Self-preservation is both a natural human instinct and a grave spiritual danger. If we never move beyond measuring every action and relationship by how much is in it for us, this...

A friend of mine once said, “You can pray or you can worry, but you cannot do both at the same time.” We might likewise say, “You can have faith or...

The psalmist refers to God as Shepherd but also acknowledges God’s majesty and power on the throne. As in our reading from Isaiah, Israel is likened to a flourishing vine that...

The writer of Hebrews now focuses on the men and women of the fledgling church and tells them, “You can also live faithfully!” I suspect they listened, nodding wisely, as the...

The magnificent words by faith ring down through the ages. That was all it took. By faith in God the Israelites crossed the Red Sea on dry land. Who took the...

With his disciples, Jesus has addressed the issues of preparation and readiness and has made it clear that there is no peace without conflict. He wishes the fire that both destroys...

Luke’s Gospel begins with a glorious account of Jesus’ birth. The angels bring a message of peace on earth. So Jesus’ question comes as a shock: “Do you think I have...

The vintager sings of the vineyard as a place that is dearly loved. He has done everything possible to produce a sweet crop, but the vineyard produces only wild grapes. God...

Walk with me through the vineyard. We stroll between the vines in the early morning sunlight. The vintager has worked hard, caring for this land that he loves, doing all he...

Jesus instructs his disciples to “sell your possessions and give alms” and goes on to observe that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Speculation abounds as to...