This is one of those Sundays when the three lectionary readings are perfectly connected with the same theme. Let’s call it, “the plunge into faith.” In the Old Testament lesson, Abraham is called out of his home. If his age, 75, is correct according to our standards, then he was too old a man to…

The readings today start out with the beginning of the story of Abraham and Sarah. The story itself twists through more than 12 chapters of Genesis; and this being the book of Genesis—which means “origins”—it is introduced by a genealogy that links Abram and Sarai to Shem, a son of Noah. The significant thing about…

(Note: This passage is used in Lent, during the period of intense preparation for Baptism. The Book of Occasional Services can provide advice on establishing the liturgical setting, especially if Catechumens are present.) Water and wind. You can’t escape water and wind. From the top of the highest mountain to the deepest part of the…