Scripture - Mark 1:14-20 Let us hear the word of God as those for whom the kingdom has drawn near. Let us heed the word of God as those for whom light has dawned. Let us live the word of God as those for whom the ways of God are deeply lived. The first time we hear Jesus’ voice in Mark’s Gospel, he says, “Change your hearts & lives, & trust this good news!” Most translations use the word ‘repent’ rather than change your hearts & lives, but the meaning is the same. The word ‘r

Scripture - John 1:43-51 Let us pray. We are here, God, waiting to hear your word. Help us recognize your voice as we listen for your guidance. Search our hearts & open them to your call. We are ready for your word of love. Amen. Jacob was a schemer, a liar & a cheat. All his early life he had one eye on the main prize, especially if it meant getting one up on his older twin, Esau. In fact, even the story of how they were born included a crucial detail: Jacob was born holding

Scripture - Mark 1:4-11 Listen, for as Scripture is read, we may hear the voice of God thundering over the waters, hovering like a gentle breeze, or parting the clouds & speaking words of love. Listen, for God is speaking through the ages, & through ancient words, into a changing world with the unchanging promise of God’s constant presence. Mark wastes no time in establishing the identity of his subject. Verse 1 of his Gospel reads: The beginning of the good news about Jesus