War stories are some of the most difficult passages in Scripture due to their violent nature. We also see something else as we look at these stories - we see God trying to shape the hearts of leaders. This week, we will explore Gideon, one of the Israelite "judges" or chieftains. What does his story tell us about our relationship to God?

This is a question Bishop Curry often hears. This week, Ellen will help us understand the Parable of the good Samaritan found in Luke 10:25-37.

Today, Ellen is reading from the 21st chapter of Luke as she explores whether or not love can make a difference.

How does a Egyptian slave named Hagar end up pregnant with the first child of Abraham stranded in the desert alone. This is the story of the first recorded runaway slave, the first woman to have a direct experience with God, and the first person to give God a name. She named God "El Roi", the God who sees me.

What does in mean to love as yourself?

God made God's first covenant with humanity through Noah. The story of Noah is told in the 6th, 7th, 8th, & 9th chapters of Genesis. It is one of our origin stories. Genesis is full of origin stories which can be understood an theological portraits. It is critical that we get these theological portraits right because they set the foundation for all of our understanding. Get it wrong and we misunderstand God and God's goodness.

Today Ellen explores whether or not love can really change the world. What do you think?

The story of a woman anointing Jesus is in all four of the Gospels. Matthew and Mark have it as part of the passion narrative. Luke has it much earlier with differing details. Even John has it following the resurrection of Lazarus. He identifies the woman as Mary. Today we look at the extravagant love in the anointing of Jesus and Jesus' response.

Most people love their friends and either despise their enemies or at least, are indifferent to them. Jesus calls us to love our enemies.