Experiencing God’s love in a chaotic world may seem impossible. We are often reminded in scripture that God’s love never fails and God’s most precious gift was Jesus. Jesus invited everyone to the table without condition. As Jesus invites us to the table, let us open our tables to others without conditions.
Accompanying Scripture:
Amos 8:4-7, Psalm 113, Luke 16:1-13
Jesus finds us when we are lost. This week we hear the powerful reminder of the lost sheep and the lost coin and the party that follows. Each Sunday this party full of ‘sweet tunes’ is for us all. As we foster good party vibes, we humbly are reminded that we too were once lost and have been found and so it is our job to extend this invitation to others.
Accompanying Scripture:
Exodus 32:7-14, Psalm 51:1-10, Luke 15:1-10
There is nothing like finding a place where you feel like you are at home. A little kindness, someone making the extra effort for you- it all ends up feeling like a special gift. This is especially true at church- some extra touches and careful intention can make people feel welcomed and valued. For the fall we are going to explore different intentions that can widen and deepen our hospitality. What are we doing well? Where can we improve? How can we become the place that feels a little like home in the midst of this wild world we live in?
Accompanying Scripture:
Genesis 18:1-14, Psalm 5, Luke 19:1-10
Invited and inviting—that is the nature of the church. By God’s grace we have a place at Christ’s banquet.
Accompanying Scripture:
Proverbs 25: 6-7a, Psalm 112, Luke 14: 1, 7-14
How often do we miss the point and argue over the details. Today’s stories are a reminder to focus on what matters. Stop pointing the finger. Stop putting rules over people’s well being. As we let go of our grip, our gardens flourish and we become partners with God to repair the breach.
Accompanying Scripture:
Isaiah 58:9b-14, Psalm 103:1-8, Luke 13:10-17
The word of God is a refining fire. Jesus is the great divide in human history. He invites our undivided attention and devotion. Today in worship we are surrounded by a great “cloud of witnesses.” In the word and in holy communion we are invited yet again to look to Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”
Accompanying Scripture:
Jeremiah 23:23-29, Psalm 82, Hebrews 11:29–12
The Lord tells us to be ready. Are you ready for whatever comes your way? Hip hop artist, Suga Free, sings the line, “if you stay ready, you ain’t got to get ready.” As the body of Christ, we are charged with the task of being ready to serve. A month ago, Jesus reminded us that we are to serve our neighbors. We are to serve each other. We need to break away from the walls of the church and be servants of Christ in the world.
Accompanying Scripture:
Genesis 15:1-6, Psalm 33:12-22, Luke 12:32-40
Persistence works out! At least that what the readings suggest- keep asking, don’t give up, even one person is worth saving. As God persistently loves us, in prayer we too can be persistent, asking and wondering and dreaming and pleading for all we need.
Accompanying Scripture:
Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23 , Psalm 48, Luke 12:13-21
Persistence works out! At least that what the readings suggest- keep asking, don’t give up, even one person is worth saving. As God persistently loves us, in prayer we too can be persistent, asking and wondering and dreaming and pleading for all we need.
Accompanying Scripture:
Genesis 18: 20-32, Psalm 138, Luke 11:1-13
Perhaps the church, at its best, is “all ears.” God urges the faithful, again and again, to “listen up!”—to heed the word that gives life. So it was with Abraham and Sarah as well as Mary and Martha. So it is for Sunday as we join the assembly to hear the word of God, the word of life.
Accompanying Scripture:
Genesis 18:1-10a , Psalm 84, Luke 10:38-42
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