We are good at digging ourselves into holes. We dig ourselves deep into places from which we cannot climb back out. Suddenly there is no way back from an argument we’ve had with a relative or a friend. Perhaps we’ve said things that can’t be retracted or we’ve heard something we can’t forgive. Suddenly there is no way back to a simpler way of life
Jesus sits down opposite the treasury, and watches the crowd putting money into the collecting boxes. Many rich people put in large generous looking sums, but nevertheless large sums that they can easily afford. Then along comes a poor widow and puts in two small copper coins, doubtless all she has. Jesus points out that because she has given her all, her contribution is worth
We should never lose sight of what Jesus said: that we should love others as we do ourselves, choosing self-deprecation over self-glory. Indeed, many of us have a warped and unhealthy understanding of self-love. The right kind of self-love is not being selfish, but honouring the temple that houses God. So, whilst we are asked to remain humble and obedient, there is absolutely nothing wrong
It’s human instinct to form groups, organisations, sects, clubs, societies, associations, guilds, unions and fellowships. Being in a club is good. Clubs give us a sense of belonging and a sense of purpose. In a club we can draw strength from other like minded people; we benefit from mutual support, shared ideas and pooled resources. But being in a club is not without pitfalls. Within
It’s easy to be fooled. Mr and Mrs Devout are always in church, always to be seen praying, always lighting votives, always to be found kneeling in their favourite pew. Are Mr and Mrs Devout good people? Well very possibly, but outward appearances can be deceptive. Perhaps Mr and Mrs Devout are the salt of the earth, but not necessarily. Despite their Sunday best, perhaps
As children we were fascinated by the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand. Like a circus audience trying to spot the mechanics behind a woman seemingly being sawn in half, we tried to spot the mechanics of Jesus’ miracles. As we grow in faith and maturity, we realise that the mechanics of Jesus’ miracles are not in question, more important is the lesson
