Sunday, January 31, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Mark 13
Not much new in this reading. He warns of false prophets and looking to yourself to know the difference. I thought this goes back to what I was saying about not following blindly or relying on someone else to tell you what to believe. You can't look to yourself for the right answers unless you have an understanding of what to ask.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Matt. 23 and Luke 20-21
Not much new in Luke 20 but you can feel a definite shift in His delivery. Everything seems more urgent, more straight to the point, the parables are shorter and the message darker.
Luke 21 goes even deeper into the grim side of reality. People will hate you for your beliefs, He says. People close to you will turn their backs on you.....and even betray you for listening to Me.
Jamie and I have talked this point into the ground. I could write pages and pages about our discussions on this one subject. Bottom line is, in my personal everyday life as a Southerner, its hard for me to imagine that someone would hate you for being a Christian. Quite the opposite down here.....but I see it happening on tv, in the news, and all around the world.
And of course it happens the other way around, with people being killed in countless wars in Christ's name....but two wrongs do not a right make.
Luke 21 goes even deeper into the grim side of reality. People will hate you for your beliefs, He says. People close to you will turn their backs on you.....and even betray you for listening to Me.
Jamie and I have talked this point into the ground. I could write pages and pages about our discussions on this one subject. Bottom line is, in my personal everyday life as a Southerner, its hard for me to imagine that someone would hate you for being a Christian. Quite the opposite down here.....but I see it happening on tv, in the news, and all around the world.
And of course it happens the other way around, with people being killed in countless wars in Christ's name....but two wrongs do not a right make.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Matt. 22 and Mark 12
Its time for a parable......
Heaven, says He, is like a wedding feast (I like it so far, unless its one of those odd dry weddings?) in which a king throws for his son.
He sends servants out to gather all the people who have been invited. But no one seems to want to listen. They go on back to work, some even kill the servants!
The king gets angry and burns down cities and such.
He then tells the servants to just go and invite any and everyone. They do this and a myriad of people show up. One fella is not dresssed appropriately so he his thrown out...... into the darkness.
So, does this mean if we don't look the right way, we will be thrown out of the party in Heaven. No it doesnt, silly. It means that just because your invited to the party doesn't mean you don't have to prepare. I was invited to a Mardi Gras Ball, just by chance, meaning....no direct connection, I wasn't on the orginal list. Someone had extra tickets. However, this gives me no excuse to come dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt. I must wear a floor lenght gown and my husband a tux, regardless .....or we are not let in.
We must prepare.
Someone asks for a Cliff"s notes version of the commandments. He says most importantly "You must love the Lord, your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul and with all of your mind." numero uno.
Second "You shall love your neightbor as you do yourselves"
If you think about it, these two really do sum it all up.... and the rest fall into place.
Also interesting is, the whole pay Caesar what is due Caesar and God what is due God. What we must remember is that this was a question meant to trick Jesus. If he were to say "Yes we are to pay Caesar", then might that cause some followers to doubt him? If he says no, then we all know what will happen.
And so he gives the line about give Caesar what is due Caesar, though not really telling anyone what IS actually due Caesar. Perhaps nothing is due to Caesar..... Sly move Jesus.
Heaven, says He, is like a wedding feast (I like it so far, unless its one of those odd dry weddings?) in which a king throws for his son.
He sends servants out to gather all the people who have been invited. But no one seems to want to listen. They go on back to work, some even kill the servants!
The king gets angry and burns down cities and such.
He then tells the servants to just go and invite any and everyone. They do this and a myriad of people show up. One fella is not dresssed appropriately so he his thrown out...... into the darkness.
So, does this mean if we don't look the right way, we will be thrown out of the party in Heaven. No it doesnt, silly. It means that just because your invited to the party doesn't mean you don't have to prepare. I was invited to a Mardi Gras Ball, just by chance, meaning....no direct connection, I wasn't on the orginal list. Someone had extra tickets. However, this gives me no excuse to come dressed in jeans and a sweatshirt. I must wear a floor lenght gown and my husband a tux, regardless .....or we are not let in.
We must prepare.
Someone asks for a Cliff"s notes version of the commandments. He says most importantly "You must love the Lord, your God with all of your heart, with all of your soul and with all of your mind." numero uno.
Second "You shall love your neightbor as you do yourselves"
If you think about it, these two really do sum it all up.... and the rest fall into place.
Also interesting is, the whole pay Caesar what is due Caesar and God what is due God. What we must remember is that this was a question meant to trick Jesus. If he were to say "Yes we are to pay Caesar", then might that cause some followers to doubt him? If he says no, then we all know what will happen.
And so he gives the line about give Caesar what is due Caesar, though not really telling anyone what IS actually due Caesar. Perhaps nothing is due to Caesar..... Sly move Jesus.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Mark 11 John 12
nothing much new in Mark 11, so I thought I would share that Temple scene I was talking about the other day.
A bit of useless information here and sorta off subject but I found it interesting. Playing Christ in this movie and in the original play is Ted Neely. I've seen the play twice, once about 14 years ago and once 3 years ago both staring as Christ.....Ted Neely.
I met him after the second play and he signed the original movie poster I found (in the trash) with his likeness on it. Now, the movie came out in 1973. So to see Christ played by a man in his 50s is rather odd, butt he pulls it off. What was interesting to me was, that I think some people actually think he is Christ, or on a first name basis with him, at least. These old ladies were waiting around after the play with me and when he came out they spoke and prayed with him. He prayed with many, many people. And refused to leave the lobby, much to the chagrin of his cast and crew until he spoke with every single person waiting. It was a very surreal-ly sorta thing.
He, btw, was most excited to see his young face on my poster, and was even more excited that I found it in the trash. He wrote "To Crystal, Thank you for your dedication" Ted Neely (after all these years)" and on Zoe's playbill he wrote "To Zoe, a beautiful name, for a beautiful girl"
I know I'm SUCH a theater nerd!
John 12 is pret-ty heavy, man. We begin with Mary using the expensive ointment on Jesus when, as Judas says, it can be sold and the money given to the poor. But why does he want that to happen? Does he love the poor sooooo much? No, he loves money sooooo muc. So says the reading.
Jesus explains again that he shall die.... and they are again confused. He says to them that in a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying it enriches the harvest. Spiritual Composting!
"If anyone hears my My teaching and fails to observe them, it is not I who judges them. For I have not come to judge, and to condemn and to pass sentence and to inflict penalty on the world, but to save the world"
I know there's the fine line there between pointing out if someone is doing wrong and judging, but it says so many times that He did not come here to judge, that's left to Someone else. And I do also realize that here He is speaking of non-Christians. I guess I just feel like, bottom line is, you can share with people what you believe and if they accept it, that's great and if they don't then that's their business. Life, I know, is never quite as simple as that....but it would be great if it were.
A bit of useless information here and sorta off subject but I found it interesting. Playing Christ in this movie and in the original play is Ted Neely. I've seen the play twice, once about 14 years ago and once 3 years ago both staring as Christ.....Ted Neely.
I met him after the second play and he signed the original movie poster I found (in the trash) with his likeness on it. Now, the movie came out in 1973. So to see Christ played by a man in his 50s is rather odd, butt he pulls it off. What was interesting to me was, that I think some people actually think he is Christ, or on a first name basis with him, at least. These old ladies were waiting around after the play with me and when he came out they spoke and prayed with him. He prayed with many, many people. And refused to leave the lobby, much to the chagrin of his cast and crew until he spoke with every single person waiting. It was a very surreal-ly sorta thing.
He, btw, was most excited to see his young face on my poster, and was even more excited that I found it in the trash. He wrote "To Crystal, Thank you for your dedication" Ted Neely (after all these years)" and on Zoe's playbill he wrote "To Zoe, a beautiful name, for a beautiful girl"
I know I'm SUCH a theater nerd!
John 12 is pret-ty heavy, man. We begin with Mary using the expensive ointment on Jesus when, as Judas says, it can be sold and the money given to the poor. But why does he want that to happen? Does he love the poor sooooo much? No, he loves money sooooo muc. So says the reading.
Jesus explains again that he shall die.... and they are again confused. He says to them that in a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying it enriches the harvest. Spiritual Composting!
"If anyone hears my My teaching and fails to observe them, it is not I who judges them. For I have not come to judge, and to condemn and to pass sentence and to inflict penalty on the world, but to save the world"
I know there's the fine line there between pointing out if someone is doing wrong and judging, but it says so many times that He did not come here to judge, that's left to Someone else. And I do also realize that here He is speaking of non-Christians. I guess I just feel like, bottom line is, you can share with people what you believe and if they accept it, that's great and if they don't then that's their business. Life, I know, is never quite as simple as that....but it would be great if it were.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Luke 18:15-19:48
Nothing really new in 18
In 19, we have ourselves a parable. A noble man goes to find some land in which to be king. When he leaves he gives a few servants a little money to do a little somthin somthing with whilst he is gone.
When he returns......
behind door number one, the servant has turned his ten into twenty!
You shall be in charge of 10 cities.
behind door number two, the servant has turned his ten into fifteen!
You shall be in charge of 5 cities.
behind door numero tres, the servant has mealy sat on the money. He was afraid of his master.
The master is like "really?!, if you were afraid of me then why didn't you at least put the money in the bank so that it could earn a bit of interest? Take this man's 10 away and give it to that other guy!"
The people said "but that guy already has ten?"
"to those who get and who have, much will be given, but to those who do not get and do not have, much will be taken away"
Now at first, I must admit, I didn't think much of this parable. Taking from those who don't have much? But I try and remember that parable, much like ogres (I would like to receive some sort of award, or trophy for being able to reference Shriek in a blog about the Bible. I feel like maybe there should even be some prize money involved? If anyone knows who I contact about this, I would appreciate it) are like onions. You have to take time to peel away the layers.
I peeled and this is what I came up with. If you take your talents and make good with them, you receive much. Here of course I don't mean simply artistic talents, but whatever you have inside of you that can help people, or can make one person feel good about themselves, or can ease someones pain for a minute, or make someone laugh who is down....
these are things we ALL have inside of us.
You use these and you get much in return, which everyone knows to be true.
BUT if you just sit on these things and never give anything, not a smile, not a nice word, not a helping hand.....then poo poo on you!
Its the whole energy suckers again. If you are convinced that bad things always happen to you and you are afraid of life...then guess what.....bad things will always happen to you and life will continue to give you reasons to be afraid.
When you boil that onion down, you get this....those who give, receive.
Those who give nothing, get nothing and even worse, they get the little they have taken away. I visualize it this way.....there's a little candle inside (yes, thank you thank you...the light of the world thing.....i know) and we all know from Backdraft that fire needs air. If you never give your candle any air, not only will it flicker, it will eventually go out.
In 19, we have ourselves a parable. A noble man goes to find some land in which to be king. When he leaves he gives a few servants a little money to do a little somthin somthing with whilst he is gone.
When he returns......
behind door number one, the servant has turned his ten into twenty!
You shall be in charge of 10 cities.
behind door number two, the servant has turned his ten into fifteen!
You shall be in charge of 5 cities.
behind door numero tres, the servant has mealy sat on the money. He was afraid of his master.
The master is like "really?!, if you were afraid of me then why didn't you at least put the money in the bank so that it could earn a bit of interest? Take this man's 10 away and give it to that other guy!"
The people said "but that guy already has ten?"
"to those who get and who have, much will be given, but to those who do not get and do not have, much will be taken away"
Now at first, I must admit, I didn't think much of this parable. Taking from those who don't have much? But I try and remember that parable, much like ogres (I would like to receive some sort of award, or trophy for being able to reference Shriek in a blog about the Bible. I feel like maybe there should even be some prize money involved? If anyone knows who I contact about this, I would appreciate it) are like onions. You have to take time to peel away the layers.
I peeled and this is what I came up with. If you take your talents and make good with them, you receive much. Here of course I don't mean simply artistic talents, but whatever you have inside of you that can help people, or can make one person feel good about themselves, or can ease someones pain for a minute, or make someone laugh who is down....
these are things we ALL have inside of us.
You use these and you get much in return, which everyone knows to be true.
BUT if you just sit on these things and never give anything, not a smile, not a nice word, not a helping hand.....then poo poo on you!
Its the whole energy suckers again. If you are convinced that bad things always happen to you and you are afraid of life...then guess what.....bad things will always happen to you and life will continue to give you reasons to be afraid.
When you boil that onion down, you get this....those who give, receive.
Those who give nothing, get nothing and even worse, they get the little they have taken away. I visualize it this way.....there's a little candle inside (yes, thank you thank you...the light of the world thing.....i know) and we all know from Backdraft that fire needs air. If you never give your candle any air, not only will it flicker, it will eventually go out.
Matt 20-21
I wonder if this is where the saying "An idle mind is the devil's playground" comes from? If not, its what I thought of when I read about the people just standing around doing nothing and the vineyard owner coming to hire them.
The workers who are hired last get the same wages as the workers who are hired first, which the firsties don't think is so dandy. However, tis what they agreed to.
Here's what else this parable made me think of.....Prisoners on death row who, at that eleventh hour, repent and ask for forgiveness. They receive the exact same treatment as the monk who has dedicated his life to Christ. The only peace I find with it, is that God will know their heart, and will know if its a true repentance or one just out of desperation.
Again we read about the disciples vying for the sweet spot next to Jesus in heaven and Him denying them that place, as it is not for Him, He says, to decide.
And more blind men, given sight. I like to think that this is a way of Him telling us, to not follow blindly. Have faith, yes, but not blind faith. Understand what you are agreeing too, so that you will better know where you are going and can see the road that will lead you there. If you follow blindly, it may be easier for someone to cause you to stumble, as you are always relying on someones else to show you the way. You may even take a wrong turn at Albuquerque.
And then the scene in the Temple, a very dramatic scene in Jesus Christ Superstar, where Ted Neely, playing Christ, hits some super high notes. I love this story, because I feel like maybe some churches have become a den of robbers.
We have the tree not bearing fruit, forced to wither up.
The workers who are hired last get the same wages as the workers who are hired first, which the firsties don't think is so dandy. However, tis what they agreed to.
Here's what else this parable made me think of.....Prisoners on death row who, at that eleventh hour, repent and ask for forgiveness. They receive the exact same treatment as the monk who has dedicated his life to Christ. The only peace I find with it, is that God will know their heart, and will know if its a true repentance or one just out of desperation.
Again we read about the disciples vying for the sweet spot next to Jesus in heaven and Him denying them that place, as it is not for Him, He says, to decide.
And more blind men, given sight. I like to think that this is a way of Him telling us, to not follow blindly. Have faith, yes, but not blind faith. Understand what you are agreeing too, so that you will better know where you are going and can see the road that will lead you there. If you follow blindly, it may be easier for someone to cause you to stumble, as you are always relying on someones else to show you the way. You may even take a wrong turn at Albuquerque.
And then the scene in the Temple, a very dramatic scene in Jesus Christ Superstar, where Ted Neely, playing Christ, hits some super high notes. I love this story, because I feel like maybe some churches have become a den of robbers.
We have the tree not bearing fruit, forced to wither up.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Matt. 19 and Mark 10
The issue of marriage and divorce comes up again, with the only available reason for divorce, unfaithfulness by the wife. A disciple says "if the case of a man with his wife is like this, it is neither profitable nor advisable to marry" To which Jesus says....indeed, tis not for all.
Jesus then runs through the commandments, and talks about how hard it is to get into heaven if you're a rich man. Not because you have wealth singularly, but because many people get corrupted by money and greed. Your heart lies with your treasure.
He talks of his death and Resurrection also.
Jesus then runs through the commandments, and talks about how hard it is to get into heaven if you're a rich man. Not because you have wealth singularly, but because many people get corrupted by money and greed. Your heart lies with your treasure.
He talks of his death and Resurrection also.
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Luke 17:11- 18: 14
Jesus talks about the end of days when some will be taken and others not so much....
He recalls Noah as well as Lot (and his salty wife).
There's another parable about the dangers of fancying yourself upright, in other words..."Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and everyone who humbles himself will be exalted"
(and remember every square is a rectangle but every rectangle is not a square)
He recalls Noah as well as Lot (and his salty wife).
There's another parable about the dangers of fancying yourself upright, in other words..."Everyone who exalts himself will be humbled and everyone who humbles himself will be exalted"
(and remember every square is a rectangle but every rectangle is not a square)
Friday, January 22, 2010
John 11
Ok let me set the stage.....
I've been just really down this week. I've had a couple of things happen that I've had to deal with, but that's not really the reason. I don't know that there is a reason, just every once in a while I get into a funk for a few days (and, no it not related to my special friend that's a whole different more angry, down) and then I get out of it and I'm fine. Just been one of those.
I was up all night and finally fell asleep about 20 minutes before I was to wake up........thus causing me to snooze it out.
ALMOST had myself talked into sleeping through Bible Blog time........
I decide to get up with just enough time to read and perhaps blog and I read this.......
...."He said these things, and then added, Our friend Lazarus is at rest and is sleeping; but I am going there that I may awaken him out of his sleep."
"The disciples answered, Lord if he is sleeping he will recover."
"However, Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he referred to falling into a refreshing and natural sleep."
"So then Jesus told them plainly, Lazarus is dead."
I laughed and laughed and laughed, a tear inducing, uncontrollable, feel it all over laughter. I feel so much better, twas what I needed.
I don't care who you are THAT exchange is funny. I can see the whole thing playing out in my mind like a movie and I'm just saying that I'm pretty sure Jesus rolled his eyes just a little when delivering that last line.....
I've been just really down this week. I've had a couple of things happen that I've had to deal with, but that's not really the reason. I don't know that there is a reason, just every once in a while I get into a funk for a few days (and, no it not related to my special friend that's a whole different more angry, down) and then I get out of it and I'm fine. Just been one of those.
I was up all night and finally fell asleep about 20 minutes before I was to wake up........thus causing me to snooze it out.
ALMOST had myself talked into sleeping through Bible Blog time........
I decide to get up with just enough time to read and perhaps blog and I read this.......
...."He said these things, and then added, Our friend Lazarus is at rest and is sleeping; but I am going there that I may awaken him out of his sleep."
"The disciples answered, Lord if he is sleeping he will recover."
"However, Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he referred to falling into a refreshing and natural sleep."
"So then Jesus told them plainly, Lazarus is dead."
I laughed and laughed and laughed, a tear inducing, uncontrollable, feel it all over laughter. I feel so much better, twas what I needed.
I don't care who you are THAT exchange is funny. I can see the whole thing playing out in my mind like a movie and I'm just saying that I'm pretty sure Jesus rolled his eyes just a little when delivering that last line.....
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Luke 16-17:10
GIRD YOUR LOINS!
We have more talk about money, riches, and stuff. Basically saying what we said the other day. Your heart lies with you treasure....
No man can serve two masters. If you are a slave to money, your job and your stuff then there your heart lies.
God knows your heart.
We have the story of Lazarus, who was poor and lowly, going to Heaven; whilst his master goes to Hades. Did it work out that way simply because one was rich and one was poor? Of course not. Tis all about the heart.
And we finish up with a refresher on forgiveness. If your bro sins, tell him he is sinning and then forgive him. Even him he does it 7 times a day, and asks for forgiveness 7 times a day...
We have more talk about money, riches, and stuff. Basically saying what we said the other day. Your heart lies with you treasure....
No man can serve two masters. If you are a slave to money, your job and your stuff then there your heart lies.
God knows your heart.
We have the story of Lazarus, who was poor and lowly, going to Heaven; whilst his master goes to Hades. Did it work out that way simply because one was rich and one was poor? Of course not. Tis all about the heart.
And we finish up with a refresher on forgiveness. If your bro sins, tell him he is sinning and then forgive him. Even him he does it 7 times a day, and asks for forgiveness 7 times a day...
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Luke 14-15
This is one of my favorite songs from the play Godspell. I don't really like this version at all, twas the only one I could find however. Still its a great song, but the original cast version is a million times better.
In 14 Jesus talks again about being humble and helping those less fortunate. I like the example he gives about giving the dinner party for people who couldn't possibly pay it back as opposed to those who could.
I do love a dinner party, I don't care who you invite!
I kinda feel this is similar to giving anonymously to charity or helping someone without having to shout about from the rooftops... If you are only doing it so that you may receive praise from your peeps, then is for real? We read mention of this earlier when Jesus talked about don't let one hand know what the other is doing.....ON THE FLIP SIDE.... some may say that any help, no matter what the motive, is good......
Next we have the story a gain of the two brothers (sorta has a 3 little pigs vibe to it). One bro is the good hard worker, the other the partier. When the partier loses it all, he glues himself to another guy....so.......I'm just thinking that that can't be good for anybody....
By and bye he repents and returns home and his dad is all in love with him for once being lost and now being found. Whist the whole time the other son was doing exactly as he was suppose to be doing.
How many times has this been played out in the movies?
I looked up the Prodigal Son theme, just for some examples. A couple I had thought of, like Legends of the Fall and Wizard of Oz. Some others I hadn't, like Good Will Hunting (one of my all time favs, because of course its about a super hot nerd. We all know how much I LOVE a super hot nerd) Boogie Nights, and Overboard, which I found interesting?
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Luke 12-13
"One thing I'll say for him...Jesus is cool..." One of the best lines in the play.
Man oh man I can see where people could take the lessons about possessions and dress in Luke 12 to the extreme in both directions. Taken as it is written, I totally agree and see the beauty in it however.
Today's reading if FULL of goodness! We get the Spiderman line, "for everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required". Poor Peter Parker shall learn these words to be oh so true.
There really is just so much in these two Chapters. None of it is new stuff, but really good, nevertheless. He talks of hypocrisy, of blasphemy, of faith...
12:2-3 This I hope, more than anything to be true, as I have the horrible privilege of dealing with some very bad people who mistreat children. The only comfort I find, is that someone is watching, and they will have to answer for their actions at some point.
12:34 "for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also" this is so true in regards to possessions, material things....stuff. If you find your greatest joy to be your stuff, that cannot be good. This coming from a person who does enjoy stuff. It is, however, not my treasure.....far from it.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Luke 10-11 John 10:22-42
I try every day to refrain from retarding my journey to no avail.
The disciples are giving more marching orders and I must say all I can picture is young men in white shirts riding bicycles. I wonder if the villagers who saw them coming went to the back of their houses and hid also.
I do like that they wish peace on the houses they enter. I wonder if this is where the "peace be with you.....and also with you" part of the Episcopal and Catholic service derives from.
He speaks to the disciples when they have returned, with one asking the question "what am I to do to inherit everlasting life?" Jesus asks him to explain what he sees written in the Law.
You must love God with all of your heart, soul, strength and mind and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus says...exactamundo!
I'm afraid I don't see the later part of that request being followed quite as closely as the first. Where are all the good Samaritians? I don't mean in regards to money, because money is easy to throw at a persons problem and it often times makes it worse. I mean compassion and empathy in place of disdain and disgust.
Lords Prayer a gain.
More retelling.
"There's a darkness upon me that's flooded in light. And the fine print that tells me what's wrong and what's right, and comes in black and it comes in white and I'm frightened by those who don't see it."
Those are lyrics from an Avett Brothers song I love, Luke 11:34-36 reminded me of it.
Jesus is causing all sorts of trouble with the big wigs. Calling them out on the fact that they set themselves above everyone, for loving to be greeted and bowed down to in the marketplaces. Hmmm what does this bring thoughts of?
He also has yet another conversation about the washing of the dishes before eating, as they are appalled that he doesn't was the outside of his cup....
Isn't the maker of the outside also the maker of the inside? You wash the outside and yet the inside is rotten....says he.
Indeed...says I.
In John, we read of more doubt by the Jews. I must admit, I love doubt. I find doubt healthy, as long as you are not totally closed off to the possibility of the alternative.
I don't think this will come as a big shock to anyone...my love of doubt. I just think I would have a MUCH harder time with it if Jesus were to have said "I am GOD" and everyone were to fall to their knees in acceptance.
The disciples are giving more marching orders and I must say all I can picture is young men in white shirts riding bicycles. I wonder if the villagers who saw them coming went to the back of their houses and hid also.
I do like that they wish peace on the houses they enter. I wonder if this is where the "peace be with you.....and also with you" part of the Episcopal and Catholic service derives from.
He speaks to the disciples when they have returned, with one asking the question "what am I to do to inherit everlasting life?" Jesus asks him to explain what he sees written in the Law.
You must love God with all of your heart, soul, strength and mind and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus says...exactamundo!
I'm afraid I don't see the later part of that request being followed quite as closely as the first. Where are all the good Samaritians? I don't mean in regards to money, because money is easy to throw at a persons problem and it often times makes it worse. I mean compassion and empathy in place of disdain and disgust.
Lords Prayer a gain.
More retelling.
"There's a darkness upon me that's flooded in light. And the fine print that tells me what's wrong and what's right, and comes in black and it comes in white and I'm frightened by those who don't see it."
Those are lyrics from an Avett Brothers song I love, Luke 11:34-36 reminded me of it.
Jesus is causing all sorts of trouble with the big wigs. Calling them out on the fact that they set themselves above everyone, for loving to be greeted and bowed down to in the marketplaces. Hmmm what does this bring thoughts of?
He also has yet another conversation about the washing of the dishes before eating, as they are appalled that he doesn't was the outside of his cup....
Isn't the maker of the outside also the maker of the inside? You wash the outside and yet the inside is rotten....says he.
Indeed...says I.
In John, we read of more doubt by the Jews. I must admit, I love doubt. I find doubt healthy, as long as you are not totally closed off to the possibility of the alternative.
I don't think this will come as a big shock to anyone...my love of doubt. I just think I would have a MUCH harder time with it if Jesus were to have said "I am GOD" and everyone were to fall to their knees in acceptance.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
John 9:10-21
We've a story about a blind guy who's eyes are opened by Christ. Unfortunately they are opened on the Sabbath, which continues to upset the Pharisees.
I like how it is said that "his eyes were opened" by Jesus.
I think vs 21 is also important in regards to baptism. The parents are being asked to explain how he can now see... They say "he is of age, ask him; let him speak for himself and give his own account of it."
I can understand both sides of this coin. People who believe as such want to be sure if anything happens to their baby, they will be safe to go to heaven. But I think it also important that a person understands what they are agreeing to, when making this promise.
I'm sure Jamie will have much to add to this discussion.
I like how it is said that "his eyes were opened" by Jesus.
I think vs 21 is also important in regards to baptism. The parents are being asked to explain how he can now see... They say "he is of age, ask him; let him speak for himself and give his own account of it."
I can understand both sides of this coin. People who believe as such want to be sure if anything happens to their baby, they will be safe to go to heaven. But I think it also important that a person understands what they are agreeing to, when making this promise.
I'm sure Jamie will have much to add to this discussion.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Matthew 18
The overall theme for todays reading was forgiveness. Just as God forgives us, so should we forgive each other. I find this one incredibly easy. There have been a few instances in my life in which I felt it hard to forgive, however I eventually did. Most other times I don't much have to try it just comes naturally to, a grudge holder I most definitely am not.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Luke 9:28-62
Nothing really new in this reading. I don't think I've pointed out how much I like "for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them from the penalty of eternal death". Jesus says this when the disciples ask if they should throw a man into the fire because he was driving out demons in Jesus' name.
That's so old testament...
That's so old testament...
Thursday, January 14, 2010
John 7-8
Lots going on in John 7. Basically we see the great divide betwixt the Jews. Those that believe Jesus to be the Christ and those we don't.
"Let he among us without sin, be the first to condemn..."
A woman who has bean accused of committing adultery is brought to Jesus. Under the law of Moses she is to be stoned, and the Pharisees are anxious to see what Jesus shall do with her.
He then delivers the line that will be used over and over in pop culture in various forms. The Pharisees were none too pleased with this..Jesus tells them that they have set themselves up to judge according to what they see, by external human standards.
Jesus says that He does not judge or condemn or sentence anyone, but if He were to judge, he has the Big Guy whispering in his ear. This makes two, and two witnesses is good in the book of Law.
Jesus again mentions that he shall be leaving soon, and this continues to vex people.
A heated discussion ensues in which Jesus tries to explain a gain who He is and what He is doing here....but, to no avail.
"Let he among us without sin, be the first to condemn..."
A woman who has bean accused of committing adultery is brought to Jesus. Under the law of Moses she is to be stoned, and the Pharisees are anxious to see what Jesus shall do with her.
He then delivers the line that will be used over and over in pop culture in various forms. The Pharisees were none too pleased with this..Jesus tells them that they have set themselves up to judge according to what they see, by external human standards.
Jesus says that He does not judge or condemn or sentence anyone, but if He were to judge, he has the Big Guy whispering in his ear. This makes two, and two witnesses is good in the book of Law.
Jesus again mentions that he shall be leaving soon, and this continues to vex people.
A heated discussion ensues in which Jesus tries to explain a gain who He is and what He is doing here....but, to no avail.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Matt 17 Mark9
The meeting with Moses, Eli, Jesus and God again. More of the disciples not having enough faith in Jesus and in themselves.
The disciples are arguing about who is the best, which cracks me up to visualize. When Jesus asks what they are talking about, they are afraid to tell him, again I find this humorous.
Then Jesus has a little talk with his fellas.
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off...your foot causes you to stumble, chop it off......if its your eye, pluck it.
It is better to go through life as a one handed, one footed, cyclops than to spend foeva in h-e double hockey sticks.
The disciples are arguing about who is the best, which cracks me up to visualize. When Jesus asks what they are talking about, they are afraid to tell him, again I find this humorous.
Then Jesus has a little talk with his fellas.
If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off...your foot causes you to stumble, chop it off......if its your eye, pluck it.
It is better to go through life as a one handed, one footed, cyclops than to spend foeva in h-e double hockey sticks.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Matt 16 Mark 8 Luke 9:18-
Red sky at night sailors delight, red sky in morning, sailors take warning?
Everyone wants a sign from Jesus and he's just done, with signs. I'm curious what more these people want. I realize that the Pharisees may have not seen with their own eyes the miracles he has performed, but surely they know someone who has.
The disciples are again showing little faith when they realize that they haven't any food to eat. Jesus again is like "really? Did I not feed like a gazillion people with 2 pieces of bread and a fish!? Seriously men! Have a little faith"
Then it gets crazy dramatic. He promises Peter, the keys to heaven (a wouldn't have imagined the pearly gates to be locked?). These couple of verses sets the stage for Catholicism, which I'm sure my dear friend will expand upon.
Jesus also explains that he will indeed die and rise.
He gets a visit from Moses and Elijah, which I must admit in my mind looks just like the last scene in Return of the Jedi when Vadar and Obi Won are standing behind Luke.(This is in Luke!! Hummmmm)
Everyone wants a sign from Jesus and he's just done, with signs. I'm curious what more these people want. I realize that the Pharisees may have not seen with their own eyes the miracles he has performed, but surely they know someone who has.
The disciples are again showing little faith when they realize that they haven't any food to eat. Jesus again is like "really? Did I not feed like a gazillion people with 2 pieces of bread and a fish!? Seriously men! Have a little faith"
Then it gets crazy dramatic. He promises Peter, the keys to heaven (a wouldn't have imagined the pearly gates to be locked?). These couple of verses sets the stage for Catholicism, which I'm sure my dear friend will expand upon.
Jesus also explains that he will indeed die and rise.
He gets a visit from Moses and Elijah, which I must admit in my mind looks just like the last scene in Return of the Jedi when Vadar and Obi Won are standing behind Luke.(This is in Luke!! Hummmmm)
Monday, January 11, 2010
Matt 15, Mark 7
This shall be an abbreviated version, as I wrote one this morning and it didn't upload.
All I really wanted to say was I totally loved when peter asks Jesus to explain a totally self explanatory proverb and he basically says "really, peter?!"
the proverb was about how it isn't what goes into your mouth that matters, but what come out of it.
This was in reference to the ceremonial washing etc... The Phrases are all upset about Jesus' peeps not washing up before eating
I also adore how Jesus must explain to the Phrases the difference between eating with dirty hands and killing someone.
Jesus is such a cool cat.
All I really wanted to say was I totally loved when peter asks Jesus to explain a totally self explanatory proverb and he basically says "really, peter?!"
the proverb was about how it isn't what goes into your mouth that matters, but what come out of it.
This was in reference to the ceremonial washing etc... The Phrases are all upset about Jesus' peeps not washing up before eating
I also adore how Jesus must explain to the Phrases the difference between eating with dirty hands and killing someone.
Jesus is such a cool cat.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Luke 9 1-17, John 6
Luke was the bread and loaves a gain. John starts that way as well, butt with much more detail. Jesus talks much about his purpose here. The people ask for a sign, they refer to the manna eaten in the wilderness. Uh....didn't he just feed 5000+ of you with a few loves of bread and a couple of fish?!
Jesus tells them that he is not here to do his will, but to do the will of God.
Jesus is the bread that has come down from heaven, not the manna, he tells them. But the people are all like "but isn't this the son of Mary and Joe? How can he say he has come from heaven, when we know his parents?!"
I can see where that may be confusing.
Then Jesus says "don't talk about me like I'm not here"
....Oh wait....or was that Shelby from Steel Magnolias?
Either way he told them to shut it.
He goes on to tell everyone that only those that come to him of their own free will, shall have the bread. That is to say eternal life.
The forefathers ate the manna and died because that was not the actual bread from heaven. This seems like a very important message because he keeps saying it.
Some found this message hard to take and they withdrew.
Jesus tells them that he is not here to do his will, but to do the will of God.
Jesus is the bread that has come down from heaven, not the manna, he tells them. But the people are all like "but isn't this the son of Mary and Joe? How can he say he has come from heaven, when we know his parents?!"
I can see where that may be confusing.
Then Jesus says "don't talk about me like I'm not here"
....Oh wait....or was that Shelby from Steel Magnolias?
Either way he told them to shut it.
He goes on to tell everyone that only those that come to him of their own free will, shall have the bread. That is to say eternal life.
The forefathers ate the manna and died because that was not the actual bread from heaven. This seems like a very important message because he keeps saying it.
Some found this message hard to take and they withdrew.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Matt 14 Mark 6
Crazy dramatic chapter 14 is. Herod (who because of the movie version of Jesus Christ Superstar will forever look like Dom Delusie to me) is having a party and promises to a lady friend, the head of John t B on a platter. He has bean hesitant to kill him until now,afraid of the public backlash. However, like John Hinckley Jr. shooting Reagan to impress Jody Foster, men will do a lot for us ladies.
When Jesus is told, he is very sad and goes to be alone, but not for long....the people come to be with him and Jesus feed them all with 5 loves of bread and 2 fish.
He goes off to be alone a gain and s he his coming back, he does the whole, walk on water thing. Peter asks Him to invite him out, and He does. As Peter is walking on the water also, he begins to feel a little uneasy. When he does, he begins to sink. AH ye of little faith says Jesus, as He is saving dear Peter from the water.
I like this metaphor. This, of course, isn't the first time we've seen it, but I really do like it. Its works on many levels I think.
Herod hears of Jesus and imagines him to be John risen from the dead. I think this speaks volumes about the kind of soul John was.
When Jesus is told, he is very sad and goes to be alone, but not for long....the people come to be with him and Jesus feed them all with 5 loves of bread and 2 fish.
He goes off to be alone a gain and s he his coming back, he does the whole, walk on water thing. Peter asks Him to invite him out, and He does. As Peter is walking on the water also, he begins to feel a little uneasy. When he does, he begins to sink. AH ye of little faith says Jesus, as He is saving dear Peter from the water.
I like this metaphor. This, of course, isn't the first time we've seen it, but I really do like it. Its works on many levels I think.
Herod hears of Jesus and imagines him to be John risen from the dead. I think this speaks volumes about the kind of soul John was.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Matt 10
Jesus is issuing marching orders to the 12 apostles. They are to go out and heal,and preach, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons...your everyday, run of the mill apolstly stuff.
They are to take no money and they are to stay with the most worthy of the towns folk.
When it gets heated, they are to high tail it outta that town and into the next.
They are to remember that they are never greater than their teacher, as slave cannot rise above master.
Jesus says he has come NOT to bring peace to the world, but a sword. I dare say this is not what people think of when they think of Jesus.
He wants us to love Him more than our parents or our children. If not we are not worthy of Him.I think some folks may find this one hard to swallow. The horse pill of teachings....
They are to take no money and they are to stay with the most worthy of the towns folk.
When it gets heated, they are to high tail it outta that town and into the next.
They are to remember that they are never greater than their teacher, as slave cannot rise above master.
Jesus says he has come NOT to bring peace to the world, but a sword. I dare say this is not what people think of when they think of Jesus.
He wants us to love Him more than our parents or our children. If not we are not worthy of Him.I think some folks may find this one hard to swallow. The horse pill of teachings....
Mark 4-5
The parable about the sown seeds, the mustard seeds, and the angry seas...
So then Jesus meets a fella possessed by unclean spirits. Jesus orders them to leave the man. The spirits see a herd of hogs and beg that they me allowed to go into them. Jesus allows it, they take over the hogs and then proceed to throw themselves off a cliff and drown....so, yeah that's weird.
It freaked people out so much that they asked him politely to leave. The evil spirit guy begged to go with him. Jesus, in a brilliant PR move, had the guy stay so that he could tell everyone what God had done for him.
He healed a couple more people. After healing a little girl, he asked that no one should know this.
I'm wondering if this is because he wants people to have faith and not just believe because of miracles? Or because the maddness is getting out of hand?
So then Jesus meets a fella possessed by unclean spirits. Jesus orders them to leave the man. The spirits see a herd of hogs and beg that they me allowed to go into them. Jesus allows it, they take over the hogs and then proceed to throw themselves off a cliff and drown....so, yeah that's weird.
It freaked people out so much that they asked him politely to leave. The evil spirit guy begged to go with him. Jesus, in a brilliant PR move, had the guy stay so that he could tell everyone what God had done for him.
He healed a couple more people. After healing a little girl, he asked that no one should know this.
I'm wondering if this is because he wants people to have faith and not just believe because of miracles? Or because the maddness is getting out of hand?
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Matthew 13 Luke 8
There will be weeping and wailing AND grinding of teeth....
Jesus tells many parables about the kingdom of heaven. What I find so funny is when one of his disciples asked him point blank, why he speaks in parables. Don't exactly know why that cracks me up but it does.
Then what's great is the same guy asks him to explain the parable! Again, not sure why this makes me chuckle...?
So he explains about the angels coming down, throwing the bad guys into hell and taking the good guys to the pearly gates.
In Luke 8 we get the first mention of the mysterious Mary Magdalene.
I must say again, I really like Luke the best.
I love the way he tells the story of the seeds. I mean like, I really really love it. I must admit, it brought tears to my eyes. Admittedly, so do many commercials, nevertheless it's lovely to me.
Jesus tells many parables about the kingdom of heaven. What I find so funny is when one of his disciples asked him point blank, why he speaks in parables. Don't exactly know why that cracks me up but it does.
Then what's great is the same guy asks him to explain the parable! Again, not sure why this makes me chuckle...?
So he explains about the angels coming down, throwing the bad guys into hell and taking the good guys to the pearly gates.
In Luke 8 we get the first mention of the mysterious Mary Magdalene.
I must say again, I really like Luke the best.
I love the way he tells the story of the seeds. I mean like, I really really love it. I must admit, it brought tears to my eyes. Admittedly, so do many commercials, nevertheless it's lovely to me.
Matthew 12:22-50, Luke 11
Jesus is being accused of working for Satan, who I hear provides really crappy benefits, but the hours are good.
All of this reading is good. I love the rotten/healthy tree analogy. It doesn't matter how pure you appear to be on the outside, if your tree is rotten on the inside so shall your fruit be rotten.
12:35-37 I enjoy a great deal
In Luke 11 we again get the Lord's prayer, given to us directly from Jesus.
Luke11:34-36...... LOVE. How true is this? I don't care if you are a Christian or not this is true for anyone. there is no way you can constantly be around and witness negative people, images, situations and not feel it on the inside. I've probably mentioned this before, but theres a teacher at my school whom I call an "energy sucker". She is such a negative, grumpy person that whenever I'm around her for any lenght of time, I get a headache. She needs her lantern re lit, I think. I could talk about this for pages and pages but I shant.....
And then the watching and plotting and lying in wait begin.....for, no one this good can be trusted.
All of this reading is good. I love the rotten/healthy tree analogy. It doesn't matter how pure you appear to be on the outside, if your tree is rotten on the inside so shall your fruit be rotten.
12:35-37 I enjoy a great deal
In Luke 11 we again get the Lord's prayer, given to us directly from Jesus.
Luke11:34-36...... LOVE. How true is this? I don't care if you are a Christian or not this is true for anyone. there is no way you can constantly be around and witness negative people, images, situations and not feel it on the inside. I've probably mentioned this before, but theres a teacher at my school whom I call an "energy sucker". She is such a negative, grumpy person that whenever I'm around her for any lenght of time, I get a headache. She needs her lantern re lit, I think. I could talk about this for pages and pages but I shant.....
And then the watching and plotting and lying in wait begin.....for, no one this good can be trusted.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Matthew 11
I feel like the last three verses are the most interesting of this chapter.
The rest I feel like I've seen somewhere before...?
The rest I feel like I've seen somewhere before...?
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Luke 7
I think John a pretty cool cat. I kinda wish there was more about John.
I love the word dirge, it sounds exactly like what it is to me.
Jesus is invited to dine with a Pharisees. As he is reclining at a table a wicked woman comes as weeps and washes his feet. She washed them with oil, tears and her hair....I'm so glad that the washing and cleaning of feet as I sign of adoration has ceased. (For some of us, that is)
The Phar, said that if Jesus was truly a prophet he would know that this lady is a notorious sinner. And in Judaism you would never allow a big, giant sinner to come into your house and wash your feet etc...
Jesus has a story to clear that up. A story about 2 debtors.
Jesus goes on to explain that this sinful woman did more for him than the Pharisee.
"therefore I tell you, her sins, many as they are, are forgiven her- because she has loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little"
I love the word dirge, it sounds exactly like what it is to me.
Jesus is invited to dine with a Pharisees. As he is reclining at a table a wicked woman comes as weeps and washes his feet. She washed them with oil, tears and her hair....I'm so glad that the washing and cleaning of feet as I sign of adoration has ceased. (For some of us, that is)
The Phar, said that if Jesus was truly a prophet he would know that this lady is a notorious sinner. And in Judaism you would never allow a big, giant sinner to come into your house and wash your feet etc...
Jesus has a story to clear that up. A story about 2 debtors.
Jesus goes on to explain that this sinful woman did more for him than the Pharisee.
"therefore I tell you, her sins, many as they are, are forgiven her- because she has loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little"
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Matthew 5-7
The Sermon on the Mount:
These blessed I like better.
Blessed are the:
Poor of spirit (humble) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
Are those who morn, for they shall be comforted!
Are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth!
Are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be completely satisfied!
Are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
Are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
Are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
Are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for there's is the kingdom of heaven!
I am SO sad that I am bloggin from my phone because the song "light of the world" from Godspell needs to inserted here. But I can't do it from here.
Here Jesus tell the followers that he hasn't come to do away with the Law and the Prophets, just come has he, to complete them
5:32 is what Henry the 8th based his argument for wanting to divorce his wife. She was married before to his brother, who died. So technically she was not a divorce woman but he claimed their marriage could not be legit because of that. Of course it wasn't until after he met Anne, that his conscience bothered him.
"Give to him who keeps on begging from you"
Love also 6:1-7 SO much I could say about this and people who go to church in order that they may be seen at church and for NO OTHER reason.
Then there's the Lords Prayer, which for some reason I didn't even think was in the Bible. I thought it was something the Catholics made up?
"Forgive people their trespasses"
"And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life"
"So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble"
Love 7:2, 7:8
I must say again how much I am loving these readings. Its like a long how-to book.
How-To be a good person.
I just wish more people who claim to follow it, would.
These blessed I like better.
Blessed are the:
Poor of spirit (humble) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
Are those who morn, for they shall be comforted!
Are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth!
Are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be completely satisfied!
Are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
Are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
Are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
Are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for there's is the kingdom of heaven!
I am SO sad that I am bloggin from my phone because the song "light of the world" from Godspell needs to inserted here. But I can't do it from here.
Here Jesus tell the followers that he hasn't come to do away with the Law and the Prophets, just come has he, to complete them
5:32 is what Henry the 8th based his argument for wanting to divorce his wife. She was married before to his brother, who died. So technically she was not a divorce woman but he claimed their marriage could not be legit because of that. Of course it wasn't until after he met Anne, that his conscience bothered him.
"Give to him who keeps on begging from you"
Love also 6:1-7 SO much I could say about this and people who go to church in order that they may be seen at church and for NO OTHER reason.
Then there's the Lords Prayer, which for some reason I didn't even think was in the Bible. I thought it was something the Catholics made up?
"Forgive people their trespasses"
"And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life"
"So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble"
Love 7:2, 7:8
I must say again how much I am loving these readings. Its like a long how-to book.
How-To be a good person.
I just wish more people who claim to follow it, would.
Matthew 5-7
The Sermon on the Mount:
These blessed I like better.
Blessed are the:
Poor of spirit (humble) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
Are those who morn, for they shall be comforted!
Are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth!
Are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be completely satisfied!
Are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
Are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
Are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
Are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for there's is the kingdom of heaven!
I am SO sad that I am bloggin from my phone because the song "light of the world" from Godspell needs to inserted here. But I can't do it from here.
Here Jesus tell the followers that he hasn't come to do away with the Law and the Prophets, just come has he, to complete them
5:32 is what Henry the 8th based his argument for wanting to divorce his wife. She was married before to his brother, who died. So technically she was not a divorce woman but he claimed their marriage could not be legit because of that. Of course it wasn't until after he met Anne, that his conscience bothered him.
"Give to him who keeps on begging from you"
Love also 6:1-7 SO much I could say about this and people who go to church in order that they may be seen at church and for NO OTHER reason.
Then there's the Lords Prayer, which for some reason I didn't even think was in the Bible. I thought it was something the Catholics made up?
"Forgive people their trespasses"
"And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life"
"So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble"
Love 7:2, 7:8
I must say again how much I am loving these readings. Its like a long how-to book.
How-To be a good person.
I just wish more people who claim to follow it, would.
These blessed I like better.
Blessed are the:
Poor of spirit (humble) for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!
Are those who morn, for they shall be comforted!
Are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth!
Are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be completely satisfied!
Are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy!
Are the pure in heart, for they shall see God!
Are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God!
Are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for there's is the kingdom of heaven!
I am SO sad that I am bloggin from my phone because the song "light of the world" from Godspell needs to inserted here. But I can't do it from here.
Here Jesus tell the followers that he hasn't come to do away with the Law and the Prophets, just come has he, to complete them
5:32 is what Henry the 8th based his argument for wanting to divorce his wife. She was married before to his brother, who died. So technically she was not a divorce woman but he claimed their marriage could not be legit because of that. Of course it wasn't until after he met Anne, that his conscience bothered him.
"Give to him who keeps on begging from you"
Love also 6:1-7 SO much I could say about this and people who go to church in order that they may be seen at church and for NO OTHER reason.
Then there's the Lords Prayer, which for some reason I didn't even think was in the Bible. I thought it was something the Catholics made up?
"Forgive people their trespasses"
"And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure to his stature or to the span of his life"
"So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble"
Love 7:2, 7:8
I must say again how much I am loving these readings. Its like a long how-to book.
How-To be a good person.
I just wish more people who claim to follow it, would.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Matt 12:1-21, Mark 3, Luke 6
The story of the Sabbath again. When I think about not working on the Sabbath, I always think of the movie "Fiddler on the Roof". That beginning scene in which the Jewish family is trying to get it all done before sundown...
In Mark, we meet the 12 apostles. The amount of people following him is out of control. I just try to imagine if this all happened today. Look at the way society treats celebrities! What if just one of them could cure a dieses or two. OMG.
LOVE Beelzebub, its always my choice of name for Satan.
I wonder why He named Simon, Peter? I think I might name Jamie, Frank.
I must say that so far Luke is my favorite version. It just seems smoother and easier to read.
Blessed are the hungry, for they shall be filled and completely satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep and sob now (me), for you shall laugh. (For the record, I do A LOT more crying because I'm happy, than because I'm sad, so I don't know if I can technically be included with this bunch)
BUTT if you have material wealth, you've already got your reward. Sooooo, tough luck. I feel like this must be where the Amish get their ideas about humility and living so plainly and simply.
And Jamie and I are really out of luck and may have problems in regards to laughing now. Because we indeed do laugh quite a bit....
Man, there's SO much in this chapter! I think if everyone in the world, I'm not even going to go that far...if everyone who claims to be a Christian would just follow what is taught in the one chapter, the world would be a mighty fine place.
We have the golden rule in 6:31. I absolutely live by this rule, no matter who I am dealing with, and no matter how they treat me. From the checker at wal-mart, to my co-worker, to my student. I think there is NO more important lesson a child can learn.
We get the turn the other cheek thing...
Kill them with kindness...another favorite of mine
And of course, judging people before you've checked your own eye for that plank. LOVE that one.
I've probably left something out, sorry if I have. Those are the high points.
Really.... This is such a good chapter.
In Mark, we meet the 12 apostles. The amount of people following him is out of control. I just try to imagine if this all happened today. Look at the way society treats celebrities! What if just one of them could cure a dieses or two. OMG.
LOVE Beelzebub, its always my choice of name for Satan.
I wonder why He named Simon, Peter? I think I might name Jamie, Frank.
I must say that so far Luke is my favorite version. It just seems smoother and easier to read.
Blessed are the hungry, for they shall be filled and completely satisfied.
Blessed are you who weep and sob now (me), for you shall laugh. (For the record, I do A LOT more crying because I'm happy, than because I'm sad, so I don't know if I can technically be included with this bunch)
BUTT if you have material wealth, you've already got your reward. Sooooo, tough luck. I feel like this must be where the Amish get their ideas about humility and living so plainly and simply.
And Jamie and I are really out of luck and may have problems in regards to laughing now. Because we indeed do laugh quite a bit....
Man, there's SO much in this chapter! I think if everyone in the world, I'm not even going to go that far...if everyone who claims to be a Christian would just follow what is taught in the one chapter, the world would be a mighty fine place.
We have the golden rule in 6:31. I absolutely live by this rule, no matter who I am dealing with, and no matter how they treat me. From the checker at wal-mart, to my co-worker, to my student. I think there is NO more important lesson a child can learn.
We get the turn the other cheek thing...
Kill them with kindness...another favorite of mine
And of course, judging people before you've checked your own eye for that plank. LOVE that one.
I've probably left something out, sorry if I have. Those are the high points.
Really.... This is such a good chapter.
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