Jesus often used parables as a teaching tool for his hearers and many of us rely on those memorable teachings to inform and shape our faith. Parables are not meant to be allegories (where each element is meant to match exactly to what it may represent) but rather thought exercises that point to a larger truth (in Jesus’ case ~ the nature of the Kingdom of God). We can learn more about this together!
We can find parables across many cultures & many teachers. There is a body of Japanese parables or Zen teachings called ‘koan’. Teachings intended to produce doubt, reflection, discussion, and new perspectives.
They are also used in Buddhist teaching ~ did you know that Buddhism is not considered a religion but a path or way of living? You could be a Christian & a Buddhist at the same time!
On Sunday (October 13) I plan to include the following koan in my sermon and thought it might be valuable to allow you to read ahead and do your own reflection.
Pema Chödrön, in her book The Wisdom of No Escape: How to Love Yourself & Your World tells the story: There is a woman running away from tigers. She runs and runs and the tigers are getting closer and closer. When she comes to the edge of a cliff, she sees some vines there. She climbs down and holds on to the vines. Looking down, she sees that there are tigers below her as well. She then notices that a mouse is gnawing away at the vine to which she is clinging. She also sees a beautiful little bunch of strawberries close to her, growing out of a clump of grass, so she looks up and she looks down. She looks at the mouse. Then she just takes a strawberry, puts it in her mouth, and enjoys it thoroughly.
Hmmm.
Focus Scripture Philippians 4:4-9
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.
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