Beargrass Christian Church: Recent Episodes
Beargrass Christian Church
Hear weekly sermons and bonus material from Beargrass Christian Church in Louisville, KY. We are Disciples of Christ, part of a movement for wholeness in a fragmented world. Guided by the love of God and a commitment to an open Table, we worship with hope, grow together as a community of faith, and serve with generosity and a passion for justice.
Today we celebrate our Youth during this Youth Sunday! This is the audio from the 11:00 AM Service.
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Today Dr. Trey Flowers explored the story of Thomas.
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This is the audio recording from our 11:00 AM traditional worship service. Today on this Earth Sunday we celebrate God and all of God's Divine Dominion! The scripture and sermon come from Genesis 1:1-2, 1:26-2:1.
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Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Matthew 25:31-46
I doubt anyone would argue the premise, loving is life giving. It gives life both to the one who receives it, and to the one who offers it. It is part of the strange and wonderful economy of God in which we always seem to get more than we give. The bible challenges us to give and receive love in particular ways that if some passages are to be believed, have consequences not only in this life, but for the life to come. God, it appears, holds this kind of loving to a very high standard. Join us this week as we consider “Loving That Lasts” as we conclude our three week stewardship series “Faithful, Hopeful, Loving”.
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Rev. Bruce Barkhauer will be presenting the question of “What gives you hope?” and we will get a 'double dose' of Paul when we consider his words at the end of Romans chapter 8, about the reason to have 'hope' within the broader context of our stewardship theme “Faithful, Hopeful, Loving” – taken from Paul’s 1st letter to the Corinthians, chapter 13. Here is the spoiler alert; Paul says we have plenty of reason to have hope in Jesus Christ! Join us Sunday as we consider together “Hopeful for a Reason”.
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Rev. Bruce Barkhauer speaks on Genesis, Stewardship and politics.
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We have been flippin’ through Philippians and this Sunday we will conclude a four-part sermon series called “Together.” We have heard Paul’s encouragement to stand, serve, and strive together. This week’s message will be “Rejoice Together”—and it will also be my “farewell address” as Senior Minister.
The 4th chapter of Philippians is one of the most beloved chapters in the Bible. Paul is writing from jail to a congregation he clearly loves. He encourages and challenges them to keep serving God and to stick together, rejoicing in Christ.
Rejoicing in the Lord—always—is a central theme in this letter. It is remarkable that Paul can proclaim those words from prison—but he does! He urges the church to rejoice, pray, be thankful, and be unified so that they are able to take their minds off all-consuming worries.
Paul could write a similar letter to us today. What are your greatest worries? How do you handle them? He suggests that we focus on the “excellent things.” Is this the way we normally think—especially in the midst of COVID and the upcoming elections? How could this approach impact our life and our relationships? Give it some thought… see you ‘round the Table!
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This Sunday we will keep flippin’ through Philippians as we continue a four-part sermon series called “Together.” We have heard Paul’s encouragement to stand together and serve together. This week’s message will be “Strive Together.”
In the 3rd chapter Paul refers to his resume—and it is impressive! His ancestry, educational credentials, and religious achievements are second to none. Basically, he says, “If anyone has a reason to boast, I have more!” (What happened to that humility message in chapter two?)
But we have to consider the context. He says that in spite of his remarkable resume, it doesn’t matter anymore. He has found something much better and more valuable. He describes his “before and after” life. He has let go of his “saved by the law” mindset and discovered the immeasurable mercy and love of God.
Can you think of times in your own life when you have had this kind of experience? Think about your faith journey. What are some ways you think you have made some progress? What are some ways you would like to grow stronger or improve? As a church family that is preparing to welcome a new senior minister, what can we strive together to accomplish?
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This Sunday we will keep flippin’ through Philippians as we continue a four-part sermon series called “Together.” Last Sunday we heard Paul’s encouragement to stand together, side by side, as one in the Spirit. This week’s message will be “Serve Together.”
In the 2nd chapter Paul speaks of the importance of humility. The prison-setting from which he writes highlights his plea for humility. Followers of Jesus are to think and to act like him. Humility provides the foundation for unity. Spirit-inspired unity leads to a common-unity (community) that exhibits like-mindedness and abounds in love.
We have heard it said that “pride comes before the fall.” There is no shortage of examples when it comes to a lack of humility leading to a downfall. There are numerous stories in the Bible, in history, in the church, in politics, in business—the headlines and news feeds are full of them.
In the midst of a selfie-centered world, we are called to have a counter-cultural mindset. Humility “levels the playing field” and can open the doors to opportunities for service and ministry and mission. Read through chapter two as you prepare for worship—my colleagues and I hope to be seen as we gather ‘round the Table on Sunday!
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We made our way through the middle of the Gospel of Matthew during the summer. Today I am coming down the home stretch as I share my final series of sermons before my retirement October 31. And I have already picked out my mask for that final day! It seems appropriate to turn to Paul’s letter to the Philippians. The letter is thought to be one of his last and he offers many significant reflections on his ministry that remain relevant today. We will be urged to stand, serve, strive, and rejoice together! And I will be weaving in some of my own retirement reflections.
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Today we conclude a long series from the Gospel of Matthew. We began in June and have focused on the middle of Matthew. We have learned about the demands and delights of discipleship. Today’s text is no exception—and the context is critical. The story is set in the calm before the storm—during Holy Week—between Palm Sunday and Good Friday. Despite the testing and taunting, Jesus keeps teaching. And he’s rollin’ out some of his best stuff in these final days. Religious leaders try to shut him up—but he shuts them down. They question his authority—but don’t play “Jeopardy” with Jesus—he responds with another question and they are clueless. Jesus has already literally turned over the temple tables. Now he turns over the theological tables and they are dumbfounded. Then he pounds home his point with another pointed parable.
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Our story is about a different labor day. There are many Bible passages with which we agree completely. They are easy to comprehend, make sense, and don’t disturb us. But we have also found some tricky texts in the Good Book, such as this week’s perplexing parable from Matthew 20. The message that Jesus seems to be communicating grates against our understanding of what is fair, just, and appropriate. Equal pay for unequal work—this just isn’t right!?...
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Continuing with Pentecost Perspectives
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This week’s story from Matthew 15 will become more powerful for us if we remember the timing and context. Jesus has been trying to get a break. He goes off to pray and get away from the crowds. He even packs up his pals in a boat and sends them out to sea. But after a rather stormy conclusion, Jesus is thrust right back into ministry. So, he tries to get away again by leaving the country.
But this pesky, persistent, parent shows up! She is described as a Canaanite woman, which is an anachronistic adjective. It is an old term. But the phrase is probably used to heighten the tension in the tale. There is a long history of fightin’ and feudin’ between the Israelites and Canaanites. She is an “extreme” foreigner.
And yet, she is also a mother who is desperate. Her daughter is possessed by a demon. She needs help. She has heard about Jesus. She seeks him out, fights her way through the disciples’ defense, and gets an interview with him. And how does Jesus react? First, he is silent. Then he calls her a dog. Is he just having a bad day? Or is she outside of his “circle?”
His response doesn’t deter her. She stands toe-to-toe with the Son of God and finally delivers her knockout punchline. “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs from their master’s table.” And Jesus changes his mind. Perhaps this is a powerful, pivotal moment in his life, a time when he realizes that he has been sent not just to a certain group of people—but to all the world’s people?
This centuries-old story is as relevant today as it has ever been. It doesn’t take long to come up with a list of insider/outsider struggles.
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This week we will continue to make our way through the middle of the Gospel of Matthew and focus on the demands of discipleship. I recommend that you read all of chapter 11—but let me warn you—it is pretty rough! It seems that Jesus needs a vacation. He “loses” it—and lets loose on those around him! It isn’t one of Jesus’ shining moments, is it? But he is probably burned out by endless demands that seem to be producing no results.
But then something surprising happens! Right after Jesus gives a glimpse of his own fatigue and frustration, he offers some of the most beloved words that any of us will ever hear! “Come to me, all who are weary and who are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Wow! Isn’t that beautiful? Here is a vacation invitation—freedom! Here is an invitation to Sabbath, a time of resting in God—in the deepest sense of the word. We probably know from experience that even in the most invigorated, spiritual life, there comes a day when the fire fades and our energy and enthusiasm ebb away. There comes a time to shut it down and turn it off and let it go.
As you prepare for worship, think about what is making you tired and weary. What burdens are you carrying? How are you coping? Do Jesus’ words offer any help or relief? How can being a part of a faith community help us manage the burdens that we have? Can we help ease the burdens of others?
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As we continue to proceed through the season of Pentecost, we began what will be an extended journey through the middle of the Gospel of Matthew. The focus in Matthew 10 is on discipleship. Jesus gathers his dynamic dozen and gives them power over the diseases of mind, body, and spirit. Undoubtedly, they feel honored, humbled, and excited to be ambassadors for Jesus and follow in his footsteps.
And yet, Jesus also reveals that the honor comes with a cost. He describes the reality of rejection, refusal, and active persecution that they will face. But give them credit—their mission has gone from being glamorous and exciting to what could be a thankless, dangerous, fearful (and possibly one-way) trial of endurance.
But he encourages and exhorts them. In all that they encounter, in the face of every challenge and even during outright persecution, the disciples are to find their strength and their identity in being like Jesus, their teacher. He gives them the confidence to proclaim the Good News boldly and tells them not to be afraid.
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We dive deeper into the text for this week and think about Jesus’ sending out the disciples to bring healing and liberation. As we continue with our theme of Pentecost Perspectives, we will again consider the “Pentecost Effect” and how we can view and live our lives as “Spirit filled” people of faith, focusing on ways we as today’s disciples can bring healing and liberation.
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The theme for the upcoming services is “Pentecost Perspectives.” What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Pentecost?” Although Pentecost is the longest “season” of the Church by far, stretching from May until December, some of us aren’t sure “what it’s all about” or “what to do with it.” Some of us might say that it has something to do with the Spirit, but we’re not sure about the implications of that gift. So, I will begin the series with a couple of messages about the gift of the Spirit to the disciples and the early Church. In the Gospel of John, it comes peacefully and privately. In the story in Acts, it comes powerfully and publicly. With that foundation, the rest of the series will focus on the “Pentecost Effect”—how can we view and live our lives as “Spirit-filled” people of faith?
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Part TWO of a conversation with the ministers of Beargrass Christian Church. Last November we did two episodes on Church in the 21st century - "Shifting Ideas About What It Means To Be The Church" and "Necessary Ingredients for Church in the 21st Century." Little did we know that just four months later a global pandemic would force us to re-examine and re-evaluate those ideas.
Part two of the conversation focuses on the Table, community, connection, and "electronic evangelism."
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We are nearing the end of the sermon series “Recognizing Resurrection.” We have thought about seeing signs of new life through our tears, in creation, despite our doubts, in the Voice of our Shepherd, and in God’s House. Today, we look at John 14:15-21 and think about how following Jesus’ commandment to love as he loves brings new life into the world.
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We continue our Recognizing Resurrection series by looking at John 14:1-3. But I suspect that because of the pandemic (and life in general), we are ready to hear these words again. What troubles your heart? What troubles the hearts of your loved ones?
We want to join you in prayer for what might be troubling your heart. Follow this link so we can lift up your concerns to God: https://forms.gle/tm8FFgK33Viie1nZ6
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Last November we did two episodes on Church in the 21st century - "Shifting Ideas About What It Means To Be The Church" and "Necessary Ingredients for Church in the 21st Century." Little did we know that just four months later a global pandemic would force us to re-examine and re-evaluate those ideas.
In this episode of a new series, "Pandemic Ponderings", I sit back down with all four ministers of Beargrass to chat about their experiences since the onset of social isolation. What does sacred space look like these days? How do you minister when you don't gather in a building weekly? Have they figured out a virtual connection? And what about the on-line church, is it here to stay and what could that mean for Beargrass?
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We continue our Recognizing Resurrection sermon series with a message from John 10:1-10 from Dr. Leigh Bond.
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We all wrestle with doubt from time to time. What does doubt say about our faith - especially in the midst of a pandemic? Dr. Leigh Bond shares the story of Thomas from John 20:24-31 as we continue our sermon series Recognizing Resurrection.
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We celebrate Earth Day by examining what our role is in caring for the earth. Kicking off a new sermon series titled Recognizing Resurrection, Rev. Steven Straub shares what Leviticus can teach us about caring for creation.
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What can we learn from the death of Lazarus? Why did Jesus wait? And what about the response of the sisters? Dr. Bond continues our Lens of Lent series looking at John 11.
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During the midst of a global pandemic and required social distancing, Rev. Rob Shrader asks what does abundance look like?
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The Lens of Lent sermon series continues with Dr. Leigh Bond inviting us into the practice of re-visioning our world, community and one another. Based upon John 9:1-12 (13-41) What does the call to be a re-visionist look like in the midst of a global pandemic? What does this call mean for our faith and future?
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This week we continue with our Lenten sermon series “The Lens of Lent” with the story of the woman at the well found in John 4:5-19. The woman is female, nameless, a Samaritan (generally despised by Jews), and maybe despised by her neighbors because of their perceptions of her past. She comes to Jesus in broad daylight and has a remarkable, insightful conversation.
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A special announcement about upcoming episodes and our new podcast series - Real Talk!
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Welcome to the season and Lent –
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Lent?”
Many of us think about “giving something up”—like chocolate or an unhealthy habit. Some folks decide to “take something on”—daily devotional time, a study, a renewed commitment to prayer, or new outreach efforts.
Lent, which comes from the Germanic word for springtime, can be viewed as a spiritual spring cleaning. A time for taking spiritual inventory and then cleaning out those things which hinder deeper connection to God’s grace and mercy.
When we look at our lives through the lens of Lent it gives us the opportunity for introspection and self-reflection. With that in mind, Dr. Bond will share a four-sermon series Title The Lens of Lent. This week the sermon focuses on OVERSIGHT and the story of Nicodemus found in John 3:1-9.
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This weekend we concluded our “Eyes to See” sermon series. We have been thinking about pivotal passages in the Gospel of Matthew. These texts have challenged us to see things differently, to recognize temptation, to accept God’s invitations, to be aware of our blessings, to see the light, and to look for ways to take the “high road” as people of faith. The story that is traditionally read at the end of the Season of Epiphany is the account of Jesus’ transfiguration when the power and presence of God and the identity of Jesus were revealed in remarkable ways.
Can you imagine being one of the disciples who witnessed the event? How would you have reacted? Have you had any “close encounters” of the spiritual kind? When have you seen or heard or experienced God most fully? Have any of those experiences changed the way you thought or lived? Did any of them inspire you to take action?
Listen as Dr. Bond provides a powerful and important reminder for all of us as we conclude our series.
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As we continue to think about the theme of “Eyes to See”, we look to God for guidance and directions for discipleship. Jesus’ words in this week’s portion of the Sermon on the Mount are some of the most challenging we will ever hear. He outlines an alternative, radical way of being and behaving. Some have described these words as the “Be-Attitudes.” They are Jesus’ “Plan B’s”—instructions about how to BE God’s people in this world by taking the high road in our relationships. And Jesus’ “Plan B’s” all begin with a big “BUT!” “You have heard that it was said…BUT I say to you….”
Jesus can’t be serious. We do not live in an innocent world of sweetness and light. So, we buy the bumper sticker: “Don’t get mad—get even.” BUT…Jesus proclaims that there is a better way to live. “If you really want to make an impact on this world, if you really want to transform those around you, if you really want to show people the way to God, here is what I am asking you to do.” Then Jesus unloads this list of impossible possibilities. And he invites us to follow him along the road less traveled.
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When we gather to hear Jesus speak in Matthew 5:13-20, we hear him say some rather remarkable things. Jesus describes his followers as the “salt of the earth” and the “light of the world.” He doesn't say, “Someday you will be like salt and light.” He doesn't say, “If you work hard all your life, you will be salt and light.” He doesn't say, “When you get to the point where you have no problems and are just about perfect….” No, Jesus tells us, “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.”
Isn’t it amazing that a sermon Jesus preached almost 2000 years ago still “works” for us today? He was so effective in using simple objects to help us remember that the realm of God is all around us. He talked about ordinary things—salt, light, bread, water, wine—and transformed them into extraordinary reminders of God’s love and goodness and presence.
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October 15, 2019, Eighteen protesters--including heads of Amnesty International USA, CAIR, America’s Voice, and CWS--wearing life vests symbolizing the life-saving refugee resettlement program risked arrest on the steps of the US Capitol. The 18 protestors represented the 18,000 refugee cap set by the Trump administration - the lowest in the history of the resettlement program. Supporters held 95 photographs of refugees, a nod to the historic average refugee cap of 95,000.
Beargrass member and Kentucky Refugee Ministry Board Chairman, Mike Puckett, was among the protestors that day. This is his story on deciding to be "disobedient".
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This week we will hear a passage that most of us have heard so many times that I wonder if we can hear it anymore? The Beatitudes found in Matthew 5:1-12. These words must be for someone else. What do these words mean for us and how we view the world?
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This week we continue our Eyes to See series with a sermon from guest preacher Rev. Erin Wathen. Erin is the Associate Director for Marketing and Communications at Week of Compassion. In her sermon, Rev. Wathen discusses the work of Week of Compassion and having Eyes to See God's invitation to all of us.
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This week we continue our Ephiphany sermon series "Eyes to See" with a sermon from Dr. Bond titled Eyes to See Temptation from Matthew 4:1-11.
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Rev. Erin Wathen sits down with us prior to preaching at Beargrass on Sunday, January 26 to talk about how God's invitations to her have shaped her life and ministry. Erin is funny, articulate, and wise with a big heart and a wide smile. Erin knows how to lovingly come alongside folks who need to see Jesus.
Rev. Erin Wathen currently serves as the Associate Director for Marketing and Communications at Week of Compassion. She formerly served as Senior Pastor at Saint Andrew Christian Church in Olathe, KS and was also Senior Pastor at Foothills Christian Church in Phoenix Arizona. Erin is the author of two books: Resist and Persist: Faith and the Fight for Equality (2018) and More Than Words: 10 Values for the Modern Family (2017). You can check out her blog, Irreverin at patheos.com.
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We begin the season of Epiphany with a new sermon series titled "Eyes to See." The stories that are usually associated with the season are the discovery of the Christ-child by the magi and the baptism of Jesus. The wise men followed the light of the star and saw Jesus for the first time. The gift of the Spirit to Jesus during his baptism helped people see him in a new way. Generally speaking, an epiphany is a moment of sudden revelation or insight - "aha" moments. In the church, we talk about "God moments' - times when we catch a glimpse of the glory and greatness of God-and times when we "get it" and gain a clearer sense of what God is calling us to do.
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Happy New Year! As the new year begins many folks make resolutions to transform themselves and their lives. Others are a bit more cynical about making resolutions feeling they don't last and really don't make much difference. In this sermon, Dr. Bond examines John 1:1-13. In the text, John proclaims Jesus was God's message to the world of light and life - what could that mean for us as we begin a new year?
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This weekend’s lesson begins with the words, “Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way.” But Matthew could have easily replaced the word “birth” with “adoption” and the story would have been no less miraculous. It is amazing that Joseph treated Jesus as a son, although he was not his biological father. He put his pride aside and showed remarkable love for God and Mary.
To understand Joseph, we need first to grasp Matthew’s perspectives. Matthew wants to present a version of the Gospel story that will work to change everyone who reads it. All of his images, symbols, half-answered questions, paradoxes, and problems are intended to prod us out of merely reading the story. He wants to get us to participate in and wrestle with this miraculous work of God.
The Gospels provide two birth narratives, one from Luke and another from Matthew. Luke’s account is full of poetic tension, dramatic skill and rhetorical flourishes that resound to this day. We will hear that story on Christmas Eve. Matthew’s account is sparse by comparison. He wants us to know that God’s only Son has arrived on planet Earth.
Matthew and Luke each choose to focus their birth narratives on different actors in the same drama. Consequently, what is essentially the same story takes on a whole new look from these separate perspectives.
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We celebrate the birth of Christ in our Christmas Eve service.
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In this third Sunday of Advent, Dr. Leigh Bond looks at Isaiah 35:1-10 and invites us to think about joy. Is there a difference between joy and happiness? When was the last time you felt pure joy? Some celebrate the joy of exchanging gifts or gathering around a fire to bask in the warmth of friendship and love, but the real joy of the season is in celebrating the birth of a child.
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This week, Rev. Rob Shrader turns our focus from Hope to Peace as we enter into the second week of Advent.
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The first Sunday of Advent brings hope. Dr. Bond reflects on Isaiah 2:1-5 and asks as Advent begins what do you hope?
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We are in the midst of our annual stewardship education emphasis. Each year we intentionally devote some extra time to thinking about this important spiritual discipline. We are challenged to give prayerful and careful consideration to the ways we will support the mission and ministry in the year to come with our time, talent, and resources.
We had the privilege of welcoming Beargrass member Rev. Bruce Barkhauer to the pulpit this weekend. Bruce and his wife, Laura, are enthusiastic, energetic members of Beargrass. Bruce works for our denomination’s “Center for Faith and Giving” and he is passionate about his ministry.
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The ministers of Beargrass Christian Church have a conversation about connection, community, and communion. What do we need to do to ensure we are well poised to have an impact on our community in this new era? What does this mean for old ways of doing things? What are their dreams for the future of their ministries?
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Although stewardship is a daily matter, we devote some time each year for a more focused emphasis on stewardship education. We are called to give prayerful and careful consideration to the ways we will support the mission and ministry with our time, talent, and resources.
Christian stewardship is the faithful management of all that God gives to us—a spiritual discipline—and not the same as secular fund-raising. It is more about faith-raising. Stewardship is not “paying the bills.” It is paying attention to how we use our gifts. As people of faith, it is something that deserves “praying attention”—especially when we consider how much Jesus talked and taught about it.
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All four ministers of Beargrass sit down for a conversation about Church in the post-modern world. What changes have they noticed, what do these changes mean for the future of the church, and what is on the horizon - all this and more is covered in this lively and engaging conversation.
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All Saints Day is a time in which we remember and honor those in our church family who have gone on to be with God in this last year. All services provide a time to light a candle in memory of a loved one. Our scripture is from the letter to the Hebrews in which the original hearers were being encouraged to keep the faith. The writer gives a long list of heroes of the faith (chapter 11) before going into the sports analogy of running a race and instructing listeners to keep their eyes on Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” (chapter 12). They (and we) are to be encouraged by “the great cloud of witnesses” that surround us. As we come together this weekend, we will be thinking about those witnesses, saints, who continue to encourage and inspire us in our life and faith. We have saints above and saints below who are heroes in the faith to us. Who are your faith heroes? And in what ways are you encouraging the next generation as so many have and are encouraging you? Join us this weekend as we come to remember and give thanks for many.
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When Dr. Leigh Bond lost his voice, the other ministers on staff went into action ensuring Leigh got plenty of time to rest his voice and recover. The result was something we can ALL be thankful for – a three for one – 3 ministers for One sermon. The approach may be unconventional, but the outcome was phenomenal.
Now coined “The 3 PULPITEERS”- Dr. Susan Lowe, Rev. Rob Shrader, and Rev. Steven Straub provided this interesting take on an old story found in Luke about the 10 lepers.
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In Luke 17:5-10 Jesus proclaims, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea!'" In this powerful and provoking sermon, Dr. Leigh Bond asserts the central problem for the disciples, and for us, is not a lack of faith - but not using what we have!
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Continuing the Lost and Found sermon series, Dr. Leigh Bond discusses the Parable of the Shrewd Manager found in Luke 16:1-13. Obviously, this is a puzzling parable. A landowner learns his manager has been wasting his money—the word for “waste” is the same one used to describe the prodigal son in Luke 15. As the manager, he is responsible for doing things like buying and selling grain, oil and crops, and collecting rent.
But he is also doing his own wheelin’ and dealin’ in this story!
But perhaps a good parable is supposed to make us ask more questions? Where is the good news in this story of a blatant cheater? Was he doing a good thing by lowering the merchants’ debts? Can anything good ever come out of a dishonest action? And if a parable is an important lesson about the realm of God, what can we learn from this one?
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Rev. Steven Straub and Dee talk about pumpkins, the Boy Scouts, the Fall Festival and more!
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PART ONE of a BONUS episode in which I speak with Nina Maples – certified Enneagram Trainer, Spiritual Director, and retired minister about the Enneagram.
We are currently in a sermon series titled Lost and Found in which Dr. Bond examines some of the parables found in the Gospel of Luke. In this series, we see how we can find our way Home, Joy, Gratitude, priorities, and our faith. As a supplement to the Lost and Found series, we are talking with Nina about how the Enneagram can be used to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, others, and God.
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We are currently in a sermon series called “Lost and Found,” which will run through the end of October. In this series, we focus on stories from Luke 15-17 and continue to think about what a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led life looks like.
This week’s text is the third of three “lost-and-found” parables in Luke 15. Luke links the parables together and skillfully builds and reinforces the Good News they proclaim. They are often mislabeled by their negative—rather than their positive messages. They all end in celebrations! The stories are about God’s grace and love and forgiveness.
But I wonder if we have heard the third parable in Luke 15 so often that we cannot hear it anymore? What is Jesus trying to tell us about God? Who is the “prodigal” and who are the “prodigals” in today’s news? Also, does this story inform what we celebrate and affirm on World Communion weekend?
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This is the SECOND of two conversations, I have with my dear friends and fellow Seminary alumni Rev. Traci Simmons and Rev. Marsha Mays-Burton to talk about the important and timely topic of race in America. If you haven’t listened to the first part of our conversation, I highly recommend you go back and listen to that episode before diving into this one.
We pick up our conversation with Traci and Marsha's this question” Is it a white folk problem?” and discuss if there is an answer to racism in America.Our goal in having these conversations is to bring about honest and humble self-reflection that can lead to reconciliation. Believe me, I know it’s hard to hear some of the things that Marsha and Traci lift up. It’s hard to confront our own privilege and power. At the same time, if we want to bring about racial justice, if we really do believe we are all made in the image of God if we are all God’s children…don’t we have an obligation to wrestle with these words?
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Each year we at Beargrass have a special Children’s Sabbath in which the children of our church lead us in worship. It is a wonderful reminder that children are not the future of the church – but an important part of the church right here and right now.
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Last week we began a new sermon series called “Lost and Found,” which will run through the end of October. In this series, we focus on stories from Luke 15-17 and continue to think about what a Spirit-filled, Spirit-led life looks like.
This week’s text is the second of three “lost-and-found” parables in Luke 15. Even though the parable of the lost coin is short and sweet, it has some unique things to tell us.
How did the coin get lost? Why was it so urgent to find it? Why was there such joy at the end when the lost coin was finally discovered—so much joy that the woman told her family and friends about it?
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Rev. Traci Simmons and Rev. Marsha Mays-Burton talk about their experiences as black women in the church and world. This is a follow-up to my conversation with Rev. Rob Shrader about Race and Privilege. Traci and Marsha reached out to me after that episode and asked if they could give their perspective…you don’t want to miss honest, raw, and revealing conversation!
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This episode's scripture reading includes the first of three “lost-and-found” parables in Luke 15. Luke links these three parables together, skillfully building in intensity and power the force of the remarkable messages they convey. We can also identify “layers” of meaning in the stories.
Have you ever lost and/or found anything that was valuable? As we begin to consider these parables, the timing is interesting. Think about what the countless number of people lost during the recent hurricane. And on September 11 we remember the devastating losses in 2001. Not all of our stories have happy endings.
In this message, Dr. Bond invites us to consider “How do we welcome the wisdom to celebrate our “finds” – and the strength and courage to celebrate our losses?
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Author, pastor, mother, and so much more...Julie Richardson spends time with me discussing where her hope comes from, her source of courage, and how "God does not waste pain!" Julie also talks about her experiences in Church and her hopes and dreams for the future of the Church.
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This weekend we continue the series called “Living It Up,” which is focusing on what a Spirit-led life looks like by reflecting on passages from the Gospel of Luke. So far, we have thought about “Freshening Up,” “Giving It Up,” and not getting “Hung Up.” This message is “On Being Puffed Up.”
In the story from Luke 14, Jesus offers tips on good and bad banquet etiquette. It appears that Jesus takes on the role of “Mr. Manners,” kind of a masculine version of Emily Post or Ann Landers. Doesn’t it seem odd that the Son of God is dishing out seating instructions at a dinner party?
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In this episode, we continue the series called "Living It Up," which focuses on what a spirit-led life looks like. This message titled, "Don't Get Hung Up" with Dr. Bond reflecting on Luke 13:10-17 and 14:1-6 two accounts in which Jesus is called out for healing on the Sabbath.
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Rev. Rob Shrader - Minister to Youth and Young Adults - explains why it was important for him to take the youth of Beargrass to Birmingham, AL this summer and shares his experiences and reflections of growing up white. It is our hope you find this conversation to be honest, vulnerable, and most importantly provides food for thought and personal reflection.
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Rev. Julie Richardson, a former minister at Beargrass, filled the pulpit at our weekend worship on Sunday, August 18. Julie is a gifted writer and an eloquent speaker. Julie looks at the story of Ruth and Naomi found in Ruth 1:7-18 and compares their relationship to that of Captain America and Falcon from the Marvel comics and movies.
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Next week we drop a BONUS EPISODE with Rev. Rob Shrader. You're not going to want to miss this conversation where Rob reveals the first time he realized he was white and how it shaped his life.
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Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Vanderbilt Divinity School, states:
"Parables are meant to prompt us to see the world in a different way, to challenge, and at times to indict. We might be better off thinking less about what they 'mean' and more about what they can 'do': remind, provoke, refine, and disturb."Exploring the parable of the Rich Fool found in Luke 12:13-21, Dr. Bond calls people of faith to action - reminding us it is time to put political affiliations aside and respond to the crisis in our country from our higher, primary allegiance as disciples of Christ.
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In this bonus episode, I speak with Dr. Susan Lowe about grief. Grief can come from any loss. Death, divorce, and dislocation are all common contributors to grief. Dr. Lowe talks about the meaning of loss, ways of processing it, and coping with grief while adjusting to a new reality.
If you or someone you love dealing with grief, join Dr. Lowe and Dr. Joseph Quaye for a Grief Support Group beginning Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30 pm in room 114 at Beargrass Christian Church located at 4100 Shelbyville Rd, Louisville KY.
The website for the Center for Loss & Life Transition: www.centerforloss.com
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In this episode, we wrap up the “New Spirit” sermon series. So far we have thought about God’s spiritual gifts of gratitude, peace, hope, compassion, and growth. As we ponder the last part of the passage from Colossians, we will hear about a “mystery that had been hidden through the ages.”
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In this episode, we will focus on growth and diving into Colossians 1:1-14.
There are questions about the author of Colossians, but for our purposes let’s call him “Paul.” The Apostle Paul recognized that just as there is a maturing process in life, there is also a maturing process in faith and spiritual growth. This is a common theme in many of his letters.
Maybe you recall some of his words? “I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but rather as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready.” Do you remember the eloquent images in I Corinthians 13? “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways.”
In Colossians 1, Paul addresses this theme of growing in faith and spiritual maturation.
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For centuries Christians have turned to John 14 for strength and assurance and peace—and Jesus delivers! He reiterates the new commandment he has given his disciples—to love others as he has loved them. He gently clarifies how his presence will remain with his disciples. Jesus assures them of the imminent arrival of an empowering gift—the “Advocate” or “Helper” or “Counselor.”
Several times in his “farewell address,” Jesus focuses on the gift of peace that God will give. What kind of “peace” is this? Well, it is not the kind the world offers. The world offers a seductive “peace” that is based on the temporary success of one force over another—whether it is a person, country, ideals, status, wealth, or power. The peace of God passes these kinds of understandings.
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The season of Pentecost has begun on and we’re taking some time to celebrate God’s gift of the Spirit to the Church. Although Acts 2 describes the Spirit arriving in a dramatic way, there are references to it many years before Pentecost. For instance, Ezekiel declared that God would put a “new spirit” within us.
Sometimes we think of the gift of the Spirit as one gift. But it really is helpful to think of it as a gift of many gifts. So far, we have thought about a new spirit of gratitude and peace. In the coming episodes, we will consider other gifts—freedom, compassion, and growth.
In this episode, we focus on God’s gift of a new spirit of hope.
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In Galatians 5, Paul identifies the purpose of our God-given freedom. “Do not use your freedom selfishly—use it for the good.” He tells us to use our freedom responsibly and wisely. Paul says that if we don’t use our freedom to walk in the Spirit, then we’ll remain slaves to selfishness. Our “freedom from” the law is given to us so that we will have the “freedom for” pursuing a life of service.
You may have read “The Decline and Fall of the Athenian Republic” or similar books. Historians remind us that ancient democracies eventually unraveled because of human selfishness. The average age of great civilizations is 200 years. Nations progressed through a similar sequence—from bondage to spiritual faith to great courage to liberty to abundance. But then, from abundance to selfishness to complacency to apathy to dependency—then back to bondage.
In this episode, Dr. Bond calls us to think about:
Where are the majority of people in our nation are today?
Where are you?
If we want to make America great or great again, where in that civilization sequence do we want to be?
Where do we need to be?
It seems we need to use the gift of “freedom for” or lose it?
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This episode is a treat as Rev. Erin Wathen discusses A New Spirit of Compassion.
Erin is the new Associate Director for Marketing and Communications with Week of Compassion—the relief, refugee and development mission fund of the Disciples of Christ. Prior to taking on this role, Erin served congregations in Kentucky, Arizona and Kansas City.
Erin was the 2010 recipient of the Fred Craddock Award for Excellence in Preaching. A graduate of Transylvania University and Lexington Theological Seminary, she recently earned a post-graduate certificate in Non-Profit Leadership from Rockhurst University. Erin is also a writer and has published two books. Her most recent, "Resist and Persist: Faith and the Fight for Equality," was a Publisher's Weekly Book of the Year in 2018 and recently won an Indie Book Award. Her blog, "Irreverin," appears on the Patheos Progressive Christian network.
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Dr. Susan Lowe sits down with Dee for a follow-up conversation on her sermon A New Spirit of Gratitude based upon Psalm 13. Dr. Lowe shares insights on life and lament. Why is it important? Why do we resist? And what role does God play in lament?
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A New Spirit
Acts 2:1-21
When we read about the “birth” of the Church on the Day of Pentecost—the tongues of fire, the sound of a mighty wind, the proclamation of the Good News in many languages—we may think, “What a bizarre, incredible story!” The people seem chaotic and out of control on one hand—and yet caring and compassionate. They are tightly joined as a group—but also willing to reach out to others. What is it about this gathering that led them to become so spiritually “fired up” with enthusiasm?
It is important to note that the events of Pentecost begin and end in prayer. In the first chapter of Acts, we read that Jesus promises the arrival of the Holy Spirit from God. After his ascension, the disciples and women and Jesus’ family pray together. Acts 1:14 tells us that “all these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer.” Prayer is the prelude to the power of Pentecost.
Prayer is also the postlude to the events of the day. Acts 2:42 says that these people devoted themselves to “the breaking of the bread and prayers.” Prayer serves as the beginning and end, the alpha and omega, and bookends to this amazing story.
So, this story can inspire us today. Do we feel that we are filled with the Spirit—or are we “running on fumes”? Is there a sense of spiritual vitality within our faith community—or has our get-up-and-go got-up-and-gone? Do we manifest the presence and power of God—or do we seem listless and lifeless? Prayer is not only the glue that holds us close to God—it is the fuel that fires us up as the people of God.
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Psalm 13 - A New Spirit of GratitudeLast weekend, as we began the season of Pentecost, Leigh mentioned in his sermon that no matter what we have going on in our lives, we have hope because of the gift and gifts of the Spirit God continues to pour out on us. He said, “The power of the Spirit is available—no matter what our situation or condition or circumstances might be. Often, the Spirit comes gently, giving guidance when we’re lost, helping us say the right thing when we don’t know what to say. It provides strength to keep going when we’re exhausted and prods us to reach out when we would rather not get involved. The Comforter, the power and presence of God, helps us get through our trials and tribulations and transitions and tragedies.”
As we continue to give thanks this weekend for the gifts of the Holy Spirit getting us through extremely difficult times, we will spend some time on Psalm 13, known as a Psalm of Lament. Lament psalms voice complaint and anger toward God (among other things) about something that has happened or is going on in the psalmist’s life or the life of the community. Lament psalms petition God to do something about the situation/experience. These psalms almost always end in praise, voicing thanksgiving, voicing trust that God will make things right.
We are invited to give voice to our laments and find a new spirit of gratitude in giving voice to our deepest hurts and longings for ourselves and our world.
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