by Shelly | Nov 5, 2024 | Sermons
Giving with trust Widows are visible everywhere in today’s readings. Jesus denounces those scribes who pray impressive prayers but devour widows’ houses. He commends the poor widow who in his view gave far more than the major donors. Jesus doesn’t see her simply as an...
by Shelly | Oct 29, 2024 | Sermons
God makes all things new Of all three years of the lectionary cycle, this year’s All Saints readings have the most tears. Isaiah and Revelation look forward to the day when God will wipe away all tears; in John’s gospel, Jesus weeps along with Mary and all the...
by Shelly | Oct 25, 2024 | Sermons
Walking in Grace by faith A gift from the Reformation Rooted in the past and growing into the future, the church must always be reformed in order to live out the love of Christ in an ever-changing world. We celebrate the good news of God’s grace, that Jesus Christ...
by Shelly | Oct 19, 2024 | Sermons
True greatness through humble service Today’s gospel starts with disciples obsessing over who will be closest to Jesus, leading to Jesus teaching his followers about God’s take on importance and power. Here Jesus makes it explicit that the reversal of values in God’s...
by Shelly | Oct 12, 2024 | Sermons
God’s good gifts are for sharing The rich man who comes to ask Jesus what he should do to inherit eternal life is a good man, sincere in his asking. Mark’s gospel is alone in saying that Jesus looked on him and loved him. Out of love, not as judgment, Jesus...
by Shelly | Oct 3, 2024 | Sermons
Intent of God’s rule is love Today’s gospel combines a saying that makes many of us uncomfortable with a story we find comforting. Jesus’ saying on divorce is another of his rejections of human legislation in favor of the original intent of God’s law. Jesus’...
