Monthly Archives: June 2015

Matthew 18:1 “Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” The disciples sense that things are coming to a head.  Jesus speaks in solemn tones about his death and resurrection. The disciples are not all that clear about how … Continue reading →

We delight in the beauty of roses.  This is the week of the yellow ones.

Matthew 17:24 “Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?” Word must have spread that Jesus and his disciples may not have paid the annual Temple tax that amounted to two day’s labor.  I think this is the first and only … Continue reading →

My sister, Twila Armstrong, painted this picture for her 100th birthday, March, 2014.  It is her with umbrella and boots, having gone through what life presented her, some pleasant, some difficult. It is growing late, the street light announces the … Continue reading →

Matthew 17:22 “And the disciples were filled with grief.” “Listen up!”  Haven’t we all heard that?  The disciples heard every word Jesus said – he will be betrayed or disowned, and be handed over to people who will kill him … Continue reading →

Three of many tadpoles that survived the winter and turned into frogs in our pond, photographed today, June 6.  They are about two inches long. Small, I think.

Matthew 17:21 “Nothing will be impossible for you.” The disciples could not drive the demon from a man. His case looked impossible but Jesus cast out the demon. This led into a conversation between Jesus and his disciples that is, on … Continue reading →

Matthew 17:5 “Listen to him.” It is the voice of God Almighty, heard in both heaven and earth.  “Listen to him.” I remind myself of the setting.  On the mountaintop with Jesus, the venerable Moses appeared and the miracle working … Continue reading →

The humble, ubiquitous fleabane in the field off our back yard seems to say, “Have a good day!  Take a moment to praise God for life, beauty, vitality and all that enriches the earth.”  Thanks for the reminder!

Matthew 17:5 “This is my Son, whom I love, with him I am well pleased.  Listen to him.” I try to place myself in the shoes of the disciples. Is what they are seeing real?  Three quite ordinary fishermen of … Continue reading →