Journey to Wholeness
From ashes to a diadem: God crowns mourning with the oil of gladness, clothing sorrow in a mantle of everlasting praise.
… Read the restTo comfort all who mourn;
to place on those who mourn in Zion
a diadem instead of ashes,
To give them oil of gladness instead of mourning,
a glorious mantle instead of a faint spirit.
… Read the restAsked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he said in reply, “The coming of the kingdom of God cannot be observed, and no one will announce, ‘Look, here it is,’ or, ‘There it is.’ For
What if true blessing lies beyond justice, in a mercy that demands no return?
… Read the restOn a sabbath Jesus went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees.
… Read the restHe proposed another parable to them. “The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a man who sowed good seed in his field.
… Read the rest“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but underneath are ravenous wolves. By their fruits you will know them.
… Read the restJesus said to his disciples: “You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow.
… Read the restTherefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.
Do not toil to acquire wealth;
be discerning enough to desist.
When your eyes light on it, it is gone,
for suddenly it sprouts wings,
flying like an eagle toward heaven.
“Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles.”
Matthew 5:41
Jesus, who came to set people free, seemed to preach the opposite.… Read the rest
Third Week of Lent, Wednesday
Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9; Matthew 5:17-19
… Read the restNow therefore, Israel, hear the statutes and ordinances I am teaching you to observe, that you may live, and may enter in and take possession of the land which the Lord, the God of your ancestors, is giving you.