Alternate First Reading

Silhouetted figures on hill at sunset
Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:26—12:13a

There is something particularly striking about beginning this lectionary selection [...]

to cut the bread
Commentary on 2 Samuel 11:26—12:13a

In last Sunday’s semi-continuous First Lesson (2 Samuel 11:1-15), we [...]

French Country Bread
Commentary on 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33

Almost from its beginning, David’s life has been overshadowed by [...]

French Country Bread
Commentary on 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33

The story of the conflict between David and his son [...]

Wine
Commentary on 1 Kings 8:[1, 6, 10-11] 22-30, 41-43

When I was 19, I [...]

Wine
Commentary on 1 Kings 8:[1, 6, 10-11] 22-30, 41-43

When I was 19, I [...]

the last fig
Commentary on Song of Solomon 2:8-13

What does it mean to love a landscape? The Song [...]

the last fig
Commentary on Song of Solomon 2:8-13

Meetings are called to order. Calls for action are issued [...]

MET-Salvador Dali-Madonna-detail 1
Commentary on Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

I remember Mickey. I don’t recall her last name. She [...]

MET-Salvador Dali-Madonna-detail 1
Commentary on Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23

The selection from Proverbs 22 bridges two major sections of [...]