RCL Reflection for Proper 20, Year A. Sept. 24, 2023.
God gives away love, mercy and forgiveness so freely that it may seem unfair to us. Human nature feels anger and jealousy. But generosity is God’s nature, and our faithful response is to be grateful for all God gives us. Deacon Timothy Siburg explores. (Photo: Creative Commons)
RCL Reflection for the Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, September 20, 2020
Ever have the words “it’s not fair” slip from your lips? If you’re human, the answer is, “Of course!” That’s why the story of Jonah is as timely today as when it was first recounted. What can we learn from Jonah about ourselves, about God, and why it’s better to have a good God than a fair God? (Photo: dadblunders, Creative Commons)
RCL Reflection, 16th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19, Year A, September 24, 2017
When I hear the words of Jesus in this Sunday’s parable, I am reminded of the problem we have with generosity. We want to control it, to manage it, and to conform it to our vision of what and who is worthy of it. God’s generosity doesn’t work that way at all. God is lavish with all of creation. Even the last and the least are worthy of God’s love and saving grace, of care and concern, and of a place at the bounteous table of blessing. (Photo: Jim Fischer, Creative Commons)
Narrative Lectionary Reflection for March 1, 2015
The parable of the workers in the vineyard is certainly applicable to 21st century disciples, too. Perhaps as individuals we can be sort of stingy with God’s grace—not to mention sharing our own resources. Do we really trust God so little that we fail to believe the divine promise of plenty? (Photo: Chris Potter, Creative Commons)
Lectionary Reflection, 16th Sunday After Pentecost, Year A.
Is a gift really a gift if it comes with strings attached, such as restrictions on how it can be used? Unfortunately, that’s the way many churches receive contributions in our North American context. Where does this come from, and how can we confront it? (Photo by Stewardship–Transforming Generosity, used by Creative Commons license)
Lectionary Reflection, 14th Sunday after Pentecost
God’s idea of fair and our idea of what’s fair can be quite different. I’d say that’s a very good thing! What do you think?
