The phrase, “Never Again”, which is applied to the Holocaust in specific and genocide in particular, is probably too primal to have a specific origin. But some attribute it to the epic poem, “Masada”, by Isaac Lamdan, written in 1927, a portion of which reads: Who are you that come, stepping heavy in silence? –The remnant. Alone I remained on the day of great slaughter. Alone, of father and mother, sisters and brothers. Saved in an empty cask... Read more
A recent article by Yascha Mounk lays bare the assumptions that have shape his generation’s view of history in general and western diplomacy, in particular, toward China and Russia: Things are getting better. There is an arc to history and it bends toward justice. The exceptions to that rule are just that: exceptions, anomalies, the lingering product of old impulses. On the whole, everyone, everywhere shares in our conviction that our “common humanity” (which one assumes entails the rights of... Read more
4 And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2 for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry. 3 The devil said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread.” 4 And Jesus answered him, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone.’ ” 5 And the devil took him up and showed him all the... Read more
Loving and merciful God, on this night in Ukraine, where the hatred and malice of a tyrant manifests itself in explosions, flying glass, the sound of rockets, and the report of gunfire, we pray that you would protect his victims, speed aid to the defenseless, and strengthen those who seek to defend them. Give voice to the leaders of their nation. Give them the courage needed to stand by people. Move the nations of the world to act in their... Read more
Gracious and loving God, watch over the people of Ukraine. Sustain their leaders, protect her people, frustrate the efforts of her oppressors. Give the leaders and people of our countries courage and a capacity for sacrifice in their defense. And strengthen the world in its resolve to name and resist tyranny wherever it may be found. In the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit, reign one God, now and forever. Amen... Read more
27 “But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29 To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic[a] either. 30 Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back. 31 And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them. 32 “If you... Read more
The Religious News Service reported this week that Trinity Episcopal Church in Southport, Connecticut is no longer able to meet the spiritual needs of the people living in its community. So, the parish is launching the Trinity Spiritual Center in an effort to address the needs of those who are spiritual but not religious. Noting that “3 in 10 Americans claim no religious affiliation” and “a similar number say religion has little influence in their life”, the leadership of the... Read more
Jesus came down with the twelve apostles and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea, Jerusalem, and the coast of Tyre and Sidon. They had come to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all in the crowd were trying to touch him, for power came out from him and healed all of... Read more
A widespread trend in American spirituality is what might be called “the buddy-fication of Jesus.” The trend is on display in the way that people pray, the expectations that they bring to their prayers, and the things that people assume are of concern to God. And it has been on display for a long time now. Much of it is bumper sticker theology: “Let Go and Let God”, “Jesus is my co-pilot”, “Jesus is my airbag” (I kid you not),... Read more
I always read and reflect on the cartoons created by David Hayward with benefit. Even when I disagree, there is sufficient content, along with the artistry, to repay the time spent on them. Recently, he pictured a pastor standing behind the pulpit with this message: “I’m sorry people. There’s been a change. I can no longer help you find. But I promise I can help you seek.” The cartoon hit a positive note with some mainline clergy and there is... Read more
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