Friday, September 19, 2025
Light from the Readable Books 29: Psalm 151 and David the Small
We look at this “extra” signature Psalm of David, alongside his story in 1 Samuel/1 Kingdoms 17, and with reference to 1 Corinthians 1:22-27. In these we find a particular Christian theme, connected with the triumph of the Holy Cross: God uses what we consider weak in order to bring about His mighty deeds!
Friday, September 5, 2025
Light from the Readable Books 28: 4 Maccabees, God’s Reason, and the Passions
We read 4 Maccabees, a book on the very edge of the canon, in the light of what St. Gregory Nazianzen says, as well as in light of Hebrews 11, Acts 22, and Revelation 12. In it are poignant examples of martyrdom, and strong encouragement to not be ruled by our passions.
Friday, August 22, 2025
Light from the Readable Books 27: 3 Maccabees and the Works of God in Egypt
We read the fascinating book confusingly called 3 Maccabees (which is mostly about Jews in Egypt BEFORE the time of the Maccabees) in the light of Exodus 15, Daniel 3, Daniel 6, Esther, and Jonah 2. God is not confined to the Temple, but comes to the aid of His people everywhere when they pray.
Friday, August 8, 2025
Light from the Readable Books 26: Maccabean War and Peace, Martyrdom and Resurrection
In this episode we consider the stories of Jonathan and Simon, finishing our study of 1 Maccabees (1 Maccabees 9:24-16:24), and then turn to the stories of martyrdom in 2 Maccabees 7. Our readings are clarified by passages from the Old Testament (1 Kings/3 Kingdoms 5:4, Micah 4:4, Zechariah 8:4, and Ezekiel 34:27) as well as from the New Testament (Hebrews 12; Romans 4:17). Intertwined narratives of war and peace on the grand scale, and personal martyrdom with the hope of resurrection, offer encouragement to us to remain faithful in our own day.
Friday, July 25, 2025
Light from the Readable Books 25: Judas Maccabeus, the Happy Warrior
We read the exciting saga of 1 Maccabees 3:1-9:22, understanding Judas Maccabeus’ role in the light of 1 Samuel/2 Kingdoms 17, and Psalm 100 (MT 101). His example of joy, encouragement, and fortitude continue to speak to us in our day, with our own challenges and conflicts.