Reflexion, A Spiritual Community

The way Luke introduces John the Baptist has a familiar ring: “The word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness” (Lk. 3:2) For example: “The word of the LORD that came to Hosea, the son of Beeri” or “The word of the LORD that came to Joel, the son of Pethuel” - Luke is obviously forging a link between John and previous prophets • Jesus will soon say, John was a prophet “and more than a prophet” (v. 26) ◦ John also appears as an eccentric character • we usually focus on John...

1 Corinthians 8:1-6 It’s not one of my favorites, but this time something happened - it was like I saw a glint of light sparkle from one of the verses • so I started digging at it ◦ I took my investigation as far as I could, ◦ but when that wasn’t enough, I consulted a biblical scholar • in a few minutes I’ll share with you what I discovered, - but first, we’ll take a brief look at this passage

Reading the stories of Jesus, Have you ever wished you could hear the tone of his voice? - for instance, I imagine a note of disappointment or sadness when says, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip?” • Philip was one of the first disciples to follow Jesus ◦ so he’s traveled with him as long or longer than the others ◦ if anyone should know Jesus, it’s Philip • Jesus has completed his work, and his time with his disciples is winding down ◦ now, near the en...

For some theologians and many believers, Paul’s letter to the Romans is the heart of the Christian faith - but what they see as the central message isn’t my favorite part • chapter 8 and this chapter speak directly to our need • that is, our connection to God and life in the Spirit ◦ then chapter 14, where we learn what living our faith looks like in practice - a natural division occurred in churches of the Roman Empire • the split occurred along both ethnic and cultural lines ◦ they consiste...

Do you have a favorite psalm; for instance, Psalm 23? Whether one psalm speaks to me and another one doesn’t, - depends a lot on my mood at the time I read them • the Psalms are moody, and some of them match my mood perfectly • whenever a psalm speaks to me, it’s effect is palpable ◦ it not only gives me something to think about, ◦ but also stirs up significant feelings - the Psalms speak to our frustrations, conflicts, and heartaches • there are psalms that encourage and console • others giv...