The readings for the Revised Common Lectionary for July 14 take us to a wide variety of texts. In 2 Samuel we see David returning the ark of the covenant in a parade of worship. We begin a series on the letter to the Ephesians (stay tuned for my video on that later this week). The Gospel reading tells the story of how Herod executed John the Baptist in order to save face during a drunken party.
In this episode of Art Pastor Live we are on location at Camp House where I interview Rev. Dr. Jules Erickson. She is a pastor and a potter. We talk about ordinary time and how she sees pottery as a spiritual practice.
How do we preach about the Kingdom of God that Jesus proclaimed and the so-called American Dream that is celebrated on Independence Day and the Fourth of July? Do they go together?
Take a visual tour of the prayers that Paul prayed for his people in 1 Thessalonians, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Romans, and Philippians. What can we learn about praying for each other from his example?
Who Needs a Healing Touch Today?
The Gospel reading this week tells a touching story. It is both emotional, and a story about Jesus touching two people to bring healing and restoration.
One person was the daughter of the synagogue ruler. She was at the center of the community. She was sick and died before Jesus could reach her.
The other person was a woman whose bleeding disorder had rendered her “unclean” and untouchable for twelve years. She was on the margins.
This story shows us how Jesus did not discriminate. He touched both women and restored them to right relationships to themselves, to community, and to God.
Who needs a healing touch in your world today?