Sermons

We live in a goal-oriented culture that wants to have every question answered and to know the cost and end-result of everything before anything is decided.  Three of Jesus’ students go on the most puzzling field trip we could imagine and all they’re told is, “Be quiet and listen!”  Good advice!  Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 24:12-18; Matthew […]

Both readings this week are tough. Moses gives the newly-freed Israelites dozens and dozens of commandments (some are pretty picky) and tells them that their entire future depends on obedience. Jesus makes Moses look soft compared to the requirements he has to get into the Kingdom of Heaven. Does he REALLY mean we have to be perfect?  Accompanying […]

Jesus told his followers, “You are the salt of the earth… you are the light of the world.” (Mt. 5)Ever considered what kind of salt? What kind of light? How do you flavor creation and the culture around you? Where do you shine? How does faith – and Faith Lutheran Church – spice up and […]

Jesus tells his followers that they’re lucky/blessed when they find themselves in trouble. It’s a very blessed/lucky person who can find joy in those times. If you’ve been a friend or needed a friend in times of trouble, you may know that alien sense of joy. Love is always a blessing…especially when it’s need the […]

Jesus invited his first disciples to “fish for people.” Our culture is better at trolling (attacking) people. Reinhold Neibuhr suggested (in Leaves from the Notebook of a Tamed Cynic) that people need to be lured – not argued – into righteousness. Jesus did a little cajoling, a little arguing, and a lot of loving people […]

Two new disciples approach Jesus with a question, “Where?” Instead of answering it with a location fact, Jesus invites them into a relationship. Epiphany (these seven Sundays before Lent starts) is an invitation to “come and see” Jesus by seeing and living with him… and taking a look at where we might need to look at ourselves. […]

This week we hear the story of Jesus’ baptism. Listen as Guest Preacher Tara Spuhler McCabe explores the state of organized religion in our area and how the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism connects us to each other and the spirit of God’s love, grace and forgiveness. Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 42:1-9 ; Matthew 3:13-17 

Joseph and Mary run for their lives… and the life of their son. King Herod dealt with competition ruthlessly (he had his own son killed) so the threat to the Holy Family was serious. When in life have you wanted to run away? When have you been a safe haven for someone who was afraid?  Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 63:7-9; […]

St. Matthew tells us that Joseph was “a righteous man.” In virtually any situation, Joseph did things “by the book.” This time, he knew exactly what he should do and decided to do something else. Courageous or crazy? Yes. A leap of faith is often scary.  Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 7:10-16; Matthew 1:18-25

John the Baptizer was in prison (for embarrassing King Herod) and wondering if he’d been wrong about Jesus and the kind of reign the Messiah would bring. Jesus says,“Watch what’s been happening and decide if that is God at work in the world.” John announced, “Justice is coming!!!” Jesus acted out mercy.  Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 35:1-10; Matthew 11:2-11