Prince of Peace: Recent Episodes
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church ELCA
Grow Deep. Reach Out. That's who we are. That's what we do. May this podcast remind you that you are a beloved child of God, and we have a lot of work to do together.
Chad Brekke (Final Sermon) - The great theologian, Gerhard Forde, would often pose this question that every believer faces after the gospel is proclaimed; what comes next? After you have been claimed and made righteous, in spite of your own efforts, what comes next? This question points us toward an uncertain future, even as it reminds us that we do not go alone.
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(Katie Rykal) Today we will gather with a group of young people as they stand in front of us to affirm their baptisms. They will take the promises that were made for them and make them for themselves. We will hear their words and stories. We will hear how their faith has been tested, and who has helped to shape their faith. We will celebrate them and rejoice with them.
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Chad Brekke - As Pastor Chad prepares to head off into the sunset, let’s gather around for one last “ask the pastor” session before his retirement in a couple of weeks. Everything is fair game: the Bible, church, theology, retirement…
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Chad Brekke - A wealthy boss was hoping that taking his religion seriously would get him in good with God. Even the disciples were shocked when they heard what it really takes. What hope do we have, they all wondered? What hope indeed.
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Natalia Terfa (Fina Sermon) - Reflections on the end of nearly 20 years of ministry at Prince of Peace and how God leads us through moments of change. Drawing on Isaiah 43, we explore God's promise of hope, even in the wilderness, and the idea that God's new work is always unfolding. How do we hold on to the past while trusting in the future? What does it mean to embrace God's new things?
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Natalia Terfa - Not too long after escaping Egypt, the Israelites long for “the way it used to be.” Never mind the many ways the old way was not good, healthy, or safe; they just knew what to expect and sometimes it’s just easier to do what you know than to stay in what you don’t. Sound familiar? Turns out God has a solution for this, and it might surprise you!
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Chad Brekke - The disciples prove along the way that they truly do not understand the radical nature of the kingdom now at hand. They argue and wonder about which of them is the most powerful and important but none of them dare to ask Jesus. Today we find out why.
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Natalia Terfa - In today’s Gospel from Mark, we see Peter at both his highest and lowest points—first getting it right, and then so very wrong. It’s easy to judge Peter for his missteps, but if we look closely, we might see a reflection of ourselves in his actions. How is Peter’s journey a familiar pattern for all of us, especially in moments of doubt and growth? How do we handle it when following Jesus gets tough, and what does it mean to face both the highs and lows in faith?
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Chad Brekke - Have you ever gotten into someplace you really were not supposed to be? Maybe you moved down to better seats near the end of a ball game or found yourself up near the stage at a concert. People have always tried to limit access to Jesus to those with VIP status. Today we will take comfort in a couple people who found themselves in the front row!
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Natalia Terfa - Today’s Gospel may seem like a simple instructive, but it’s so much more. This story is a call for introspection and asking good questions, especially in the midst of things changing. Feels like maybe there might be a word for us right now in there too, doesn’t it?
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Katie Rykal - For some, the words Jesus speaks are simply too much and they turn back and no longer follow him. But not the 12. They knew what was in it for them. They knew the gift they received because they chose to stick with Jesus. Our young people have been on a similar journey this Summer. How have they lived out their calling as disciples of Jesus? How have they stuck with it, when it might have been easier to turn back?
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Natalia Terfa - In these short verses from Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Paul reminds the church how important it is to sing together - so that’s what we’re going to do today! Let’s sing!
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Song: Morning Has Broken by Cat Stevens Cover by Paul Koopman
Chad Brekke - As we wade deeper into a presidential campaign season, the guidance offered in this passage sounds more than a little out of reach. “Put away all bitterness, speak the truth, share with the needy, no wrangling, slander, bitterness, anger or wrath!” It all sounds a bit naive and unrealistic. But maybe this rich passage is much more than an advice column. Perhaps we are being welcomed into a new community, defined more by who we are than how we behave.
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Natalia Terfa - Today’s Gospel story is a contrast in what the people want and what Jesus offers. But to understand it, we need to look at the entirety of John 6, especially what comes right before this. We want food and Jesus gives himself - what are we supposed to do with that?
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Chad Brekke - One was a lavish banquet held in the palace, filled with A-list celebrities and power brokers. This banquet ended in tragedy and despair. The other banquet was in a desolate place filled with hungry people searching for hope and healing. This banquet resulted in life-giving community. Invitations to these two very different banquets are always in the mail.
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Natalia Terfa - This Gospel selection makes me tired just reading it. The reputation of Jesus and his disciples continues to grow and more and more people are seeking them out for care and healing. Over and over in this story we get images of the overwhelming crowds and work that is never done. AND over and over we are reminded that Jesus prioritizes rest, and teaches his disciples to do the same.
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Natalia Terfa - Amos sees a vision and speaks a hard truth. Wooooeeee do people not love it. What does it mean that God sets us a plumb line? What is a plumb line? What do we do with this prophecy and what might it mean for us today?
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Chad Brekke - Boy are the expectations high for Jesus! In today's gospel reading, he will lay hands on sick people and they will be made well but Mark seems to believe there should have been many more miracles during this trip. Jesus also has some unmet expectations of his own during this hometown visit. He is amazed by something he encounters there, not in a good way. So he hits the road again to teach, heal, and restore and also sends out the disciples to see how they do. Amazing.
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Natalia Terfa - Jesus encounters a woman who has been sick for 12 years. 12. She reaches out and touches his cloak and he unintentionally heals her. When he asks the crowd what happened, she tells him the truth - the whole truth.
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Natalia Terfa - One of the oldest and longest running unanswered questions in all of history is why do bad things happen? Not just to good people, but at all? Why is there so much suffering? Why do I suffer? Why does anyone suffer? The book of Job is one tentative and unsatisfying step into answering the unanswerable.
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Chad Brekke - There is an old saying, “seeing is believing” but Paul seems to be describing the opposite, “believing is seeing!” We walk by faith and not by sight is the way he puts it. Well, this great passage has a lot of good stuff to unpack, so let’s get after it!
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Natalia Terfa - So many of us have heard the story of the garden and Adam and Eve and the serpent and all the fallout that follows, but what do we really know about it? How do we keep believing the lie? And is our original state blessing, or sin?
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Katie Rykal - As we gather to celebrate our graduating High School Seniors, we hear their words, their stories and bless them as they step out on their own. Whether they are heading to colleg e, tech school, directly into the workforce, or taking some time to figure things out, we will send them out with the reminder that we, as a Church, will always be there for them. Seniors, let your lights shine so others may see your good works and glorify your heavenly Father.
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Natalia Terfa - What does it really mean that we are called children of God? Why does it matter? Does it really change anything?
Video: The danger of a single story - Chimamanda Adichie
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Chad Brekke - I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy…Everybody gets to speak up for God; because the community of faith in Christ is the place where the power to speak belongs, not just to a few, but to all.
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Natalia Terfa - We have a kind of poetic word salad from John’s Gospel in front of us today, where Jesus prays for people in the world when he is no longer in the world. But is “in the world” physical, or metaphorical, or both? How do we understand what it means to be “in” and “of” the world? Is it good or bad? Or Both?
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Chad Brekke - The church today exists in a culture defined by opposition and division. As we look at a fascinating encounter between Peter and folks he considered to be outsiders if not enemies, we may see a way forward for the church in our time.
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Natalia Terfa - In one of my favorite stories in Acts, Phillip is changed by an encounter with a eunuch from Ethiopia. What starts with a question ends in a baptism on the side of the road. Scandalous!! Or is it?
Scripture: Acts 8:26-40
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Chad Brekke - A couple of months ago, we heard Jesus say in Mark’s gospel that "whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and the gospel will save it.” What might these things look like in the real world? When Peter is dragged in front of the powers that be after the resurrection in today's reading, we get our answer. This is what a saved life looks like.
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Natalia Terfa The fear and astonishment of the disciples is made so clear in today’s Gospel. They haven’t come very far, have they? Notice how Jesus doesn’t talk at them or around them. He shows them his body. His hands and feet. To show that yes - that happened - and yet here he is.
Scripture: Luke 24:36b-48
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Natalia Terfa & Chad Brekke Join us in this special podcast episode of Ask the Pastors as we set aside our usual preaching schedule to delve into public theology together. We addressed questions from our congregation around the theme of doubt and questioning.
How does John 14:6, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me," impact those who do not believe in Jesus, such as those in the Jewish faith? Does this mean they are forgotten or excluded?
Natalia & Chad dive deep into the nuances of faith, emphasizing that belief isn't a mere checklist but a journey of trust and understanding. They challenge the notion of turning grace into a set of rules and threats, emphasizing instead the inclusive nature of God's love and the richness of faith as a gift, not a demand.
Exploring the story of Thomas and his doubts, we highlight the communal aspect of faith and the continuous invitation to experience God's presence in our lives. We encourage listeners to embrace a faith that transforms lives and inspires meaningful actions, grounded in the assurance of God's grace.
Tune in to discover a refreshing perspective on faith, doubt, and the boundless love of God that transcends boundaries and welcomes all into the embrace of divine grace.
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Chad Brekke - People come up with some frightening ways to prove their faith. From the power of positive thinking, to handling venomous snakes during worship, efforts to demonstrate personal faithfulness come in many forms. The Easter proclamation turns the tables on this endless quest. The risen Christ defeats sin and death to give us something far better in return. This good news is for you, whether or not you overcome your fear of snakes or are able to declare yourself blessed.
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Chad Brekke - Continuing with our tradition of settling in on Palm Sunday to listen to a live reading of the passion of Christ. Somehow, we always hear something new, something that transforms our current time and draws us in.
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Natalia Terfa Jesus uses the word glorify a lot in this passage, so it’s worth spending a little time thinking about what we think that word means, and what Jesus meant when he used it. The distance between those two answers gives us a hint of what is coming.
Scripture: John 12:20-33
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(Chad Brekke) Much of popular Christianity in the United States is packaged in the always-recurring theme of the power of positive thinking. If we can just focus on that “next level” that God surely has planned for us, we will find true happiness. How does this message sound to the single mother in the refugee camp or the prisoner on death row? Is there hope to be found in darkness?
Scripture: John 3:14-21
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(Natalia Terfa) When Moses was given the Ten Commandments, things seemed pretty clear. But immediately the people began to do what people do and look for loopholes, exit strategies, and hierarchies. What if we took a little time, and went back to basics? Just the big 10.
Scripture: Exodus 20:1-17
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(Chad Brekke) Do you ever wonder why Jesus had to go the way of the cross, the way of rejection and suffering and dying? Wouldn’t just being an amazing teacher, preacher, and healer have been enough? Great questions, let’s get into it.
Scripture: Mark 8:31-38
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(Chad Brekke) Many of us first heard the story of Noah and the ark in Sunday School as children. In our imaginations, we could see all the fun animals and the big boat. But a version of this ancient story has echoed throughout human history and for those who dare to step back into that ark and look around, there is still more to learn.
Scripture: Genesis 9:8-17
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God, today my finitude is rubbed on my forehead. The reality of my limits, my fragile body, spoken over me like a curse: From dust I was made, to dust I will return. Some days I need to be reminded that I am not the perfectibility project I set out to be I am full of bounce and brimming with hope. All woes, solvable. All problems, a distant whisper. When I don’t feel like dust, bless me O God, in the ways I trick myself into believing that my life is something I’ve made, that all my accomplishments and successes and mastered mornings add up to something independent of you.
But on days like today, when my head hangs low, sunk with the grief of my neediness, bless me o God.
When my joints don’t work like they should, when I grow sick or turn gray too soon, when my body betrays me… or perhaps it is doing exactly what it is supposed to do. Tell me again exactly how you made me: from dust to dust. Blessed are we, a mess of contradictions, in our delusions and deep hopes, in our fragility and finitude.
Sim Shalom
(Natalia Terfa) It’s the Sunday before Lent, and of course, that means it’s Transfiguration Sunday. What does it mean that we go from such a high place to such a low place in this short period? Especially since we, like the disciples, present with Jesus on that mountaintop, prefer the highs over the lows.
Scripture: Mark 9:2-9
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(Natalia Terfa) “Everyone is searching for you” the disciples tell Jesus as his popularity and reputation grows. But Jesus doesn’t let the lure of prestige keep him from what he was sent here to do. Where do we go when we’re looking for Jesus? What are we hoping to get from him? Where is it that we will find him?
Scripture: Mark 1:29-39
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(Chad Brekke) We are still in the first chapter of Mark, so many voices are vying for attention. The one crying out in the wilderness, the crowds, religious leaders, worshippers, and even unclean spirits. In this passage, Jesus says, “be silent!” When Jesus speaks, something new happens. Healing, restoration, and hope begin to emerge. Let’s listen in.
Scripture: Mark 1:14-28
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(Natalia Terfa) Pastor Natalia’s favorite story in the Hebrew scripture is in front of us again and of course, she isn’t going to skip it! What do we do when God keeps Their promises? That’s the part of Jonah’s story in front of us today - let’s see what he does.
Scripture: Jonah 3:1-5, 10
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(Natalia Terfa) On this Martin Luther King Jr holiday, we’re going to take time to hear the words of Dr King - a sermon not of quotes or cherry-picked but in its entirety. Dr King was a preacher first, and this sermon reminds us that his words have held the test of time, even when the world keeps changing.
Scripture: Amos 5:18-24
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(Chad Brekke) Today we wrap up our Advent/Christmas theme, How Does A Weary World Rejoice? From the Jordan River to Mt. Kilimanjaro, we will stand in awe together of God’s declaration that we are beloved.
Video Clip: (1:29:36) https://youtu.be/kosPUYq19lQ?si=lIJ5DG9BDDZyi5TS&t=5376
Scripture: Mark 1:4-11
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(Chad Brekke) Here, on the other side of Christmas, we find ourselves living in the same old world with the same old people and struggling with the same old demons as always. On the other side of Christmas, we can't help but wonder: "Now what?” If we are honest with ourselves, many of us still haven’t found what we’re looking for. And then joy finds us again!
Scripture: Luke 2:21-38
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) On an unusually warm and rainy Christmas Eve, hundreds gathered in our candle-lit worship center to hear the Christmas gospel. We continued to contemplate our theme, how does a weary world rejoice? We find hope and inspiration in the awe surrounding us, often in simple, even ordinary ways. We experienced God's presence, not in the booming voice from heaven or the burning bush, but in the babe in swaddling clothes, held out for each of us… the God we hold.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-20
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(Chad Brekke) The angel comes to Zechariah with a promise of good news, but Zechariah can’t fully receive it, and he is cast into silence for the duration of Elizabeth’s pregnancy. Sometimes, weariness can prevent us from leaving room for joy. We’ve had hard journeys. Grief has left a scar on us. And yet, we are surprised by joy which does not come necessarily to replace the weariness. Rather, joy simply chooses to squeeze in right next to us… in a manger, in the wilderness keeping watch by night, in our old age, a thrill of hope the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Scripture: Luke 1:1-23
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(Natalia Terfa) It’s Christ the King/Reign of Christ Sunday. This day was created as an answer to nationalism, so it feels even more important to create space for this day now, as Christian nationalism is again on the rise. When algorithms and broken systems feel like they are running everything, what does it mean to take one day and push back?
Scripture: Matthew 25: 31-46
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(Natalia Terfa & Chad Brekke) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or question.
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(Chad Brekke) The trouble with our God stories is that they are both beautiful and broken. Both essential and dangerous. How do we honestly but respectfully share our own God stories? How do we untangle beauty from brokenness in the stories we tell and hear?
Scripture: Joshua 24:15-18, Amos 5:18-24
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(Natalia Terfa) How do we hold onto hope in the midst of loss, grief, and fear? On this All Saints Sunday, we lean into our ability to hold more than one thing - that we can be grieving and hopeful, that we can be devastated and find joy. We can do this because we believe God comes close to us in our grief - close enough to wipe our tears.
Scripture: Revelation 7:9-17
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(Katie Rykal) As we celebrate our Confirmands on this Reformation Sunday, we will hear their words. We will hear the highs and lows of their faith journeys and we will hear about the people who have helped them to grow in their faith. Maybe their stories will spark something in you - the highs and lows of your faith journeys, and reminders of the people who have helped to shape your faith. How do their stories connect to the Reformation?
Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-13, Matthew 22:34-40
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(Chad Brekke) If you want to get a heated discussion going, bring up politics and issues like paying taxes. Some religious adversaries of Jesus thought they could trap him with a question so loaded, people would turn against him no matter how he answered. Rather than causing anger and violence, the answer Jesus gives causes people to drop their weapons and walk away amazed.
Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22
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(Natalia Terfa) In the wake of what has happened this past week in the Holy Land, we hear this story. It's one of those stories that changes the more you learn about it. A wedding feast, a guest list, and some pretty rude guests. It’s a recipe for disaster - or is it?
Scripture: Matthew 22:1-14
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(Chad Brekke) Paul had a killer resume. He was born into the right family. He was a leader in the most exclusive secret society of his day. Neither the Knights Templar, Freemasons, Skull and Bones nor the Illuminati could hold a candle to the religious and social cache of being a Pharisee in the tribe of Benjamin. But Paul had been claimed by something so much better that he threw all these other titles on the garbage heap. What was that amazing thing? Can you have it too?
Scripture: Matthew 21:33-46, Philippians 3:4-9
Song: Monsoons by Johannes Bornlöf
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(Natalia Terfa) The Israelites are not having a good time, and they would like to make sure God knows about it. I find their grumbling very relatable. What might today’s story of the people of God have to teach us about our own feelings when things don’t go quite the way we want?
Scripture: Exodus 17:1-7
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(Natalia Terfa) When we hear someone, usually a child, say the words - “But it’s not fair!” - What is our typical response? “Life isn’t fair!” What a harsh and hard lesson to learn at any age. No matter how hard we try or earn or think we deserve something - sometimes life just doesn’t go the way we want it to. Today’s Gospel is this same lesson - told in parable form - for an audience that was struggling with this same concept.
Video Shown During Worship
Natalia's Jonah Sermon
Scripture: Jonah 3:10-4:11, Matthew 20:1-16
Song: Dad & Darts by Marcus Mumford, Tom Howe
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(Chad Brekke) In the midst of a long, complicated theological treatise related to the law, faith, inclusion, heritage, and salvation, Paul fires off four simple questions and follows up with an answer you need to hear.
Scripture: Romans 10:5-15
Song: Like Heaven by Oomiee
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(Natalia Terfa) It’s fall kick-off, and while the lectionary doesn’t follow the school year calendar, it feels like it today. In the Gospel today Jesus addresses some questions about what it means to be church - and how we can be church together, While a lot has changed since Jesus answered these questions, much of what he says can be applied to our own congregation today.
Scripture: Matthew 18:15-20
Song: Cleopatra by Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) Peter had different ideas about what it means to call Jesus the Messiah. It’s not about power and control and ruling and victory. It’s more about serving, giving, blessing, and hospitality. So when it comes to Paul’s advice to the church, it’s always Opposite Day!
Scripture: Matthew 16: 21-28, Romans 12:9-21
Song: Video Knights by Spring Gang
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(Natalia Terfa) Welcome to the Natalia Terfa lectionary. We’re in a text today that is never included, not once, in our three-year lectionary cycle. But, as I come back from three months away, I want to talk about Hagar today, and how significant she is, and how much it matters that she names God for all of us.
Scripture: Genesis 16
Song: RGBA by Chill Cole
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(Chad Brekke) The woman we meet in the gospel today had no business believing that Jesus would bother to help her in her time of need. Remember that humiliated woman who snuck up behind Jesus just to reach out and touch the hem of his garment? Yeah, this is not that woman! The Canaanite woman we meet today demands a blessing. The disciples are so annoyed they ask Jesus to send her away. But Jesus sees something in this foreign woman in need, something he has been searching for. Something he wants you to have as well.
Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28
Song: Rullar Upp by Ikhana
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(Chad Brekke) Let’s say you think you see Jesus coming and are allowed to ask only one question to verify that it is the Lord. What question would you ask? Well, this scenario is just what we have in front of us today and you won’t believe the question chosen. It may have been the last question that would have come to my mind. That is before I saw what happened next!
Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33
Song: Deep Sea Walk by Lama House
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(Angela Denker) In a culture that often shames those who are in need, Jesus calls to all of us who thirst and hunger - reminding us that as we acknowledge our own need, we’re offered in return abundance and community and opportunities to share.
Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-5, Matthew 14:13-21
Song: Jakarta by Bonsaye
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(Grace LaTourelle) Hear how the transformative experience in the Colorado mountains has left a lasting impression on our youth. Like a modern-day Transfiguration, their journey to the Colorado mountains has reshaped their perspectives, leaving them inspired.
Scripture: Matthew 17:1-9
Song: Mountain Air by Cody Francis
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(Angela Denker) We live in a society and economy that often assumes all that grows is blessed. But Jesus reminds us that the weeds grow alongside the wheat. What does this mean for the Church?
Scripture: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Song: The Farmhouse by Silver Maple
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(Chad Brekke) The parable of the sower and the seed is so familiar, our minds tend to jump to the moral of the story before the lector is done reading. There may yet be something new this old story is trying to teach us. There may be truth hidden in the dry, cracked earth we walk on.
Scripture: Matthew 13:1-9
Song: Wildlife Explorer by Marc Torch
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(Angela Denker & Chad Brekke) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or question.
Song: Happy-Go-Lucky by Victor Lundberg
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(Angela Denker) How to celebrate the Fourth of July this week while rejecting the lies of Christian Nationalism - and remembering the lessons of the theology of the Cross
Scripture: Ezekiel 2:1-5, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13
Song: Life of the Party by Maybe
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(Chad Brekke) Lutherans love to focus on God’s grace rather than what is often called “works righteousness.” But what about becoming a better, more compassionate and caring person? Should I even try? Let's walk right into this tension together and look around!
Scripture: Jeremiah 20:7-13, Romans 6:1-11
Song: Bigboys by Ingrid Witt
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(Angela Denker) Churches tend to recognize Mother’s Day more than Father’s Day. On this Father’s Day, we step away from the “Hallmark holiday” and commercial ideas about “dad,” to look at three Bible texts that lift up aspects of a God of fatherly love, remembering that father figures aren’t limited to biological dads or even one particular gender.
Scripture: Psalm 100, Romans 5:1-8, Matthew 9:35-10:8
Song: Nocturnal Sun by At The End of Times, Nothing
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(Katie Rykal, Riley Ping, Grace LaTourelle) As we gather to celebrate our graduating High School Seniors, we hear their words, their stories and bless them as they step out on their own. Whether they are heading to college, tech school, directly into the workforce, or taking some time to figure things out, we will send them out with the reminder that we, as a Church, will always be there for them. Seniors, let your lights shine so others may see your good works and glorify your God in heaven.
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16, 1 Timothy 4:12, Matthew 28:16-20
Song: Satellite Call cover by Amy Courts (Sara Bareilles)
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(Angela Denker) On Holy Trinity Sunday, we have the opportunity to step back and try to see the world through God’s eyes. Creation - including us - is still endowed with majesty, beauty, and grace. And still, we are reminded that God’s power functions very differently than the world’s power, which is why we worship a Triune God.
Scripture: Psalm 8
Song: Evergreen Fields by Tape Machines
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(Chad Brekke) Many of us are intimidated or shamed even by the thought of living out our Christian faith in public. Discouraged because we may not feel “qualified or equipped”, and shamed because we feel like we should probably be more open and honest about our beliefs. I think there is some really Good News for all of us this Pentecost Sunday!
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Song: Last Odyssey by ELFL
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(Natalia Terfa) We don’t often spend much time in the story of the Ascension - but I love the moment when Jesus has disappeared from their sight and they keep standing there looking up, hoping that he might come back. Change his mind? It can be so easy to look at the wrong place and hope we see Jesus - but no worries, the angels have some truth to share with us at this moment.
Scripture: Acts 1:6-14
Song: Goodbye Earth by Sum Wave
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(Chad Brekke) Have you ever had a stranger start asking you questions about your belief in God? Or even worse, has anyone ever cornered you to find out which candidate you plan to vote for? It is considered common courtesy to stay away from these two topics in polite company. I guess St. Paul did not get the memo. Today he goes straight to these topics right in the middle of the public square!
Scripture: Acts 17:22-34
Song: Drone Views by The Big Let Down
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(Natalia Terfa) Peter “the rock” teaches and preaches to his audience about being living stones, very intentionally connecting them to the story of Jesus. These words are for us on this day as well, as we wonder together what it means to be a living stone in the church of God.
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Scripture: 1 Peter 2:4-10
Song: Perfect Match by Tape Machines
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(Chad Brekke) The image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd is one of the most beloved metaphors in scripture. But where does that leave you? Should you accept being thought of as one of the sheep? Should you try to be something more or better than that? Is getting lost inevitable?
Scripture: John 10:1-10
Song: Make U Mine by Dasloe
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel story tells how Jesus was “made known” in the breaking of the bread. What does this mean for us on this day? How do we find Jesus when our eyes are unable to perceive him? How can God be made known to us today?
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
Song: Angel in Disguise by Dasloe
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(Natalia Terfa & Chad Brekke) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or question.
Song: Revelations by Marten Moses
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(Natalia Terfa) The Mary’s show up at the tomb, ready to have a quiet moment of grief in a place of peace. Instead, they get an earthquake, an angel, and some pretty unbelievable news.
Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10
Song: Tired by Mindme
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(Chad Brekke) Continuing with our tradition of settling in on Palm Sunday to listen to a live reading of the entire passion of Christ. Somehow, we always hear something new, something that transforms our current time and draws us in.
Song: When It Hits You by Wanderer's Trove
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(Natalia Terfa) Ooooh. Yall. I have been WAITING to tell you a story about Mary. And today is that day.
Scripture: John 11:1-45
Song: Mary by Particle House
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(Natalia Terfa) We can’t really fault the disciples for their question today, mostly because if we’re honest, all of us have wondered this same thing at one time or another. Jesus’ answer may surprise you - it sure surprised them!
Scripture: John 9:1-41
Song: See Me Now by Mindme
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(Paul Koopman)
Song: Adore Me by Maybe
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(Chad Brekke, guest Rachel Henderson) Today we hear about a famous encounter between Jesus and a Samaritan woman out in the hinterlands beyond the borders of Israel. Even though this is one of the lengthiest encounters with Jesus along the way, we never even get the name of this woman. So this morning, let’s allow this nameless woman to speak for herself. Maybe she has something new to say to you.
Scripture: John 4:5-42
Song: Let Me Hear You Say My Name by House of Say
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(Katie Rykal)
Song: Adore Me by Maybe
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel contains one of the most recognizable verses in the Bible. One might think there was nothing new to say about this one, but boy does this verse and the ones around it have a WORD for us on this day.
Scripture: John 3:1-17
Song: Dreaming of Lhotse by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa)
Scripture:
Song: Adore Me by Maybe
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(Chad Brekke) From the garden of Eden to the baptism of Jesus, there has always been a struggle for power and control. As we step back into these ancient stories, you may see this power struggle in your own life. As usual, Jesus comes to show us another way and to give us something better.
Scripture: Genesis 2:15-17 & Matthew 4:1-11
Song: Devil Disguised by Torii Wolf
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(Natalia Terfa) We like to have answers, to figure things out, to know what things mean - especially when it comes to our faith and stories in the Bible. But a story that has, as a primary feature, a cloud obscuring all the answers, well, there is something there to wonder about.
Scripture: Matthew 17:1-9
Song: Breaths by AGST
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(Chad Brekke) Conflict and disagreement have been challenges faced by church communities from the very beginning. On this day when much of the country is choosing sides, rooting for the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles, we are reminded that reconciliation in the midst of significant disagreements and differences, is both the gift and the call of the church, no matter which team you may be rooting for!
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9
Song: u love that by Soleil
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(Chad Brekke) Church can break out during an arena rock concert or in an airport security line. It can be found around the makeshift altar of a living room coffee table or in a gothic cathedral. Church is a gift given before anything we do or say.
Scripture: Matthew 5:13-20
Song: Present (Mantra) by King Sis
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(Natalia Terfa) “You are blessed when ______.” Jesus begins his preaching with a kind of preamble, a foretaste of what the rest of his ministry will be about and who it will be for. But it doesn’t quite meet the expectations of the gathered crowd - or us if we’re honest.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-12
Song: Sunday Best by Surfaces
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(Natalia Terfa) “And made his home in Capernaum by the sea.” Jesus made a home in Capernaum. We don’t often think about this one line in the story of the calling of the first disciples. After all, moving quickly to fishing for people is kind of the point of this story. But what does it mean that Jesus made Capernaum his home? Why does it matter? What can it teach us?
Scripture: Matthew 4:12-23
Song: Satsuma Beach by Giant's Nest
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(Chad Brekke) Jesus announced by angels is one thing. The heavens opening and holy doves descending at his baptism is another. But what about Jesus showing up in town when you’re trying to do some shopping? What about a Jesus who keeps showing up in your everyday life?
Scripture: John 1:29-34
Song: Leaving Serengeti by Ooyy
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(Brent Haglund) When we made promises to these students long ago, we were serious about seeing it through. Back then, they could not speak for themselves, yet they heard the promise of being "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ, forever." Today, a piece of that promise has been honored. We hear their words as they respond to that promise, and we take the next step in faith together.
Scripture: Matthew 3:13-17
Song: My Ringtone Is a Voice Memo of You Last Summer by Baegel
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(Natalia Terfa) This story is not very merry or bright. We would most often prefer to skip right past it. But there are some things to learn from the Holy Family in this story - and how they are forced to become guests instead of hosts.
Scripture: Matthew 2:13-23
Song: Los Domingos by Superintendent McCupcakes
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(Chad Brekke) Christmas is more than a favorite fairy tale, more than magic. Beauty and truth will find us in the darkness of this holy night.
Song: All is Well Cover by Lydia Brekke, Amy Courts, & Paul Koopman
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(Chad Brekke) I’m not sure if you have noticed, but there are a lot of snakes in the bible—a lot. My wife Lori does not approve! From the garden of Eden to Isaiah’s prophecy, to the thundering preaching of John the Baptist. Today is the second Sunday of Advent, the Sunday of peace. Be warned, there are snakes, but there is also a reason for hope and a vision of peace. Breathe.
Scripture: Isaiah 11:1-10, Matthew 3:1-12
Song: Winter Blossom by Cora Zea
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(Natalia Terfa) Today marks the beginning of Advent, the start of a new year in the church, and a reminder that no matter what is happening around us, in the world and in our homes, God is at work - renewing, redeeming, and being reborn in all of it.
Scripture: Isaiah 2:1-5
Song: Winter Blossom by Cora Zea
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(Natalia Terfa)
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(Chad Brekke) Sometimes we don’t feel good about ourselves. Sometimes we even have trouble feeling worthy of love. There is something about the love of Christ that makes us precious, no matter how we may happen to feel at any given moment.
Henry
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Scripture: Colossians 1:11-20
Song: Golden Rules by Luwaks
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(Natalia Terfa) This bit of scripture can often be seen as a roadmap for how to predict the end of the world. And let’s be honest, if it were, things would feel pretty bleak right now. But if we look a little closer, we see that it’s about something different, something better, something more. It’s about what is left when everything falls apart.
Scripture: Luke 21:5-19
Song: 21st of May by Nickel Creek
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(Chad Brekke) …this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s own people... It is All Saints Sunday, a great day to dust off a copy of the estate plan and read through it again. Spoiler alert, it’s even better than you remember.
Scripture: Ephesians 1:3-14
Song: Tea Tree by Jobii
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(Natalia Terfa) On this Reformation Sunday, it’s a good time to look at the foundation of our faith, and remind ourselves that our insecurities don’t change a thing about God and God’s love for us. Thank goodness.
Scripture: Luke 19:1-10
Song: Tree Tops by Autohacker
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(Chad Brekke) Bono sings in a U2 song: If Coke, is a mystery, Michael Jackson, history, if beauty is truth, and surgery, the fountain of youth… what am I to do, do I have the gifts to get me through, the gates of that mansion? song’s metaphor wrestles with some of the same issues raised by the story Jesus tells this Sunday about a respected religious leader and a despised traitor. How can we be sure we have what it takes to make it through the gates of heaven?
Scripture: Luke 18:9-14
Song: In Heaven by A Month of Sleep
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(Natalia Terfa) We all know the feeling. That middle of the night anxiety, worry, fear, or grief that wakes you up and keeps you up. 16th-century poet St John of the Cross called it the dark night of the soul. Jacob is having one of those nights. But God is there too, and the wrestling begins.
Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31
Song: Why Did I by Hatamitsunami
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(Chad Brekke) Naaman always got the best table at the restaurant and front-row tickets to the show. If he couldn’t buy the things he wanted, Naaman took them by force. He was both fearless and feared wherever he went. Until the home test kit showed he was positive for leprosy. What could his power and influence do for him now? Where does real hope come from when you are at the end of your rope?
Scripture: 2 Kings 5:1-15
Song: Rope Swing by Station Story
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(Natalia Terfa) The disciples plead for Jesus to increase their faith in today’s Gospel. Boy haven’t we all been there? When things are hard and we feel overwhelmed, sometimes it feels like if we only had just a little more faith, we’d be ok. Jesus’ words today remind us that measurements of faith are not the point. So what is?
Scripture: Luke 17:5-10
Song: Kyoto by Dawn by Ooyy & Smartface
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(Amy Courts) Today's scripture leaves us pondering many questions: Where did this chasm come from? what fixed it? Where/what is hades? Why and how is this rich man tormented there? and finally, how does this apply to our lives today?
Scripture: Luke 16:19-31
Song: Happy You're Gone by Zorro
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(Chad Brekke) Jesus shares the Parable of the Dishonest Manager with us, and boy this scripture reading is not one most would want to preach on their first Sunday back from sabbatical! How can we exist in today's capitalistic society when Jesus says you cannot serve God and wealth?
Scripture: Luke 16:1-13
Song: Colours By Torii Wolf
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(Natalia Terfa) On this Great POP Get Together, it is such a delight that the text in front of us today are celebration texts of lost being found. Over and over and over again in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus reminds the disciples, and us, that no matter how lost we may feel, God will not give up until we are found.
Scripture: Luke 15:1-10
Song: Lost Cause by Jobii
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus has been attracting large crowds who are awed and amazed by his words and miraculous acts. Their enthusiasm to be a part of the cool crowd is palpable. Jesus lays down a hard truth for those who seek to follow him. What does it mean to give up everything? What does it look like to follow Jesus in this way?
Scripture: Luke 14:25-33
Song: Had Me at Hello by Aiyo
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(Natalia Terfa) After the loss of loved ones disrupts their lives, Ruth and Naomi create a new covenant with each other, choosing to be in a relationship across their religious, cultural, and generational divides. As women, they build power together in a system where they have little power. This final question is not meant to be the end of the journey; instead, it creates openness to explore together what is next. It is contextual, designed for individuals, families, churches, and communities to discern how to move forward into something new. While stepping into the next chapter, our hope is that we keep cultivating curiosity, asking questions, having conversations, and seeking connection in order to humanize and care for each other.
Scripture: Ruth 1:1-22
Song: Pomelo by Jobii
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(Jenny Sung) In the midst of Job’s afflictions, three of his friends promptly leave their homes and come to him. They tear their garments, weep loudly, and sit with him for seven days, saying nothing. Their response is the ministry of presence, of true solidarity, of seeing his excruciating pain and joining him there. It reminds us that we each have unique needs; we can’t assume to know what is best for others. It also prompts us to reflect on our own needs, priorities, and desires, which can sometimes be difficult to discern from one situation to the next.
Scripture: Job 2:11-13
Song: Be Free With Me by Siine
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(Natalia Terfa & Jenny Sung) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or question.
Song: I've Found My Way by Hallman
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(Natalia Terfa) This week’s question implies that all of us have known pain and suffering. In order to cultivate connection, we must first get curious about the pain others carry and the pain we carry ourselves. Before we can act, we must first acknowledge and believe the pain is real, for bearing witness to each other’s pain helps us cultivate compassion.
Scripture: Mark 5:21-43
Song: Intimacy by Alex Kehm
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(Jenny Sung) The story of Jesus calling the disciples provides a helpful charge for the whole series: to “come and see” what the journey holds. In this first week, we wish to address how the question, “Where are you from?” is sometimes coupled with assumptions, judgments, and even microaggressions—all of which can be exhausting and painful to receive. Our hope is to acknowledge, disrupt, and release the assumptions we hold about others. In order to build connection and trust, we need to listen to each other’s stories and experiences to learn who and what has shaped us. We also need to feel seen and known for who we are.
Scripture: John 1:25-51
Song: I Can't Let You Go by John Runefelt
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(Jenny Sung) Maybe the story of Martha and Mary is more about throwing cultural norms out the window. Because of who God is we are no longer prisoners to “shoulds” and “oughts” We are resurrection people do we live most of our lives as prisoners captive to the demands and expectations of this world or do we live like people who have been set free and extend that freedom to others?
Scripture: Luke 10:38-42
Song: Wilder by Gamma Skies
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(Jenny Sung) Jesus sends out the 72 without anything except one another and the wild Holy Spirit. How do we respond when it feels like we are among the wolves? How is God inviting us to be glimpses of the dome where God reigns on earth as it is in heaven? How can we share the gifts God gave us such as grace and love which leads to life and freedom. Instead of succumbing to the tools, the world uses that lead to death and destruction?
Scripture: Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Song: Love Love by Heyson
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(Natalia Terfa) A well-known set of verses are in front of us today, but I wonder if we’ve ever subjected these “fruits of the spirit” to the text-context loop I talked about a few weeks ago. We are reminded that when the spirit is present and active, certain “fruit” follows. How might we seek this kind of fruit season work and life in our current day and time?
Scripture: Galatians 5:1, 13-23
Song: Polyandry by Dajana
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(Jenny Sung) The glory of God is humans fully alive, and yet the world often prefers us bound. How is the Good News of God inviting us into fullness and deliverance? Can we even imagine what it could feel like to be that free?
Scripture: Luke 8:26-39
Song: Demons (In My Mind) by Lvly feat. Milva
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus tells the disciples that the spirit will come to help guide them and lead them and speak for God out in the world once Jesus is gone. What does this mean exactly? How do we know what to look for and who to listen to? Who or what is the Holy Spirit anyway?
Scripture: John 16:12-15
Song: Himalayan Moon by Aerian
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We just wanted to take a moment and give thanks to all of our listeners who have chosen to support Prince of Peace!
You can find Chad's letter here
If you are interested in supporting us or the podcast, you can do so at donate.princeofpeacechurch.org
(Georgia Larson) It's Grad Sunday and Pentecost, but what does Pentecost have to do with graduating from high school you ask? What advice is there for them?
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Song: We Come Alive by Waykap
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(Natalia Terfa) This story from Acts is not one we are drawn to like some of the others in this Easter Season. The story about a slave who stops being useful and how Paul and Silas interact with her and the system that responds to her liberation with more captivity has a lot to say to us today as we are left in the ashes of the Uvalde school shooting.
Scripture: Acts 16:16-34
Song: Easy to Be Us Alder
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(Chad Brekke) The Bible is full of stories of people who never should have met, changing the course of history. Only two of these stories include the kind of hospitality that won’t take no for an answer, and one of those involves the risen Christ! Have you ever considered that accepting the hospitality of others is sometimes the Christian thing to do?
Scripture: Acts 16:9-15
Song: Backyard Stories by Sum Wave
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(Natalia Terfa) We don’t often spend a lot of time in the book of Revelation. Honestly, it scares a lot of people thanks to things like the Left Behind series or any artistic rendering of the end times. But what if there is more within this book to offer hope rather than scare us?
Scripture: Revelation 21:1-6
Song: Osaka 3AM by Ooyy & Smartface
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(Chad Brekke) People still choose bible names like Mary or David or Ruth, Mathew, Mark, or Luke. Lots of great contemporary names originate from the scriptures. But you rarely hear anyone choose the name Dorcas these days. Let’s spend some time with this pioneer in the faith. Maybe the name Dorcas should go back on the list!
Scripture: Acts 9:36-43
Song: Hiccups by Ooyy & Bjurman
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel finds the disciples sitting in the in-between. They try to go back to the way things used to be and discover that it doesn’t quite fit the way they thought it would. What now? They wonder. Turns out, that everything has changed.
Scripture: John 21:1-19
Song: Let U Down by Deanz
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Song: Breathe In, Breathe Out by Mattias Tell
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(Chad Brekke) If Luke’s telling of the resurrection was a front-page story in a current newspaper, what would the headline be? In an age of skepticism, conspiracies, fake news, and suspicion of organizations, what chance does the church have of sharing the Good News? Well, it’s Easter again, let’s read all about it.
Video Clip: Tanzania 2017 clip
Scripture: Luke 23:54-24:12
Song: Here With Me by Alex Kehm
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(Chad Brekke) Continuing with our tradition of settling in on Palm Sunday to listen to a live reading of the entire passion of Christ. Somehow, we always hear something new, something that transforms our current time and draws us in.
Scripture: Luke 22:14-Luke 23
Song: Sorry by Alex Kehm
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(Chad Brekke) This is the final installation of our lenten series "Metanoia" before we head into holy week worship, and we're all familiar with the story of Noah, but what does Noah and his journey have to do with Jesus exactly?
Scripture: Genesis 8:10-19
Song: I Shall Not Want cover by Paul Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) Mary’s act of anointing made the disciples uncomfortable. It was a smell that had connotations the disciples were not ready to face or deal with. At this moment they did what so many of us do without realizing we are doing it - they found something else to get mad about. How wasteful. How sinful. Tell her to go away. Jesus’ response “leave her alone” reminds us that we cannot and should not ignore or be afraid of the death that is coming, no matter how uncomfortable it makes us.
Scripture: John 12:1-7
Song: Tequila Sunrise by Guustavv
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(Brent Haglund) Tonight we hear David being called out by Nathan for some PG-13+ behavior which happens quite often in our society, this reminds me of our good friend Joe Davis and how he says we should be calling in instead of calling out, what does the bible have to say about this?
Song: Amazing Grace Cover by Paul Koopman
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(Chad Brekke) If you start typing “you are known” into your google search window, the internet gods will complete the sentence for you with “by the company you keep.” Go ahead, give it a try. You are known by the company you keep. This is an adage that keeps parents awake at night and causes awkward looks at McDonalds. Some important people thought the wisdom of this old adage might just do Jesus in, so he told a story.
Scripture: Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
Song: A Brighter Tomorrow by Myysk
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(Natalia Terfa) It's storytime with our beloved friend Jonah, but how exactly does this allegory reflect our theme of metanoia? What does it take for God to get the ever-so-dramatic Jonah to turn around and go to Nineveh? What can we take away from the people and lessons in this story?
Map of Jonah's travels shown
Song: Turn by Paul Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel finds Jesus being asked to comment on current events. Is this happening because they deserve it?” They are, essentially, asking “why do bad things happen?” Not even to good people, just, why do they happen at all? Jesus’ answer may surprise you.
Scripture: Luke 13:1-9
Song: Train Ride by Alex Kehm
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(Paul Koopman) We all know of the familiar parable of the prodigal son but today we hear it from the perspective of the oldest son, what about me?
Scripture: Luke 15:25-32
Song: Mother by Amy Courts
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(Chad Brekke) In our reading from Philippians, Paul says our “citizenship is in heaven.” So what the heck does that mean? Does he mean, we get to go to heaven when we die? Does this citizenship do anything for us right now? Do we need a passport or other legal documentation? So many questions.
Scripture: Philippians 3:17-4:1
Song: Face by Alex Kehm
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(Katie Rykal) Society has taught us to try our hardest to live up to expectations, expectations which are sometimes impossible to achieve, what does God expect from us? How can we be our true selves while living in a world that expects us to be something else?
Scripture: Romans 12:1-2
Song: Come Ye Sinners cover by Paul Koopman, & Natalia Terfa
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(Natalia Terfa) Luke’s Gospel changes one word in the telling of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness, but this one word changes everything. What do we do in the face of the truth being spoken? When everything seems dark and hopeless how do we lean into the truth?
Scripture: Luke 4:1-13
Song: A Quiet Winter Dawn by Chaxti
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(Chad Brekke) Anyone who has camped or perhaps spent time in the Boundary Waters knows that you don't just leave your campfire when you're done, you need to properly extinguish your fire which includes stirring the ashes. This Ash Wednesday we ponder how stirring our own ashes can create Metanoia (the journey of changing one's mind, heart, self, or way of life.)
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17
Song: Come Alive (Dry Bones) cover by Lydia Brekke, Paul Koopman, & Jenny Larson
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(Chad Brekke) Transfiguration Sunday comes around every year and we recall the glorious and mysterious vision that drove Peter, James, and John to their knees high on the mountain. This experience must have stayed with these three disciples for the rest of their lives. But what about the other nine? What if you never have a dramatic conversion experience? What if you never get your turn on the mountain? What about the other nine?
Scripture: Luke 9:28-43
Song: Vale by Dreem
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel sounds like lore passed down from one generation of fishermen to the next. What do these full nets have to do with discipleship? And what does it mean for us to fish for people today?
Scripture: Luke 5:1-11
Song: Can You Catch Me by Lel
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(Chad Brekke) The good news of the gospel does not belong only to us or to those we may believe are worthy. God is, and always has been, in the business of proclaiming release to the captives and good news to the poor and oppressed. This amazing grace has always caused some people's blood to boil, even while it brings new life.
Scripture: Luke 4:21-30
Song: Sweet Talk by Tyra Chantey
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel is the first words Jesus preaches in Luke’s Gospel, and boy does he not mince words. No easing in, no gentle touch. Jesus just lays it out there, right off the bat, and then doesn’t stray for the rest of the Gospel. What would it be like if we all did this?
Scripture: Luke 4:14-21
Song: Startup by Auxjack
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(Chad Brekke) Apparently, Jesus did not want his very first recorded miracle to be a Vegas-style magic trick. Even this simple act of kindness ends up spilling over and has never been forgotten. Today, even you will get a taste of the miracle Jesus reluctantly agreed to perform so long ago.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11, John 2:1-11
Song: Nothing Like Wine by Velee
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(Prince of Peace Confirmands narrated by Brent Haglund) When we made promises to these students long ago, we were serious about seeing it through. Back then, they were unable to speak for themselves, and yet they heard the promise of being "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ, forever." Today, a piece of that promise has been honored. Now, we get to hear their words as they respond to that promise, and we take the next step in faith together.
Scripture: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Song: Mountain by Twelwe
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(Natalia Terfa) At Christmas, we are reminded that God comes to us. But then what? What happens after God comes? There are quite a few clues to help us answer this question at the start of John’s Gospel, to set us up as we enter a new year with Emmanuel.
Scripture: John 1:1-18
Song: Hold My Hand by They Dream By Day
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(Chad Brekke) Home is not necessarily a place, but where we find authentic belonging. In this story, we find Jesus pursuing his theological education, increasing in his wisdom even as a young man. After the Passover festival, he strays from his birth family to dwell in the Temple, listening to the Rabbis and asking questions. Jesus claims and takes up space, choosing to dwell where God has chosen him to be. Similarly, we all need homes of our choosing— people and places that welcome us just as we are.
Scripture: Luke 2:41-52
Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman)
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(Natalia Terfa) After receiving the angel’s extraordinary news, Mary retreats to Elizabeth and Zechariah’s home to digest her new calling. She seeks refuge—physical safety and emotional protection. She receives a safe haven, a home for her heart to soon sing praise. Sanctuary and safe space are so crucial for everyone, especially the mother of Christ while she prepares to become a home for God. Sanctuary is anywhere God’s love dwells freely and abundantly.
Scripture: Luke 1:39-55
Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman)
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(Chad Brekke) John the Baptist’s good news sounds harsh, but he preaches a home for all— where inequities are banished, valleys are lifted up, and all have the resources they need for collective flourishing. Ultimately, John’s message is one of joy. We are called to collectively build and repair the structures of our society; we are called to be kin-dom builders. Wherever we build, God is there. What we build should be a place with a large table and room for all.
Scripture: Luke 3:7-18
Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright (Paul & Amy Koopman)
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(Natalia Terfa) In the miraculous birth of John the Baptist, we see the foundation of what is to come. We see how interwoven his story is with Jesus’ origin story. When Zechariah regains his voice, his imagination is also restored. He offers deep praise for God’s tender mercy and casts a hopeful vision for his own child. He sings blessings into John’s being. This lays the foundation for John’s life. In turn, John will go on to prepare the way for Jesus who will guide us all in the way of peace. In this week, we focus on making space—in our lives and our imaginations—for God’s blessings to break through.
Scripture: Luke 1:57-80
Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright
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(Chad Brekke) As we begin Advent with the “Little Apocalypse” in Luke 21, we remember how far from home we are. The world is not as it should be. Many have lost their physical homes, many feel alone, and many are isolated. Many of us feel as if we are wandering with no clear way forward. This first week speaks to our deep longing—for our home to be made whole, made right, and made well. With deep longing, we watch for God. Thankfully, God enters a homesick world.
Scripture: Luke 21:25-36 & 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
Song: Wherever You Are by Barnaby Bright
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(Natalia Terfa) The call of the people of God on this Reign of Christ Sunday is the same year after year: God is God, I am not. This year, we speak these words again, as we wonder what it means to live in a world where we are not king.
Scripture: John 18:33-37
Song: Queens And Kings by Curio
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(Chad Brekke) Let’s take a moment to reflect on church buildings today and what they mean to us. What will we lose if the church on the corner goes the way of the dinosaur or Blockbuster video? Here is the church, here is the steeple…
Scripture: Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:19-25
Song: Octagonic by Luwaks
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s Gospel contains one of the most well-known moments in Jesus’ life - the moment he cried over his friend. We see crying as many things, but not typically as a sign of strength or a characteristic of God. But here it is. Jesus crying. If God can cry, why don’t we?
Scripture: John 11:32-44
Song: Cotton Dreams by Elm Lake & This Time Tomorrow cover by Lydia Brekke & Paul Koopman
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(Chad Brekke) The reformation not only changed the church, it had a global impact that continues today. On this Reformation Sunday, we will let old Martin Luther speak for himself. I think we will be reminded of the power of the gospel that freed this German monk from the terror of the law, even while members of his own church were condemning him to die.
Scripture: Romans 3:19-28
Song: Woven by Viriya
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(Natalia Terfa) Today we encounter blind Bartimeaus on the side of the road, and he begs Jesus to heal him. He begs. This is an uncomfortable thing for us to witness, and even more for us to emulate. But when he comes face to face with Jesus, he is asked a question that Jesus has been asking a lot lately. Let’s look closer at this question and his response.
Scripture: Mark 10: 46-52
Song: Close My Eyes by Tape Machines
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(Chad Brekke) James and John often had ring-side seats. They rarely had to ask the people in front of them what Jesus was saying because no one was ever in front of them. They spent so much time close to Jesus that they figured they could make an outlandish request. Hey Jesus, they said one day, if you don’t mind, scribble out a blank check and we’ll fill it in later. What Jesus says next should ring in our ears too. We better listen carefully.
Scripture: Mark 10:35-45
Song: Olympos by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus gives a young wealthy man a difficult word this morning, one that is such a challenge that the young man walks away. We look at him and wonder the same thing as the crowd who witnessed this interaction - THEN WHO CAN BE SAVED?! Jesus’ answer might surprise you.
Scripture: Mark 10:17-31
Song: Osaka by Oomiee
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Scripture: Hebrews 1:1-4
Song: Nite Glo by Molife
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(Natalia Terfa) Picking up right where we left off last week, Jesus continues to blow the minds of the disciples by a quick set of teachings that do NOT seem to fit with their expectations of “proper code of conduct for Jesus-followers”, and don’t really fit with our expectations either.
Scripture: Mark 9:38-48
Song: Visitors by Dylan Sitts
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10 Years ago today Pastor Chad preached his first sermon "Leap of Faith".
Let's take a listen and see how it applies to our lives today a decade later.
(Chad Brekke) Jesus wants some time to teach the disciples so he tries to sneak through town without drawing a crowd. The disciples prove along the way that they truly do not understand the radical nature of the kingdom now at hand, so Jesus decides it’s time to blow their minds, and ours.
Scripture: Mark 9:30-37
Song: Mt. Fuji by Ooyy & Smartface
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(Natalia Terfa) “Who do people say that I am?” Jesus asks the disciples today. And then he asks a more pointed question - “who do YOU say that I am?” The answers they have tell us a lot about them, and our own answers tell us a lot about us. So how would you answer?
Scripture: Mark 8:27-38
Song: Seona by Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) She had at least three strikes against her. She was a foreigner (Syrophoenician), a woman (little status in those days), and her child was ill. What made her approach this ancient border? What made her believe that Jesus would have anything to do with her? What is she trying to teach us?
Scripture: Mark 7:24-37
Song: Lakeside View by [ocean jams]
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(Natalia Terfa) “We have met the enemy, and it is us.” says an old comic strip, pogo. Today’s Gospel finds Jesus saying the same thing as the church leaders tried to point out all the ways in which the disciples were falling short of doctrinal and traditional expectations. We are well past arguments like this… or are we?
Scripture: Mark 7:1-8
Song: Read My Mind by Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) “Because of this, many of his disciples turned back and no longer went about with him.” (Jn 6:66). Today we meet one of the followers of Jesus who just couldn’t take it anymore. It was too difficult to understand what Jesus meant by saying He was the bread of life. Jesus just did not match his expectations of a messiah. What about you, Jesus asks Peter and you and me, do you also want to leave?
Scripture: John 6:56-69
Song: Bringing Me Down by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) We are in week 4 of the Bread of Life discourse, or, our 5 weeks in John 6, and today we have before us the strange and visceral words of Jesus about flesh and blood and eating and drinking. What does this mean exactly? How are we to understand his words and what do they mean for us today?
Scripture: John 6:51-58
Song: Smores by Oomiee
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(Chad Brekke) Ever been at your wits end? Ever feel like giving up? Ever feel like the whole universe is out to get you? Elijah had good reason to feel this way and one day he just lay down under a tree and gave up. He had no faith left. Wait until you see what God did next!
Scripture: 1 Kings 19:4-8
Song: Not Missing You by Ebba
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(Natalia Terfa) When Jesus fed the people, they decided he needed to be king. This very human response to having a need met inspires some harsh truth from Jesus today, and for us as well.
Scripture: John 6:24-35
Song: Daydream by Luwaks
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(Jenny Sung) Pastor Jenny Sung is with us to share a bit of her story and move into community stories, and how through all of it there is always enough. There is something powerful in the giving, the breaking, and the sharing.
Scripture: John 6:1-21
Song: Shine On by Tellow
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(Natalia Terfa) Things are picking up around here. In-person meetings and gatherings, vacations, offices are opening, etc, etc, etc. After over a year of bubbles and isolation, it can be overwhelming to be in a large crowd. Rest is built into the rhythm of the life of faith, yet we prioritize action and business, and productivity over just about anything. What does it mean to rest? What does rest really look like? And is it possible?
Scripture: Mark 6:30-34
Song: Abundant Rest by Joyspring
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(Chad Brekke) We love a good mystery. There are dozens of wildly popular true crime podcasts and thousands of novels that keep us guessing until the end. But what about your own story? What will they write about you when all is said and done? Today we’re gonna skip to the end and have a look at the final chapter. Today the mystery is revealed.
Scripture: Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:14-29
Song: Follow Me Wild Horse by Cospe
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus goes to his hometown and encounters some challenges. In light of our own struggles this year, how do we speak hard truths about the places that raised us? Can we hold our identity as people of Jesus at the same time as naming our identity by where we’re from? Why is this important to think about on THIS day?
Scripture: Mark 6:1-13
Song: The Light by Loving Caliber & Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) She was shamed and ashamed and wanted to remain invisible. But Jesus wasn’t having it. What happens next is her worst nightmare. She is singled out, in public, and all she could think to do was, to tell the truth. The. Whole. Truth.
Scripture: Mark 5:21-43
Song: Arms of Gold by Tape Machines
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(Natalia Terfa) So often in the past year and a half, we’ve heard calls to have “faith and not fear.” But what if fear is not the opposite of faith but a part of it? What do we do then when we’re afraid? And what if this story from Mark’s Gospel has bigger implications than being afraid of a storm?
Scripture: Mark 4:35-41
Song: Here We Go by WAT3RS
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(Chad Brekke) The familiar parables of Jesus are often used as morality plays, designed to modify our behavior. You should be like the Good Samaritan and help those in need. You should realize how good you have it before you run off and blow your money chasing the good life like the prodigal son. So today we will dig in some familiar soil, but we are in search of more than the moral of the story. We’re gonna keep digging until we find something new. Today we will look for hope to grow.
Scripture: Mark 4:28-34
Song: Jade Plant by Dylan Sitts
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(Georgia Larson) After 452 days of not gathering inside for worship, we're back! It's Grad Sunday and today's reading references how Adam and Eve felt naked and vulnerable after eating the fruit from the tree of knowledge. As our graduates transition to their new lives outside of high school, there may be times where they feel this nakedness. What advice is there for them?
Scripture: Genesis 3: 8-15
Song: Happy Pill by Wai
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(Stacey Smith) Swiss theologian Karl Barth once said that "faithful Christians should always do theology and live life with the bible in one hand and a newspaper in the other." If Karl were alive today, he probably would have replaced the newspaper with the internet. How do we discern the word through the lens of the bible so that we can be aware of the troubles of the day and remain faithful?
Scripture: John 3:1-17
Song: Legend Of Zea by Cora Zea
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(Brent Haglund) When we made promises to these students long ago, we were serious about seeing it through. Back then, they were unable to speak for themselves, and yet they heard the promise of being "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ, forever." Today, a piece of that promise has been honored. Now, we get to hear their words as they respond to that promise, and we take the next step in faith together.
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21 & John 15:26-27, 16:4b-15
Song: Sparkles by Daxten
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(Natalia Terfa) This prayer of Jesus can be confusing and wordy (thanks John), but it tells us a lot about the role of God and us in the world after Jesus leaves. When we wonder about what we are “supposed” to do as followers of the way, Jesus gives us instructions for the journey.
Scripture: John 17:6-19
Song: Out of My Bed by Deanz
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(Chad Brekke) Our churches are built to create at least the impression of good order. We arrive for worship at different times, in different moods, states of health, dress, and general appearance. The worship space quickly places us in perfect rows, all facing the same direction, even saying or singing the same words. But what about a church scattered about in the parking lot? What are we learning about the nature of the church? Is this really something new?
Picture of Clara with Chad's BMW Bike
Scripture: Acts 10:44-48
Song: Lagom by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) Today we hear a story of the first baptism of a Gentile in the Bible. You’d think this would be a core part of our theology, since it is, essentially, our origin story, but instead, it’s often secondary to other faith origin stories, like Pentecost, or Paul’s conversion. What does this origin story have to tell us, and how can we celebrate it together today?
Scripture: Acts 8:26-40
Song: Tropic Fun by Maiwan
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(Chad Brekke) In our reading from Acts today we look at some fascinating power struggles that may hit close to home. The struggle between law and justice. The struggle between shame and forgiveness. The struggle between life and death. No matter where you are today, good news is hot on your trail.
Scripture: Acts 4:5-12
Song: Fragile Stevie by Jobii
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Song: A Gentle Invitation by Dawn, Dawn, Dawn
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(Eric Barreto)
Scripture: Acts 4:32-37
Song: Cocoona by Giants' Nest
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(Natalia Terfa) This story in John is my favorite telling of the Easter Story. So many details, almost comedic in places, and filled with reminders of what grief feels like, how good news doesn’t always break through, and how we miss the resurrection in front of us every day.
Scripture: John 20:1-18
Song: Andean Valley by Madison York
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(Chad Brekke)
Scripture: Mark 14-15
Song: Sorry by Alex Kehm
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(Chad Brekke) Many of us drag around a heavy burden of shame that wears us down. I know about my sins, and I cannot forget my terrible guilt, the psalmist writes. Would it be too much to ask that God simply look the other way? Apparently not! This famous Psalm asks for that and much more. This is your chance to cut that burden loose. A clean heart and a right spirit are what we’re after.
Scripture: Psalm 51: 1-12
Song: Bursts Of Brightness by Chill Cole
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(Natalia Terfa) John 3:16 is one of the most famous verses of the entire Bible. It is a true statement all on its own, full of grace and love. And yet, it has been often turned into something it is not - a statement of condition. There is no “if” here, and when we take this well-known and well-loved statement of love in context, it illuminates the dark night with the bright light of God.
Scripture: John 3:14-21
Song: Borrowed Matches by Tape Machines
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(Chad Brekke) Most of us have a kind of vague idea that we are supposed to hold to a separation of church and state in this country but that standard has never been well defined or attained. The day Jesus tossed over tables at the temple and sent doves flying upset both the religious and the political leaders. Let’s have another look at the separation of church and state.
Scripture: John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
Song: Homeless Soul by Fleurs Douces
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(Natalia Terfa) Peter, who had just witnessed shiny Jesus in all his glory, does what God has told him to do, “Listen.” But it turns out, Jesus doesn’t say anything near what he wants to hear.
Scripture: Mark 8:31-38
Song: Eyt by Twelwe
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(Chad Brekke) Wilderness can be a scary place. Nothing is familiar or predictable. This entire past year has felt like a wilderness to so many around the world. Maybe we can learn something about ourselves in the wilderness. Maybe we will return with blessings that bring peace and healing everywhere we go.
Scripture: Mark 9:2-9
Song: Retrouvailles by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) How lovely to have Valentine’s Day line up with Transfiguration. What do we hear on both of these days, but reminders of love and belovedness, and how we share love with others.
Scripture: Mark 9:2-9
Song: Burn Within Sight by Dylan Sitts
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(Chad Brekke) People tend to think about faith as a private matter. What might this time of pandemic teach us about living out our faith, including worship, away from the place we call church?
Scripture: Mark 1:29-39
Song: Hurts by Snake City & Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) Never thought I’d relate so much to the questions posed by “unclean spirits” in this Gospel story but here we are. What have you to do with us? How often have I asked this very question of God in the last year? How often have you? And more importantly, how does Jesus respond?
Scripture: Mark 1: 21-28
Song: Amanecer by El Neón
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(Chad Brekke) Why do people still decide to follow Jesus after all these generations? Why was Jesus so committed to calling people into community? Where are we going next?
Scripture: Jonah 3:1-5,10, Mark 1:14-20
Song: Infinite Possibilities by Jon Björk
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(Paul Slack) As we lean into a year with further determination to combat racism in all its forms after the death of Mr. George Floyd, we reflect on the teachings of the late Martin Luther King Junior. What kind of worship does God want from you? What kind of service? Do we owe the sovereign of the universe?
Scripture: Micah 6:6,8
Song: Too Tired by Smartface
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(Natalia Terfa) When good ol' Martin Luther was putting together his book of teaching for parents, he made sure to have a section on baptism. Why? Because this sacrament is too important to misunderstand. Today is the baptism of our Lord Sunday, a day where we remember the skies being split open and God calling Jesus beloved. It is also a day for remembering our own baptisms, which we will do together during a time where we need to hear those words spoken over us more than ever.
Scripture: Mark 1:9-11
Song: Reversed Beginning by Luwaks
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(Chad Brekke) Why is it that the most famous spirit that visited Ebenezer Scrooge seems to be the ghost of Christmas past? That’s the one most people think of first. Well, like Scrooge, we may feel like our past haunts our future more than a little bit. As we leave 2020 behind on this first Sunday of the new year, Ephesians has something to say about our past and even more about our future.
Song: Genesis by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa & Chad Brekke) Some of the most beloved Christmas songs are about how people yearn to be home for Christmas but illness or war or weather, make being home for Christmas impossible. This year, a pandemic will keep us all away from celebrating our Lord’s birth together in the church, which is another layer of meaning our "Home For Christmas" theme will explore. This is not the Christmas we may have hoped for, but it is the Christmas we will have and I know God’s blessings will rise to meet us where we are, at home.
Song: Silent Night by Julyan Brynn
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(Natalia Terfa) One of the things we hear so often in the church is that we should keep watch for God. To see how God shows up in the world and around us. Throughout Matthew’s Gospel this past year, Jesus has been calling for us to be aware of who we leave out and ignore. Today, on the final Sunday of the church calendar, the reign of Christ Sunday, we get one more reminder from Jesus about all the ways we miss him when we look in all the wrong places.
Scripture: Matthew 25: 31-46
Song: Parallax by Luwaks
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(Chad Brekke) Trust can often be a matter of life and death. Do you trust your doctor? Do you trust the babysitter? Trust in our political leaders is at an all-time low. The trust you have in the promises of God affects the way you live out your faith. Trust is a big issue. Maybe a good place to start is to realize how much trust God has in you.
Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30
Song: Dive Into You by Loving Caliber
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus tells another parable this morning about what the Kingdom of God is like, and it involves a lot of unknowns. Boy doesn’t that feel familiar right now? There are a lot of things we just don’t know. AND YET, there are some things we CAN know, and the prophet Amos offers some very clear instruction on what God wants us to know, even in the midst of all the unknowns.
Scripture: Amos 5:18-24; Matthew 25:1-13
Song: Candle Light by dreem
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(Chad Brekke) Some scripture passages are so achingly beautiful, poetic and profound that it is probably better to simply stand back and behold them in the assembly than to try to explain or reduce them to some moral code or set of action items. Today we will make room to experience the awe and wonder of two breathtakingly powerful visions of God’s promised future, a future unfolding even now.
Scripture: Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12
Song: Something More Than Friends by Ooyy
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On this Reformation Sunday, we have a Gospel about freedom in front of us. But just like Jesus’ audience, it’s easy to forget how we got here.
Scripture: Matthew 22:34-46, John 8:31-36
Song: Pinata by El Neón
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(Chad Brekke) When natural enemies decide to join forces against you, it may be time to panic. When those enemies hold serious power and influence among much of society, it may be time to run. By the end of this incredible encounter with Jesus, someone is running alright. The truth will set you free, Jesus said. Turns out, the truth may also send you running, in the other direction.
Scripture: Matthew 22:15-22
Song: Why Do I Fall Back to You by Basixx
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(Natalia Terfa) When we receive an invitation, we often have some initial responses: we might check our calendars, we might ask about dress code, and we might even hold our response until we know who else is going. So what do we do when the invitation is from Jesus? As you might guess, he has a parable for that.
Scripture: Matthew 22:1-14
Song: Ikigai by Twelwe
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Scripture: Philippians 3: 4-14
Song: The King Has Fallen by Rippled Stone
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(Natalia Terfa) Jesus’ authority is (again) questioned by the powers that be, and his response offers more questions than answers, as per usual. We have these same questions today, don’t we? Who is in charge? Who gets to decide things? By whose authority do we do anything? Let’s dig into these questions together.
Scripture: Matthew 21:23-32
Song: Cornelia (Luwaks Remix)
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(Chad Brekke) Let’s be honest, sometimes the bible bugs us. Why should a lifetime criminal have a place in heaven right next to the lifetime, active church member, just because of some jailhouse conversion? Today we contend with the annoying reality that God occasionally does things without our permission.
Scripture: Matthew 20:1-16
Song: Strending Kids by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) Those of you who have seen Hamilton will note the reference to It’s Quiet Uptown in my sermon title, which to me, has been a sobfest-inducing moment of grace played out on screen that I just can’t erase from my head. Jesus today talks about how much we ought to forgive the people around us. He uses a parable to illustrate our forgiveness hypocrisy, and it similarly is an image that has stuck with me, and I hope you as well.
Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35
Song: It's Quiet Uptown (Golden Karaoke)
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(Rob Bell) Jesus says, where two or three are gathered, I am there. Labor Day weekend is usually a time to take a breath leading up to the new school year and busy Fall schedules. COVID attempts to steal our breath away. God breathes life into us and sustains with (Ruach/pneuma)
Rob Bell's Website
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(Natalia Terfa) This is a well-known story, thanks to children’s Bibles, and also to Charlton Heston and the Hollywood rendering of the story of Moses. But more than some fantastical story of burning bushes and voices on the mountains, this is, at its heart, a call story. And we can learn a lot about how to find our own burning bushes and holy ground through this particular one.
Scripture: Exodus 3:1-15
Song: Into The Blue by Luwaks
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(Chad Brekke) How do you feel about your reputation? What are people saying about you out there? How does following Jesus affect what people think about you? For that matter, what does Jesus have to say about you?
Scripture: Matthew 16:13-20
Song: Bad for Me by Alder
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(Natalia Terfa) Today’s story is hard to hear. Jesus seems very human and not very divine in his interactions with this Canaanite woman. Why would any writer include this strange encounter in a hero story about Jesus?
Scripture: Matthew 15:21-28
Song: Come 2gether by Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) A storm at sea rages through the night and things are not looking good for the disciples. When Jesus shows up they are even more afraid. That’s when Peter asks for the craziest thing ever! In these times of fear and anxiety, maybe we are asking the wrong questions. Maybe we have been called to something more meaningful than safety.
Scripture: Matthew 14:22-23
Song: Billie Eilish - Ocean Eyes (Instrumental Remix by Guanaco) Music provided by Cosmos Network
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(Natalia Terfa) So often, when we hear this feeding miracle, we focus on the amounts. The starting point, the ending point, the scarcity, and the abundance. But what if this miracle began long before they were gathering the five loaves and two fish?
Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-5, Matthew 14:13-21
Song: Lux by Lofive
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(Amy Koopman) Jesus gives us the parables of the mustard seed and yeast and pearls and leaves us to wonder what God might be trying to tell us about the kingdom of God through these little but powerful examples.
Scripture: Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 42-52
Song: Kauko by Twelwe
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(Natalia Terfa) Both of the texts in front of us today are about waiting, but not just any kind of waiting, but the waiting in the midst of evil, hardship, and struggle. Well. That feels… right. So what are we to do while we wait, and what are we waiting for exactly?
Scripture: Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Song: Distant Echo by Jakob Ahlbom
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(Chad Brekke) The church is currently in “Ordinary time” but that feels more than a little out of step with the rest of the world. Social unrest and racial tensions run high. A worldwide pandemic rages on. Maybe ordinary time for the church is supposed to be out of step. Maybe this old parable about the sower was always meant to disrupt ordinary life to make room for something extraordinary.
Scripture: Isaiah 55:10-13, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Song: Your Peace Will Make Us One cover by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) When the world feels chaotic and unsteady, where do we look? In the Bible, prophets were sent into the midst of just these times, and their words were not always hopeful. Even Jesus, who preached words of love and care for others, didn’t always have his words received with welcome. What message might God be sending us through today’s Gospel, and how are we going to receive it?
Scripture: Jeremiah 28:5-9, Matthew 10:40-42
Song: No Outsiders cover by Paul Koopman
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(Chad Brekke) Paul says that in baptism we are united with Christ in a “death like His”. That is a phrase that should stop us in our tracks. What does it mean to be united with Jesus in a death like his? How can that death set us free to live a new life?
Scripture: Romans 6:1-11
Song: Worry cover by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) Last week we heard the Great Commission, the call to go and share the good news of what God is doing. Today we are reminded of this same great commission - that we too are called disciples and that name asks something of us. We are sent to DO something. But what?
Scripture: Matthew 9:35-10:8
Song: Burn Like A Star cover by Paul Koopman
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) Pentecost. It's a day where we celebrate the start of the church with breath and fire. It's hard to not make the connections from that first Pentecost to what is happening today. As preachers, we are charged with holding the Gospel in one hand and the newspaper in the other and that's what we did. Say his name. George Floyd.
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Song: Orpheus cover by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Chad Brekke) In this reading from Acts, Paul takes the church on the road. He decides to take the gospel right into the belly of the beast where he knows there will be resistance, if not outright mocking and rejection. Here we have a master class in sharing your faith in a distracted and skeptical world.
Scripture: Acts 17:22-31
Song: Your Peace Will Make Us One cover by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) This is a very familiar and well-known set of verses, most often heard at funeral services. But what does it mean that Jesus is preparing a place for us? And what kind of house does God have? And why does it even matter?
Scripture: John 14:1-14
Song: Beauty Lives in Me by Johannes Bornlöf
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(Chad Brekke) Thinking of Jesus as the “good shepherd” has been comforting for generations of Christians. Today we will revisit these beloved passages to see what they might have to say about living through a worldwide pandemic.
Scripture: Psalm 23
Song: Aoraki by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) When you think of Jesus - where is he found? As a young girl growing up in the Catholic church, Jesus was always on the cross. For some Jesus is always in the manger, but today’s Gospel finds Jesus where I think he most wants to meet us - around the table.
Scripture: Luke 24:13-35
Song: Midnight Walk by Twelwe
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(Chad Brekke & Natalia Terfa) As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Scripture: John 20:19-31
Song: The King Has Fallen by Rippled Stone
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(Chad Brekke) Everything you see may be telling you to be doubtful and afraid but the messenger of the Lord says it is going to be ok, God is with you, God is keeping the promise… do not be afraid.
Scripture: Matthew 28:1-10
Song: Angel From Montgomery covered by Amy & Paul Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa & Chad Brekke)
Scripture: Matthew 26:14-27:66
Song: 7 Magnets by Luwaks
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(Natalia Terfa) We often hear to “love our neighbor as ourselves” but how do we really love ourselves? What does it mean to be unique and to be a person with gifts and flaws, and how can we see others that same way? Mr. Rogers often uses the language “Just as you are” to describe how we are loved. What might it look like to see ourselves as loved, just as we are, and also see others as loved just as THEY are?
Mr. Rogers Video
Scripture: Mark 12:28-31
Song: Broken Vessels cover by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Natalia Terfa) This is the lentiest lent that has ever lented. And yet the readings in front of us today are all about new life RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE of the worst of things. Man, the lectionary does not play around. So we’re going to dig in together, and in a new way.
Scripture: Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 11:1-45
Song: Come Alive (Dry Bones) covered by Paul & Amy Koopman
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(Brent Haglund) Who are the helpers around you? How can you be a helper? In this unprecedented time, how have you seen people, esp unexpected ones, rising up to help?
Mr. Rogers Video
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 8:1-7, Luke 10:25-37
Song: Hawaii by Lil' Loca
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(Chad Brekke) The story begins with people talking about him as if he isn’t even there. But he was there. And by the end of his encounter with Jesus and some religious leaders, this person is able to speak for himself. You need to hear what he has to say.
Scripture: John 9:1-38
Song: Beauty in the Mundane by Bird Of Figment feat. Ooyy
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(Stacey Rudolph) Why is it so hard to forgive sometimes? Jesus encourages us to forgive others.
Mr. Rogers Video
Scripture: Psalm 103:8-19, Matthew 18:21-22
Song: Be Your Girlfriend by Lil' Loca
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(Natalia Terfa) In this familiar Gospel story, we have a stark contrast to the interaction Jesus had with Nicodemus last week, with everything out in the open and in the noonday sun. That contrast shows us that this story is about so much more than water, or thirst, but about how much God knows us and loves us.
Scripture: John 4:5-42
Video: Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist Clip
Song: Bermuda by Ooyy
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(Paul Koopman) Jesus welcomed all people. How can we live - so that every person becomes our sister or brother?
Mr. Rogers Video
Scripture: Deuteronomy 10:17-22
Song: The Sirens of the Lambs by Matt Large
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(Chad Brekke) He had it all, status, reputation, and safety. He threw it all away for a dead man. He broke the religious rules that had defined his entire life. Why? That's me in the corner. That’s me in the spotlight. Losing my religion. Trying to keep up with you. And I don't know if I can do it.
Scripture: Psalm 121, John 3:1-17
Song: Future Yellow by Ooyy
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(Katie Rykal) How do we treat difference in our community? Mr. Rogers talked to each and every person as if they mattered because they do. One of Cyndi Lauper's more popular songs is “True Colors” - I see your true colors and that’s why I love you. When we look past the differences and see the true colors in the people around us - that is when we treat them with the love and respect they deserve. How do we talk to kids, "differently-abled", and “outsiders”?
Mr. Rogers Video
Scripture: Psalm 139:13-16
Song: True Colors by Justin Timberlake & Anna Kendrick; Performed by PoP Worship Band
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(Natalia Terfa) The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness is a familiar story to many of us. We are all aware of the universality of temptation. If it happened to Jesus, it can (and does) happen to us? So what does this story tell us about temptation? About how and where we are tempted? And what are we to do in response to the reality of temptation?
Scripture: Psalm 32:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11
Song: Breath by Ooyy
Poem: Beloved is Where We Begin - Jan Richardson
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(Chad Brekke) Author Jack London wrote I would rather be ashes than dust! I would rather that my spark should burn out in a brilliant blaze than it should be stifled by dry rot. Things are not as they appear to be on Ash Wednesday, and this is very good news!
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Song: Beautiful Things by Gungor, performed by Paul & Amy Koopman
Poem: Rend Your Heart by Jan Richardson
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(Chad Brekke) Professional mountain climbers know that the quickest and most effective cure for altitude sickness is to get back down the mountain as soon as possible. Why are people willing to risk so much to get to high places in the first place? At least the view from Mt Transfiguration can help us see how the past connects with the future, but we can’t stay at that altitude for long.
Scripture: Exodus 24:12-18, Matthew 17:1-9
Song: Born in the 90's by Ameryh
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(Natalia Terfa) It seems we have some choices put in front of us today, with what seems like clear right and wrong answers. How might we live in a world where things are no longer quite so clear?
Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Matthew 5:21-26
Song: Bottai by Ooyy
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(Chad Brekke) Kids know to protect themselves from being labeled by others. “I know you are but what am I” is a time-worn defensive line. Or, “sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me” is another. The truth is, certain names and labels can and do cause pain, which is why we become defensive. Being named by Jesus, on the other hand, can bring life and adventure. Today Jesus wants to call you something in front of everyone.
Scripture: Isaiah 58:1-9, Matthew 5:13-20
Song: Thunderbird by Ooyy
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(Natalia Terfa) Our gospel today begins Jesus’ sermon on the mount. It’s his greatest hits. His magnum opus. His best work. We tend to breeze on through this familiar passage without realizing what a game-changer it really was, and how it is still one today.
Scripture: Micah 6:1-8; Matthew 5:1-12
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Song: Mumbai by Ooyy
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We just wanted to take a moment and give thanks to all of our listeners who have chosen to support Prince of Peace!
If you are interested in supporting us or the podcast, you can do so at donate.princeofpeacechurch.org
(Chad Brekke) This time of year people return home by leaving home. Kids leave home and return to their homes in school dorms. Young families return home to far-flung places after sleeping in their “old bedroom’ while home for the holidays. For others, home is nothing but a distant memory or a fading hope. Maybe our scriptures this week can help us find our way home.
Scripture: Psalm 27:4-9, Matthew 4:12-23
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Song: Light Falling by Marc Torch
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(Martin Luther King Jr.) In honor and recognition of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Chad and Natalia preach back and forth from “The Drum Major Instinct” by Martin Luther King Jr. and we experience the power of these words and how they are still relevant today.
Scripture: Mark 10:35-40
Song: Twelve by Forester
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The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them a light has shined. Epiphany brings Christmas to a close but the epic story continues. Let’s follow the light and find our way out of all this darkness.
Scripture: Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12
Song: Tei by Ooyy
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What could make someone pick up and leave everything they know? Longing for something better? An escape to safety? A clear and imminent danger? All of the above? Today’s Gospel is a refugee story. How might our own stories be found in this one today?
Scripture: Isaiah 63:7-9, Matthew 2:13-23
Song: Teenage Lullaby by Ooyy
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Scripture: Interruption 1, Interruption 2, Interruption 3, Interruption 4
Content shown during sermon: "Lydia's Birth" "Atonement Church" "Alley" "Tulip 1" "Tulip 2" "Tulip 3" "Tulip Injured" "Tulip 4"
Song: Like Home by Jakob Ahlbom
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When waiting is hard and things feel hopeless, Isaiah offers just a glimmer of what is to come. An advent sermon on hope.
Scripture: James 5:7-10; Isaiah 11:1-10
Photos shown during sermon: Creepy St. John the Baptist, Forrest of Stumps, New Life
Song: I Know Those Birds by Howard Harper-Barnes
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As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Scripture: Matthew 24:36-44
Song: Xmas With Me by Dylan Sitts
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It's Thanksgiving here in the US, but what does this mean for those of us who follow Jesus? How can we sit down and eat with both the wolf and the sheep? How much room is God making at this crowded table?
Scripture: John 6:25-35
Song: Crowded Table Cover By Amy Courts, Lydia Brekke, & Natalia Terfa
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It’s Christ the King Sunday. What does this mean exactly? Why do we “celebrate” this day each year and what does it mean for us in the church to take a day to declare Christ’s kingship?
Scripture: Jeremiah 23:4-6; Colossians 1:15-20
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Song: Kings of the World by Aiyo
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You can’t say that! Solomon’s temple was built to last... forever. Why in the world would Jesus say that not one stone will be left upon another? Fine, maybe we do need to do some renovating, some redecorating around the church. Maybe some adjustments to the constitution are in order, or perhaps it’s time even (God help us) for a new hymnal. Sounds like Jesus has something more radical in mind.
Scripture: Isaiah 65:17-25, Luke 21:5-19
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Song: Dream Catching by Guustavv
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Every Sunday is a little Easter, Martin Luther once said. And it’s kind of fitting that this Sunday after All Saints Sunday, we have before us Jesus arguing with the religious leaders about resurrection. Don’t we all have these same questions about what happens in the Resurrected life? Let’s see how Jesus responds.
Scripture: Job 19:23-27; Luke 20:27-38
Song: All These Memories by Blaeker
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On this All Saints Sunday we will dwell in promises so rich and comforting that we need to keep hearing them spoken out loud. The pledge of our inheritance is signed, sealed and delivered and today we’re gonna read the fine print.
Scripture: Psalm 149, Ephesians 1:11-23
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Song: Natural Ghost by Jay Varton
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Jesus uses a familiar trope to teach a lesson today. There are TWO kinds of people, and then definitely doesn’t hide which one is “better.” This choice before us is familiar, as we’ve been in Luke’s Gospel for almost a year, and this theme of self-aggrandizing is a recurring theme. So what does this mean for us today? Why does it matter?
Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:6-8, Luke 18:9-14
Song: 3house by Ooyy
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What keeps you up at Night? Concerns about falling short as a parent, a friend, a Christian? Do financial worries keep you tossing and turning? Or maybe feelings of guilt or loss or shame? Jacob was terrified of his past catching up with him and one cold dark night it looked like his worst nightmare was about to come true. That’s when God showed up itching for a fight.
Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31; Luke 18:1-8
Song: Timeless Clouds by Luwaks
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Today’s Gospel is a familiar one, about the ten lepers healed by Jesus. We often hear this text read at Thanksgiving, as a reminder to “be like the one who says thank you” as if that’s the main point of this text. What if that’s NOT the point? What if this story illustrated something completely different?
Scripture: Psalm 111, Luke 17:11-19
Song: Gelatin Nature by Ooyy
Picture referenced in today's episode
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The apostle Paul would not have done well on Twitter. He is often so wordy that translators have trouble figuring out where to put punctuation. But this passage is an exception. Each verse is Twitter worthy, self-contained little truth bomb. Let’s just see if we find what Paul calls the “good treasure!”
Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Luke 17:5-10
Song: Too Fast by Ooyy
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Ooof. This is a challenging series of texts to read all at once. But the lesson of them is not that people with money are doomed to a fiery end, but that HOW we use our money matters to God. Jesus talks about money so much in scripture. As people who live in the wealthiest nation, we can’t ignore what Jesus is asking from us (yes us) today
Scripture: Amos 6:1, 4-7, 1 Timothy 6:6-12, 17-19, Luke 16:19-31
Song: Heliolingus by Ooyy
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In a series of parables, Luke builds the case that social status is fleeting and an unreliable source of security. My neighbor in need may also be the one who answers the call when I find myself in trouble.
Scripture: Amos 8:4-7, Luke 16:1-13
Song: Valium by nothanks
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In this series of parables, Jesus is responding to grumbling insiders about all the riff raff Jesus is bringing into the temple. In fact, both readings today are a reminder of who God is for, what God is about, and how God operates in the world, and it’s a reminder we need today.
Scripture: 1 Timothy 1:12-17; Luke 15:1-10
Song: With You by Daxton
Pastor Emmy Kegler's Book: One Coin Found
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Community can be uncomfortable, but there is always something being made new within it. So what new thing is God bringing to life here?
Scripture: Revelation 21:1-7
Song: Sober Language by Ooyy
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The church is a big beautiful amazing place made up of flawed messy awkward people. We aren’t expected to “like” everyone and thank goodness. But we are expected to build something together, even with the people who make living in community difficult. When we say “all are welcome” do we mean it? Really?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Song: Changli by Ooyy
Letter read during sermon
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A life with Christ calls us to the cross. And it’s a place no one really wants to go. Since crucifixion isn’t a thing we participate in anymore, what does this phrase really mean for us today? How has it been misused? How can we reclaim it, even when it makes us uncomfortable?
Scripture: Mark 8:34
Song: Melancholy by Ooyy
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Our next series begins this week, and we are going to be talking about the Christian community, and how our call to live with each other means things can get a little… uncomfortable. Being a part of a church doesn’t mean we agree with each other all the time, or even getting exactly what we want from every church service. So what does it mean then? Why do we gather in this way at all?
Scripture: 1 Peter 2:1-5, 9-10
Song: Barely Floating by Ooyy
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We were blessed this week to be joined by Archbishop Musa Filibus. Let’s hear what he thinks about “The Good Life”. Let’s find out as we close our final week of the good life series.
Archbishop Musa is from the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, he also is the President of The Lutheran World Federation.
Song: Far Away Star by Lishuid
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Turns out we needed yet another week of Jesus reminding us that the Kingdom of God does not look a darn thing like the world we are living in now, and not a moment too soon.
Scripture: Matthew 6:19-33
Song: In-Between Heartbeats by Headlund
Video showed during the sermon: Local restaurant giving free meals to homeless & less fortunate patrons
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“The good life” according to Jesus, doesn’t consist of fame and the approval of others, but you wouldn’t know it by looking at our world today. We are so good at presenting an image of the type of person we want to be. Only posting the best pictures. Only sharing the moments where we are winning. We like to make sure people know when we’re being awesome.
Scripture: Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18
Song: AM by Ikson™
Video showed during the sermon: Swag Seminary
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The cultural understanding of “The Good Life” is usually understood to be about upward mobility and the “American Dream”: financial freedom, material abundance, success, and social status. We think happiness is determined by the next best thing. In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus turns the definition of “the good life” upside down.
Scripture: Matthew 5:1-12
Song: エスケープ by Ikson™
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As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question.
Scripture: Luke 10:25-37
Song: Take Off by Ikson
Both of the readings today are about expectations and education. Paul is setting his church in Galatia up for what is to come, some final words as he helps them navigate what it means to live and work and worship together. Jesus sends his disciples out into the world that doesn’t always want them there. The same is true with us - what do we need to know before we are sent?
Scripture: Galatians 6:7-16; Luke 10:1-11
Song: Golden Hour by Vlad Gluschenko
The disciples have had enough. They want Jesus to destroy his adversaries. Doesn’t sound very Christian, does it? Well, what does sound Christian? Let’s ask some tough questions about following Jesus today.
Scripture: Psalm 16, Luke 9:51-62
Song: Summer Moon by Kabbalistic Village
What a story, of demons going into pigs and jumping off a cliff. It’s so odd! But there are some details of this story that matter so much and tell us a lot about what God is about and who God is for that we miss in all the wild moments in this story.
Scripture: Galatians 3:23-29; Luke 8:26-39
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
During Pentecost, we hear of the Spirit coming with a rush of violent wind and tongues of fire. In John’s Gospel this week we get a perhaps calmer Spirit, but equally as powerful in this calmness - to accompany us in the moments we cannot bear, and to witness God’s truth to us.
Scripture: Romans 5:1-5; John 16: 12-15
Song: "The Stand" written by Joel Houston; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today, we hear from Pastors Glenn and Edith about what God is doing in their midst. And we are again reminded of the rich blessing we have been given through God's Spirit...
Scripture: Genesis 11:1-9, Acts 2:1-21
It's a powerful thing when young people stand up and share the good news in such an honest and vulnerable way. We shouldn't be too surprised because this is what God does again and again. And here again, God's message of love and grace finds its way to us...
Scripture: Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:15-23
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus is setting up his disciples with a lesson in how to live in this world. Turns out, it’s a lesson we could all use again and again.
Scripture: Psalm 67; John 14:23-29
Song: "Christ Is Risen" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
A sheet lowers from the heavens like some kind of movie screen and the film that plays blows Peter’s mind. It leads to Peter to accept the most unlikely dinner invitation ever. Peter is about to go into the home of the enemy and sit down at a table where they eat the wrong food in the wrong order after praying the wrong prayers. What gift do you bring for the hosts of a dinner like this? You have to hear this to believe it!
Scripture: Acts 11:1-18; John 13:31-35
Song: "Our God" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
What does it mean that we are called sheep? This is such an odd analogy these days, as we are pretty far away from sheep herding here in the suburbs. What does this HUGE promise given to us today have to do with sheep anyway?
Scripture: Psalm 23; John 10:22-30
Song: "Savior's Arms" written by B. Fielding, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Easter changes everything. That may or may not strike you as good news. After all, maybe you like your life the way it is. Maybe you have a good job and a nice home and some great hobbies and you are not interested in someone upsetting the way things are. So I’ll say it again, Easter changes everything.
Scripture: Acts 9:1-6; John 21:1-19
Song: "Christ Is Risen" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question. Thomas isn’t a bad guy, he’s a lot like most of us, just wanting the same experience of resurrection that everyone else has already gotten. This is what happened at our 10:30am worship service...
Scripture: John 20:19-29
As we do from time to time, we put the usual preaching schedule on hold while we explore public theology together. We will again field questions from the congregation around the theme of things that cause us to doubt or to question. Thomas isn’t a bad guy, he’s a lot like most of us, just wanting the same experience of resurrection that everyone else has already gotten. This is what happened at our 9:00am worship service...
Scripture: John 20:19-29
Jesus is risen! YEY! YEYEYEYEYEY! It feels like this day mostly speaks for itself, but what does this good news mean for us today? Luke’s account of the resurrection has some unique details.
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26; Luke 24:1-12
Song: "Joyful, Joyful" written by C. Hall, H. Van Dyke, et al. performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today, we hear the passion narrative from the gospel of Luke as reading and Gospel and sermon...
Scripture: Luke 22-23
Song: "Sins Are Stones" written by J.M. McMillan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus gets into a conversation about waste and worship and wealthy and poor with his disciples today. He ends it with a familiar phrase “the poor will always be with us. What does it mean for us, as followers of Jesus who want to work against poverty, that the poor will be with us? Does it directly contradict our work? Why do anything if it won’t make a difference? What if we have been reading this one wrong the whole time?
Scripture: Phil 3:4b-14; John 12:1-8
Song: "Unashamed" written by D. McKelvey, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Our lives are shaped by the places we have called home along the way. But those places tend to change over time and we certainly change as well. Today we will explore how our Christian faith might affect the ways we think about home, and whether or not we can go there again.
Scripture: Psalm 32, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32
Song: "You've Set Me Free" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The world is a broken place. We are broken people. You feel it. We struggle to make sense of it, and when things get really bad it’s old habit to think that hardship and tragedy are God’s way of punishment. Frankly, it’s easier to think that sin causes suffering, and if we just make good choices, follow the right path, we can avoid it altogether. But it’s Lent, and Jesus is on his way to Jerusalem to do away with this whole idea--make a new way and give us something better. Now, the question is: what are we going to do about it?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; Luke 13:1-9
Song: "Reckless Love" written by C. Culver, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus uses two animal metaphors (my favorite!) today in his word of judgment on the people of Jerusalem. There is a lot of backstory packed into this short Gospel message, so let’s dig in and see what Jesus means here as he “sets his face towards Jerusalem” and in our second week in Lent - so too do we.
Scripture: Psalm 27:1-6; Luke 13:31-35
Song: "Unwavering" written by Matt Maher; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
WATCH THE VIDEO: The Narcissist's Footnote
Have you ever been stranded in the wilderness or had your car break down in the middle of nowhere? They say the vast majority of survival situations are resolved in the first 72 hours. Jesus once spent 40 days out in the wilderness and found himself in some dangerous situations. Today we will equip ourselves with the kind of survival system Jesus recommends.
Scripture: Psalm 91: 1-2, 9-16; Luke 4:1-14
Song: "You Say" written by J. Ingram, et al; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
WATCH THE VIDEOS... The Wall Doctor Rx The Seventy2 Survival System
We are dust. We will be dust again. But God breathed life into dust once, and God will do it again. On this day, we look death in the face and defiantly declare that it will not win.
Scripture: Romans 6:1-9; Matthew 6:1-6,16-21
We’ve all had them, these mountaintop experiences. Moments where God has felt so close and so bright and so real. And when you’ve had that experience, it’s easy to want to stay there. To build tents and “dwell” as the disciples say in today’s Gospel. It’s easy to think of this transfiguration as a thing that can only happen on the mountaintop. But we have to come back down, to the valley, where life is. I once heard the phrase, “we don’t have to stay on the mountain, the mountain gives us gifts so that the mountain stays with us.” What does the mountain gift you today that you can bring with you?
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2; Luke 9:28-36
Song: "Transfiguration" written by Aodhan King, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Joseph’s story is much more than a popular Broadway musical. The story involves deep family dysfunction, identity politics, human exploitation, and all kinds of treachery. And just when it looks like everyone is going to get what they have coming, redemption.
Scripture: Genesis 45:1-15; Luke 6:27-38
Song: "Come As You Are" written by B. Glover et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace band
We have a series of blessings in front of us, ones that don’t quite match what we think of when we hear people say they are so blessed. I mean, it’s a hashtag for crying out loud. What happens when we compare this #blessed trend to this list of blessings from Jesus?
Scripture: Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 6:17-26
Song: "Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)" written by J. Houston & J. Myrin; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Video: Blessed Are the Unemployed, Unimpressive, and Underrepresented (Nadia Bolz-Weber)
Popeye the Sailor Man loved to declare that “I am what I am and that’s all that I am!” (He also ate a lot of canned spinach which was sorta gross and weird). Long before Popeye, St. Paul ran around saying the same thing. After being saved by grace, Paul devoted his life to building faithful, reckless communities of faith willing to risk it all in order to reach others with the gospel.
Scripture: Psalm 138; 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Luke 5:1-11
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Not too long after his notoriety begins to rise, Jesus visits his hometown and is met with skepticism and bewilderment. “Didn’t we grow up with this guy?” Jesus reminds the gathered hometown crowd that he isn’t going to give them any kind of advantage just because he is “one of them."
Scripture: Jeremiah 1:4-10; Luke 4:21-30
Song: "Good Good Father" written by A. Brown & P. Barrett; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus returns home and is invited to speak at the worship service that weekend. He did a great job reading the scriptures and everyone was so pleased with this hometown boy. If only someone would have given the benediction at that moment so everyone could enjoy the coffee and cookies like they did after every other service. You won’t believe what happens next!
Scripture: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10; Luke 4:14-30
Song: "What A Beautiful Name" written by B. Fielding & B. Ligertwood; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There's no cliché for this one. In honor and recognition of MLK, Jr. weekend, Chad and Natalia preach back and forth from selections from “The Drum Major Instinct” by Martin Luther King Jr. and we experience the power and relevance of these words in a new way...
Scripture: Amos 5:18-24; Mark 10:35-40
Song: "God of Justice" written by Tim Hughes; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
When we made promises to these students long ago, we were serious about seeing it through. Back then, they were unable to speak for themselves and yet they heard the promise of being "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ, forever." Today, a piece of that promise has been honored. Now, we get to hear their words as they respond to that promise, and we take the next step in faith together...
Scripture: Isaiah 43:1-7; Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
What would it take you to leave all logic behind and follow? That’s the story we have in front of us for this Epiphany Sunday. Epiphany, which means reveal, is a season in the church that begins today, and teaches us to look for the many ways in which God is revealed to us through the world and those around us. It’s also handy that this season begins at a time of year where resolutions and intentions are abundant. So what star will you follow? And how will God be revealed to you this year?
Scripture: Isaiah 60:1-6; Matthew 2:1-12
Song: "What A Beautiful Name" written by B. Fielding & B. Ligertwood; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Every Christmas tends to function like a kind of time machine, taking us back to every other Christmas we remember. Today we are reminded that Christmas also keeps moving forward, calling us into a future filled with hope and promise.
Scripture: Psalm 148; Luke 2:41-52
Song: "Love Came Down" written by Brian Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
VIDEO: An Unexpected Christmas
Russian bots, fake news, fact checkers, Snopes, Urban Legend… It feels like finding the truth has become a bit more challenging these days. The bible talks a lot about the truth. I wonder how John the baptist would get his message across today? Can we face the truth even when it hurts?
Scripture: Malachi 3:1-4; Philippians 1:3-11; Luke 3:1-6
Song: "Even So Come" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Last year, Pr Chad reminded us that Advent was a promise, not a threat. How can we say that when this text is in front of us today? This certainly seems less than hopeful doesn’t it? Advent means arrival. Something is on it’s way - and today Jesus is telling us just what to look for.
Scripture: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:25-32
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
[10:30am gathering] A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you. So you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology. And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to the questions of the day. Though there is no "sermon" the message is loud and clear... God meets us in our uncertainty, fear and even doubt, and gives us some good news to share.
Scripture: John 18:33-37
Song: "Come Thou Fount" written by D. Crowder, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
[9:00am gathering] A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you. So you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology. And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to the questions of the day. Though there is no "sermon" the message is loud and clear... God meets us in our uncertainty, fear and even doubt, and gives us some good news to share.
Scripture: John 18:33-37
Song: "Come Thou Fount" written by D. Crowder, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus gives a warning to his disciples today, and it can seem kind of grim. In fact, it can make us think of nothing but our own anxieties and despair. But Jesus’ point was not nihilism, but to remind us that this kind of warning is ultimately about hope despite all the reasons we might have to do the opposite. Feels fitting these days doesn’t it? “Christ makes a way where there is no way.”
Scripture: Hebrews 10:19-25; Mark 13:1-8
Song: "No Longer Slaves" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
WATCH the video we showed during Natalia's message
There comes a moment, when the grace and mercy of God becomes personal. When reflecting that grace through faithful, even courageous living, looks almost reckless to some. Surrounded by power, authority and magnificent structures, Jesus wants us to notice something else today. Something easy to miss.
Scripture: 1 Kings 17:8-16; Mark 12:38-44
Song: "Reckless Love" written by C. Culver, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
*WATCH this special message from ELCA Presiding Bishop Eaton on the 100th Anniversary of Veterans Day
On this All Saints Sunday we take time to remember the Saints who have gone before us. But what does this mean exactly? What is this day for? What do the promises we have received mean on this day?
Scripture: Isaiah 25:6-9; John 11:32-44
Song: "Beautiful Things" written by L. & M. Gungor; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Things are happening. Everything is in motion. Crowds are on the move following Jesus into the next town. Except for Bart, as usual, he’s not going anywhere. He can’t even see the parade that is passing him by. Maybe you have felt this way, like the world is moving on without you. But then Jesus stopped everything and stood still. That’s when everything turned around.
Scripture: Jeremiah 31:7-9; Mark 10:46-52
Song: "40" inspired by Psalm 40, written by U2; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
WATCH Bono and Eugene Peterson talk about faith
The excitement around Jesus is growing. The disciples’ visions of grandeur is growing as well. A few of them are feeling pretty good about their prospects, so one day they decide to let Jesus know their big plans, and score a little something for themselves while they’re at it. Seems like a good idea, right? Maybe not. Jesus immediately sets them straight, and sets himself, the disciples and the rest of us in a different direction...
Scripture: Hebrews 5:1-10; Mark 10:35-45
Song: "God of Justice" written by Tim Hughes; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Oh the lies we tell ourselves! Pr Chad preached on Hebrews 4 at our Rally Day, reminding us that sometimes Scripture cuts as it brings good news. And today we have some of these very verses - where Jesus’ words push right up against the things we hold dear - money, power, and position. How difficult it is to hear these words!
Scripture: Hebrews 4:12-16; Mark 10:17-31
Song: "I Will Follow" written by C. Tomlin, J. Ingram, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Each of us has been affected by divorce in one way or another, either directly or indirectly. I have heard many sad and troubling stories over the years from people who felt tossed aside by the church after experiencing divorce. Can we find some grace in what sound like harsh words from Jesus about divorce in this passage?
Scripture: Genesis 2:18-24; Mark 10:2-16
Song: "You've Set Me Free" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Oooh boy can we relate to the disciples today. We too have an idea of the way things are “supposed to be” and we have a hard time when something goes outside of this idea. But what if we are working in different ways but for the same outcome? Does it matter how this work gets done? Let’s see together.
Scripture: Numbers 11:16, 24-29; Mark 9:38-50
Song: "For Your Glory" written by Leeland Mooring; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Ever had a burning question about something that you were afraid to ask? In today’s gospel reading the disciples really don’t get what Jesus is talking about but after the public scolding Peter just received, they all just bite their tongues. Turns out that asking their questions would have been a good idea after all.
Scripture: Psalm 1:1-6; Mark 9:30-37
Song: "There Is A Light" written by U2; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus speaks so harshly to Peter today, right on the heels of Peter making a huge public statement about who God is. What is it that Peter is expecting, and why does it matter for us today?
Scripture: Psalm 116:1-9; Mark 8:27-38
Song: "White Flag" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
As we kick off our fall season of ministry we pause to consider the gift of God’s Word. We teach it and preach it and study it. We embrace it, ignore it, treasure and fear it. God’s Word is living and active and sharp!
Scripture: Hebrews 4:12-16
Song: "Broken Vessels (Amazing Grace)" written by J. Houston & J. Myrin; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
[This is a partial recording. We had technical difficulty, so the best way to hear the full sermon is by watching the Facebook Live feed (sermon begins at 23:00). Sorry for the inconvenience.]
So today Jesus tells the disciples that it’s not what you put into yourself that matters, but what comes out. And honestly, that has often been used to tell people to “smile more” or “be happy” or other baloney feel good spirituality. What if this text wasn’t about your emotions, but how you treat others?
Scripture: James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8,14-15, 21-23
Today we wrap up our 7 week series on Ephesians. In this famous passage it may sound like we are sent into the world to do battle. In one long military metaphor, we are told to “put on the armor of God.” As usual however, a closer look reveals a deeper truth, our only weapon brings life, even to our enemies!
Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20
Song: "Lead On O King Eternal" written by Ernest Shurtleff (arr. by Stefan Van Voorst); performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today’s portion of Ephesians reminds us that the antidote to evil and foolishness and debauchery (what a word!) is to be filled with the Spirit. Instead of the usual comparisons to breath and wind, today’s text reminds us that one way we can be filled with the Spirit is by singing. So let’s sing...
Scripture: Ephesians 5:15-20
Song: various hymns
Continuing in our series on Ephesians, this fourth chapter is full of practical advice. Is it possible that suggestions made more than 2,000 years ago, in a culture very different from our own, could be considered good advice here and now? Let’s take a look.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:25-5:2
Song: "I Will Follow" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
VIDEO: grocery clerk praised for inviting teen with autism to help him stock shelves
Continuing in the letter to the Ephesians, Paul exhorts us all to “live a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called” and it feels like an impossible task. How do we do this? Paul gives us a list. How do we know if we’ve done a good job? What happens when we don’t live up to it? This is the universal struggle. The question we all have at some point or another, is: what is “good enough” for God? Or maybe, more honestly, “Am I good enough for God?” Let’s dig into what Paul’s letter has to tell us about this today.
Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-16
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The Apostle Paul keeps talking about “power” in this section of Scripture. And the first-century Roman Establishment at Ephesus didn’t want this message getting out: “God’s power” this, “the power of the Spirit” that. He talks about it a lot. So why all this talk of power? Where can you get this power? And what is it for? Let’s dig in and see what this power is doing in us today!
Scripture: Ephesians 3:14-21
Song: "Bearing Witness" written by Collective Soul; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Watch this overview video about the book of Ephesians (from The Bible Project)
A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you… so you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology… And then we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to our questions—and we are always left wanting more!
Scripture: Ephesians 2:11-22
Song: "God of Justice" written by Tim Hughes; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today we will kick off our summer series focussing on the book of Ephesians. This little book tucked away in the New Testament is full of practical advice and great wisdom related to living out your faith so we'll spend the summer digging deeper. And boy does it start out with a bang!
Scripture: Ephesians 1:3-14
Song: "Because of Your Love" written by Phil Wickham; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
*ARTICLE/VIDEO ABOUT LA SALLE LUTHERAN CHURCH CLOSING AFTER NEARLY 100 YEARS
So often one of the excuses we have for not sharing our faith or not serving is that we don’t have anything to offer. In today’s Gospel, Jesus sends his disciples out into the world but offers them a pretty sparse packing list. What do we need as we too are sent?
Scripture: Ezekiel 2:1-5; Mark 6:1-13
Song: "No Longer Slaves" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The woman could have snuck away unnoticed but she was willing to suffer the public shaming she knew was coming. She fell to the dirt and told the whole truth. What happens next is just breathtaking. What happens next is gospel.
Scripture: Mark 5:21-43
Song: "Good Good Father" written by A. Brown & P. Barrett; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
We all have callings. We all have gifts given in baptism to fulfill those callings. Those callings lead us to help shine a light, make paths straight, prepare the way of the Lord -- speak the truth in love.
Scripture: Malachi 3:1-4; Luke 1:57-67
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus talks about images of a seed representing the Kingdom of God and the 1st reading contains images from ancient texts the disciples were sure to recall at this parable. And then Jesus does NOT go where they think he’ll go. What might the tree of life that God plants look like? And how do we find it?
Scripture: Ezekiel 17:22-24; Mark 4:26-34
Song: "Never Once" written by J. Ingram, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
We have been hearing this story since we were little kids. It’s an ancient story. So old that it should sound like a relic from a time long past with no relevance to our modern lives. But as you enter this old story again, you may learn that it is like reading an entry from your own diary, written last Tuesday.
Scripture: Genesis 3:8-15; 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1; Mark 3:20-35
Song: "One Thing Remains" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
It's a wonderful thing, when young people, graduating high school seniors stand up and share the good news in such a remarkable and powerful way. But we shouldn't be too surprised, this is what God does. God breaks into our world through all kinds of unexpected ways...
Scriputure: 1 Samuel 3:1-10; 2 Corinthians 4:5-12; Mark 2:23-3:6
Song: "Broken Vessels (amazing grace)" written by Joel Houston; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Nicodemus comes under the cover of darkness to sit with Jesus and ask him some questions of faith. Why? What has he heard about this Jesus that brings him to this moment? What was it about Jesus that brought Nicodemus out, that caused his curiosity to be greater than his fear? What do we need in order for our curiosity to be greater than OUR fear?
Scripture: Romans 8:12-17; John 3:1-17
Song: "Let God Arise" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Pentecost is often referred to as the birthday of the church. Is it possible that we may have domesticated this whole thing a bit? Sure, we change the liturgical color to red and all, but are we sure we even want what the Spirit pours out in this passage? What if you came to church to hear a story and it turned out to be about you?
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Song: "Holy Spirit" written by B. Torwalt & K. Torwalt; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There’s a phrase that is sometimes used in Christian circles, that we should be “in the world but not of the world.” It comes from today’s Gospel, but Jesus doesn’t quite mean it the same way.
Scripture: 1 John 5:9-13; John 17:6-19
Song: "Make Us One" written by Stefan Van Voorst; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus uses the word ‘love’ nine times in this nine verse reading from the gospel of John. We use the word love a lot too. Let’s see if we mean the same thing.
Scripture: Acts 10:44-48; Psalm 98; John 15:9-17
Song: "Love Came Down" written by Brian Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
[Click HERE for the piece Chad read as part of his closing: "For Joy"]
The greatest blessing is watching what happens when we all respond together as a community of faith. There is just nothing like the church when people offer their energy, gifts and resources to build up the ministry we share here at POP.
Click to read Chad’s letter
Set up Simply Giving
Song: "Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way" written by U2; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Both of our readings today make it clear what it looks like to be a part of the community of God. Jesus uses a metaphor, but John’s letter is a little less ambiguous. In this day and age, in the world the way it is, where hate and mistrust seems like the norm, how can we be love and fruit?
Scripture: 1 John 4:7-21; John 15:1-8
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
When all feels lost, when darkness closes in and you feel alone, there is an ancient word of hope that will never lose sight of you.
Scripture: Acts 4:5-12; Psalm 23; John 10:11-18
Song: "Son Was Lifted Up" written by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus appears to the disciples in today’s Gospel. Just shows up. They don’t invite him, they don’t ask him to be there, he just appears. And in their confusion and doubt they witness the very real, very human moments of what a resurrected life looks like.
Scripture: 1 John 3:1-7; Luke 24:36b-48
Song: "Praise The King" written by C. Voss et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you… so you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology… And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to our questions—and we are always left wanting more!
Scripture: John 20:19-31
Song: "Hurricane" written by Lisa & Michael Gungor; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you… so you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology… And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to our questions—and we are always left wanting more!
Scripture: John 20:19-31
Song: "Hurricane" written by Lisa & Michael Gungor; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
…and then everyone was so terrified they ran away screaming and never said a thing about what had happened to anyone. The end. That’s pretty much the way Mark ends his account of the resurrection. That is also why Mark is my favorite gospel. It takes more than guts to set the pen down after writing an ending like that. It takes faith.
Scripture: Isaiah 25:6-9; Acts 10:34-43; Mark 16:1-8
Song: "Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way" written by U2; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The Passion of our Lord. This one speaks for itself...
Scripture: Mark 14 & 15
Song: "Sins Are Stones" written by John Mark McMillan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Cups, plates and bowls—all types of vessels—show up a lot in the Bible. In fact, the writers of the Bible even use these every-day, useful objects to talk about our relationship with God. So what does it mean that we are also vessels of faith?
In this podcast, we talk about heart.
Cups, plates and bowls—all types of vessels—show up a lot in the Bible. In fact, the writers of the Bible even use these every-day, useful objects to talk about our relationship with God. So what does it mean that we are also vessels of faith?
In this podcast, we talk about jug.
Cups, plates and bowls—all types of vessels—show up a lot in the Bible. In fact, the writers of the Bible even use these every-day, useful objects to talk about our relationship with God. So what does it mean that we are also vessels of faith?
In this podcast, we talk about cup.
It feels like Jesus is talking in some kind of secret code in this Gospel lesson. Everyone is confused. His disciples are having a hard time interpreting him, so are the people gathering around him, and if we’re honest, so are we! Let’s try to unlock exactly what Jesus is talking about here, and how this confusing passage is really good news.
Scripture: Jeremiah 31:31-34; John 12:20-33
Song: "Majesty" written by M. Smith & S. Garrard; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The gospel is always under assault. From cheap grace, to meeting God half way, to prosperity preaching, our efforts to remake the good news in our own image are relentless. Today God hits us with a combination for which there is no defense. Today God leaves a mark.
Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10; John 3:14-21
Song: "Broken Vessels (amazing grace)" written by J. Houston & J. Myrin; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Cups, plates and bowls—all types of vessels—show up a lot in the Bible. In fact, the writers of the Bible even use these every-day, useful objects to talk about our relationship with God. So what does it mean that we are also vessels of faith?
In this podcast, we talk about plate.
Both Paul and Jesus give us a pretty clear and harsh reminder of what life in the Kingdom of God cannot be and cannot look like. What do these stories teach us today? Is there a place for this kind of anger and garbage removal in the church today?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25; John 2:13-22
Song: "How He Loves" written by John Mark McMillan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Cups, plates and bowls—all types of vessels—show up a lot in the Bible. In fact, the writers of the Bible even use these every-day, useful objects to talk about our relationship with God. So what does it mean that we are also vessels of faith?
Song: "Beautiful Things" written by Lisa & Michael Gungor; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Jesus is quite public about what it will mean for him to be the messiah. It will involve suffering, rejection and even death. But faith is a private thing, right? So Peter takes Jesus aside to discuss the finer points of theology. Bad idea! Today we all might learn something.
Scripture: Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16; Mark 8:31-38
Song: "The Times They Are A Changin'" written by Bob Dylan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
So often we think of Jesus in the wilderness as the ultimate “how to” about withstanding temptation. Just quote the Bible and you’ll be ok. But what if the inclusion of this story in the Gospels isn’t about how it happens but where it happens? Let’s dig a little deeper...
Scripture: Psalm 25:1-10; Mark 1:9-15
Song: "Future Past" written by J.M. McMillan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
After Jesus has experienced so much opposition and rejection, we come to a glorious vision of his power and majesty high on a mountain. What a great and dramatic ending this would be to the gospel story. Jesus lifted high with Moses on one side, Elijah on the other. The end. But it turns out that Mark has a far different ending in mind...
Scripture: Psalm 50:1-6; 2 Corinthians 4:3-6; Mark 9:2-9
Song: "Never Once" written by J. Ingram, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
How often do we do all things and be all things in order to help people? In order to fit in, or be good, or feel ok? Paul’s letter to the Corinthians describes this kind of work of the Christian in the world and it feels overwhelming and kind of exhausting. But then Jesus reminds us, right in the middle of his overload of work and surrounded by people in need, that rest is important. How do you take time? How do you Sabbath? What does this practice of rest have to do with our own walk of faith?
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:16-23; Mark 1:29-39
Song: "Come As You Are" written by B. Glover, et al.: performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
What a set of texts we have in front of us today! In Deuteronomy we have a promise that God will continue to raise up prophetic voices to lead the people when things seem dire. Then Mark gives us the first miracle/sign of his Gospel and it’s not what you’d expect. What do these two things have in common? And why are they important today when neither of these things seem like the life we’re living right now?
Scripture: Deut 18:15-20; Mark 1:21-28
Song: "Our God" written by C. Tomlin, J. Reeves, et al.; preformed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Simon and Andrew always upgraded when the new smartphones came out. They liked things to happen fast! We also tend to like things to happen immediately. Let’s drop what we’re doing and tag along.
Scripture: Jonah 3:1-5, 10; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31; Mark 1:14-20
Song: "I Found It All" written by Shane Barnard; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
One week after we heard about the baptism of Jesus and saw our young people affirm their baptisms, we are reminded that we too have been called. Each and every one of us. What then is our response to this call? Do we say “here I am Lord” as Samuel does? Do we invite others to “come and see” as Nathaniel was himself invited?
Scripture: 1 Samuel 3:1-10; John 1:43-51
Song: "Children of Light" written by J. Ingram, J. Reeves, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Confirmation is not a graduation from church or faith. It is an invitation to a deeper and more meaingful involvement in the life of the church, the life of faith. Hear these powerful stories of faith from those students being confirmed...
Scripture: Acts 19:1-7; Mark 1:4-11
Song: "Thunder" as recorded by Imagine Dragons; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
What if being sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever gets you into trouble? Today an old man holds the child Jesus in his arms and gives a blessing that causes great concern for Mary and Joseph. Are you sure you want to be blessed by God?
Scripture: Isaiah 61:10-62:3; Galatians 4:4-7; Luke 2:22-40
Song: "Love Came Down" written by Brian Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
People say it is supposed to be a time of joy and happiness... of love and good cheer... and we hope that's exactly the kind of Christmas you're having. But it's hard sometimes, we know. You may even feel surrounded by darkness. If your Christmas includes some uncertainty, or some grief or even some fear, you are not alone. You share this holy night with shepherds and angels and Mary and Joseph and people all over the world who find themselves in some kind of darkness. And we are here, all of us, together. "Do not be afraid, for see I bring you news of great joy. For unto you is born in the City of David a savior." So a light shines even in your darkness. And nothing shall overcome this Light.
Song: "God with Us" written by J. Ingram & L. Jordan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Should the world consider the coming of the Lord as a promise or a threat? This past year has been filled with unspeakable violence and suffering throughout the world, including in the United States. As we enter the season of Advent, the themes of darkness and light will lead us all the way to the Christ child in Bethlehem. And a promise.
Scripture: Isaiah 64:1-9; Mark 13:24-37
Song: "Even So Come" written by C. Tomlin, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
On this Christ the King Sunday, we celebrate the kingship of Jesus. What does it mean that Jesus is King? Jesus tells the final parable of Matthew’s 25th chapter, a well known parable about dividing sheep and goats into categories of in and out, good and bad. What does this mean for us today? And are we sheep or goats?
Scripture: Ephesians 1:15-23; Matthew 25:31-46
Song: "Great Are You Lord" written by D. Leonard, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you… so you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology… And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to our questions—and we are always left wanting more!
Song: "O Come To The Altar" written by C. Brown, M. Brock, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
A few times a year, we depart from our usual preaching schedule and hand over the mic to… you… so you can ask any and all questions pertaining to faith, community, theology… And we see what happens. We adjust the usual format of our worship service in order to leave as much time as possible for our pastors to respond to our questions—and we are always left wanting more!
Song: "O Come To The Altar" written by C. Brown, M. Brock, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
We heard a sermon in August about the time between expectation and hope. We find ourselves in this same place again in our readings today. As we await the arrival of Christ, what does our preparation look like? What does it mean to wait for something yet coming, but still being present in the here and now?
Scripture: Amos 5:18-24; Matthew 25:1-13
Song: "Heaven Now!" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
The odds are fairly good that one of the many road construction projects around the metro area slowed down your drive to church today. Will there come a time when all of this construction is completed? The truth is, each of us is an unfinished project, under construction. How is your personal construction project going? What will it look like when finished?
Scripture: Revelation 7:9-17; Matthew 5:1-12
Song: "Your Grace Finds Me" written by J. Myrin & M. Redman; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There are 613 laws/rules to follow in the Old Testament. 613. Phew. How are we ever to expect to follow them all? Jesus gives us a little help today and narrows it down to 2. On this 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, let’s look at our two “rules” and what it means that grace comes first.
Scripture: Romans 3:19-28; Matthew 22:34-40
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Watch the video we showed at the end of the message
The prosperity gospel is a booming business. The idea that I can get a huge return on my investment by giving money to a ministry is an appealing theology to millions. The Lutheran theology of the cross is something altogether different. Jesus turns our attention away from what we have or desire toward who we are and what we value.
Scripture: Exodus 33:12-23; Matthew 22:15-22
Song: "At The Cross (love ran red)" written by C. Tomlin, I. Watts, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Ooof. This is not a text we hear in Sunday school. Who would turn down an invitation to dine with the King? And who would wear sweatpants to a wedding feast? In fact, both of the texts today feel like a call to worthiness. And that’s hard to hear. But what if we’re missing something? Is it really so dire?
Scripture: Philippians 4:1-9; Matthew 22:1-14
Song: "Psalm 126 (come home with jubilation)" by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Father Richard Rohr wrote that “religion either produces the very best people or the very worst.” In this passage, Paul continues arguing against the outward trappings of the religious system that he had devoted his life to, in favor of “the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” This deserves a closer look!
Scripture: Philippians 3:4b-14
Song: "Lead Me To The Cross" written by Brooke Ligertwood; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today’s Gospel begins a series of challenges to the authority of Jesus by those holding positions of power. What is it about this Jesus guy that is so threatening? What does it mean that Jesus is occupying the temple in these stories and what does it have to do with us and the places we occupy?
Scripture: Philippians 2:1-13; Matthew 21:23-32
Song: "From The Inside Out" written by Joel Houston; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Let’s be honest, sometimes the bible bugs us. Why should the lifetime criminal have a place in heaven right next to the lifetime active church member just because of some jailhouse conversion? Today we contend with the annoying reality that God occasionally does things without our permission!
Scripture: Jonah 3:10-4:11; Matthew 20:1-16
Song: "One Thing Remains" by B. Johnson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
VIDEO: Grace and Fear
The Gospel today reminds us just how similar we are to the disciples, when they ask Jesus just how often they are supposed to forgive someone. 7 times? Then can we stop? Jesus lays down quite the stunning answer to this question, one that we hate and love all at the same time.
Scripture: Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35
Song: "Mighty To Save" written by B. Fielding & R. Morgan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
As we celebrate rally day and the kick off to our next season of ministry and outreach, we pause to consider what the church is really all about. Is this community of faith a tired remnant of generations past or are we being called together for just such a time as this?
Scripture: Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 18:15-20
Song: "Be The Church" written by Stefan Van Voorst; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Our Gospel today tells us that we are called to carry the cross. If you think about the cross that Jesus carried - it’s a pretty big one. What does it mean for us to have to pick up that cross and follow Jesus? Is it as difficult as it may seem, or is there an easier way?
Scripture: Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:21-28
Song: "We Are Called (let us not forget)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There are a lot of announcements and pronouncements made in today’s Gospel. Peter announces that Jesus is the Son of God, and Jesus gives him the keys to the Kingdom. So strange. What does it mean that Peter says what he says and why does Jesus respond the way he does? And what does it have to do with us?
Scripture: Isaiah 51:1-6; Matthew 16:13-20
Song: "The Solid Rock" re-done hymn by the Prince of Peace worship band
This one is a doozy! A traditional understanding of this story says that Peter stepped out of the boat in confidence, looked at Jesus and then was distracted by the storm and the crashing waves and thunder bolts all around him. And then was when he began to sink like a "Rock". But was it Peter's zealous faith that kept him on top of the water, for a time? Was the faith-filled act to have stepped out of the boat? Maybe Peter could have also shown his faithfulness by staying in the boat... let's explore this "what if?" together.
Scripture: Matthew 14:22-33
Song: "God Is Able" written by B. Fielding & R. Morgan; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
About our preacher: Emmy Kegler is the pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Northeast Minneapolis (gracenempls.org) and the founder and editor of Queer Grace, an encyclopedia of online resources around LGBTQ life and faith (www.queergrace.com). Check out her bio for more info.
The woman we meet in the gospel today had no business believing that Jesus would bother to help her in her time of need. Remember that humiliated woman who snuck up behind Jesus just to reach out and touch the hem of his garment? Yeah, this is not that woman! The Canaanite woman we meet today demands a blessing. The disciples are so annoyed they ask Jesus to send her away. But Jesus sees something in this foreign woman in need, something he has been searching for. Something he wants you to have as well.
Scripture: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Matthew 15:10-28
VIDEO: Mark Heyer speaks about the memory of his daughter
Song: "Shelter From The Storm" by Bob Dylan
Living between memory and hope--it is a tough place to live, a diffcult tension to hold. We remember God's faithfulness in the past and we hope in God's faithfulness for the future. And at the same time we get to participate in God's work of redemption here and now... we sow seed in hopes that in time there will be a harvest.
Scripture: Psalm 126
Song: "Psalm 126 (come home with jubilation)" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
We have all wondered what it sounds like when God interacts with us. Since we are kind of short on burning bushes and pillars of fire these days, how do we know what God’s voice sounds like? What does God look like or feel like? How can we be sure it’s God and not just our mind? Is there a test? And if and when God speaks to us, what does God say (especially now, in light of current events)? Both of our texts today share moments of experiencing God that give us some pretty great clues to how we experience our God who has promised to always be with us.
Scripture:1 Kings 19:9-13; Matthew 14:22-33
Song: "It Is Well" written by H. G. Spafford & P. P. Bliss; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Take the time to hear this powerful story of addiction, stubborn faith, grace and redemption... it might just change your life too!
About our preacher/presenter: By 18 singer/songwriter and blogger, Sarah Kallies, had an ulcer for which she was given narcotic pain medication. And so began her long and secret relationship with pills that lasted until 2009 when she married her husband. Getting clean, sober and healthy is like having been blinded by a wet, heavy blanket... read more here.
Song: "Your Grace Finds Me" written by J. Myrin & M. Redman; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There is something about the middle of the night that lends itself to magnifying our problems and concerns. There in the darkness our worries keep us from sleeping. At times, it is our own conscience that decides to do battle with us in the wee hours. Just ask Jacob. His entire past caught up with him one night and he found himself in a full-on battle with God. You may be surprised how the match turned out.
Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31; Matthew 14:13-21
Song: "Savior's Arms" written by B. Fielding, J. Ingram & K. Stanfill; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Shobi’s Table, baptism and transfiguration and why I'm not in it to save or change people...
Text: Mark 1:9-11, Mark 9:2-7
About our preacher/presenter: Margaret Mary Kelly is the pastor and mission developer with Shobi's Table in St. Paul, MN. They serve the poorest section of the East Metro, on the streets... with their food truck. Read more here.
Song: "You've Set Me Free" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
There’s an age that every kid goes through we like call the “question” stage. First at age 3 is the why’s, then, again around 9 or 10 the life questions are asked. Without fail, they will ask a complicated question… one without an easy answer. And as adults, it’s hard to explain the unexplainable. Jesus today is aware of how difficult it is to explain the Kingdom of God, so he uses a lot of quick and easy examples to help paint a larger picture. So will we!
Scripture: Romans 8: 26-39; Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
Song: "One Thing Remains" written by B. Johnson, C. Black Gifford & J. Riddle; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
We don't spend much time expressing our deep hurt and frustration. Certainly not to each other and certainly not in church. But God can handle it. In fact, taking time to sit in this space together is an essential part of our faith in God...
Scripture: Lamentations 3:16-24; Romans 8:15-25
Song: "Lord I Need You" written by C. Nockels, D. Carson, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
It's been 500 years since Martin Luther nailed a list of strongly-worded "reformations" to the front door of his local church, and inadvertently started the Reformation. And so far removed from 1517, we can sometimes forget how amazingly tranformational and radical his understanding of God's love truly was, and is. So let's dive into it together...
About our presenter/preacher: Rev Dr. Mark Tranvik is a faculty member at Augsburg College in Minneapolis, MN, and an expert on Martin Luther and the Reformation... bio here.
This morning we take a fresh look at the familiar parable of the sower and the seed. You know, some fell on rocky soil, some in the thorns and some on good soil. So, what kind of soil are you? Is that even the right question to ask? Those of us who are not up at the lake this weekend will follow Jesus to the shore to listen again to this great old story.
Scripture: Isaiah 55:10-13; Matthew 13:1-9
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
As we do from time to time at our 10:30am worship service, we devote our entire morning to hearing from you on issues of our faith/life together. This particular time in conversation is always a blessing! Use #PoPAskThePastors and we'll respond, even now.
You throw a rock into the water and no matter its size, ripples go out from where it hits. It’s a simple act but there is something so satisfying about it. Our text today will invite us to see where, or who, the ripples of our actions reach and what we can expect in return.
Scripture: Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42
Song: "Good Good Father" written by A. Brown & P. Barrett; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
One moment Jesus is speaking about how difficult it is to be a faithful follower and the next he is inviting people to come to him for his burden is light and he will give them rest. Well, which is it? Should we be inviting people to church so they can have their burdens lifted or should we be warning them that being part of a community of faith is challenging and even demanding?
Scripture: Psalm 86:1-10; 16-17; Romans 6:1-11; Matthew 10:24-39
Song: "No Longer Slaves" written by by B. Johnson, J. Case & J. D. Helser; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Check out the Tanzania Vision Trip 2017 blog!
There are some aspects of this classic Sunday School story which we probably haven't pondered before... and doing so might just open up some helpful ways to think about what to do with what we've been given.
Scripture: John 6:1-21
Song: "Here We Are" written by Nate Bergengren; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
*About our speaker: Jodi Houge is a pastor and church-planter/mission-developer in St. Paul, MN. Humble Walk is the community she helps to lead.
I’m not sure we could have this hammered home any more than it has been already, but Jesus gives us yet another call to go out into the world. We’ve been forgiven - while we were still sinners we’ve been forgiven- so now we go out to do the same. Easy right? Ha. Today, we’ll see why we need to hear this as often as Jesus keeps saying it.
Scripture: Romans 5:1-8; Matthew 9:25-10:8
Song: "God of Justice" written by Tim Hughes; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Gratitude. What does it mean to be grateful? How can we cultivate gratitude in every circumstance? And what does it have to do with our faith? Join us this Sunday as we kick off an all ages 30 day gratitude practice!
Scripture: Psalm 100:1-5; John 12:1-8
Song: "Forever" written by Chris Tomlin; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
VIDEO: Kids President's 25 Reasons To Be Thankful!
Josie Robinson, Author of The Gratitude Jar
Relationships are a huge part of our faith journey. Is there a specific individual that comes to mind when you think about who has shaped your faith? Contact them to thank them for this blessing. Or, pray that God would give you an opportunity to share faith with someone. You may also need to pray for the courage to actually do it too!
Scripture: Acts 2:1-21
Song: "Holy Spirit" written by Bryan & Katie Torwalt; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Sometimes it’s hard to stay strong in the face of difficult things, and even harder when those things are hard to understand. Today the disciples say goodbye to Jesus, again. And he’s got some things to say before he goes… this time, they listen.
Scripture: Acts 1:6-14; John 17:1-11
Song: "The Solid Rock" written by E. Mote, W. B. Bradbury, et al.; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
I suppose the life of faith would be easier if we could decide what kind of god we follow. I would choose a god that would allow me to focus on my own interests. Worship would be held up north on the lake except for festival Sundays which would be held on the golf course. Offering would not be collected at either of those services. Paul ran into this kind of religion in Athens. What he says about it caused some to laugh at him while others were never the same again.
Scripture: Acts 17:22-31; John 14:15-21
Song: "The Stand" written by Joel Houston; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
This section of scripture is often read at funerals as it gives great comfort to those who have lost a loved one, and it contains some BIG promises for those who have died. Let’s dig into this one to see what it might have to say to those of us who are living as well!
Scripture: 1 Peter 2: 2-10; John 14:1-12
Song: "Come As You Are" written by B. Glover, D. Crowder & M. Maher; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
It is not uncommon to be nostalgic for days gone by. This is often especially true when it comes to the church. Change is often met with resistance if not disappointment or even anger. What if our glory days were not in our past or even in our future? What if we are living in the glory days right now?
Scripture: Acts 2:42-47; Psalm 23; John 10:1-10
Song: "White Flag" written by C. Tomlin, J. Ingram, et al; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band
Today’s story on the road to Emmaus is familiar, not because Luke 24 is so common, but because we’ve been where the disciples are today. Without hope. Heading home with disappointment weighing heavy. And yet, they aren’t on that road alone. Turns out this story of the Emmaus road has much to teach us about hope and hopelessness?
Scripture: 1 Peter 1:17-23; Luke 24: 13-35
Song: "Never Once" written by J. Ingram, M. Redman & T. Wanstall; performed by the Prince of Peace worship band