Tag Archives: scripture

Psalm 13

It’s not a question of whether the Psalmist is close to literal death, but that he faces an experience of death on a broader level. David could live without his crown, but was altogether worried that his situation signaled he … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 3

Western scholars heavily favor the notion that the first section here is a dream sequence. That would almost be missing the point, as the whole work is a dramatic parable. It is enough to recognize the symbols. On the night … Continue reading

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Of Marriage and Curses

Adam is a lazy jerk. The typical masculine failing is clearly revealed in the Genesis narrative. Adam was lazy. It’s not as if he was unaware of the Serpent’s presence in the Garden, or that he didn’t know about their … Continue reading

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Fruitless Shepherding

There is no accounting for some people’s tastes. When I was a kid, a very popular rock song was “Spirit in the Sky” (YouTube link). The guy who wrote it was mocking the gospel message. However, the fellow who programmed … Continue reading

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Wandering Stick

Whatever happened to desiring moral dominance? First, a brief lesson in biblical Hebrew expression. The terms “rod” and “staff” are roughly synonymous. When you read the expression — “thy rod and thy staff” — it refers to a single object, … Continue reading

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Bits and Pieces 17

At various times you’ll see modern Judaizers. After two millennia they are still at it, trying to drag Christians back under the Talmud. They don’t like the academic label “Judaizers” and claim various other terms, but it changes nothing. The … Continue reading

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Psalm 12

Some days it feels like your world has tumbled into the pits of Hell. Hyperbole is a common feature of the dramatic and symbolic Hebrew narrative. David begins with a common cry equivalent to our modern “God help us!” Have … Continue reading

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What I Am Working On

This is one of those things where you are tagged by someone you know. Jay DiNitto passed the torch to answer a few questions and I agreed to it. It didn’t hurt that he offered a flattering compliment, too. 1. … Continue reading

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Song of Solomon 2

The bride and groom tell the whole world of their devotion to each other. The treasure here is the collection of images in the unique Hebrew context. The woman opens with a measure of self-denigration. She’s nothing but a common … Continue reading

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Virtual Spiritual Family

Welcome to our virtual parish. I’m a virtual pastor. Technically I’m an elder, the management half of the church leadership team. However, I also serve in the priesthood role simply because no one else is doing it and I have … Continue reading

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