SCRIPTURE LESSON FOR THIS WEEK  (Lectionary listings) (Reflections from our Readers)

Reflections from our readers:

11/13/06: It reminds me not to waste time!  Hal, I appreciated all your observations. I took most to heart the phrase: The folly of labor that is nothing less than “busy work,” which all labor will be that is not guided by God. Great reminder!

11/05/2006: This is an excellent review of the lectionary materials for this week. I especially liked this: It’s difficult to believe that we could ever forget Christ’s high priestly work and move back toward Israel’s limited cultic system. We do just that, however, when we see church attendance, Bible reading, observing the sacraments, or living a godly life as works of righteousness to gain favor and standing the sight of God.

11/05/2006: Provides perspective when doing the actual Bible reading.  I found the material on Ruth and on Mark especially helpful.

10/18/06: Don, Thanks as always for your insightful comments. I especially liked your comment: "What is really "out there" is apprehended by faith, not reason or the senses. This knowledge through faith should be received and described with humility, not dogmatic certainty. Religion, like all forms of human endeavor, is subject to a sinful learner, who wishes in all things to surpass his competitive siblings. (Cain & Abel among us yet?)"

12/01/05:  The brevity helps me as an intro to deeper study and worship planning.  Many Thanks!

9/09/05: Especially in having Scriptures that make me question how right the things are that I consider right.  Just a thank you for reminding us that others contribute to an understanding of God and not just those whose views are "traditional." Jesus wasn't very traditional.

9/03/05:  We can worship with and learn from persons whose views and beliefs differ from our own.  Who is right and who is wrong pales in the face of challenges that can not be met by either of our rightness or be destroyed by either of our wrongness. God's ways are indeed beyond us and to be sought in all things and at all times.

5/27/05: Gives perspective on lessons that can be translated into sermon/study material.  Appreciated bringing in NT Wright's thoughts on epistle, esp. helpful on Memorial Day weekend.

5/23/05: Chris, Great job with the Lectionary comments -- especially the Genesis text. Thanks.

3/05/05: Everyday faith building is my goal.  Rev.Thompson I will miss you at our church. Hurry back I'll be there waiting to hear your wonderful sermons.

4/06/05: Feeds me and gives me ideas for use with my children's ministry.

3/23/05: It brings me insight that I don't get by merely reading the selections.

2/27/05: Review, reminder, new information in preparation for Sunday worship. Gives sharp focus to the message of scripture.

2/19/05 Prep for teaching, preaching, learning in Sunday School.  Helpful exposition and interesting quotes both Bibilcal and poetic.