by Darla Turlington

Here are quotations from the Bible as well as from secular writings that pastors and others may find useful in sermons, essays, or other venues.

by Jin Hee Han

Our first issue of this year sets the course for the year, centering on the theme of the DISCIPLE. Our authors in this issue guide us through many transforming venues in which we find ourselves as learners of the way of heaven. Jesus’ unparalleled teaching of loving enemies and his life-giving sacrifice on the cross abide as the mark and price of being a faithful DISCIPLE.

by Kenneth Ngwa

The author explores how one might reflect on superabundance theologically when austerity and the widening gap between the super rich and the poor affects economic discourse and the church’s role in society’s well-being.

by Albrecht Classen

While some are skeptical of the Medieval Mystics’ claims about their visions of the Divine, here is a cogent defense of those ancient people who experienced God’s Superabundance in this most unique way.

by Al Bunis

Since the term “super” is often misused today, describing God as having superabundance, may not have the impact originally intended. However, connecting superabundance to Reformed depictions of both God and humankind may be a good place to start.

by Eunjoo Mary Kim

It maybe difficult for preachers whose congregations are in the dominant culture—affluent and satiated—to deal with God’s Superabundance since it may require imagination to see what God is doing on the margins as well as recognizing our obligations to the global community.

by Chris Shelton

“Jesus said: “Let’s take the boat out into deeper waters.” So out they go and then toss their nets into the depths. Suddenly, their nets are full to the point of breaking…. But the story doesn’t end here, for Discipleship begins not when they haul in the abundance–but when they leave it all behind and follow him.

by Henry W. Morisada Rietz

This article examines a debate within the Biblical wisdom tradition, which derives its truths by observing the natural and social world. While many sayings in Proverbs portray the world as operating by the principles of cause and effect, the Teacher in Ecclesiastes charges the reader to experience the superabundance in our daily lives.

by Mieke Vandersall

The theme of abundance is one with which many struggle and some even doubt, but is the problem with how we perceive abundance because we want physical resources to shower on us? God’s grace abounds in our lives; however, sharing resources with others is our job.

by Bill Elkins

Using Monty Python as his muse and Jesus as his guide, the author notes that these parables are completely different from Monty Python’s story of exploding overindulgence. But does it matter that “something completely different” is possible? In this consumptive addictive culture what can keep us from exploding from overindulgent overconsumption?

compiled by Remington Slone

Lectionary Notes from November 1 Year C Through January 26 Year A

selected by Darla Turlington

Quotations on (Super)abundance.