Paul’s story is probably one of the most important conversions in human history. It is the pivot point for the Book of Acts, the moment when the book’s true hero is introduced, the moment that will lead to the conversion of the gentiles and, hence, turn the followers of Jesus from a small community of … Continue reading Acts 9:1-31 The Road to Damascus
Jesus issues a duo warning in this passage. First, when you fail (and we are all bound to fail), don’t lead anyone after you in your failure. Second, the surest guard against failure is the encouragement and forgiveness of community. If we are to accept the schema of self that I’ve talked about previously in … Continue reading Luke 17:1-10 We Will Find Ourselves in Communities of Forgiveness and Grace
Jesus doesn’t condemn people for their sins because everyone has flaws. Only God is perfect, and while we strive to imitate God (and sometimes even succeed) we remain flawed, temporal beings. The secret to peace and joy is not getting too upset about it, not punishing ourselves or others for not being perfect, while, obviously, … Continue reading Luke 7:36-50 Forgiveness and Gratitude
KPB Stevens 