In the Lectionary
Macro-mystery: Matthew 28:16-20
Compared to cosmologists, theologians have the advantage—and disadvantage—of revelation.
Thirst quencher: John 7:37-39; Acts 2:1-21; Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
In the original Christian Pentecost are seeds of a universalist impulse, a catholic principle.
Long division: Acts 1:6-14; John 17:1-11
The unity of Christ's followers is not incidental to our salvation.
To see and not to see: Acts 17:22-31; John 14:15-21
Paul refuses to let God become just another novelty.
Sticks and stones: Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; Acts 7:55-60
Faithful suffering has always been part of the calling for God’s people.
The show-me disciple (John 20:19-31)
Mary can’t experience the resurrected Jesus for the disciples, and the disciples can’t experience Jesus for Thomas.
The Judas chromosome: Matthew 26:14—27:10
Maybe the real reason we show betrayers so little compassion is that we’re afraid there is some Judas chromosome within all of us.
Unlikely messenger: John 4:5-42
This is not a metaphorical desert. Left alone here at high noon, Jesus could die without water.
Late-night seminar: John 3:1-17
Portrayed as a cowardly dolt, Nicodemus is usually spotted skulking about under cover of darkness.
Bedrock truths: Matthew 4:1-11
The Tempter will return again and again. But we are never left alone.
Caution: Contents may be hot (Matthew 5:1-12)
The Beatitudes sneak up on us.
Foolish belonging: 1 Corinthians 1:10-18
In the United States, it is rare to hear someone define herself as belonging to someone else. Here, we belong to ourselves.
Memory sites
Perhaps the Ancient of Days took great pleasure in these light shows.