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Jesus the Good Shepherd: “My favorite image of Jesus is as the Good Shepherd. In John 10, the Good Shepherd tells us that he knows his sheep and his sheep know him.” – Terrance J. Thompson II, Coconut Creek, Fla., attends three congregations; credit: “Do Not Hold on to Me” (2013) by He Qi (1948-, Chinese)
Mary: “Martin Luther thought Mary may have been doing housework when her life changed ... Mary does not fear, she wonders. In an age plagued by fear and skepticism, Mary wonders at this gospel.” – Terry L. Morgan, Christ the King Lutheran Church, Centerville, Ohio; credit: “Annunciation” (1913) by Maurice Denis (1870-1943; French)
Moses at the Red Sea: “Faced with a seemingly impossible situation with nowhere to turn, Moses tells the people ‘Do not be afraid ... .’ If you trust in the Lord and ‘stand firm,’ God will deliver you.” – George M. Brickley, First Lutheran Church, Malden, Mass.; credit: “Exodus” by Azariah Mbatha (1941-, South Africa)
The healing of a boy with a spirit: “I read this story (the healing of a boy with a spirit) often during the 26 years I cared for my son. It helped me understand how Jesus shares our struggles.” – Susan B. Bianchi, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Hershey, Pa.; credit: “Christ’s Pity of the Sick” (1970, by Sadao Wantanabe (1913-1996, Japan)
The woman who touched Jesus: “What endears me to this story is the woman’s boldness … – no words, simply a touch made the connection to her. … [It reminds] me that anyone can approach the Lord with a problem.” – Vivian J. Becker, St. Mark Lutheran Church, Mount Prospect, Ill.; credit: “Jesus Healing the Woman with an Issue of Blood” mosaic (sixth century), Italy

Our favorite Bible characters, stories

Earlier this year, The Lutheran magazine invited readers to submit reflections on their favorite Bible characters and stories. No two entries were alike. Instead, the editors received a kaleidoscope of reflections on biblical people and stories that highlight the diversity of the body of Christ. Here is a preview of those selections, paired with artwork. May they comfort and inspire you this Advent season. You can read the story here.

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