December 30, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
When the Rabbi’s read they walk into the text. They bring themselves to it and step across the edge of the scroll, jump up onto its body, bouncing a little, believing it will hold their weight. And...
May 20, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
by Mike Stavlund
Gospel Reading: John 16:12-15
For Sunday, May 26, 2013: Year C—Holy Trinity
In this week’s Gospel reading, Jesus seems to be a bit greedy. Or at the very least, territorial.
The...
May 13, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
by Danielle Shroyer
Gospel Reading: John 14:8-17, 25-27
For Sunday, May 19, 2013: Year C—Pentecost
Have you got questions about the Trinity? You’re not alone. The disciples are right there with you.
...
May 6, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
Gospel Reading: John 17:20-26
For Sunday, May 12, 2013—Easter 7
The "heart of the Gospel," the "culmination of John’s message," where we find all the major themes coming together...
April 29, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
by MaryAnn McKibben Dana
Gospel Reading: John 14:23-29
For Sunday, May 5, 2013—Easter 6
I’m reading the seventh Harry Potter book to my daughters these days.
While I love J.K. Rowling’s expansive...
April 22, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
John chapter 13 begins with Jesus washing his disciples' feet. It then includes that terrible,...
April 15, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
by Danielle Shroyer
Gospel Reading: John 10:22-30
For Sunday, April 21, 2013: Year C—Easter 4
Sometimes, less is more.
In this conversation between Jesus and the Jews gathered in the Temple, I think...
April 8, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
By Debbie Blue
Gospel Reading: John 21: 1-19
For Sunday, April 4, 2013: Year C—Easter 3
Personally, I'm relieved that the disciples decide to go fishing here in the epilogue of John's dense and...
April 1, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
Gospel Reading: John 20:19–31
For Sunday, April 7, 2013: Year C—Easter 2
Imagine, with me, that particular moment. What was happening during that moment in human history when Thomas...
March 10, 2013 | by The Hardest Question
by Carol Howard Merritt
Gospel Reading: John 12:1-8
For Sunday, March 17, 2013: Year B—Lent 5
When I was a high school and college student, I spent my summers on mission trips. I went to amazing...