Scripture – SSJE

"It is with the proclamation of the word of God, by Moses, by Ezra, by the disciples, by Jesus, by us, that God’s people are made whole, and are made holy." Br. James Koester reflects on Nehemiah's mission of the spiritual renewal of God's people, and our invitation to be made holy through our participation in Word and Sacrament.

“We don’t know if Job’s friends ever came to see how their belief system was preventing them from acknowledging the truth of Job’s innocence.  But we can certainly take a lesson from them as we examine the pre-conceived notions, systems of belief, or profound prejudices that may be keeping us from recognizing or embracing the truth.” As election season looms, Br. David Vryhof looks to Job for a tr...

“God’s revelation to us will be a kind of synergy between what is going on with a very old scriptural story, and what is going on today in our own heart and imagination. And that creates a whole new story.” Br. Curtis Almquist invites us to approach the Scriptures as a window through which to experience life today from a new perspective: God's perspective.

“Even when it seems too late, God still hears our cries and comes. This parable gives warning but not to fear. It urges to live for the party, not just to plan to attend later, but to live now alert and generous. God’s kingdom, the new way of living, is not a ticket to exit later, but a life of celebrating through sharing now.” In a parable that might be cause for fear, Br. Luke Ditewig finds a ca...

“We read, “Jesus put before them another parable…” Yet another parable… I can imagine some people in Jesus’ crowds holding their heads and saying under their breath, “Oh dear, another parable…” I wonder if some of Jesus’ mixed reception was because of his steady stream of parables. Parables are not straight talk.” Br. Curtis Almquist ponders the power of parables and invites us to consider, person...

“Being chosen to follow Jesus is a shocking and amazing journey. What’s your experience? How has following Jesus surprised and changed you?” Br. Luke Ditewig offers, the voice of the disciple James, son of Zebedee, a meditation on Jesus' call.