Endings are arbitrary and illusory. “The End” is never really the end. Just think of most of our conventional story endings: the guy gets the girl, the hero saves the day, “they lived happily ever after,” and the underdog comes out on top — none of these are actual endings at all: the guy may … Continue reading Endings (A reflection on Mark 16)
I once heard a sermon which summarized Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances with the Douglas Adams line, “So long, and thanks for all the fish.” I couldn’t help but think of this as I was reading this morning’s Gospel reading. The disciples are fishing but are having a frustrating time of it. A man, later recognized to … Continue reading Where you cast your nets (A reflection on John 21.1-14)
This Easter week’s exploration of character strengths returns to a theme I’ve explored a couple of times already in this space, but one that’s always worth thinking about (especially for a realist like me!): Hope. According to the VIA Institute on Character, “If Hope is your top strength, you expect the best in the future, … Continue reading Hope
Alleluia! Christ is risen! Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, And upon those in the tombs bestowing life! These are the ancient Christian proclamations on this most holy of days in the Christian year. Today is the day when we proclaim from the rooftops for all to hear that God … Continue reading For the Life of the World (An Easter Reflection)
It’s Good Friday, a day rich in significance for Christians, the day when we commemorate Jesus’ crucifixion. Reading the story today, I couldn’t help but think of words that we’ve heard a lot in the media over the past couple years: collusion, conspiracy, betrayal, obstruction of justice, denial, false motivations, and that old favorite of … Continue reading The Cost and the Cross (A Good Friday Reflection)
Matthew Root 