Bible Study: Trinity Sunday (A) – 2011

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Genesis 1:1-2:4a

This biblical passage concerning humankind’s “dominion” over nature has affected the treatment and use of animals as well as the care of the environment. In particular, a certain understanding of this biblical passage, where humankind is set as master/controller of every other created thing, has been the justification for tremendous environmental destruction and cruelty to animals. How can “dominion” be understood in a more positive way as responsibility?

Psalm 8

Today’s psalm rightly focuses on the majesty of God, in particular, God’s transcendence. It speaks of women and children praising God so as to silence God’s enemies. Talk of God’s love for us can often minimize the truth that this psalm so rightly speaks of in the form of a haunting question:

“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars you have set in their courses,
What is man that you should be mindful of him?
the son of man that you should seek him out?”

2 Corinthians 13:11-13

There is something wonderfully comforting about Paul having to remind the earliest Christian communities to get along and be of one mind! A Christian writer was once asked what the hardest thing was about being a Christian and his reply was simple and to the point: Other Christians! We need to be reminded to take the time to treat our brothers and sisters in Christ well – to make the effort!

Matthew 28:16-20

How do you understand Jesus’ clear command to “make disciples of all nations?” Are you comfortable sharing your faith with others, i.e., coworkers, friends, family? Does this feel pushy or too aggressive? How can “evangelism” be reimagined?