Posts by Bob Rhodes (Page 3)

As we enter this Lenten season of spiritual introspection, we begin in earnest our exploration of gratitude. Culturally, we struggle even with the simplicity of thank-you cards. Perhaps we can push back from this and realize that everything we have is a gift from God, which begs this question: where is God?

This Sunday is “Transfiguration” Sunday, where we read about Jesus’ journey to a mountaintop where some of the disciples witness an event that leaves them in awe.

In this Sunday’s text, Paul suggests to the church in Corinth that attachments to a particular human leader, to a particular position, or a particular building may be a misdirection of our focus when we should instead grow our attachment to God.

Over these last several weeks, we have explored Paul’s reminder that—even in our differences—God continues to call and empower us all. Paul’s words in this text challenge us to show that we are changed by God’s Spirit. Are we doing it? Are we living the gospel with our whole selves at all times?

This week’s text takes a number of twists and turns and seems to conflate wisdom and foolishness. Could it be possible that Paul is suggesting that we are called to foolishness?

In the text for this Sunday, Paul very clearly addresses the reality of division in the church. As members and participants in a United Methodist Church, we may find this particularly poignant today. Yet, Paul reminds his readers that we belong to Christ.

This week’s text is the introduction to Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth. Paul identifies himself and expresses gratitude. In doing so, Paul reminds his audience of our unity in Christ Jesus.