One of the most famous aspects of Carl Jung’s thought was the idea of archetypes. We can think of archetypes as the stock characters, plots, and tropes that form the basis of our stories and understanding of the world. While these have strong cultural elements (for example, the archetype of the dutiful son is far … Continue reading Archetypes and the Lives of the Saints
This past fall, I did a whole series on the Sermon on the Mount, a large section of ethical teaching stretching from Matthew 5-7. In the Gospel according to Luke, this material is condensed into just about twenty verses, with 6.20-26 covering the Beatitudes and today’s reading, 6.27-38, covering the rest in a rapid-fire barrage … Continue reading In Summary: A Brief Reflection on Luke 6.27-38
Another Saturday, another look at what has been lighting me up and lighting my way this week. Two related things dominated this week for me. The first is another snowstorm on Saturday and Sunday that dumped an additional 25 cm (10”) of snow onto a city that was already facing the most snow on the … Continue reading What’s Lighting Me Up (February 22, 2025)
At the very start of his earthly ministry, Jesus proclaims “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 4.17). I’ve long maintained that repentance is more than just about acknowledging our sins (though this is unquestionably an essential part of it), but is really about taking on a whole new way of seeing … Continue reading The Shadow and the Beatitudes
[Good morning everyone! I have out of town company this week, so today I'll be sharing my reflection from the last time this Gospel reading was featured in our Sunday lectionary. It's Luke's version of the Sermon on the Mount, and considering that not a month ago a Christian bishop was widely criticized by people … Continue reading Blessed Are You Poor (in Spirit?): A Reflection on Luke 6.17-26 [Repost]
Matthew Root 