Tamar: Brilliant, Scandalous, and Determined

Chances are you didn't hear the story of Tamar (Genesis 38) in Sunday School or at summer camp. Boldness in the face of adversity is the name of the game for many women in the Bible, and Tamar is right on the top of that list. One of Jesus' awesome female ancestors, she is brave, determined, clever--and a bit scandalous. A woman...

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Mary Magdalene: Once broken, twice healed; she showed up

"Jesus died and rose from the dead." While not exactly a ho-hum expression, we often take it for granted. Think then, of the resurrection from another angle: What if no one had been there when Jesus walked out of that tomb? Would he have slogged through the streets of Jerusalem, perhaps winding up at Peter’s house? Would he have made his way to...

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Claim the Joy

While in their joy they were disbelieving and still wondering, he said to them, "Have you anything here to eat?" They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate in their presence.” (Matthew 24:43) Think of yourself as alive some 2000 years ago. You’re a follower of Jesus, and still in shock that he was killed....

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Women of Lent 6: Mary, Jesus’ mother

I’m coming out of the closet theologically. On this day, when The Episcopal Church, and several other denominations, celebrate the Annunciation — that event when the angel Gabriel visits Mary with news of God’s astounding plan — I’ll throw my cards down. I’m taking the virgin birth on face value. I come at this issue with the best of liberal credentials....

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Women of Lent I: Martha of Bethany

During Lent, a season traditionally known for self-reflection and penitence, we’ll consider here the actions of several New Testament women. All, save one, were friends with Jesus. And it’s too bad the remaining one—Pilate’s wife—didn’t have more clout with her husband, for had Pilate listened, Jesus’ life might have been spared. Today, Martha of Bethany: sister of Mary and Lazarus, and friend...

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