Blogging toward Sunday

Lectionary readings for Sept.9, 2012 are Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 & Mark 7:24-37.

Image via Wikimedia Commons; Juan De Flandes, circa 1500

After reading some of the wisdom that Proverbs has to offer, sit with the gospel for a while. Upon first reading of the text, what questions do you have? Take a moment and write down your first impressions of the reading. Take notice of how many stories are included in the reading, who are the characters, who speaks and who doesn't. Now, prayerfully read through the text again. Did a second reading provide new insight? If so, what?

During Lectionary group today, the discussion about the faith of the foreign woman and the healing of the deaf man was a lively and interesting one. Allow me to share with you a few of the questions or comments that came up among the pastors gathered around the table:

1. The region of Tyre was largely Gentile and despised by the Jews, which begs the question, "Why did Jesus go there in the first place?
2. Why is he being rude to the woman?
3. In these stories, Jesus is breaking several boundaries in his culture.
4. What boundaries need to be broken down in our time and place?
5. Jesus heals the deaf mute, who is also a Gentile. What significance does this have?
6. Why does Jesus sigh?

On your spiritual journey this week, ponder the readings, artwork, and the meandering of your pastor. Then, come and join us in worship on Sunday and we will continue the conversation together.

Shalom,
Glenda