Imaginatively Missional
Luke’s voice was soft but steady as he recited the words of Simeon, an old man who had waited his entire life for the fulfillment of God’s promise. Theophilos, reclining by the candlelight in his Ephesian oikos on Embolus Street, listened intently as the familiar imagery of temples and divine glory took on new meaning. …
Continue reading "Simeon: Disrupted by Fulfillment and Peace (Luke 2:29–32)  "
Luke’s voice softened as he recited the words of the heavenly host, the song of glory that resounded across the fields of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.” Theophilos sat in contemplative silence for a moment. In his mind, he envisioned the …
Continue reading "The Shepherds: Disrupted by Glory in the Ordinary (Luke 2:14)Â "
Theophilos sat by the flickering light of a wax candle as Luke recited the words of Zechariah’s hymn. The story of the priest’s silence and restoration had already captured his imagination for he was also a priest, but of Artemis. Still, the story resonated. Zechariah, a servant of God, had doubted the angel’s message and …
Continue reading "Zechariah: Disrupted by Silence and Restoration (Luke 1:68–79)"
As Luke recited the words of Mary’s Magnificat, Theophilos leaned forward, captivated by its poetic cadence. The hymn was familiar in structure, reminiscent of the odes sung to Artemis in the grand ceremonies of the Artemision, yet its content was strikingly different. "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, …
Continue reading "Mary: Disrupted by Favor and Calling (Luke 1:46–55) "
It's 53 or 54 AD. So, imagine standing in the grandeur of the Ephesian Prytaneion, surrounded by marble reminders of the goddess Artemis, the supposed protector of the city and light to the world. According to a prominent inscription inscribed on a marble lintel block, you, Theophilos—a "lover of god"—have served as a Kouretes, a guardian …
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