All posts tagged: proper 16

tearing down the gates – Matthew 16:13-20

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Gospels / Lectionary

The following is a reflection on Matthew 16:13-20, the Gospel lesson for August 21, 2011, according to the Revised Common Lectionary. On this site there is also a reflection on the Old Testament lesson for the same day. Peter could have proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah, the Christ, in many, many places. The choices were practically limitless. He could have done it in the Temple, on a mountaintop, or on a boat by the sea. […]

fear versus compassion – Genesis 1:8-2:10

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Exodus / Lectionary / Old Testament

The following is a reflection on Genesis 1:8-2:10, the Old Testament lesson for August 21, 2011, according to the Revised Common Lectionary. On this site there is also a reflection on the Gospel lesson of the day. The opening of the Book of Exodus is a primer on two ways of living: reacting out of fear, and acting out of compassion. Throughout the conflict with Pharaoh and the Egyptians, it’s fear and hard-heartedness which drives […]