For some time now I have been using the RCL as my lectionary. This is largely because of its prevalence as the 'standard' lectionary in the churches of which I have been a part. This is not the only bible reading plan that I have used over the last 5 years. All of them have had there pitfalls. As I look at the lectionary I use now (RCL) I am drawn to its sincere attempts to read scripture in tune with the liturgical year. I like this. It has the effect of reminding me each year of the important elements of my Christian faith. I value the different voices that emerge form the Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer readings. I can understand the rational of the three year cycle. Parts of me yearn for the Psalms in a month (a la 'Cranmer's Lectionary') and I do at times find the pericope [...]
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The Christian story contains an important element: someone will always die as a result of my failure. It will either be myself or it will be God. The difference lies in who dies. It does matter who dies for this failure because if I die for my failure then my debt remains outstanding. This debt is the debt of all humans: to love God and love your neighbour. I have failed to do this and I will die is a consequence. Also, the outstanding debt is the means by which I will remain part of those who are dead. Yet, if it is Jesus – God made flesh – that dies in my place then I will not die. It is by his perfect life, that his death offers to God for me what I owe. All those he calls, are granted the benifit of his perfect life. How this is [...]
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