I want to begin my introductory editorial comments with the expression of much gratitude to all my predecessors, especially the most immediate, Rev. Dr. Jin Hee Han whose calm yet compelling call to me to …
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by Amy Bell Finiki
In her travels overseas, the author learned experientially about hospitality: “It is in how we are treated, how we want to be treated, and how we treat others that is the truth of genuine hospitality.” Hers is a tale of adventure and discovery.
by Austin Park
The author digs into the bible to show how hospitality is a core principle for Jesus, and he poses some intriguing questions about Jesus’ behavior in this unusual tale of Jesus’ first miracle.
by Brandt L. Montgomery
Jesus wants us to do what is right instead of constantly worrying about always being right. He asks that we be welcoming to others just as He is welcoming to us.
by Elaine Chan
Sometimes the opportunity to be hospitable to a stranger may seem like too much trouble, imprudent, or even dangerous, but Hebrews 13.2 tells us “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
by Robert LaRochelle
While falling attendance is a problem for many churches, the answer as to how to stop that trend may lie in how newcomers perceive the congregation—not by having a welcoming committee of a few select members, but by extending genuine hospitality by everyone to everyone.
By Remington Slone
This lectionary guide covers Sundays from May 3 through July 28, 2013.
Collected by Darla Turlington
These quotations, on the general topic of Hospitality, were selected from both Testaments of the Bible as well as a variety of authors, and speakers; they may be useful to pastors, theologians, seminary students, and others in their sermon preparation, research, writings, or reflections.
Reviewed by Neal D. Presa
Dem Dry Bones: Preaching, Death, and Hope by Luke A. Powery (Fortress Press, 2012)
What Not to Say: Avoiding the Common Mistakes That Can Sink Your Sermon by John C. Holbert and Alyce M. McKenzie (Westminster John Knox Press, 2011)
By Jin Hee Han
Our 2013 summer issue is packed with blessings that center around the theme of hospitality. Authors for this issue come from many different backgrounds, but their contributions come together to make a chorus that calls attention to the centrality of hospitality in our faith walk. They help us to feel the warmth that hospitality generates, and their testimonies are a telltale sign that hospitality continues to be the mainstay of our communal life.
By Elaine Padilla
This is an intriguing study of the racial implications to be gleaned from the Song of Songs. Dr. Padilla guides the reader into the text in ways that help move it from sexual innuendo to serious scholarship.
By Hrayr Jebejian
The thirst for the Bible is strong indeed among the people who migrate to the oil-rich Middle East seeking the promise of high paying jobs but often finding disappointing and harsh conditions. The author shares his experiences in how getting bibles to the people in their own languages, has helped them in their quest for a better life.
By Naomi Koltun-Fromm
This probing analysis of ancient Hebrew texts offers revealing clues as to why the apparent bias against women became part of the ancient culture as reflected in the Hebrew Bible. This article offers a rich resource for pastors interested in exploring feminist issues.
Title: Fish on Fire
Artist: Piety Choi
Size: 40"x40"
Mixed Media on Wooden Panel
This painting is based on the story at the end of the gospel of John in which the risen Christ came to his disciples on the morning of his resurrection and broiled the fish for them. To the wooden panel I attached the actual pieces of burnt burlap fabric and used acryl paint to reproduce a scene of broiling. While the Johannine passage is commonly understood as the risen Christ telling the world that he has risen and has returned to provide hope as well as hope-filled nourishment, I remember that fire also has the cleansing power of the fire of the Holy Spirit. According to other gospel traditions, Peter had denied Jesus three times. Jesus’ feeding of his disciples with the fish by the sea of Tiberias, however, has no trace of condemnation. In this scene, Jesus said to Peter, “Do you love me?” Jesus then asked Peter to tend his sheep. Divine justice might call to mind fire as punishment, but I cherish the power of the Lord’s fire that cleanses our soul from the stains of sin. There I see the path to renewal and new life.
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