Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 26, verses 14-25
Today we hear the story of Judas going to the Chief Priests and offering to betray Jesus.  But just why did he do so?  The truth is, we will never know.  I explore some possibilities, as well as talk about God's great trust in humanity and our choices.  I don't think I would have as much trust as God does...
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 13, verses 21-33, 36-38
On the night before He dies, just after Jesus washes the feet of His friends, Jesus's heart is troubled.  And so He shares that grief with those around the table.  But they don't see it coming.  And with false bravado, they cloak themselves in illusion.  The pieces on the chess board are just about set. 
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 12, verses 1-11
Jesus is at the home of Lazarus, Martha and Mary following the raising of Lazarus when Mary does something extravagant, intimate and beautiful.  But instead of seeing the love and beauty behind the action, all Judas could see was a waste of resources.  Which side of the line do we fall upon?
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 10, verses 31-42
It sounds as if we pick up today exactly where we left off yesterday - but actually two chapters have passed in between.  Jesus is embroiled in conflict again.  Why this time?  Similar reasons.  This time he stated "The Father and I are one".  And the people are upset because of apparent blasphemy.  But let's take a closer look at that statement - and talk about whether it still holds true today.
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 8, verses 51-59
After spending the entire week in Chapter 8 of John's Gospel, we reach the end.  And in it, Jesus says something curious: "Whoever keeps my word will never see death."  Just what, exactly, is Jesus saying here?  I speculate but welcome your thoughts as well.  
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 8, verses 31-42
Jesus changes His focus from the Pharisees and begins to hold a mirror up to those who have recently come to "believe in Him."  The results aren't much better.  This mirror shows some actions that these "believers" don't want to see.  They dodge, avoid and eventually lash out at Jesus.  Sound familiar?
Original score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 8, verses 21-30
Jesus continues to teach and challenge the Pharisees.  Today, He tells them that where He is going, they cannot follow.  Why would that be?  Is where Jesus is going an exclusive place?  Is this a punitive action on the part of Jesus?  Or is it something deeper?
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 8, verses 12-20
Jesus remains in the Temple area teaching the people after freeing the woman caught in adultery.  And Jesus reminds us that God is life...and that those who carry this life within us - Real Life! - will never walk in darkness, but rather are filled with the light of God.  It's a classic choice put before us: which do we choose?  Light or darkness?  Later, Jesus reminds the people that He knows who He is, what He is about and where He is going.  Would we be so blessed...

Gospel of John, Chapter 7, verses 1-2, 10, 25-30
As the Feast of Tabernacles draws close and much of the Jewish population descends upon Jerusalem, Jesus is faced with a conundrum.  Does He stay up in Galilee where He is safe?  Or does He go to Jerusalem where they are trying to kill Him, but it is also where those to whom He was invited to minister are gathered? Of course, it is our conundrum, too.  Do we play it safe, or do we follow our conscience?  Do we listen to those voices in our heads arguing for safety or the One voice in our head inviting us to follow our mission?  
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk

Gospel of John, Chapter 5, verses 31-47
Jesus continues speaking with the leaders of the Jewish Community in Jerusalem and, effectively, predates the quote centuries later that will be placed in the mouth of St. Francis: "Preach the Gospel at all times.  When necessary, use words."  Jesus underscores for the people of His time and the people of our time the importance of our witness.   
Original Score written and performed by Bridget Zenk