Anglican/Episcopal Illustrations
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15038 illustrations found
Genesis 22:20-24 - Catholic Perspective
In the Catholic tradition, Genesis 22:20-24 is seen as a foreshadowing of God's promise and fidelity to His people. The narrative emphasizes the importance of God's providential care through the lineage of Abraham, ultimately leading to the covenantal promise fulfilled in Jesus Christ, highlighting the continuity of salvation history.
Daily Reflection: Justice - Prayer
As we gather our hearts in prayer today, I invite you to consider Romans 12:2, which urges us not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Imagine standing before...
The Power of Salvation - Contemporary Example
A few months ago, I met a woman named Clara at a local coffee shop. She sat alone at a table, her fingers nervously tracing the rim of her cup. I could see the weight of worry written all over...
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Philippians 4:6-7 (Do Not Be Anxious)
In the Roman Catholic Lens tradition, we read Philippians 4:6-7 as a profound invitation to trust in God's providence through prayer, recognizing that the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, is a gift of grace. This passage is interpreted within the context of the sacramental life, wher
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 1 John 4:17-21
In the Roman Catholic Lens tradition, we read 1 John 4:17-21 as a profound affirmation of God's love manifest in Christ and the call to live this love among one another. This passage emphasizes the incarnational reality of love perfected in us, foreshadowing our union with God in the Beatific Vision
The Example of Wisdom - Story
In the heart of a small village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a woman named Deborah. Known for her keen insight and unwavering faith, she served as both a judge and a prophetess. One day, a desperate young mother came...
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Galatians 3:19-29
We read this passage as emphasizing the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, a unity that is sacramentally realized in the Body of Christ, the Church. The passage underscores that the Law served as a 'custodian' until Christ came, highlighting the fulfillment of the Old Covenant in the New
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
In the Roman Catholic Lens, we read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 as a profound exposition on the primacy of love (caritas) in the Christian life. It reminds us that no matter the spiritual gifts bestowed upon us, without love, they are meaningless. This passage calls us to embody the self-giving love of Chr
Lessons from Online Church & Community
In our current age, where the sound of church bells has been replaced by the ping of notifications, the landscape of faith has transformed dramatically. Online Church & Community has become both our refuge and our challenge, inviting us to...
Faith and Compassion - Commentary
Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us that “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This passage intricately weaves together the threads of...
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Ruth 1:1-5
We read this passage as a testament to God's providential care even in times of suffering and displacement. Ruth 1:1-5 introduces us to the family of Elimelech, who, due to famine, relocates to Moab — a land often seen as foreign and hostile. In the Catholic tradition, this narrative is seen as a pr
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 1 John 2:28-3:3
We read this passage as an affirmation of our identity as children of God, emphasizing our call to holiness and the hope of eternal life with Christ. The text underscores that abiding in Christ leads us to confidence and righteousness, a theme that resonates deeply within our sacramental understandi
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Ruth 4:1-12
We read Ruth 4:1-12 as a profound testament to God's providential care and the fulfillment of His covenant promises through human cooperation and legal structures. The passage highlights the role of Boaz as the kinsman-redeemer, prefiguring Christ's redemptive work and the Church's sacramental life.
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Ruth 2:1-23
We read Ruth 2:1-23 as a profound example of divine providence manifesting through ordinary human interactions. Boaz's kindness to Ruth prefigures Christ’s own generous love, emphasizing the Catholic understanding of grace working through human agency. The passage highlights the virtue of charity, w
Genesis 18:1-15 - Catholic Perspective
In Genesis 18:1-15, the Catholic tradition highlights God’s intimate involvement in human affairs, showcasing His promise and fidelity. The encounter between Abraham and the three visitors serves as a prefiguration of the Trinity, emphasizing the relational nature of God who desires to engage with humanity and fulfill His covenant promises.
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Revelation 3:14-22
We read Revelation 3:14-22 as a profound call to spiritual renewal and fidelity to Christ within the Church, especially in the context of the Eucharist and the sacramental life. The message to the Church in Laodicea warns against spiritual lukewarmness, urging a vibrant faith that is neither indiffe
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11
In the Roman Catholic tradition, we read 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 as a profound affirmation of the centrality of the Resurrection in our faith. This passage underscores the apostolic tradition, as Paul recounts the core elements of the Gospel that he received and passed on, emphasizing the continuity a
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 1 John 2:1-6
In the Roman Catholic tradition, we read 1 John 2:1-6 in light of the Incarnation and the sacramental life. This passage speaks to the role of Jesus Christ as our Advocate, who is present in the sacraments, especially in the Eucharist. The text underscores the necessity of obedience to God's command
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
We read 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 as a profound testimony to the paradox of Christian strength through divine grace amidst human weakness. The Apostle Paul's 'thorn in the flesh' is seen as a reality that many of us face, reminding us that God's grace is sufficient and that His power is perfected in wea
Thinking About Forgiveness - Teaching Material
Forgiveness is often seen as a lofty ideal, something we work towards but never fully attain. Yet, in Ephesians 2:8-9, we are reminded that it is through grace—unearned and undeserved—that we find our salvation. Paul writes, “For by grace you...
Living Out Redemption - Teaching Material
As we reflect on Matthew 28:19-20, often referred to as the Great Commission, we find Jesus urging us to go forth and make disciples of all nations. This command is not merely a call to evangelism, but a profound invitation...
Reflecting on Gentleness - Commentary
As we contemplate 2 Timothy 1:7, we find a gentle but profound reminder of the character of God: “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind." Here, the Apostle Paul...
Reflecting on Self-control - Teaching Material
Consider a time when you faced a crisis—perhaps a moment of deep loss, uncertainty, or overwhelming temptation. In such moments, it can feel as though our very foundations are shaking. Yet, Romans 8:28 assures us, “And we know that in...
Roman Catholic Lens Commentary: Matthew 5:43-48
In Matthew 5:43-48, we read this passage as a profound call to Christian perfection, rooted in the divine call to love as God loves. This commandment to love even our enemies reflects the universal love of God, who 'makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good.' The call to perfection ('be perfect