Jack Berger
Chapter 8, Called to be Dreamers, Parables and Miracles

1. The main idea stressed in this chapter is that of being called to be dreamers. One example of that expressed in this chapter is Jesus' miracles. These miracles made people believe and understand the kingdom more fully. Through this, they could dream of the ideal kingdom on earth and work for it. The Church's view on capital punishment is another example of dreaming. The ideal punishment for the Church would be something more humane and not life taking. This is the Church's, and should be ours as well, dream and we are called to try to make it a reality. Taizé, France is yet another example of called be be dreamerrs. Men like Brother Roger dreamed of a faithful community to bring Jesus to many. They worked hard to realize there dream and have succeeded.

2. One thing from this chapter that I want to remember is miracles today. There are many miracles happening even today. Some examples are things like unexplained cures, apparitions, near-death experiences, etc. Also, there are miracles happening in our lives everyday, like the healing words of a friend or being shown compassion. Miracles occur when we are given God's insight and feel his love and forgiveness. I want to remember this to look for miracles happening in my life and learn from them.

Another thing I want to remember is understanding parables. Parables are conveyed on two levels: literal and spiritual levels. The literal level is the story itself. The spiritual level teaches about God, truth, and the kingdom. We need to move from the literal level of understanding to the spiritual level in order to better understand parables. I want to remember this so that when I read parables I can have a better understanding of them.

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4. What would have happened if Jesus had been executed other that crucifixion such as stoning, would it make a difference for his resurrection?

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