Chapter 8: Called to Be Dreamers
Parables and Miracles
1. What is the one key idea of this chapter. pay attention to the title of the chapter!
The one key idea of this chapter is that we are called to be dreamers. Our dreams hold the power to energize and transform the course of our lives. Through the parables, miracles, and Paschal Mystery of Jesus, we can learn more about our inner world - the source of our dreams. As we open our monds to listen to the voice within and open our hearts to respond to that voice, we can connect our dreams and hopes to God's. When we do this, we are helping God work to bring the kingdom of God to earth.
2. Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
The first key idea I'd like to remember from this chapter would be the idea of Jesus as the master story teller with his parables. A parable is a story with a twist ending. The goal of these stories was to elicit a search for the meaning of the story. Jesus used parables for comparisons. Parables communicate the mystery of the kingdom. Jesus knew that everyone didn't have the inner disposition to be open to entering the kingdom. To believers, the truth is revealed in parables. To nonbelievers the truth is concealed. Some are open to the message while others are closed. We most realoze that the parables are conveyed on two levels. The literal level is the story itself. The spiritual level teaches about God, truth, and the kingdom. Faith, trust, and humility are equalities that can guide us on the journey with God. I would like to remember this because it is a good guideline for reading and understanding the scriptures with parables.
A second key idea I'd like to remember would be the idea of Jesus as a healer and miracle worker. His actions possessed the power to touch and heal. In his miracles, Jesus confronts the mystery of evil with the power of goodness made visible in his actions. His miracles caused mixed reactions. Some had a sense of wonder and amazement at God's power revealed. Some wondered whether the miracles really were manifestations of God. His enemies beleived they were the work of demons. Others were not sure what to believe. They remained curious and cautious. Jesus' miracles show his power over illness, the devil, nature, and death. I would like to remember this idea because it is a reminder of Jesus' position of power over all.
3. One image that captures the chapter for you.
4. One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal.
I am still slightly confused about the dream issue. I understand that we aren't talking about the kind of dreams we see when we sleep. But I am unsure about this area of our chapter.