Speaker: Guest Preacher
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Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
In many a church you will find a sign that says, “All are welcome here!” But how often do we forget what it means to welcome each other fully into our worship and community? Jesus makes it clear that when we welcome him, we also welcome the one who sent him, just as when we…
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Fifth Sunday in Lent
Death is not the end all, be all. The death of a loved one may sting but there is hope in the resurrection. Lazarus and Jesus walked among their people after being dead. Not sure we all will have that same experience but do know that Jesus’ love for us provides each of us a place with…
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Tenth Sunday after Pentecost
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…
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The Good Shepherd
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…
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Fifth Sunday after Pentecost
What makes someone a neighbor? Explore the parable of the Good Samaritan in our context today. How are we neighborly? How are we not neighborly? Does it matter who our neighbors are? Some tough questions to ponder but in the end Jesus teaches us to love our neighbors. Period. There are no exceptions. It is hard to give unconditional love but…
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Day of Pentecost
On Pentecost, we celebrate that we have been given an Advocate to accompany us. Poured out in wind and fire, water, wine, and bread, the Holy Spirit abides in and among us. We give thanks that God speaks to each of us, no matter our origins, language, or life path. Filled with the Spirit of…
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Fifth Sunday of Easter
Easter initiates a new day. It anticipates a new heaven and a new earth. The risen Christ is making all things new. In the mystery of holy baptism God has made new people of us. Today Jesus invites us to see everyone in a new light—through the lens of love. Accompanying Scripture:Acts 11:1-18, Psalm 23,…
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Seventh Sunday after Epiphany
Mercy. Mercy. Mercy. Joseph lives it in Egypt. Jesus preaches it in the gospel. The Spirit guides us into merciful lives with the power of forgiveness to reconcile what is fractured and divided. Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 45:3-11, 15 , Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40, Luke 6:27-38
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Sixth Sunday after Epiphany
Our scripture readings today discuss the importance of being rooted in love and grounded in God’s beloved community. Blessing comes not from having everything all together but from being in relationship with one another especially in times of struggle and pain. Together we remember how to trust God through anxious times. Accompanying Scripture:Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1,…
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25th Sunday after Pentecost
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 object of compassion or charity. She, like the widow of Zarephath who shares…