The (Lieben)GOOD LIFE

* A Reflection on Jesus' encounter with two men on their way to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-27) Lent is usually the time of year that could be described as "confrontational." We roll up our sleeves and ask God "to search us and know our hearts; too try us and know our thoughts; to see if there is any idolatrous way in us; and to lead us in the right way (adapted from Psalm 139:23-24)." We are more intentional about setting aside time in our days to consider the ways in which our lives do not conform to the words of Jesus and the revelation he brings to us in the Epiphany. We are more deliberate about self-examination, seeking to pay closer attention to what we have heard so that we do not drift away (Heb 2:1). And over the course of those 40 plus days of auditing, we become acutely aware of all the ways we "fall short of the glory of God (Rom 3:23)."  Easter is a welcome relief! Yes, we fall short, but God has bridged the gap, defeating the one who has the powe...

  Practicing the True Life in the Midst of the False One 1 John 3:16-24        Acts 4:5-12        Psalm 23        John 10:11-18 Prayer of Invocation Our Father, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people; Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen. Prayer of Illumination Father, through your Son Jesus, we have passed from death to life. Enable us to practice a life of love that both demonstrates that we belong to You, and that also destroys the works of the devil. In the name of Jesus.  Proclamation Back in the day, just after they transitioned from leather to plastic helmets, I played football at San Jose St. (And yes, the older I get, the better I was!) My first two years, we ran a unique defense (The Buddy Ryan 46) th...