Tag Archives: sharing

The blessing is in the sharing.

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Proper 18B, September 8, 2024. The Very Rev. Pamela L. Werntz

  • Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23. Those who are generous are blessed, for they share their bread with the poor.
  • James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17. Mercy triumphs over judgement.
  • Mark 7:24-37. They were astounded beyond measure.

O astonishing God, grant us the strength, the wisdom and the courage to seek always and everywhere after truth, come when it may, and cost what it will.

In my first semester of seminary, I was accepted into a senior seminar taught by Professor Alison Cheek, who was one of the Philadelphia 11. [1] The course had the longest title: “Learning to Teach Small Group Bible Study from a Feminist Perspective.” LTSGBSFP doesn’t make a good acronym, but it sure did help me engage scripture with an unapologetic feminist consciousness. Professor Cheek helped unstop my ears and loosen my tongue! I give thanks to God for her whenever I encounter lessons like the ones we have before us today. Continue reading →

Thirst

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Lent 3A, 12 March 2023. The Very Rev. Pamela L. Werntz

  • Exodus 17:1-7. The people thirsted there.
  • Romans 5:1-11. God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.
  • John 4:5-42. Give me a drink.

O God of water and thirst, grant us the strength, the wisdom, and the courage to seek always and everywhere after truth, come when it may and cost what it will.

One theme for the day that I hear in our scripture readings is thirst. Maybe you know Mary Oliver’s poem called “Thirst,” in her book by the same name. [1] When I first read the poem, I heard it in Mary Oliver’s voice; this time around the I hear two voices in dialogue. The first part of the poem seems like the voice of the Samaritan woman.  Continue reading →