Devotions in the Deep End

A reflection on a strange comment at a meal table that leads to a pointed parable from Jesus!  This episode also serves as a completion of a series of teachings that occur in this one location.

The theme of observations made on the Jewish Sabbath continues in this episode with Jesus addressing an event in a Pharisee's home, seemingly right after worship!  You'll notice that I'll offer three reflections on the parable that is shared in this setting, and one of those is based on my current reflective journey of thinking about church after the time we know as "Christendom."  I hope these short reflections trigger some of your own!      

We have another instance of Jesus healing on the Sabbath Day which leads us to some interesting questions about our own modern times of gathered reflection and worship.  A lady who is described as a 'Daughter of Abraham' becomes a good case study for us to consider in our current context.

This episode makes way for a parable that will follow in the next episode, but addresses a mindset that appears to have formed among the people of ancient Israel in the days of Christ.  The events of the passage are still somewhat unknown to us today, but the theology behind them is worth exploring.  Here's my quick take on this interesting passage!

A short devotional piece that explores the teaching of Jesus around reading the times both physically AND spiritually.

For the first time in this series we begin to look at the return of Jesus in a time still yet to come.  Not in any huge way, just one passage as Jesus brings the subject up, and in particular the posture of watchfulness and diligence that he will be looking for.  As the gospels reveal more of this idea, I'll be sure to give each piece the attention I've given this one!