Praise to the One who gives birth to a new day!
Praise to the One who calls us on the journey!
Praise to the One who surprises our spirits with life!
but is this what you really meant in the temple?
Is money yours or is it Caesar's (and why can't it be mine)?
but Washington's face is on it…and Lincoln's, and Jackson's.
as you once watched people's donations to the treasury?
Are two copper coins enough? Are large sums enough?
is a better gift to you than three hundred denarii to the poor?!
would you even suggest that it's okay to take the poor for granted?
May I venture one more question, Jesus?
for brutality and for blessing . . . and so do I?
that's what people know and that's the language of our world.
Help me to speak and live your good news in the world's language.
Tracing these stories through the Gospel of Mark: overturned tables (Mark 11:15-17), taxes to Caesar (Mark 12:13-17); widow's offering (Mark 12:41-44); a woman anoints Jesus (Mark 14:3-9); casting lots for Jesus' clothes (Mark 15:24).
and praying all the way.
Shall I come with burnt offerings?
Will the LORD be pleased with rivers of oil?
but also the palms of my hands in service to you.