The Adventurous Lectionary -The Fourth Sunday in Pentecost – July 7, 2019 2 Kings 5:1-14 Psalm 30 Galatians 6:7-16 Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 In today’s scriptures, we are confronted with the need for divine healing, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and theologically. Healing brings wholeness and connects us God’s energy of love, transforming our relationships and sense of connection with the wellsprings of divine providence. The encounter of Elisha and Naaman is among my favorite healing stories. It could be titled, “the healing... Read more

The Adventurous Lectionary – Pentecost Sunday – June 9, 2019 Acts 2:1-21 Psalm 104:24-34, 35b Romans 8:14-17 John 14:8-17 (25-27) A mighty wind has blown, fires descend, voices cry out, and ears hear the gospel for the first time. Barriers broken down, all creation embraced, and social, gender, and economic divisions overcome. In many ways, Pentecost resembles Easter and Christmas as challenge for homiletical creativity. The Pentecost preacher is presented with a scripture and theme – on this birthday of... Read more

As a child of the 60’s, I remember a generation protesting the war rather than honoring the lives of soldiers, who fought in Vietnam often against their will, following the orders of our nation’s leaders. Memorial Day was a non-event for most of my generation. But, over the years, I have come to appreciate the men and women who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of our nation. Once known as Decoration Day, because tombstones were decorated with flags and... Read more

The Adventurous Lectionary – The Seventh Sunday of Easter – June 2, 2019 Acts 16:16-34 Psalm 97 Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 John 17:20-26 Christian spirituality is, in its essence, surprising and countercultural. It defies our expectations and challenges any orthodoxy or behaviorial expectation in its quest to be faithful to the “sacrament of the present moment.” (Pierre de Caussade) Authentic faith breaks down barriers, goes beyond polarization, and expands the circle of concern to embrace enemies as well as friends.... Read more

Process Theology, de Caussade, and the Sacrament of the Present Moment Recently, I have been reflecting on the work of Jean-Pierre Caussade (1675-1751), French Jesuit spiritual guide and author of the “Abandonment to Divine Providence,” often referred to as “The Sacrament of the Present Moment.” While steeped in the Catholic theology of his day, de Caussade provides valuable guidance for today’s spiritual seekers. His work can enliven and enlighten those who want to experience God’s presence in the joys and... Read more