Listen this week for the sounds of the sweet song that rises from the soul of the dead self. We begin with the parable of “The Pharisee and the Publican.” These two figures contrast the garish song of vanity of one with the humble chant of repentance of the other; between pride and humility, between true and false worship. The week’s readings will be filled with these contrasts—simply put, between good and evil.
Luke’s parable could have begun with him saying, “Two men went up to the Temple to pray; one did, the other didn’t.” The protestations of thanks on the part of the Pharisee are empty echoes on the walls of the temple of self-righteousness, pride and ultimately the vilest form of idolatry—self worship under the guise of prayer.
Enter the depths of your own soul and listen there to the music the Spirit makes.
What are “Bible Breaths”? Learn More…
Example: Turning inward to my God v. 13
Sundays are dedicated to the Gospels from the Revised Common Lectionary.
In year C, we generally read from the Gospel of St. Luke.
For all the Firestarters I recommend the ebook. You will have the entire program of well over a thousand of these introductions with you on your phone or tablet. Check the menu options at the site for more information.
The Bible Through the Seasons 