A Mic-Drop Moment

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

I love those moments when something changes your underlying assumptions. It might be a well-timed question from a friend. A kind gesture from a stranger that exposes your bias. A glitch in the matrix. A response from your child that doesn’t fit the teachings of the child development gurus. The moment when you first question how you were raised. A belief that no longer makes sense. A hero who fails. A villain who loves. A piece of wisdom that reaches to the core of the self and changes everything. And the change doesn’t typically happen all at once, but something shifts, and you see with something other than your eyes, and hear with something other than your ears. Maybe Nicodemus should be the patron saint of those moments.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 2nd Sunday in Lent (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for March 1, 2026

Genesis 12:1-4a / Psalm 121 / Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 / John 3:1-17

Summary of John 3:1-17

At the outset of John’s gospel, Jesus is revealed through personal encounters rather than through his teachings or sermons. The encounter in this week’s passage is with a Pharisee by the name of Nicodemus. Nicodemus does not appear as hostile. Instead he comes across as curious (filled with questions) and cautious (comes at night).

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

One of the paths of the inner journey is to ask what parts of my inner self are represented by the characters of the story. Nicodemus is a Pharisee. They are rule keepers. They know and respect the law and the historical context from which it arises. They might represent an inherited way of thinking. They have learned respect, and they like the order that the law brings to personal life, communal life and spiritual life. That approach exists in all of us, to a lesser or greater degree, and serves a very important function.

When that part within is overbearing or over powering it can crush a person’s spirit, it will squelch creativity, and it will marginalize and punish any other part that dares to step beyond the rules. It should come as no surprise that this part comes to Jesus under the cover of darkness. Often the silenced parts of ourselves emerge at night, outwardly and inwardly. Dreams often become the stage on which those parts of ourselves that have been banished get to emerge from the darkness and give voice to the inadequacy of the rules. The Nicodemus inside of us seems fascinated by the audacity of Jesus in saying the quiet part out loud.

So, what then is the inner part represented by Jesus? Let’s at least begin by considering that Jesus is the divine voice within that invites us to health, wholeness and authenticity. However, the movement to wholeness requires a paradigm shift. The Nicodemus part simply wants a clarification of the system; how should we explain and manage your miraculous healings?

I fear that Jesus’s response has become too familiar to the Christian community. And the popularization of John 3:16 as the “Christian motto” has tamed its radical implications. Jesus says there must be a new birth within. And the divine voice within knows that, but we struggle to surrender to it because it explodes the systems we have come to trust. The honest response of the inner Nicodemus is, “This is crazy!”

Jesus’s words are subversive. And they are not intended to condemn rules, laws or boundaries. Instead, they seem intended to throw the self off balance, to disrupt the ego, to destabilize the way we present ourselves to others. The words expose the inadequacy of linear thinking, the worship of logic, the insatiable inner appetite for the tree of knowledge and the internal infatuation with power. And if that is not enough to blow your mind, consider the comparison in verse 14 between the snake (the shadow side within) and the Son of Man (the divine voice within). At the very least this is an invitation to look at our inner wounds and consider the healing that comes with integration. Whew!

John doesn’t tell us Nicodemus’s response. We will catch up with Nicodemus again in chapters 7 and 19. But here, I wonder if he feels like I do; jaw-dropped speechless at my world having just been turned inside out.

Fight Club

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

I think the fight within yourself is the toughest battle of all. We battle feeling worthy, we battle doubt, anxiety, bodily pain, emotional pain, grief, and so much more. And then there is the guilt of even having these feelings. The weight makes your eyebrows crunch and your shoulders slouch. And if there is no pathway for resolution, and no space for honesty, it all festers. The writer of this week’s psalm has discovered the relief and restoration of surrendered guilt. It appears that the pathway of restoration is filled with the fragrance of God’s love, and dependent upon replacing that guilt with love’s grace. And that begins the work of change.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 1st Sunday in Lent (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 22, 2026

Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 / Psalm 32 / Romans 5:12-19 / Matthew 4:1-11

Psalm 32

This psalm is attributed to King David. The language seems to match David’s repentance for all that happened in the story of Bathsheba, as found in 2 Samuel 11-12. It is a beautiful hymn of repentance and forgiveness, and it gives us a window into the inner journey of David. Secrecy is paired with misery. Confession is paired with forgiveness. And transparency is paired with mercy.

The psalm bounces around a bit. The inner journey doesn’t often fit an organized timeline, with a rigid sequence of acts and consequences. It is subjective and often moves with jumps and setbacks. However, sometimes it is valuable to hear someone else’s journey and learn from their experience. So let’s look at this psalm.

Verse 8 - The psalmist says, “I will teach you.”

Verse 9 - Replace your temper with understanding.

Verse 10 - The inner secrets just lead to inner torments.

Verses 3,4 - Silence is wasteful, drains your strength and is exhausting.

Verse 5 - Confession is good and forgiveness is great.

Verses 6,7 - Hiding in the Divine is infinitly better than hiding in one’s self.

Verses 1,2,11 - Happiness and joy belong to those who are free from the weight of guilt by receiving the grace of forgiveness, accepting the love of the Divine and letting go of the secrecy of pain and regret.

But I can’t forget Uriah. He doesn’t get his life back. He doesn’t get his family restored. Nor can I forget Bathsheba. Did she lose everything she knew and loved? Did the power of the King negate her wishes and desires? This isn’t a happy-ever-after ending for any of the characters in the story. Admitting wrong and acknowledging guilt can certainly lighten the load of inner anguish. But that very admission inaugurates the posture of regret. And then comes the work of change.

The Shadow Side

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

Rules are helpful in that they set boundaries. And, I truly hope that some of the boundaries we set as parents were helpful. However, rules don’t typically help with desire. Actually, if there is a true desire, rules against it probably just add fuel to the flame. And if you want to turn the flame into an inferno, keep the desire a secret. I wish all of us were better at talking about the very human nature of desire, impulses and emotional reactions. I think that in isolation they quickly become toxic, but when integrated they become incredible sources of energy for movement and growth. My generation could use a lot of help from your generation in doing this.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 1st Sunday in Lent (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 22, 2026

Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 / Psalm 32 / Romans 5:12-19 / Matthew 4:1-11

Summary of Matthew 4:1-11

The journey of Jesus into the wilderness, to be tempted, is found in this weeks gospel reading. The story follows Jesus’s baptism and precedes the beginning of what has come to be described as his public ministry. The wilderness is likely a desert area between Jerusalem and the Dead Sea. The area was remote enough to feel alone, close enough to the temple for the second temptation and walking distance from a higher-altitude lookout to see expansive space in the third temptation. Jesus fasted for an extended period of time and the temptations he experienced have powerful implications for the inner journey.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

The wilderness or desert is a great description of the unconscious. Jesus was led to this place. It was not a punishment, a place of shame, nor a place of exile. It was a place where he felt led. Likewise, the divine leads us again and again to the expanse of the unconscious. It is the path for expanded spiritual understanding, a necessary experience for greater self-awareness, and creates the conditions for the reformation of identity. The exploration of the unconscious allows us to face our shadow side, and in so doing we begin to see ourselves through a new lens.

The unconscious breaks through in numerous ways. This often happens when we feel the emotions associated with not being in control; fear, anger, embarrassment, shame, exuberance, surprise, nervous laughter. It occurs when our response is grossly out of proportion to the circumstances that elicited our response. And it occurs at night when the defense mechanisms are down and the unconscious creates unexpected storylines and images in dreams. Here, on the path between the conscious and the unconscious, we often meet the shadow side of our self.

There are many temptations the shadow side presents to us. The first is to ignore it, which is particularly dangerous in that it can create havoc in the inner spaces of the unconscious as it clamors for our attention. We are also tempted to surrender to it, giving in to compulsions, urges and desires with no boundaries or guardrails. The movement toward spiritual wholeness is integration.

The passage tells us that Jesus was tempted. There is no temptation unless there is an energy within that desires that which is being offered. Jesus didn’t deny the desire or the impulse. He was hungry. Bread sounds good when you are hungry. He desired power. Power is attractive when you feel powerless. And the acclaim or allegiance of others was appealing, all the more so when one feels alone.

The shadow side invites us into the inner conversation of identity. We are constantly tempted to center our identity around our basic needs (food, shelter, clothing), or our position of power (vocation, role, title), or the way others think of us (acclaim, followers, family-of-origin memories). The shadow side forces the conversation about our true identity, encourages us to remove the mask, and invites us to explore the divine impulse and rhythms of the authentic inner self.

Political Rebellion

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

Did you see the news today? Without exception, I always find I am better for having heard news from you about you and your family than anything that comes across the airwaves. Thanks for the periodic updates.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Transfiguration Sunday (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 15, 2026

Exodus 24:12-18 / Psalm 2 or Psalm 99 / 2 Peter 1:16-21 / Matthew 17:1-9

Psalm 2

One view is that the 2nd Psalm is a powerful hymn that depicts God’s sovereignty over all earthly powers. Those who oppose God are in trouble and those who trust in God will be rewarded. Taken from this viewpoint it feels like a textbook case of toxic dynamic masculinity. The language is of battles and war, breaking the chains, conspiring against the enemy, rebuking in anger, terrifying in wrath, ruling with an iron scepter, and dashing the opposition to pieces. Allegiance is coerced not earned, and defection is threatened with short-fused anger and wrath. The language feels like the ridiculous (and extremely dangerous) saber-rattling (and saber-swinging) of the 2026 political environment.

There is a dynamic-masculine part in all of us. This is not a male or female issue. Rather it is an energy and attitude within everyone. It is the aggressive, action-oriented energy that brings about movement and change. It stands up to aggression and fights in conflict. However, out of balance, it ignores consequences, dismisses harm, disregards opposition, scoffs at inconvenient facts and destroys relationships. At its best it leads others through the fires of chaos. At its worst it creates the fires of chaos.

You might wonder who is the author of Psalm 2? Though there is no inscription indicating authorship, Luke, in Acts 4:25, tells us that the early followers of Jesus attribute this Psalm to David. They also provide an interesting contrast to David in how to respond to feelings of powerlessness. Once again, the journey must take us inward if we hope to ever change what is happening outwardly.

David is praying from a place of being threatened and attacked. The outward circumstances trigger fear, anxiety, and anger. The survival instinct is ignited and the masculine-dynamic energy springs forth. David calls on God to crush them all. In Acts 4 we listen in on the small band of Jesus-followers discussing the imprisonment and release of Peter and John over the healing of the man who couldn’t walk. Peter and John described the healing as simply an act of kindness. They were threatened with further punishment by the authorities and then released.

The believers used Psalm 2 as a basis for their prayer that God would help them (just like David was praying). As a result, God’s Spirit filled them and enabled them to do three things: they healed others, shared their possessions, and spoke the message of love with boldness. There was an internal realignment. They didn’t meet aggression with greater aggression, but with greater love. They met toxic power with healing power. They met the concentration of wealth and power with the distribution of wealth and power. They met the fires of chaos with the waters of faith. And this is possible because of an internal shift.

This shift enables us to see that the “kings” and “rulers” of Psalm 2 represent the reactive parts within us. Those particular inner parts respond to fear and anxiety with thrusts of power, aggression and attack. But there is a more spacious center rooted in belonging rather than force. From the inner perspective, this psalm becomes less about conquest and more about alignment—inviting us to notice which voices inside us bring order, compassion, and life, and which ones exhaust or fragment us. The Divine spirit leads the dynamic-masculine within all of us to move the world with love because love has realigned our inner world. Thus, transformation does not come by suppressing power, but by integrating it—so that strength serves healing, authority serves connection, and action flows from an inner center that is no longer ruled by fear.

Prayer

Lord, I get so ticked off at the idiocy I see depicted in the news all the time. Help me to begin and end this day acknowledging that there is plenty of idiocy in me that could use a good dose of your Spirit, before I call down fire on anyone else. Amen

Could It Be That Simple?

Dear Jeremy, Tate and Katelyn (the three beloved humans who made me a mom),

As a new parent, I was woefully unsure of myself. I gave birth to you in the age of iconic child-rearing experts from Dr. Spock to Dr. Dobson. I read both of them…and more than once. Your dad and I were the babies of our respected families. We knew how to be taken care of but little about how to be caregivers. It was definitely amateur hour in the Lamb family nursery. There was one thing of which I was certain. I desperately wanted to be a good parent to you. 

I had a mentor who saw my struggle. She said to me, “Cyndi, trust your heart. I know your heart, and I believe you’ll be just fine if you listen and go with it.” What an idea! Could it really be that simple? Simple, perhaps, but not necessarily easy.

-Mom

(Continued below.)

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Transfiguration Sunday (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 15, 2026 (Transfiguration Sunday)

Exodus 24:12-18 / Psalm 2 or Psalm 99 / 2 Peter 1:16-21 / Matthew 17:1-9

Matthew 17:1-9

Commentary, and letter to her three children, by Cyndi Lamb

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

(Continued from above.)

The apostles were also trying to figure out how to live out this new birth of which Jesus spoke and embodied. They were aware of how often Jesus slipped off to quiet places to be alone. In this passage, Matthew tells us that this time Jesus took his closest companions with him up a high mountain. Peter, James and John were unprepared for what happened next. Jesus underwent a transformation right before them with his face blazing and his clothes dazzling. As if that wasn’t enough, Moses and Elijah showed up; Long-dead Hebrew saints. Then, in one final dramatic act, a bright cloud overshadowed them and a voice said, "This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!”

They fell to the ground in fear. Of the voice? Or, at what the voice had to say? “Listen to him.” Did this threesome wonder if living the way of Jesus was really that basic…to simply listen? Peter was ready to take action…to build something. But God’s last words directed their actions to turn inward…and to listen. May it not be lost on us that after all the spectacle, they raised their eyes to find that “they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.”

I’ve spent the last 15 years trying to reconfigure some of the patterns of my life such as… 

• To quit polling those around me on what I should think or do. 

• Turning to prayer instead of turning to the latest bestseller “How To”.  

• Laying down some activities to make space for the activity of God in my life. 

• Scheduling more moments on the mount solely for listening to that still small voice. 

I’m convinced the Divine never bangs down the door, shoves past my defenses, or forces a way of being on me. So I’m getting the hang of laying out the welcome mat. 

I’ve come to believe Jesus is eager for these moments with all of us…where our primary sense of self comes not from the outside…what we do, how we perform, what we build, but it comes from deep within where we hear the spirit calling us beloved. Soaking in the divine nature that is all good, all loving, all wise. May it be so in my life and in yours.

A Boxer and a Ballerina Walk Into a Bar…

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

I never want to water down scripture. I also don’t want to take scripture out of its context and think that it is saying something that wasn’t intended. And, maybe most importantly, I don’t want to come across as if my view on a passage of scripture is right, and everyone else just needs to catch up. So call me out if that’s how it comes across.

I feel like scripture is kinetic, in motion. Learning to move with its rhythms is both the challenge and the excitement. Sometimes I feel like interacting with scripture is a cross between boxing and ballet (neither of which I know much about). My comments on today’s Psalm reading may help explain what I mean.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 5th Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 8, 2026

Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) / Psalm 112:1-9 (10) / 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) / Matthew 5:13-20

Psalm 112:1-10

Psalm 112 feels both exhilarating and shaming all at the same time. On first read it seems contains these wonderful consequences for those who honor God’s commands. Those consequences include wealth and riches (v.3), enduring righteousness (v.3), never shaken (v.6), remembered forever (v.6), no fear of bad news (v.7, which sounds glorious by the way), and apparently no fear at all (v.8) except of God (v.1). And maybe best of all, such a person will triumph over their foes (v.8) and make them vexed (v.10, NASB). I don’t really know what vexed is, but I think it just means that those defeated foes are sore losers. And finally, it appears as if a heavenly spotlight follows such a righteous person around, like a broadway superstar (v.4).

This all feels very inspiring. However, it simultaneously feels very shaming, because my efforts at honoring God’s commands have not produced the beautiful pallette of attributes found in this compelling Psalm. Furthermore, I feel like I am more likely to vex the rule-keepers than I am to vex those who the rule-keepers call wicked. However, let me offer two points of context that seem important for this Psalm.

1. This is an acrostic poem, meaning that each half-line begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. That might be interesting, but it probably doesn’t change anything. However, the previous psalm is also an acrostic. Some see significance in the pairing of these two psalms and suggest that they might have been sung in worship together. This would imply that we could consider Psalm 111 as important context for Psalm 112. (Hold that thought.)

2. Jesus tells us emphatically that the “command” is this, love one another (John 15:12). So the metric by which I live is not in increments of dollars (wealth), or blood pressure readings (no fear or being shaken), or longevity (remembered forever). The metric is simply love.

I still have to admit that my reservoir of love could use some replenishing. That’s where I think the link to Psalm 111 is so important. Psalm 111 describes the great works of God. What God writes into the fabric of the universe is glorious, majestic, faithful, just, and trustworthy. God commanded or spoke these attributes into existence. The invitation is to ponder these things; delight in God’s commands. Do the inner work of reflection, awe, contemplation and gratitude. Find the innumerable ways that God has woven these very things into you. Then Psalm 112 becomes nothing more than allowing the divine Spirit within to find expression in every way that you and I live. I bet you will find that the inner foes of doubt, self-loathing, angst, and fear will be vexed, and eventually waste away to nothing (112:10).

Prayer

Lord, when I have surpassed my emotional capacity for bad news, when I take a punch in the gut by what is supposedly good news, or when I feel like the clumsiest one on the floor because I can’t stick the landing, take me to the place where love begets love, and where the boxer and ballerina within (the masculine and feminine parts of me) learn each other’s rhythms and moves, and drink a toast to the sum being greater than the parts. Amen

Breaking Our Fixation on Rules

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

My interest in psychology has now spanned 50 years. That interest certainly contributes to my conviction that it is important to pay attention to the inward journey, and trust that the outward expressions will naturally reflect our inner growth. You have taught me so much, in our many conversations, about personality styles. And you have introduced me to theories and ideas that have brought about important insights in my journey. Thank you.

There are many theories of personality and I think that nearly all of them have something to contribute to our understanding of the human experience. However, I have selected one as the primary lense through which to view scripture in this inside-out lectionary series. It is a theory whose modern roots can be traced to Jungian psychology, but whose ancient roots can be traced back thousands of years to middle-eastern, eastern and indiginous cultures. It considers the importance of both a relational aspect (often viewed as the feminine voice) and a productive aspect (often viewed as the masculine voice). It also considers the importance of both a dynamic energy (focused on action and expansion) and a static energy (often viewed as stabilizing and reflective). All of us have access to all four of these ways of being, but we typically have a dominant way by which we engage and view the world.

I bring this up because I believe that each of the gospel writers has a distinct personality style that comes through in their writing.

1. Mark’s is a dynamic-masculine style in that his gospel is a bold confrontation aimed at taking on the Roman Empire.

2. Luke is stylistically opposite of Mark, in that his is a static-feminine approach, filled with care-giving, stories and relational context.

3. John, which we will consider in a few weeks during the Lenten season, represents the dynamic-feminine personality style, with his mystical, grandiose, and prophetic voice.

4. Finally, we have Matthew who exemplifies the static-masculine style, which cares deeply about rules, systems, historical context and productivity.

Jesus certainly embodies all four styles, but so far this year we have been learning about Jesus through the pen of Matthew, whose perspective matters.

I am sorry if my psycho-babble is distracting. However, I think it is important to not only know yourself, but to also know the perspective of those with whom you are engaging (including me, and I lean toward the static side, both masculine and feminine).

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 5th Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 8, 2026

Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) / Psalm 112:1-9 (10) / 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) / Matthew 5:13-20

Summary of Matthew 5:13-20

Jesus describes his followers as “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” He encourages them to let their lives be visible—not for self-glorification, but so that others might be influenced in good ways. Jesus then clarifies that his teaching does not abolish the law, but fulfills it. However, He also insists that fullness of life is about more than simply adhering to the rules.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

Let’s take all of this and view it from the perspective of the inner landscape of personality.

1. What are the “salty” parts of your personality? These are the parts that enhance flavor, preserve, spice things up. If you are a rule-keeper, these are probably the spontaneous parts of yourself that you often keep under wraps because they feel too irresponsible. If you are dominated by the masculine voice within, then these are likely the intuitive, relational parts that might feel untrustworthy to you. However if these crucial parts lose their saltiness (effectiveness), then they lose their power to inspire, motivate, care, entertain and love. They become good for nothing, because they have been hidden or ignored.

2. What about the “light” within? This is the voice of the divine that embraces all of who you are. Let the light of grace, restoration and renewal enliven every aspect of your personality.

3. Then comes the section on the law (verses 17-20), which is a particular passion of Matthew, and his primarily-Jewish audience. Attention to the law is a key characteristic of the static-masculine side of our personality. It is important because it brings order, sets boundaries and provides standards of justice. However, by itself it is lifeless. Jesus didn’t come to discard the law, but to show us a better way, the way of the kingdom of heaven. He came to bring light on all aspects of who we are and to empower the parts of us that have been ingnored, exhiled or discarded.

Jesus, through the literary skills of Matthew, is going to take us on a journey through numerous expressions of the law. On first glance, some of what Jesus says appears to be rule-making on steroids! However, keep in mind this important beginning that sets the context of letting the salty parts have a voice in how you live. In other words, what if extravagant love characterized all the neighborhoods of your inner “city set on a hill”? I believe we are in store for quite the adventure.

Eden’s Entrance

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

Every poem, song and piece of art is an expression of the author’s or artist’s emotions and experiences. Even those things created by AI are born out of a machine’s attempt to produce something from all the information that is electronically available of human art, literature, research and creativity. In essence, AI is borrowing human emotion and creativity. Similary, when I read the Psalms, I feel like I am borrowing the emotions and experiences of the author. There is nothing wrong with that, because a person can gain great insight by learning from the experience of others. But the power of a piece expands exponentially when I allow the art, music, poetry or literature to take me into my own emotions and experiences. I encourage you to read Psalm 15 at the link below. My commentary is simply my personalization of that psalm. I hope that my reflection will, in turn, invite you into your own reflections, paraphrase or artistic interpretation that reflects your inner space of emotions and experiences. That journey is always worth the effort.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 4th Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 1, 2026

Micah 6:1-8 / Psalm 15 / 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 / Matthew 5:1-12

Psalm 15

In Israel’s worship life, the “tent” and “holy hill” symbolized God’s presence. While the Israelites wandered in the desert, the tent of God traveled with them. When the Israelites entered the promised land, the tent continued as the focal place of ritual, allegiance and worship. The behavioral expectations that the psalmist proposes regarding those who can enter the holy tent, would seem to imply that no one is worthy. And maybe that is the point, given that salvation or redemption is an act of grace, not a reward for behavior. However, what if this poetry teaches us something about the inner life? What if the inner movement toward wholeness and holiness requires a shift in posture? What if there are practices or disciplines that make it possible to experience transformation? What if wholeness and holiness are not about a special location (where you go) or ritual practices (what you do), but rather about how you embody your authentic and best self? To that end, let’s consider a paraphrase of the five verses of Psalm 15.

Prayer

1. Oh Lord, how may one even knock on the door of the sacred space within, where the autograph of the divine is written upon the very core of one’s identity and being? How does one get there? Where is the map? Is it hidden, like the entrance to the Garden of Eden?

2. If it requires blamelessness or righteousness, then we are all screwed. But if by blameless, you mean I should stop blaming myself and others, and I should instead look for the good, the righteousness, in all things, well then that’s a truth worthy of holding in my heart.

3. Maybe then I will have the courage to stop slandering myself, degrading my efforts, covering my pain by praising my own works. Is trying to love and understand the hard-to-love and hard-to-understand parts of myself the doorway to this place of wholeness?

4. What if the vilest part of me is simply the most wounded part of me? The reason I ask is because I don’t think the most honorable part of me needs that sacred space nearly as much as the wounded vile part does.

5. So teach me generosity toward myself so that I might be generous toward others. Help me to discover the feeling of innocence, not because I am innocent, but because grace gives me hope. And give me courage to step into the garden where grace meets guilt, where the sacred bear-hugs the vile, and where love dances with the brokenness.

And that’s my prayer. Amen

Jesus Gets Personal

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

Information engages the mind, while stories engage the soul. The stories we tell ourselves, about ourselves, form our identity. The stories we tell others, about ourselves, create our persona or mask. The stories we tell our employees or customers form a corporate culture and a corporate image. The stories we tell about our relationships or our family can perpetuate rigid roles and dysfunction, or can break down barriers and expand opportunities.

Personal growth inevitably leads to an examination of the stories that have formed us. In some cases the stories need to be revised with expanded context, different perspective and new understanding. Doing so creates space for a renewed awareness of the self and new possibilities for the future.

I’m pretty certain that your best stories are yet to come.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 4th Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for February 1, 2026

Micah 6:1-8 / Psalm 15 / 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 / Matthew 5:1-12

Summary of Matthew 5:1-12

Matthew has already told us at the end of chapter 4 that the work of Jesus included preaching, teaching and healing. He then proceeds to dedicate the next three chapters to the teachings of Jesus in a section that has come to be known as the sermon on the mount. Chapter 5 of Matthew begins with Jesus going up on a hillside and sitting down. His disciples gather around and he teaches them.

This section starts with a beautiful piece of poetic verse referred to as the beatitudes. There are several interpretations of this passage. Some view it as a checklist of spiritual attributes. Others claim that it is a roadmap to happiness and reference the section as the be happy attitudes. And still others make a strong argument that Jesus uses this introduction to his ministry by making it clear that the good news is for everyone, with each verse of the beatitudes identifying a group that has been pushed aside, ostracized, or ignored. What if this last viewpoint was considered through the lens of the inward journey of the soul?

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

The ministry of Jesus begins with an invitation to get personal. He names the vulnerable parts of our personality.  He exposes those stories that we have tucked away because we are certain no one wants to hear them. Let’s start with “poor in spirit.” What is the story of a dream you gave up because you didn’t have the resources to pursue it? Or what is the social or family issue that means so much to you but you’ve become so exhausted from trying to champion the cause, that you’re not sure you can continue? What is your poor-in-spirit story?

What part of you never had a chance to grow up because you lost something or someone important at a very young age? (“Blessed are they that mourn.”) What part of you still feels the loneliness of that kind of sorrow and longs for compassionate companionship? What is your they-that-mourn story?

Is there a story you can think of when you felt like you had to be silent because your voice didn’t count, or it felt too dangerous to speak up? (“Blessed are the meek.”)

This is not some abstract spiritual construct. Jesus is knocking on the closed doors of our woundedness. And he is inviting us to get specific. Very simply, he is stating that it is into these stories, which wrap around wounded, hidden, stunted and ignored parts of our personality, that the good news comes. These are the places where the Kingdom of the Divine comes with comfort, inheritance, nourishment, mercy, new vision and belonging.

Be prepared. If you sit down on the hillside and listen, not just to the words, but to the vulnerable places to which these words refer, you will find a journey of healing, renewal and insight. And, this journey is beyond anything we could have imagined.

Shadow and Light

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

I think that sometimes it’s good to take an inventory of our fears. What am I worried might happen? Does the fear of what might take place rob me of the joy of what is currently happening? Fear is an appropriate or understandable response to the future unknown, but so is excitement, or anticipation, or curiosity, or wonder. Consider the possibility that fear might be narrowing your vision so that you find it hard to see how the light of the Creator is revealing something new.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 3rd Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for January 25, 2026

Isaiah 9:1-4   /   Psalm 27:1, 4-9   /   I Cor. 1:10-18   /   Matthew 4:12-23

Psalm 27:1, 4-9

The psalmist opens this song with a beautiful proclamation; “The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid.” It seems very natural to immediately think of all the external people and circumstances that cause us to fear. However, what if we shift our focus to the inward journey of faith. And, this shift to the inward journey is supported by scripture.

In verse 4 the psalmist says, “One thing I ask of the Lord, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life.” Jesus says in the Gospel of John that if we love him we will obey his teachings. Then the Father will love us and God will come and make God’s dwelling place with us and in us (John 14:23-15:11). Thus the house of the Lord is in us. The light of the divine resides within, and the journey of faith begins when we open ourselves to the light of self-exploration.

In many ways , the shadow side of our life can be more intimidating and frightening than any external circumstance. The accusatory voice within, the imposter syndrome that undermines our efforts, the history of abandonment, the feeling of worthlessness, all operate like enemies to our progress, and bondage to our soul. They are parts of ourself that we don’t want exposed to the light of day. But in this very place the divine light begins its redemptive work. As grace meets hurt and pain, the power of the shadow side begins to shift from shame to song, from fear to freedom, and from guilt to hope. Here is where darkness and light come together; where the internal rhythm of the soul begins to dance in harmony with the rhythms of creation.

Prayer

Lord, may the roots of my fear be replanted in the soil of Your grace and may the light of Your love produce a crop of insight and peace. Amen

Right Where No One Is Looking

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

I can’t stop crying. I’m not sure why, But writing the reflection on this weak’s Gospel reading has me all emotional. So let me just say again, I love you.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - 3rd Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for January 25, 2026

Isaiah 9:1-4   /   Psalm 27:1, 4-9   /   I Cor. 1:10-18   /   Matthew 4:12-23

Summary of Matthew 4:12-23

Jesus begins his public ministry after learning that John the Baptist has been arrested. He goes to Galilee and settles in Capernaum. In typical Matthew style, this move is connected to the prophetic writings of the sacred scriptures. Matthew states that this is a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy about light dawning in a region associated with darkness. Jesus’ message is similar to his cousin John’s: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” As he walks along the Sea of Galilee, he calls Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John, who leave their work immediately to follow him. The passage concludes by describing Jesus traveling throughout Galilee, teaching in synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every kind of disease.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

Is it possible to take the description of the geographical landscape of Jesus’s early ministry and apply it to the inner landscape of the spiritual journey? Absolutely. Let’s consider the land of Capernaum. The Old Testament passage to which Matthew connects Jesus’s travels is found in Isaiah 9:1-2. There we find a reference to the land of Zebulun and Naphtali. These were northern territories of Israel that included the lakeside town of Capernaum.

This area was the first portion of Israel taken into captivity by the Assyrians when the northern kingdom was attacked. Over seven hundred years later (in the time of Jesus) the region still represented political defeat, physical exile, lost autonomy, and vulnerability. The darkness referenced is probably not about morality or ethics, but rather about vulnerability, insignificance and defeat. And all of us could probably testify to parts of ourselves that would mirror vulnerability, feelings of insignificance and defeat.

Here is where the story gets spicy. The journey of sacred learning (Jesus’s teaching), the story of the good news of redemption (Jesus’s preaching), and the transformation of the soul (Jesus’s acts of healing) don’t begin at the center of personality, at the crossroads of religious excellence or in the spotlight of political power (Jerusalem). No, true transformation seems to begin at the margins, in the shadows, in the forgotten places relegated to insignificance. When grace and love touch grief …and loss …and open wounds …and exhaustion ..and discouragement …and depression …and sadness …and vulnerability …and insignificance …and defeat, something changes. Maybe its a shift in perspective, maybe a small healing, maybe a new way to hear, maybe a small boost of adrenaline, maybe a change in your gait, and maybe a spark of life where it once felt dead. And who knows, maybe in this forgotten, forsaken space you might say that it seemed like the blind parts see anew, the deaf parts hear something again, the lame parts are now contemplating dance lessons, and the once dead parts are making New Year’s resolutions! Oh thank God the good news came to Capernaum.

The Next Best Move

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

Good decisions don’t always result in great outcomes. Excellent choices don’t always produce outstanding results. You can do everything right and things still go terribly wrong. We don’t control all the variables and we never will. So when things seem to go upside down, I hope you don’t spend time and energy on trying to lay blame. Instead ask, what’s next? What is the next best thing we can do? There are seeds of learning in nearly every difficult circumstance. Water and nourish those seeds instead of wasting energy on blame or guilt. Listen to the wisdom within and let the outward circumstances bend toward your next best move.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A -  2nd Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for January 18, 2026

Isaiah 49:1-7   /   Psalm 40:1-11   /   I Corinthians 1:1-9   /   John 1:29-42

Psalm 40:1-11

Psalm 40 is in a section that is referenced as prayers of David. The reading is from the beginning of the Psalm and is a proclamation of deliverance and trust. The last six verses of the Psalm, which are not part of the reading, reference distress and petition. The poet tells a story of deliverance, and speaks about how the inner heart is aligned with the divine purposes of God. However, the story teller confesses that the current circumstances are filled with distress, struggles, poverty and sin (verses 12-17). The poem or song ends with the writer waiting for God to respond.

This is a difficult psalm, in part because it begins in deliverance and ends in struggle. It starts with a “new song” and moves toward a plea for help. The triumph proclaimed in the beginning seems to give way to the reality of current circumstances. And, those outward circumstances can play havoc with out plans, our perspective and our inner peace.

Verse 6 identifies the delimma of the outward journey. When we live from the outside in, we begin with our circumstances and offer outward responses such as sacrifice, obedience to the law, and commitment to producing good works. When we listen to the divine voice we are confronted with the reality that sacrifice and offering (the outward expression of the law) is neither required nor desired. The inner journey is the path to wholeness. And from there we are able to live from the inside out.

There are parts of me that want to stay busy, to offer something tangible, something measurable. Sacrifices are appealing that way. They let me feel accomplished. Inward listening, on the other hand, leaves me exposed. It requires patience, humility, and the willingness to be changed.

Something inside the psalmist has come into harmony with something larger than himself. The “law” is no longer external—no longer a demand pressing in from the outside—but rather an inner orientation, a felt sense of direction. From that posture, the external problems still weigh on us, but in a different way. They no longer feel eternal, omnipotent or as personal. Instead they fade under the light of faith, they bend under the weight of truth and begin to evaporate in response to the heat of inner strength.

Prayer

Lord, when conflicts escalate, problems mount, and circumstances overwhelm, please remind me that external acts of righteousness usually just pad my ego. Take me inward to a place of listening, and may listening be my act of prayer. Amen

What’s Your Name Today?

Dear Sutton and Savannah,

As I’m guessing you have experienced with your own children, picking a name for a newborn can be a daunting task. I love your names. But, I know that life’s experiences sometimes impose different names, or at least different identities, on you. The current political and social landscape seems to have glorified name-calling in its worst forms. It is hurtful, degrading and dehumanizing to both the victim and the perpetrator. Part of inner work is to discard the inner graffiti written by those who overflow with toxic waste, and give voice to the true you that is bursting with divine power and grace and radiance and love. I hope you let the magnificent, authentic you define your identity today.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A -  2nd Sunday after Epiphany (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for January 18, 2026

Isaiah 49:1-7   /   Psalm 40:1-11   /   I Corinthians 1:1-9   /   John 1:29-42

Summary of John 1:29-42

This week we move from the Gospel of Matthew to the Gospel of John in order to pick up an additional story of the connection between the cousins John (the Baptist) and Jesus. In this passage John publicly identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world,” testifying that he has seen the Spirit descend upon him and declaring Jesus to be God’s chosen one. Two of John’s disciples hear this testimony and follow Jesus, and they spend the rest of the day with him. One of them, Andrew, then brings his brother Simon to Jesus, who looks at him and gives him a new name—Cephas (Peter). The passage provides us with insight into the early days of Jesus’s teaching ministry, and the beginning of transformation in the lives of the disciples.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

There are some curious statements made in this passage. (Those I find curious may be different than what you find curious. Follow your own curiosity and see where it leads.)

1. In verses 31 and 33 John (the Baptist) says that he doesn’t know Jesus. These two are cousins and their mothers apparently had a good relationship (Luke 1:39). It seems odd that he wouldn’t know him.

2. In verse 39 it seems odd that we are told the time of day, but not the content of the conversation. Is the time of day important? Symbolic?

3. Why is Peter the only disciple given a new name?

In Matthew’s story of the baptism of Jesus, John seems to recognize Jesus when he approaches John to be baptized (Matthew 3:14). Or maybe he didn’t recognize him at first. However, if we look toward the inner journey revealed in this passage, the phrase makes sense. “I myself did not know him”; my ego does not know the path to life and enlightenment. Rather it is being attune to the divine voice within that enables one to recognize the truth and beauty that is right in front of us. John can represent for us the external and internal guides that provide insight, language and orientation toward something that is real, but not yet personally known.

This movement toward an inner new life begins with a subtle shift. These new disciples apparently do not receive a sermon from Jesus. They receive a question: “What are you looking for?” This is where the journey turns inward. What began as outward projection—someone else telling me what matters—becomes an interior inquiry—what do I actually want? The invitation, “Come and see,” is not a demand for belief but a request for presence. And then comes the quietest, most important line in the passage: “They stayed with him.” Transformation in John’s Gospel begins not with dramatic conversion, but with lingering in the inner space of both self-reflection and divine awareness..

The text gives us both a moment and a process. There is a specific hour—four in the afternoon—when something begins. And yet, nothing is rushed. They stay. Time passes. Identity is not downloaded; it is formed slowly through proximity. This mirrors the inner journey, where insight may arrive in flashes, but integration unfolds over long, unremarkable stretches of staying with questions, relationships, and truth.

From this vantage point, we might consider that Jesus does not tell Peter who he must become; he names what is already present. “You are Simon… you will be called Cephas.” The renaming is not an imposition but a recognition. The name does not create Peter’s future; it reveals a deep pattern already forming within him.

This matters inwardly. There are names (or identities) placed on us by fear, by family systems, by religion, by culture—names that constrict rather than call. But there are also names that arise from being truly seen. In the inner journey, transformation is less about acquiring something new and more about having what is already within us spoken aloud at the right time, by the right voice.

Weather Alert

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

There is something within me that desires to protect you from every storm and earthquake that might come your way. I know that I have not, and cannot, do that. That feels bad enough. But what feels worse is knowing that I have actually been the source of some of those storms. Ugh. I’m sorry.

Storms, floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, lightening, marital conflict, vocational turmoil, parenting, learning and individuation are all inherently dangerous. They leave us feeling vulnerable and exposed. I encourage you to remember the feeling, for it may be the very place where you discover the divine voice, both without and within.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Baptism of the Lord

Readings for January 11, 2026

Isaiah 42:1-9   /   Psalm 29   /   Acts 10:34-43   /   Matthew 3:13-17

Psalm 29

There are collections of poetry out of the Canaanite tradition, and other ancient near-eastern groups, called “storm poetry.” This literary form points toward storm deities who deserved recognition for the havoc and blessing they could create through extreme weather and geological upheaval. The poetry acknowledges a divine force that is not controlled by human will. Psalm 29 is a Hebrew version of that literary form. Therefore it is characterized by its commitment to one God, not to multiple deities. And the poetry asserts that the work of the Divine is not random nor nefarious, but rather is directed toward movement, redemption and blessing.

In verses 5 and 6 the poet references Lebanon and Sirion. Lebanon is most likely a reference to the Lebanon mountain range, known at that time for its massive cedar trees. Sirion is the name for Mt. Hermon, the tallest peak in the region. They were both symbols of strength, power and permanence. But cedars and mountains don’t skip… And that’s the point. There is a power that is greater than the cedar or the mountain. And it is a power that cannot be domesticated.

The storm language is a beautiful fit for the inward journey. Too often we worship the inner structures of stability, we cling to some knowledge we have acquired, or we deify an opinion as if we have been enlightened with some ultimate truth. We cling to a particular way of doing things because it is familiar, even if it is no longer constructive or effective.

In a strange sort of mercy, our inward foundations are rattled. Old patterns no longer serve us well. An earthquake erupts in a relationship and shatters the old way of seeing things. A storm within pits new information against tired beliefs, or novel experiences against biased thinking, or mere exhaustion against institutional allegiance. The inward rafters shake and the foundational footers give way. The rising floodwaters of the unconscious expose the fragility of possessions and the fleeting nature of security.

As difficult as all of this feels, it is also the path to fresh fertile soil. it is the way of separating the chaff from that which is life giving and nutritious. It is how space is created for innovation, fresh perspectives and new life. When the storm stirs the inward journey we are given the opportunity to discover that which is bigger than we can control. There is a divine voice within that is neither domesticated nor idle. It is unleashed love and untamed passion. And to embrace it is to feel mountains skip, to watch trees dance, to hear creation sing, to let the unconscious emerge.

Prayer

Lord, when my soul experiences the storm, when the outward earthquake shakes the inward foundations of belief, please help me move from a place of fear and panic to a posture of awe. Amen.

Just Because You Are You

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

Our economy is built on productivity and competition. We drag this same approach into our spiritual journey. Doing more and producing more seems like the way to please others, and ourselves, with our religious attributes. Being productive is probably essential to our physical survival, but it can be a hinderance to our spiritual survival. I think that which is essential to our spiritual survival includes being self-aware, practicing grace toward yourself, and being still long enough to hear the divine voice within say, “I am so proud of you, just because you are you.”

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Baptism of the Lord (Texts, Art, Hymns)

Readings for January 11, 2026

Isaiah 42:1-9   /   Psalm 29   /   Acts 10:34-43   /   Matthew 3:13-17

Summary of Matthew 3:13-17

The Lectionary continues the story of Jesus's baptism, the first half of which was the scripture for the second Sunday of Advent. (For more background, see the December 1st commentary.) Despite John’s objections, he consents to baptize Jesus. Following the baptism, the Spirit of God appears like a dove, and the voice of God affirms Jesus.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

What might we learn about ourselves if we view the characters and storyline as reflective of our inward journey? John is a prophet, a voice of one crying in the wilderness. He is an example of the dynamic feminine voice within. This voice can be dramatic. It is sometimes set apart from the crowd. It sees the world from a different angle. And this voice often says what others are unwilling to say. The call to repentance is a call to change direction. The feminine dynamic voice senses when something doesn’t feel right or doesn’t seem right. Individuals who lean into this personality style have a trusted inward intuition. Those who don’t often have a tough time trusting their intuition.

The dynamic feminine voice is sometimes called the Transformer voice. It is accessible to all, but some have this as a dominant personality style. When out of balance, this personality can be abrasive and insensitive to their affect on others, yet they also tend to be charismatic. This part of a person cares deeply about others, but can be impatient when change doesn’t happen.

John shows us what it looks like to be in balance. He has a message of repentance, but he knows that it is not the whole story. He wants people to “change direction” but he knows that Jesus holds the message of where the change should lead. John has strong opinions, but listens to the instructions of Jesus.

So where might inward reflection take us?

1. How does the Transformer voice speak up within you? Where is the energy to bring about an important change in direction? What would you do if you weren’t afraid of the response of others?

2. If you are naturally a Transformer, what are the other voices within that will keep you in balance? Can you admit that what you see clearly is still only part of the whole story. How can you increase your awareness of the impact you have on others?

3. The dove is an image of peace. John seems to be a character of confrontation. When John listens to the voice of another, Jesus, the voice of balance and wholeness, the voice of the divine, he gets to experience peace. What would bring you a sense of peace within.

Water is often a symbol of the unconscious. We think of the water’s of baptism being waters of cleansing. Yes, that fits with repentance. But baptism is also about new birth. Here the symbolism is of entering into the journey and exploration of the unconscious. It is about exploring a new level of understanding; a new way of living. And here the divine voice says, “I am pleased.” And remember that to the best of our knowledge Jesus has not yet taught, preached or healed. This is not a journey of productivity, but rather of greater consciousness and peace.

Fall in Love With Trying

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

Listen to other people’s opinions, but don’t let them determine who you are. Seek the wisdom of others, but don’t let them rob you of your dreams. Consider other viewpoints, but ultimately it is your decision. Take time to listen to the voices within, but don’t use that as an excuse to procrastinate. Use your initiating energy to take action, try, fail, try again, move forward and let your outward actions reflect your inward dreams and ideals. It’s your life. You don’t have to have it figured out; just live it and embrace it.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Epiphany Sunday

Readings for Epiphany Sunday, January 4 (or January 6), 2026

Isaiah 60:1-6   /   Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14   /   Ephesians 3:1-12   /   Matthew 2:1-12

Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14

The portion of scripture that is referred to as the Psalms is broken up into five books or sections. This is likely intended to coincide with the five books of the Pentateuch. Thus, it is a book of songs that is intended to coincide with the journey of the Israelites. Psalm 72 is the last Psalm in the second book. It follows the pattern of a national prayer on behalf of the king.

Prayers for external circumstances can be viewed as originating out of internal struggles, desires, hopes and conflicts. This prayer asks that God bless the king of the nation with righteousness and prosperity. It asks that the king defend the afflicted, save the children, and deliver the needy. The desire is that this king be known not for wealth and power, but for justice and righteousness. There is a conquering or initiating side to all of us. When it is out of balance it can lead to self-serving competition, vilification of others, greed and abusive power. On the other hand, a complete absence of that voice in our life can lead to stagnation, missed opportunities, being bullied, and can contribute to depression.

This prayer can be one for inner resolve, a visionary spirit, that finds joy in accomplishing tasks that benefit all. It is a posture within us that opens the doors for increased prosperity, while simultaneously increasing the attitude of generosity. It sees power as a way to help others and bring about justice.

The inner voice that represents the dynamic-masculine energy in our life is a powerful force (sometimes referred to as yang). However, when it is out of balance in either direction, it is destructive to the other parts within us. But when it is expressed in healthy ways, it makes room for all the voices within the inner kingdom. It works in harmony with all that is within. And then the outward expression of that holy inward life naturally produces an outward abundance of love and grace.

Prayer

Lord, help me when I get stuck. Help me to be honest about my fear of failure, my tendency to compare myself to others, and my embarrassment that I don’t always know what I think I’m supposed to know. Help me to fall in love with trying. Amen

Dream Resolution

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

You know of my tremendous respect for dreams. I believe they are an amazing resource on the inner journey toward self-awareness, insight and spiritual renewal. Thank you for being a listening ear to my many ruminations on my dreams and yours. As you have heard me say, everyone dreams every night. And every night dreams do their essential work of emotional regulation whether we pay attention to them or not. But when we pay attention, we can be rewarded with insight, creativity, resilience and growth. My New Year’s resolution is to take 5 minutes each morning before I get out of bed to reflect on my dreams. I invite you to hold me accountable!

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Epiphany Sunday

Readings for January 4 (or January 6), 2026

Isaiah 60:1-6   /   Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14   /   Ephesians 3:1-12   /   Matthew 2:1-12

Summary of Matthew 2:1-12 - The Visit of the Magi

Magi (wise men) from the east, see a star that they believe is a signal or sign regarding the birth of the king of the Jews. They travel to Jerusalem to inquire of King Herod about the location of this birth. King Herod is disturbed by this news, as is all Jerusalem. He gathers the chief priests and scribes, who tell him that the Messiah is to be born in Bethlehem, citing Micah 5:2 as prophecy. The star leads the Magi to the exact location, where they find Mary and the child. They present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Warned in a dream not to return to Herod, the Magi go back to their country by another route.

Scripture as a Mirror of the Soul

The Magi were likely gentile scholars from an area near Persia or Babylon. Some believe that the inclusion of this story indicates that from birth Jesus’ work was intended to include the gentile world. And the inclusion of the Micah reference (5:2) reveals the perspective that Matthew has of connecting the circumstances of Jesus’ life to the messianic prophecies of the ancient Jewish writings.

 If we are to live out the Good News, then the gospel story must be told from the inside out. If the outward is a reflection or projection of the inward, then what does this story reveal about the pilgrimage within us?

1. The scope of who we are is far greater than we yet understand. There are parts within that are as far removed from our consciousness as Persia was from Bethlehem. Yet those parts often have a better grasp of the realities of the Kingdom of God than the authorities that rule the conscious life. 

2. There is a wisdom within me, and you, that is both reasonable (scholarly) and intuitive (mystical). But I am usually skeptical of one or the other. There is an inner Magi that knows how to hold the two in balance, and take action with belief and grace.

3. My consciousness is plagued with King-Herod-like paranoia and protectionist power struggles that screen out the good and the grace-filled moments that serendipitously come across my path.

4. I have a Herod inside of me, whose voice needs to be heard, but needs to NOT be the king. Because, with the Herod voice at the center of my life, when Herod is troubled, all Jerusalem within me is troubled as well. I can quickly become manipulative, conniving and even violent.

5. The inner Magi can lead us to seeing fingerprints of the divine in the most unexpected places; the stars, the fearful King, the humble town, and even in dreams. This posture of openness and anticipation seems to often be accompanied by a sense of gratitude for the outward experiences that affirm the inward journey, and a posture of generosity toward others.

Finally, what about the dream? Maybe we don’t give it a second thought. However, if we look past this singular passage, we should note that the Christ child, and those around him, are protected by four different dreams.

1. Matthew 1:20 The Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to take Mary as his wife.

2. Matthew 2:12 The Magi were warned in a dream not to return to Herod.

3. Matthew 2:13 Joseph was told in a dream to take his family to Egypt.

4. Matthew 2: 19-20 An angel appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to return to Israel.

Dreams are referenced throughout scripture, yet most of the modern church has very little to say about them. Nevertheless, they provide a wonderful pathway to the inner life, and a way by which to interact with the unconscious parts that can offer Magi-wisdom for our journey of faith.

Becoming What You Were Made To Be

Dear Sutton and Savannah

I really don’t know what you were made to be, but I am in awe of what you have become. The notion of there being one best divine plan for your life just doesn’t make sense. Each decision we make, and every response we may have to any given circumstance, presents multiple pathways for our future. We are participants in mapping the outcome of our life. The poet of Psalm 148 invites all the characters of the outward cosmos and all the characters of the inner life to sing their own unique song of praise; everything in its own way, and every one in their own voice. I hope and pray you never stop singing your unique song in your unique way.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - First Sunday After Christmas

Readings for December 28, 2025

Isaiah 63:7-9   /   Psalm 148   /   Hebrews 2:10-18   /   Matthew 2:13-23

Summary of Psalm 148

This psalm is part of the closing collection of psalms that includes Psalms 146-150. Some believe that it was written as part of the Jewish return to the promised land following the exile in Babylon. The psalmist invites every part of creation to praise the Creator.

Scripture as Mirror of the Soul

We often consider the Psalms as instructional. They teach us about life, its struggles and its joys, its hardships and its celebrations. They teach us how to pray, how to praise, and how to lament. They invite us to both think and feel. What do they teach us about the poet? How might the poetry reflect the inward journey of the poet, and then what might that lead us to consider in our own inner journey?

1. The poet takes inanimate objects and invites them to be animated (e.g. sun, moon, stars, heavens, waters, mountains). Maybe the divine is infused into all of creation, and maybe we just don’t have ears to hear the way they sing the song of creativity and life. What are the inner parts represented by these symbols?

2. What about the shadow parts of our life; the parts tucked away in the unconscious; the sea monsters, the deeps, fire and hail, snow and frost, and stormy wind? Redemption includes all the parts of ourself. And redemption is not a denial, squelching or ignoring of their voice, but rather a balanced integration of the unique song they sing, and gifts they have to offer.

3. What about the parts within; that animal-like instinctual side, the foundational mountain-like parts, the creative side that takes flight like a bird, the life-giving trees within that bear fruit and give birth to new life, the masculine voice, the feminine voice, the innocent voice of the child, the invincible voice of the youth, the seasoned voice of the middle-aged and the wise voice of the old? They all exist within.

It doesn’t seem that we were ever intended to be one singular voice, but rather a collection of voices or instruments, playing unique notes of melody and harmony, that collectively form a single song of praise. How boring it would be if everyone and everything played the same note. So why should we expect all of the parts within us to play the same note? We are our own orchestra learning to play a beautiful symphony.

Let’s Talk

Dear Sutton and Savannah

I think the most important journey we take is the inward journey. And, I believe that the most important conversation we have is the conversation we have with ourself. There are so many parts of our personality that generally remain in the unconscious. Difficult or emotionally-charged circumstances can often expose those parts. And they may surprise us. Likewise, we are often infatuated (attracted or repulsed) by those people who carry the very characteristics that are undeveloped in ourselves. When those various parts surprise you, I hope you will greet them with grace, love and curiosity.

-Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - First Sunday After Christmas

Readings for December 28, 2025

Isaiah 63:7-9   /   Psalm 148   /   Hebrews 2:10-18   /   Matthew 2:13-23

Summary of Matthew 2:13-23

Matthew continues the story of Joseph, Mary and Jesus. In response to a dream, Joseph takes his family to Egypt. King Herod realizes that he has been outwitted by the Magi and takes horrible vengeance on the people of Bethlehem. After some time passes, Joseph and his family return to Israel per the instruction of an angel in a dream. Finally, another dream instructs Joseph to settle with his family in Nazareth in the area of Galilee.

Scripture as Mirror of the Soul

This passage raises several difficult questions.

1. Why did God save the baby Jesus, but didn’t save all the other children in the Bethlehem area from the savagery of King Herod?

2. If God is sovereign, why is someone like King Herod, or his son Archelaus, allowed in power at all?

I have heard explanations and reasons that have been offered in response to such difficult questions. But they never seem adequate, particularly for those who suffer severe pain, or grieve horrific loss. Sometimes the only honest answer is “I don’t know.” My experience, or knowledge, or insight is inadequate to provide a response to such a question. And maybe it leads to another important question, “Would having an answer matter?” Or maybe it leads to the introspective question, “Why do I need an answer?”

What if we moved from the obsession of looking at all the outward circumstances, and instead heard the story as an invitation to look inward. The questions then change.

1. If King Herod represents a part of me (or you), what part might that be? The jealousy part of me? The part of me that is terrified of losing control? The out-of-balance competitive masculine energy that only defines success in terms of who I defeat?

All of us have a King Herod within. It is part of our shadow side. We project it onto the people we hate. It will lurk in the unconscious, affecting us in toxic ways until we begin to acknowledge it, and bring it to the surface. Doing so is an essential part of the journey to health.

2. If Joseph is a part of me (or you), what part might that be? The part that is sensitive to the divine voice within? The intuitive part?

I find it fascinating that the divine voice within leads Joseph to the land of enslavement (Egypt). The journey to health seems to inevitably lead a person to confront those ideas, experiences, wounds, trauma, voices, institutional values and cultural norms that have kept us bound and enslaved. Freedom comes, not from ignoring them, but from facing and confronting them.

3. If Jesus represents a part of me (or you), what part might that be? The birth of consciousness? A new idea, direction, value or identity?

The birth of something new often feels as fragile as a newborn baby. It feels like we never have enough knowledge to protect that new life. However, knowledge is not the only resource we have. Intuition, insight, common sense, love and grace provide a wisdom that takes us beyond our knowledge. Listening to that divine voice within, will lead us to engage the shadow, confront the land of enslavement and trek through the valley of the unknown on our path to health, wholeness and freedom.

Does God get Angry?

Dear Savannah and Sutton,

Does God get angry? I don’t know, but I don’t think so. I know that I get angry, and my anger is typically a result of things not going my way, not according to my plans, or not in accordance with what I think is right. And usually it comes when I am surprised that it didn’t go my way. Jesus apparently got angry when the temple merchants weren’t acting the way he thought they should. I am guessing he was surprised at their audacity. But I also think that the surprise and anger is attributable to his human nature. Whatever God is, I don’t think surprised or angry are attributes. However, I do think anger is an amazing open door to a better understanding of ourselves; our fears, our insecurities and our rigid thinking. So in that sense, anger is sacred. Maybe instead of shaming our anger, or nursing our anger, we should simply listen to our anger.

Just thinking out loud. I love you, -Dad

Inside Out Lectionary Letters

Year A - Fourth Sunday of Advent

Readings for December 21, 2025

Isaiah 7:10-16   /   Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19   /   Romans 1:1-7   /   Matthew 1:18-25

Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19

Psalm 80 can be considered as a prayer for the community as it asks God to bring restoration. It remembers God’s past faithfulness, laments the present suffering, and pleads for God to once again bring salvation and renewal. The connection to this week’s gospel reading is certainly evident in the frequent plea that God would “come and save us,” which mirrors the name given to Mary’s child; Jesus, which means the Lord saves.

The psalm is attributed to Asaph, as are 11 other psalms. Asaph was a Levite, specifically from the family of Gershon (1 Chronicles 6:39–43). He was appointed by King David as one of the chief musicians to lead worship before the Ark of the Covenant (1 Chronicles 15:16–19). His role was not just to play music but to prophesy through song (1 Chronicles 25:1–2).

I imagine the original music of this psalm would have been bleak and harsh. Maybe it is filled with minor chords. I say this because the psalmist uses lyrics of lament and despair.

We often project onto God characteristics that are actually within us. So when the psalmist accuses God of smoldering anger, we should at least consider that the singers are actually the ones harboring anger and resentment. And the solution to that anger is to pay attention to the divine voice within. Outward prosperity usually just delays the consequences of inner conflict. God’s invitation to salvation is an invitation to make peace with the enemy within.

As has been said before, our outward experience is often a reflection of our inner journey. In this psalm the community is contentious to the neighbors and is mocked by their enemies. In individual terms, this means that an individual’s persona (the way they present themselves to others) is no longer getting the results they desire. Everyone develops a persona based on what is believed to be socially acceptable or, more accurately, the way a person wants to be seen by others. It is not the authentic self, but rather the self that navigates daily interactions in order to get needs met. When the persona fails to meet the expectation of others, or fails to satisfy the individual, the person is forced to consider how vast the chasm is between the persona and the true or authentic self. And this is where the prayer of restoration takes root. Our willingness to connect to the divine within, to receive God’s grace for our anger, and to seek healing for our shame and contentiousness, initiates salvation and restoration. Then we might realize that love shines on us, and can radiate through us.

Prayer

Lord God, we listen for Your voice. Restore what feels broken, revive what feels withered, and protect what You have planted in us. Shine Your love upon us, that we might be saved. And having made neighbors with the enemies within, may our face radiate love to all we meet. Amen.