power (187)

Ian

Eighth Friday after Epiphany

Psalm 99, Deuteronomy 16:1–17, 1 Corinthians 10:23–11:2 If you look at the calendar of any country, you will find a number of secular (i.e, non-religious) observances. Sometimes these to get mixed into religion, and some are just odd. Today, for example, has the following "observations":…

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Ian

Forgiveness Such As This

Psalm 38, Leviticus 5:1–19, Luke 17:1–4 “Already forgotten.” “Don’t worry about it.” We sometimes hear these words when trying to apologize or make amends for something we have done wrong to another. Sometimes the person says these words as a veiled acceptance for the apology.

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Ian

Seventh Monday after Epiphany

Psalm 120, Mark 13:9-13, 2 Peter 1:20-2:9 Psalm 120 is a lament. The psalmist is among those who live a life of lies. These same people are warmongers, seeking strife and conflict. The psalmist is living in foreign lands that seek no peace, but the…

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Ian

Trusting God's Way

Psalm 1, Jeremiah 17:5-10, 1 Corinthians 6:1-11 Has someone ever said to you, “I don’t trust anyone?” First, imagine living life like that. Someone who lives such a paranoid life could never be happy. You cannot love if you cannot trust. Second, anyone who says…

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Ian

Sixth Friday after Epiphany

Psalm 51, 1 John 1:8-2:6, Mark 13:31-14:2 Honesty is the best policy. Or is it? Some people will take advantage of our honesty. Some people will look down on the honest. Think about politicians. Most people don’t trust them. Many of their campaign promises are…

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