Journal

An FUM blog for writing on the life of faith.

1st Week of Advent: Surprised by God

This Sunday’s lectionary texts surprise us with a vision of peace that breaks in, disrupting business as usual. Isaiah’s rousing vision of nations streaming to God’s mountain is jolting with its graphic images of the ways in which the ancient war machine will be decisively overcome. God’s enactment of justice will catch us unawares.

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Introduction to Advent Devotional 2016

During this time of Advent preparation for the birth of Jesus, I offer you a message of hope. This is a hope embodied in the spirit and will of all those who refuse to submit to the forces of oppression, violence and injustice, to the structures of domination, colonialism and foreign occupation. This is a hope embodied in truth-telling — in a Truth that is eternal.

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Enough.

Today, I visited the home of a Palestinian family living on Mt. Gerizim, above the city of Nablus. Two other guests were sharing about efforts to heal the political divisions within the Palestinian community. If Palestinians are to have any hope of survival, let alone the capacity to resolve the bitter dispute with Israelis, they must find a way to come together as one.

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Pietà

A meditation for Rachel But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

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Sweet Caroline

The sunbeams off the lake streamed through my sister’s veil, as she danced. Near sunset that kind of light is Rumplestiltskin, spinning everything into gold, and this evening did not disappoint. The watery light lit her dress, the twinkling decorations, the smiles on friends’ faces, and our father’s red-white hair.

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Psalm #139

I praise Your decision to make Eve and Adam free with the stipulation that they walk humbly.

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