God’s message onto the current, local scene. Two thousand years later, how might this parable be told? Perhaps it would be about a salesperson with a special product and different types of customers. It could be about a math teacher who taught more than arithmetic, or a computer programmer with a revolutionary program.
Rewrite this parable to fit today’s local scene.
Holy God, open our ears to understanding so that we may turn and be forgiven. Amen.
[Jesus] began to teach them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell on the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and it sprang up quickly, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched; and since it had no root, it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. Other seed fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirty and sixty and a hundredfold.” And he said, “Let anyone with ears to hear listen!”
Mark 4: 2-9
Jesus taught in parables. A parable is a metaphor with a moral or religious message. Jesus spoke on more than one level. Then, as now, language has a surface structure and a deep structure. The surface structure is what gets said and communicates a social meaning. The deep structure is everything else, including what’s left out. It holds the psychological and the spiritual meanings of the experience.
Jesus’ story has a surface structure and a deep structure. On the surface, it’s just a story about everyday, common knowledge. The disciples knew this story was about more than planting seeds, they just didn’t know exactly what else Jesus meant. The rabbi was planting a different kind of seed in both the followers and the disciples. He wove a simple story with deeper meaning.
Jesus overlaid God’s message onto the current, local scene. Two thousand years later, how might this parable be told? Perhaps it would be about a salesperson with a special product and different types of customers. It could be about a math teacher who taught more than arithmetic, or a computer programmer with a revolutionary program.
Rewrite this parable to fit today’s local scene.
Holy God, open our ears to understanding so that we may turn and be forgiven. Amen.
2/17/08
MONDAY, SECOND WEEK OF LENT
Jesus Taught with Authority"Tools of teaching and witnessing" collage of ads and articles
…when the Sabbath came, [Jesus] entered the synagogue and taught. They were astounded at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Mark 1: 21-22
Use the collage to awaken your memories of times of learning. Think of the variety of experiences of teaching. Remember the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Who are our teachers today? How do they teach? How do you determine those who teach with authority?
How do you respond to the different teachers?
God of all peoples, God of all ages, God who sent Jesus to reveal yourself to us, let us hear your voice of authority, let us know your words of wisdom, let us follow your direction. Hide not yourself from us; astound us again with your love; save us from our blindness and selfishness. Bring your kingdom. Amen.
2/16/08
SECOND SUNDAY IN LENT
Jesus, Rabbi
He is addressed as Rabbi, Teacher
Each generation has the responsibility of passing on to the next the learning of the ages; those charged with ensuring that the “young” learn we call teachers. In our society we, the people, have determined that education is the responsibility of the government. In other societies the lessons to be preserved were rituals of faith, secrets of the gods, so the teacher often was an official of the sacred structure—priest, shaman, druid, magician. In some areas teachers were wandering philosophers preaching their visions of reality. Other teachers were employees or slaves of wealthy citizens charged with instructing the sons and daughters of the elite the charms and ways of the aristocracy. Most frequently for all societies education of the young happens at home and the teachers we all have are mothers and fathers.
He is addressed as Rabbi, Teacher
Each generation has the responsibility of passing on to the next the learning of the ages; those charged with ensuring that the “young” learn we call teachers. In our society we, the people, have determined that education is the responsibility of the government. In other societies the lessons to be preserved were rituals of faith, secrets of the gods, so the teacher often was an official of the sacred structure—priest, shaman, druid, magician. In some areas teachers were wandering philosophers preaching their visions of reality. Other teachers were employees or slaves of wealthy citizens charged with instructing the sons and daughters of the elite the charms and ways of the aristocracy. Most frequently for all societies education of the young happens at home and the teachers we all have are mothers and fathers.
Who have been your teachers? What did you call them? How do you feel about them? How did they instruct you?
As you read Mark’s gospel, soon you will find Jesus addressed as Rabbi or Teacher. The name carries the voice of the sacred for a rabbi was a teacher of God’s way with God’s people Israel. A rabbi was one who knew well the Holy Scriptures. Rabbis were parts of various schools of interpretation and skilled in arguing the meaning of God’s word. Rabbi meant respected teacher.
Jesus fit these descriptions and more. His teaching not only confounded the authorities but also illuminated the poor. Jesus taught with tools we find very modern—he told stories and asked his hearers to find the truth. Jesus used the ordinary events of his audience’s living so that the sacred and secular became one. Jesus challenged the all-knowing and encouraged the weak. Jesus taught both in word and deed.
Jesus, Rabbi, teach me this day God’s way. Amen.
SATURDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
Jesus was Human as We AreAnd history calls him Jesus of Nazareth...
Imagine the breadth of humanity as you look at the picture, humanity that includes Jesus. Jesus was one of us.
What sort of person is Jesus of Nazareth?
How is he like you, how different?
How do we recognize Jesus today?
“Traveling Monk “ Central France Youth Retreat , fall, 2002
Jesus of Nazareth, born of a woman, human like the least of us, hear our prayers. We seek to know you; we seek to know ourselves as you see us. We stand in awe of your power; we wonder at your capacity for compassion. We wish to be your family. Come to us anew for it is in your name that we pray. Amen.
2/14/08
FRIDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
Jesus was a Healer of the Infirm
They came to Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man to him and begged him to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village; and when he had put saliva on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Can you see anything?” And the man looked up and said, “I can see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he saw every thing clearly. Mark 8: 22-25
They came to Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man to him and begged him to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village; and when he had put saliva on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Can you see anything?” And the man looked up and said, “I can see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he saw every thing clearly. Mark 8: 22-25
Until last week, there was a large box outside the sanctuary. We encouraged our members to put used coats into that box, coats that would be distributed to students at Lorenzo de Zavala Elementary School whose families could not afford a warm coat for the winter. From time to time, we’ve all seen places in our building that invite us to a special kind of giving---angels on the angel tree, a place for cellphone recycling and for shoes, baskets for non-perishable food items for Network, and a collection box for used eyeglasses. Glasses are something I take most for granted, and it is a source of amazement to me that they can be so wonderfully reused to help people to see.
Jesus was not automatically successful in restoring the sight of the blind man. When he was asked what he saw after Jesus first laid hands on him, he responded that he saw people, but they looked like walking trees. Anyone who has had to wear corrective lenses has some idea of what this is like. A second touch from Jesus, and the man was able to see clearly.
In the gospel of Mark, the common folk of the land (unlike most of us) do not recognize Jesus primarily as a teacher. He is a healer. He comes from the backwater town of Nazareth with a very uncommon touch---the ability to restore people to health.
As disciples of a Lord who is known as a healer, how can we reflect that aspect of his Lordship in our present place and time?
Jesus of Nazareth, guide our hands in your healing way.
THURSDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
Jesus Attracted Crowds He Loved
As [Jesus] went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things. Mark 6: 34
"Crowd without a Leader" Dallas Morning News, Januarty 14, 2008
How are we still like sheep without a shepherd?
How will he, how does he, have compassion on us?
2/13/08
WEDNESDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
JESUS HAD A FAMILY
Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother." Mark 3:31-35
A mother went with her two sons to pick up her oldest son at the bowling alley. He was spending an evening with the local chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The family was new in town, and the woman didn’t know the streets very well. It was dark and getting late. She had had a long day, and this was a school night. She stopped a girl going into the alley and asked her to send her son out to the car.
Then his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside, they sent to him and called him. A crowd was sitting around him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brothers and sisters are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” And looking at those who sat around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother." Mark 3:31-35
A mother went with her two sons to pick up her oldest son at the bowling alley. He was spending an evening with the local chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The family was new in town, and the woman didn’t know the streets very well. It was dark and getting late. She had had a long day, and this was a school night. She stopped a girl going into the alley and asked her to send her son out to the car.
The girl found him with a large group in the dining area. She told him, “Your family is here to pick you up.” He turned from her and cryptically asked the group, “Who is my family”? He swept his arms to include the whole group and said, “You are my family: You are my brothers and sisters in Christ.”
Waiting in the car, his mother reflected on the widening of her son’s social circle. At first his world was just the two of them. Over time, the boy’s world had expanded to include the rest of the family, the neighborhood and now the community. She leaned her head back and waited.
Jesus had a family; so do we. How do you understand family now?
Precious Lord, guide us and teach us to share in the familial love Jesus holds for all people who are obedient to Your will. Amen.
2/11/08
TUESDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
JESUS HAD A JOB, A MINISTRY
But that definition doesn’t suffice. We experience time in yet another way. Babies aren’t always delivered on the due date. When we’re fully engaged in an activity, we can lose all sense of time. An event from twenty years ago can seem like yesterday, and yesterday is already a distant memory. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is told in our liturgy each year as a continuing reality 2000 years later. Time sometimes defies our attempts to package it up into neat increments. “Kairos”: time untamed. God’s time. When the divine breaks into our ordinary lives and we feel the stirrings of a beautiful kingdom very near.
Jesus’ time had come; he had a job to do. What time is it for us, for our world? What is our ministry?
Gracious God, even as I keep my calendar and my clock close at hand, may I turn to you for the deepest and fullest sense of time. Open my heart, my mind, and all my senses to the Good News proclaimed in Jesus Christ. Amen.
Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news.” Mark 1: 14-15
“Time’s up, test-takers. Please put down your pencils.” “I’m going to need this on my desk by Friday.” “What’s your five-year plan?” “They’re always late. So we told them to meet us at 6:30, even though our reservations aren’t until 7!” “Later. I don’t have time for that right now.” One of the primary ways we measure and order our lives is through time. We keep track of it almost obsessively. We hate for it to be wasted. We often wish it would move faster, yet we also regret that we can’t slow it down. The Greek word for this kind of time is “chronos.” It’s the linear flow of events, one after the other, in a sequence that can be marked and quantified.
“Time’s up, test-takers. Please put down your pencils.” “I’m going to need this on my desk by Friday.” “What’s your five-year plan?” “They’re always late. So we told them to meet us at 6:30, even though our reservations aren’t until 7!” “Later. I don’t have time for that right now.” One of the primary ways we measure and order our lives is through time. We keep track of it almost obsessively. We hate for it to be wasted. We often wish it would move faster, yet we also regret that we can’t slow it down. The Greek word for this kind of time is “chronos.” It’s the linear flow of events, one after the other, in a sequence that can be marked and quantified.
But that definition doesn’t suffice. We experience time in yet another way. Babies aren’t always delivered on the due date. When we’re fully engaged in an activity, we can lose all sense of time. An event from twenty years ago can seem like yesterday, and yesterday is already a distant memory. The life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ is told in our liturgy each year as a continuing reality 2000 years later. Time sometimes defies our attempts to package it up into neat increments. “Kairos”: time untamed. God’s time. When the divine breaks into our ordinary lives and we feel the stirrings of a beautiful kingdom very near.
Jesus’ time had come; he had a job to do. What time is it for us, for our world? What is our ministry?
Gracious God, even as I keep my calendar and my clock close at hand, may I turn to you for the deepest and fullest sense of time. Open my heart, my mind, and all my senses to the Good News proclaimed in Jesus Christ. Amen.
2/10/08
MONDAY, FIRST WEEK OF LENT
JESUS WAS FROM GALILEEIn those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. Mark 1:9
Allow your mind to react to the picture remembering where Jesus came from. Be aware of your preconceptions. Ponder.
Can anything good “come out of Nazareth”, out of the hills? Could this be God’s chosen one?
How do we understand Jesus’ heritage, home? What does it suggest for us today?
“James of Princeton in W. Va.” Home, 1952
Jesus of Nazareth, savior of the world, open our eyes, silence our prejudices, awaken our souls to the goodness of all creation. Let us see you in all we meet. Let us see the oneness of all you have made. Let us be surprised and blessed. Amen.
2/9/08
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT
Jesus, A Person of History
His name is Jesus of Nazareth.
Mark tells us that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee. Why would such information be an important part of naming the bringer of good news? What does it suggest? Certainly, when we meet someone new, we may ask, “Where are you from?” Why? Often I guess we want to show an interest in the person or identify common backgrounds or experiences; we are pleasantly surprised if we know people in common. On another level knowing where someone is from gives us an idea of who they are.
His name is Jesus of Nazareth.
Mark tells us that Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee. Why would such information be an important part of naming the bringer of good news? What does it suggest? Certainly, when we meet someone new, we may ask, “Where are you from?” Why? Often I guess we want to show an interest in the person or identify common backgrounds or experiences; we are pleasantly surprised if we know people in common. On another level knowing where someone is from gives us an idea of who they are.
I am from West Virginia—do visions of hillbillies or moonshine stills come to your mind. Do you think of the Hatfield and McCoy feud? Perhaps you think I will be backward, unaware of the world, since I am from the hollows. Galilee had such a reputation in Jesus’ day. Nazareth was a provincial town in a backwater district of Judea and Judea was not the primary colony of mighty Rome. Jesus came from the sticks.
Mark perhaps also names Jesus this way to tell us that he was indeed a historical person. He lived. He died. Like all of us, he was human. He came to be baptized by John in the river Jordan. In his baptism by John, Jesus joined himself to a religious movement afoot in Judea of the first century CE, a movement to prepare for the coming of the Lord. Jesus then returned to Galilee, his home country, to preach, to bring his good news. In that region he would find followers; he would be reminded of his birth family; he would confront other religious leaders; he would do wondrous deeds. He would become known. But Jesus would continue to be a Galilean.
What is the significance for you that Mark names him Jesus of Nazareth?
Lord Jesus, you were a Galilean. Help me see those today who are like you. Amen.
2/3/08
BEGINNING OF LENT WED. FEB. 6
Lent begins this Wednesday. Beginning then you can expect to see posted daily the devotional material from booklet "What Shall We Call Him" If you did not receive one at worship and would like a hard copy come by the church. I invite you to join the church family in observing this season. Below is an outline of the devotionals. If you wish to comment as we move through the season please do. Perhaps we can have a dialogue and together answer the question of who is Jesus.
WHAT SHALL WE CALL HIM?
LENTEN MEDITATIONS ON THE NAMES OF JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF MARK
Created by:
Tom Gibbons, Arlene Koeppen, Caroline Martin, Georgianna Martin, Claire Morris
Contents
Introduction
His Name is Jesus of Nazareth Week 1
He is called Rabbi, Teacher Week 2
He called himself Son of Man Week 3
God called him My Beloved Son Week 4
He is the Messiah, the Christ Week 5
Holy Week—Jesus is… Week 6
LENTEN MEDITATIONS ON THE NAMES OF JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF MARK
Created by:
Tom Gibbons, Arlene Koeppen, Caroline Martin, Georgianna Martin, Claire Morris
Contents
Introduction
His Name is Jesus of Nazareth Week 1
He is called Rabbi, Teacher Week 2
He called himself Son of Man Week 3
God called him My Beloved Son Week 4
He is the Messiah, the Christ Week 5
Holy Week—Jesus is… Week 6
2/1/08
SATURDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY
Saturday after Ash Wednesday:
Who is He we call Lord?
[John] proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1: 7-8
For years many have wondered about and described the one John proclaimed as coming—the powerful one, the worthy one, the one who brings the Spirit. Who is this one? What shall we call him? What is his name? We are invited this Lenten season to ask that question of ourselves, of our communities, of Mark. Now is the time to begin to answer, to begin to draw your picture, to begin to ponder, to begin to pray.
Who are you, Jesus?
Jesus, we would know you. Come to us this Lenten season. Be our companion over these days. Reveal your truth. Tell us your name. Amen.
Who is He we call Lord?
[John] proclaimed, “The one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to stoop down and untie the thong of his sandals. I have baptized you with water; but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” Mark 1: 7-8
For years many have wondered about and described the one John proclaimed as coming—the powerful one, the worthy one, the one who brings the Spirit. Who is this one? What shall we call him? What is his name? We are invited this Lenten season to ask that question of ourselves, of our communities, of Mark. Now is the time to begin to answer, to begin to draw your picture, to begin to ponder, to begin to pray.
Who are you, Jesus?
Jesus, we would know you. Come to us this Lenten season. Be our companion over these days. Reveal your truth. Tell us your name. Amen.
FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY
Friday after Ash Wednesday:
Come to the River
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark 1:4
Imagine you are along the river Jordan. A wild looking man, dressed in the offerings of the land is drawing a crowd. Why are they there? You had hoped for a quiet day sitting on the bank throwing a line out to see if anything bites. Mostly you wished to drink in the warm sun and the sweet smell of the new growth of spring. Now you would have to contend with the crowd and the strange man preaching. You wander toward the place where the crowd gathers. The preacher is in the water! He is greeting those from the crowd who go out. He holds them, bends each backward into the water. They seem to trust him. As you watch they come up radiant. What is going on? Repentance, forgiveness of sins, someone says. Returning to your original place on the bank you feel pulled to review your own life. Scenes pass in front of you—the present, the past, relationships, God.
Who are you now?
Let God be your guide as you answer. What must you confess? For what will you give thanks? What are your deepest desires? Experience anew the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Lord Jesus, I confess…have mercy on me; forgive my sins.
We confess… have mercy on our world; forgive our sins.
Lord Jesus, I give thanks…continue to bless this earth.
Lord Jesus, I desire…bend my will to your own;
We wish…redeem all of creation.
Come to the River
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Mark 1:4
Imagine you are along the river Jordan. A wild looking man, dressed in the offerings of the land is drawing a crowd. Why are they there? You had hoped for a quiet day sitting on the bank throwing a line out to see if anything bites. Mostly you wished to drink in the warm sun and the sweet smell of the new growth of spring. Now you would have to contend with the crowd and the strange man preaching. You wander toward the place where the crowd gathers. The preacher is in the water! He is greeting those from the crowd who go out. He holds them, bends each backward into the water. They seem to trust him. As you watch they come up radiant. What is going on? Repentance, forgiveness of sins, someone says. Returning to your original place on the bank you feel pulled to review your own life. Scenes pass in front of you—the present, the past, relationships, God.
Who are you now?
Let God be your guide as you answer. What must you confess? For what will you give thanks? What are your deepest desires? Experience anew the baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
Lord Jesus, I confess…have mercy on me; forgive my sins.
We confess… have mercy on our world; forgive our sins.
Lord Jesus, I give thanks…continue to bless this earth.
Lord Jesus, I desire…bend my will to your own;
We wish…redeem all of creation.
Amen.
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