Good News: Recent Episodes
Faith Lutheran Church
In our anxiety we want Jesus to be our magical savior. Instead of one who fixes everything in an instant, Jesus is the King who walks beside us through the ups and downs. The reign of Christ invites us to lives of service—and again and again as we care for the needs of others we […]
The world is ending and yet our texts remind us today not to lose hope. God promises to be right here in the midst of the mess-the messes we make, the messes that find us and the messes beyond our control. Accompanying Scripture:Malachi 4:1-2, Isaiah 12:2-6, Luke 21:5-19
When life throws a curveball and one ends up in the hospital, religion often becomes an important aspect of the hospital stay. Comfort your hearts with God and with Jesus. Spiritual care is important at all times, but it is often incredibly needed for patients receiving medical treatment, as well as for their families and loved ones. […]
In holy baptism God makes saints out of sinners. In holy communion God forgives the sins of all the saints. In worship today we give thanks for all the saints “who from their labors rest.” In the same breath we petition our God for the strength to hear and lean into the wholeness of the […]
The theme in our texts for this week is don’t give up. Jacob wrestles with his broken relationship with his brother and ends up wrestling God. Jesus describes a parable where a widow wrestles with injustice and faces a grumpy judge. In faith we too are invited to be persistent, be honest, ask questions and […]
Today is a day of unexpected blessings, surprising signs of how God is active and alive and present in our world and in our lives in the most unlikely of places. Naaman, a commander and mighty warrior and enemy of Israel, suffers from leprosy and is offered healing through disappointing ordinary means. Also afflicted with […]
Life in a metropolitan area often lacks green space. We do not have to travel far to see God's creation. We have parks, rivers, forests, zoos and animal rescues in the DC area and some just a short drive away. An invitation this week is to take time out of our busy schedules to rest and reflect on God's abundance of creation. What do you hear? See? Feel?
Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 1:1-31, Psalm 96, John 1:1-5
The story of the rich man and Lazarus infamously and painfully reminds us of the uncomfortable truth that money will not earn us salvation and God deeply cares for the poor. In worship all are welcome, all are loved. As God continues to love all of who we are, we are invited to do the same for one another. Knowing as we do, we encounter heaven on earth.
Accompanying Scripture:Amos 6:1a, 4-7, Psalm 146, Luke 16:19-31
Experiencing God’s love in a chaotic world may seem impossible. We are often reminded in scripture that God’s love never fails and God’s most precious gift was Jesus. Jesus invited everyone to the table without condition. As Jesus invites us to the table, let us open our tables to others without conditions.
Accompanying Scripture:Amos 8:4-7, Psalm 113, Luke 16:1-13
Jesus finds us when we are lost. This week we hear the powerful reminder of the lost sheep and the lost coin and the party that follows. Each Sunday this party full of 'sweet tunes' is for us all. As we foster good party vibes, we humbly are reminded that we too were once lost and have been found and so it is our job to extend this invitation to others.
Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 32:7-14, Psalm 51:1-10, Luke 15:1-10
There is nothing like finding a place where you feel like you are at home. A little kindness, someone making the extra effort for you- it all ends up feeling like a special gift. This is especially true at church- some extra touches and careful intention can make people feel welcomed and valued. For the fall we are going to explore different intentions that can widen and deepen our hospitality. What are we doing well? Where can we improve? How can we become the place that feels a little like home in the midst of this wild world we live in?
Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 18:1-14, Psalm 5, Luke 19:1-10
Invited and inviting—that is the nature of the church. By God’s grace we have a place at Christ’s banquet.
Accompanying Scripture:Proverbs 25: 6-7a, Psalm 112, Luke 14: 1, 7-14
How often do we miss the point and argue over the details. Today's stories are a reminder to focus on what matters. Stop pointing the finger. Stop putting rules over people's well being. As we let go of our grip, our gardens flourish and we become partners with God to repair the breach.
Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 58:9b-14, Psalm 103:1-8, Luke 13:10-17
The word of God is a refining fire. Jesus is the great divide in human history. He invites our undivided attention and devotion. Today in worship we are surrounded by a great “cloud of witnesses.” In the word and in holy communion we are invited yet again to look to Jesus, “the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.”
Accompanying Scripture:Jeremiah 23:23-29, Psalm 82, Hebrews 11:29–12
The Lord tells us to be ready. Are you ready for whatever comes your way? Hip hop artist, Suga Free, sings the line, “if you stay ready, you ain’t got to get ready.” As the body of Christ, we are charged with the task of being ready to serve. A month ago, Jesus reminded us that we are to serve our neighbors. We are to serve each other. We need to break away from the walls of the church and be servants of Christ in the world.
Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 15:1-6, Psalm 33:12-22, Luke 12:32-40
Persistence works out! At least that what the readings suggest- keep asking, don’t give up, even one person is worth saving. As God persistently loves us, in prayer we too can be persistent, asking and wondering and dreaming and pleading for all we need.
Accompanying Scripture:Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23 , Psalm 48, Luke 12:13-21
Throughout scripture, mountains are a sign of God's majesty and power. From these high vantage points, we feel in the tingling sensations of our toes how high up we are and how small humanity truly is. This Sunday we give thanks for a different perspective and renew our call to care for all things great and small.
Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 3:1-12, Psalm 148, Mark 9:2-10
From the rising to the setting sun, we mark our days by the sky. Throughout scripture the sky indicates God's majesty, power, vibrant color and awe inspiring power. We also know how important it is to care for the sky, for without its health we become sick. Breath is life. Life is breath. This Sunday we are reminded of God's constant presence in the dark, in the light, in the wind, in each breath we take.
Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 19, Mark 16:1-8
Our Season of Creation this year begins with humanity. Today we remember that we as humans are not separate from creation, but an integral part of this delicate web of life God has lovingly and painstakingly created. Jesus asks us to consider whether we as humans are placed here to lord over or partner with?
Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 2:4-15, Mark 10:35-45
We know God shows no partiality and yet Jesus at first does not want to help this family because they are not Jewish. Even Jesus has grumpy days and needs to be able to listen with compassion. We too are given permission to be human, have grumpy days and in the end remember - compassion and empathy can win every time. (Please note, the first few minutes of Pastor CJ's sermon were unfortunately not recorded due to technical issues.)
Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 146, James 2:1-10, Mark 7:24-37
Faith and religious practice have lost their center in this week's readings. Quoting Isaiah, Jesus calls into question “This people” that “honors me with their lips” but whose “hearts are far from me” (Mark 7:6). Some in the religious community have begun focusing on surface matters (the washing of hands, what one eats, the traditions of the elders) and have forgotten the core. What really matters is how one’s faith is expressed in mercy, in words and actions that build up rather than tear down the neighbor.
Accompanying Scripture:Deuterotomy 4:1-2,6-9, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8,14-23
“This teaching is difficult; who can accept it?” Jesus’ teaching about eating his flesh and drinking his blood isn’t something we can figure out and accept on our own. The good news of Jesus is too radical, unsettling, and illogical for us to accept. In this last week exploring Jesus as our Bread of life, we embrace the surprising gift of the Holy Spirit despite our doubts and confess alongside Peter, "O Jesus, you have the words of eternal life."
Accompanying Scripture:Ephesians 6:10-20 Psalm 34:15-22, John 6:56-69
"Come and dine," Lady Wisdom beckons to us. "The table is set and there is a place for you." Jesus echoes this invitation by saying he is the living bread for us to eat. This is a free party and all are welcome. So what is stopping you?
Accompanying Scripture:Proverbs 9:1-6, Psalm 34:9-14, John 6:51-58
Jesus expands on this imagery of bread to be bigger than feeding us one meal. Jesus is the bread of life for today, tomorrow and forever. Regular bread can sustain us for a little while, as well as be a wonderful comfort to us. But the bread that Jesus is talking about is the sustenance we need for eternal life.
Accompanying Scripture:1 Kings 19:4-8, Psalm 34:1-8, John 6:35, 41-51
After feasting on bread and fish, Jesus retreats and the crowd follows. As their stomachs begin to grumble again, they ask Jesus for a sign. Is he the one they have been waiting for. . .he may have fed them once but will he be able to support them for a lifetime? Jesus responds I am the bread of life. Just as God provides manna in the wilderness, Jesus promises to give us what we need for each day and more.
Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15, Psalm 78:23-29, John 6:24-35
Mark’s gospel makes clear how great is the press of the crowd, with its countless needs to be met, on Jesus and his disciples. Yet in today’s gospel, Jesus advises his disciples to get away and rest, to take care of themselves. Sometimes we think that when others are in great need we shouldn’t think of ourselves at all; but Jesus also honors the caregivers’ need. We are sent from Christ’s table to care for others and for ourselves.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Psalm 23, Ezekiel 2:11-22
Sometimes being a disciple of Jesus is risky business. It may mean we aren't popular or well liked. It may mean we have to share a hard truth. And yet- Jesus reminds those disciples, we have all that we need to bring God's love to the world around us.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 6:1-13, Psalm 123, Ezekiel 2:1-5
When Amos reports his vision of God judging Israel for its mistreatment of the poor, he becomes a threat to the power of the priests and the king. John the Baptist also speaks truth to power, and Herod has him killed. In Herod’s fear that Jesus is John returned from the dead, we may hear hope for the oppressed: all the prophets killed through the ages are alive in Jesus. We are called to witness to justice in company with them, and to proclaim God’s saving love.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 6:14-29, Psalm 85:8-13, Amos 7:7-13
Sometimes it feels like we wait for a lifetime for God to hear us, see us, acknowledge us. Today we hear we are in good company - a woman who hemorrhages for 12 years seeks healing from Jesus at the same time as a desperate father for a dying daughter. With our loving God, we can come with our laments, our questions and our pain.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 5:21-43, Psalm 30, Lamentations 3:22-33
Through the storms of life, in Job’s trials and in the disciples’ seasick panic, God’s promise is not that we will be airlifted out of troubles but that God is with us. God proclaims to the chaos and to us - peace! Be still.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 4:35-41, Psalm 107, Job 38: 1-11
The mustard seed becomes a great shrub that shelters the birds, recalling ancient images of the tree of life. We’d expect a cedar or a sequoia, but Jesus finds the power of God better imaged in a tiny, no-account seed. It’s not the way we expect divine activity to look. It may not appear all that impressive, but while nobody’s looking it grows with a power beyond our understanding.
Accompanying Scripture:Mark 4:26-34, Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15, Ezekiel 17:22-24
In the midst of conflict and shame, the messiness of life and relationships are lifted up in these texts. No matter how entangled we become, with God there is always steadfast love and forgiveness.Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 130, Genesis 3:8-15, Mark 3:20-35
This Sunday our texts are about sabbath. Rest is meant for the welfare of all. In our gospel story, Jesus reminds us that well intentioned laws might need to be broken from time to time in order to make space for God's wide love. Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 81:1-10, Deuteronomy 5:12-15, Mark 2:23-3:6
Fifty days after Easter, we celebrate the birthday of the church! Crossing all boundaries that would separate us, the Spirit brings the wideness of God’s mercy to places we least expect it—to a crowd of strangers of different lands and tongues, to a valley of deeply dry bones and to our messy hearts. Today we celebrate the incredible gifts of the Holy Spirit in our midst: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in God's presence. Amen!Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 104:24-35, 35b, Ezekiel 37:1-14
On this final Sunday of Easter, we hear this last piece of Jesus's farewell to the disciples where Jesus moves from lecture to prayer. At a time when it would be understandable for Jesus to be worried about himself, he is thinking and praying for the disciples and for us. In prayer, Jesus asks that we are one. And this continues to be our prayer- not that we would all be the same but that we will continue to remember our common love in Christ and the call to love one another.Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 1, John 17
On this sixth Sunday of Easter as we bring worms with us to church, we celebrate spring and our connection with God's good earth. Being a person of faith is not just something we do on Sundays, but it is something that follows us out into the real world - as we wash dishes, as we are a kind neighbor or friend, as we care for the smallest living things among us, even the worms. Signs of resurrection and new life are indeed all around us - Alleluia!Accompanying Scripture:Jeremiah 29:4-7, Psalm 98, John 15
This Sunday’s image of how the risen Christ shares his life with us is the image of the vine. Christ the vine and we the branches are alive in each other, in the mystery of mutual abiding described in the gospel. Baptism makes us a part of Christ’s living and life-giving self and makes us alive with Christ’s life. As the vine brings food to the branches, Christ feeds us at his table. We are sent out to bear fruit for the life of the world.Accompanying Scripture:Acts 8:26-40, John 15: 1-8
On this Good Shepherd Sunday, we embrace the fact that we are sheep and God is our shepherd who feeds us, walks with us and cares for us all the days of our life and after. We are also celebrating our relationship with camp today with special staff from Caroline Furnace.Accompanying Scripture:John 10, Psalm 23
On this third Sunday of Easter, we are filled with images of real life - joyful hearts, peaceful sleep and eating together. In this season of Easter we celebrate we are proclaimed beloved children of God for this is who we are. Resurrection sometimes shows up in the most mundane simple things. Accompanying Scripture:John 3:1-7, Psalm 4, Luke 24:36b-48
The season of Easter continues as we get a glimpse of the early church in Acts, how they shared everything and everyone had what they needed. In the gospel, we encounter how the risen Jesus greets the frightened disciples behind locked doors. He meets Thomas's doubts and proclaims a word of peace. In this season, we celebrate how resurrection shows up in the most unlikely of places. Alleluia! Christ is risen. Christ is risen indeed, Alleluia!Accompanying Scripture:Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133, John 20:19-31
Christ is risen! Jesus is alive, and God has swallowed up death forever. With Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome, we may feel astonished and confused, unsure of what to make of the empty tomb. But this is why we gather: to proclaim, witness, praise, and affirm the liberating reality of Christ’s death and resurrection. In word and feast, we celebrate God’s unending love, and depart to share this good news with all the world. Alleluia! Christ is Risen. Christ is Risen Indeed! Alleluia!Accompanying Scripture:Psalm 118: 1-2, 14-24, Mark 16:1-8-35
On this night we begin the Three Days during which we participate once again in the saving power of Jesus’ passing over from death into life. The Maundy Thursday service includes the words of Jesus’ new commandment (mandatum, from which Maundy comes) to love one another. On this night in which Jesus was handed over to death we gather around the Lord’s supper. At the service’s conclusion the altar area will be stripped as a sign of Jesus’ abandonment.Accompanying Scripture:1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35
On this fifth Sunday of Lent we get one last covenant - a promise that God will be as close to us as a tattoo on our hearts. The psalm is a nod back to Ash Wednesday and an ask to create in us clean hearts. As we prepare our hearts to face the horror and sadness of holy week, Jesus reminds us that from death can come resurrection not just for a few but for all of us. Accompanying Scripture:Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12, John 12:20-21
Through our texts today, we are invited to lift up the things that scare and afflict us the most - snakes, sin and even death. In doing so, we remember God asks us not to lift these things up to condemn us but to save and heal us. What would it look like to be brutally honest about all the ways we fall short? Would you feel relief in such vulnerability? As Lutherans we cling to the promise that we alongside the whole cosmos are saved by God's grace. Accompanying Scripture:Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21
The third covenant in this year’s Lenten readings is the central one of Israel’s history: the gift of the law to those God freed from slavery. The commandments begin with the statement that because God alone has freed us from the powers that oppressed us, we are to let nothing else claim first place in our lives. When Jesus throws the merchants out of the temple, he is defending the worship of God alone and rejecting the ways commerce and profit-making can become our gods. Centered first in God’s liberating love, we strive to live out justice and mercy in our communities and the world.Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19, John 2:13-22
This Sunday we remember another covenant. We are connected to a wide family of faith, as numerous as the stars, through Abraham and Sarah. In the gospel reading, Jesus poses this famous invitation to the crowd and disciples, "If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me." What does it look like today to hold onto our crosses and follow? Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31, Mark 8:31-38
In this first week of Lent, we hear the familiar story of promise with a rainbow and of wilderness. No matter what messiness we find ourselves in, this story reminds us we are not alone. While Satan may show up, there also promises to be wild beasts, angels and Jesus in the midst of it all. Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10, Mark 1:9-15
Welcome to the wilderness! Today we embark on a four week celebration of Creation alongside the global church. Whether we are in the depths of the urban jungle or lost on the Appalachian trail - God promises to be with us in the wilderness and feed us along the way.Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 16: 1-10; Matthew 4:1-4
Another week full of identity questions - God reveals Godself in a burning bush and Jesus describes what the Messiah is here to do. In each story, God reminds us that God shows up in places of suffering and promises this will not be our full story. As Paul reminds us we are called to be patient in suffering, to celebrate with those who celebrate and weep with those who weep. In worship, we are renewed and fortified with all that we need so that we can show up in these challenging places too. Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 3:1-15 ; Romans 12: 9-21; Matthew 16:21-28
This week we blessed our backpacks and celebrated our vocations. God gives each of us unique gifts that are needed in the world. By showing up as our full selves, the spirit of God is also made visible. Just as Jesus gives Peter the keys to the kingdom, we too, are asked to lift up and build upon this important foundation- feed the hungry, welcome the stranger, share what we have and rest in God's beauty.
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 45:1-15; Psalm 133; Matthew 15:21-21
Today we are reminded nothing is permanent. Joseph is reconciled to his brothers in a powerful and surprising way. In our gospel story, a conversation with a desperate mother changes Jesus' mind. In worship, we are reminded of the transforming power of forgiveness. Together as a community, we ask for forgiveness, we are offered forgiveness and challenged to do the same for those we are in relationship with.
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 45:1-15; Psalm 133; Matthew 15:21-21
In this week's first reading, God invites all who are hungry or thirsty to receive food and drink without cost. Jesus feeds the hungry multitude and reveals the abundance of God. At the table we are all welcomed and fed and we call to mind all who are hungry or poor in our world today. As we share the bread of life, we are sent forth to give ourselves away as bread for the hungry.
Accompanying Scripture: Isaiah 55:1-5; Psalm 145:8-9, 14-21: Mathew 14:13-21
It is an age-old question: why is there evil in the world? In the parable of the wheat and the weeds Jesus suggests that both grow together until the harvest. With Paul, we long for the day that all creation will be set free from bondage and suffering. Having both weeds and wheat within us, we humbly place our hope in the promises of God, and from the table we go forth to bear the fruit of justice and mercy.
Accompanying Scripture: Psalm 139:1-12,23-24; Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23
This Sunday is all about what makes a good harvest - rain, soil, sun, seeds and a little Holy Spirit. We remember God's hand is working through and in all. We remember we are fed through this incredible journey of seeds to the plant to the harvest to the mill to the baker and then finally to our table. In such ordinary things, the sacred becomes visible.
Accompanying Scripture: Isaiah 55: 10-13; Psalm 65: 9-13; Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23
Thirsty camels and an arranged marriage, a love song, an honest reflection from Paul and some musings from Jesus are our readings for this Sunday. But in the midst of it all we hear - “Come to me, all you that are weary.” Gathered around word, water, and meal, we find rest for our souls.
Accompanying Scripture: Romans 7:15-25a; Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30
In this week's gospel, Christ promises that the disciple who gives a cup of cold water to the little ones serves Christ himself. As God first welcomes us through the waters of baptism and at the table, we too are invited into God's work of being a merciful welcome to all we encounter.
Accompanying Scripture: Romans 6:12-23 ; Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18; Matthew 10:40-42
Abraham and Sarah welcome strangers and are promised a beautiful, surprisingly, outlandish and laughable gift. Jesus sends out the disciples as laborers into the harvest. In baptism we too are anointed for ministry, sharing God’s compassion with our world knowing it might not always be easy. From the Lord’s table we go forth to proclaim the good news, to heal the sick and to share our bread with the hungry.
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 21:8-21; Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17; Romans 5:1-8
Abraham and Sarah welcome strangers and are promised a beautiful, surprisingly, outlandish and laughable gift. Jesus sends out the disciples as laborers into the harvest. In baptism we too are anointed for ministry, sharing God’s compassion with our world knowing it might not always be easy. From the Lord’s table we go forth to proclaim the good news, to heal the sick and to share our bread with the hungry.
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 18:1-15; Psalm 100; Romans 5:1-8
Though Jesus was a devout Jew who practiced his faith, he was criticized for eating with folks on the margins like tax collectors. Jesus reminds us that mercy is to be at the heart of our religious practices. God continues to be made known in unexpected places and unexpected people. As we gather on Sundays, we are reminded that we are all in need of healing and through Christ we experience wholeness and forgiveness.
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 12:1-9 ; Psalm 33:1-12 ; Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26
More than a doctrine, the Holy Trinity expresses the heart of our faith: we have experienced the God of creation made known in Jesus Christ and with us always through the Holy Spirit. We celebrate the mystery of the Holy Trinity in word and sacrament and we are sent into the world to bear witness to our faith.Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 1:1,2:4a; Psalm 8; Matthew 28:16-208
In this week's readings the risen Christ ascends into heaven and his followers are assured that the Spirit will empower them to be witnesses throughout the earth. The disciples were told to not gaze up into heaven to look for Jesus. . . we now find his presence among us as we proclaim the word and share the feast. Accompanying Scripture:Acts 1:1-14; Psalm 93; Luke 24:44-53
Jesus does not abandon the disciples or us. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus comes to abide with his disciples of every generation. The Holy Spirit is known to us as many names - Spirit of Truth, Advocate, Helper, Companion, Counselor. We receive this Spirit as a gift in baptism and pray that in our gathering around the table the Spirit will transform us to be the body of the risen Christ in the world.Accompanying Scripture:Acts 17:22-31; John 14:15-21
As we continue to celebrate the fifty days of Easter, our gospel includes Jesus’ promise that he goes to prepare a place for us. As 1 Peter reminds us, we are a holy people, living stones, God's people embraced by mercy. In words and deeds we bear witness to the risen Christ—our way, our truth, our life.Accompanying Scripture:1 Peter 2:2-10; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-10; John 14:1-140
Today is sometimes called “Good Shepherd Sunday.” All of our texts today point to God's abundant care and love for us, the "sheep." God promises to be our shepherd, the one who provides protection, food, rest and beauty. In turn, we are called the sheep - the ones who follow, get lost and need to be found, stuck and need to be rescued. Today we remember that indeed goodness and mercy will follow us all of our days and so in turn, God nudges us to open our arms and share the abundance given. Accompanying Scripture:Acts 2:42-47; John 10:1-10
As we continue in this season of Easter, today we meet the disciples on the road. Full of questions and wonderings, they meet a stranger and process all that has conspired the last few days - murder, chaos, resurrection - all they had hoped for that did not happen. It is not until the bread is broken that they realize Jesus was in their midst. Every week, we come together to reflect on the past week - our disappointments, our hopes and expectations and Jesus promises to meet us - at the table, in the liturgy, through one another. Accompanying Scripture:Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Luke 24:13-35
Jesus is alive! What wonderful news! Except that the rest of the world hasn't caught up. There are still reasons - then and now - to be happy and scared, doubting and confident, nervous and at peace, and every other emotion. Jesus comes to help friends and followers to be fully alive with him. Alleluia! Accompanying Scripture:Acts 2:14a, 22-32; John 20:19-31
What we hear today is great news. Yet, “fear” is mentioned four times in the telling of the story. What is so scary about resurrection? Change, even when it gives us wings, IS scary... and exciting. Accompanying Scripture:Acts 10:34-4; Matthew 28:1-10
Jesus’ arrival in Jerusalem becomes a populist coronation parade. But when the parade ends the streets are a mess, literally and figuratively. On Palm Sunday, we relive the last days of Jesus earthly life again... and are reminded we get to live again with him now.Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 50:4-9a; Matthew 27:11-54
They’re Jesus’ closest friends and he disappoints them. They had faith and lost it. If you haven’t been there, it’s only because you haven’t lived long enough or paid enough attention. Life – and death – are beautiful, bewildering, and hard... let’s not do them alone.Accompanying Scripture:Ezekiel 37:1-14; John 11:1-45
How did you do on your last eye exam? Jesus meets a man with a disability (blindness) and – without talking to him – heals him. Was the man surprised by what Jesus did to/for him and what he saw afterward? Perhaps he was surprised... and not necessarily pleasantly! How often do we, conveniently, hang onto our myopia?Accompanying Scripture:1 Samuel 16:1-13; John 9:1-41
Jesus meets a woman whose life has been anything but ordinary or easy. They have a conversation that is anything but easy or ordinary. She shares that conversation with her neighbors, and nothing is ordinary or easy again. That’s what living water does: makes life extraordinary... and uneasy. Accompanying Scripture:Exodus 17:1-7; John 4:5-42
A very smart and curious man, Nicodemus, is in the dark about who Jesus is and what Jesus is teaching. Their conversation is confusing to Nicodemus... and to countless generations since then. My take? Blessed are the ignorant, for they shall become learners and leaders. And... woe to those who know enough to be dangerous. Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 12:1-4a; John 3:1-17
As we embark on this journey of lent, we begin with this place of wilderness. From this vantage point, we are forced to ask ourselves who are we? Where do we belong? What matters? As tempting as it is to give in to every hunger, every offer of power or fame . . .in these 40 days, we are invited to recenter on the One who calls us Beloved, welcomes us into community, always extends us grace and invites us to do the same for our neighbors. Accompanying Scripture:Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7; Matthew 4:1-11
Jesus tells his followers that they're lucky/blessed when they find themselves in trouble. It's a very blessed/lucky person who can find joy in those times. If you've been a friend or needed a friend in times of trouble, you may know that alien sense of joy. Love is always a blessing...especially when it's need the most.Accompanying Scripture:Micah 6:1-8; Matthew 5:1-12
Jesus invited his first disciples to "fish for people." Our culture is better at trolling (attacking) people. Reinhold Neibuhr suggested (in Leaves from the Notebook of a Tamed Cynic) that people need to be lured - not argued - into righteousness. Jesus did a little cajoling, a little arguing, and a lot of loving people into righteousness.Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 9:1-4; Matthew 4:12-23
Two new disciples approach Jesus with a question, “Where?” Instead of answering it with a location fact, Jesus invites them into a relationship. Epiphany (these seven Sundays before Lent starts) is an invitation to “come and see” Jesus by seeing and living with him... and taking a look at where we might need to look at ourselves.Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 49:1-7; John 1:29-42
This week we hear the story of Jesus' baptism. Listen as Guest Preacher Tara Spuhler McCabe explores the state of organized religion in our area and how the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism connects us to each other and the spirit of God's love, grace and forgiveness. Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 42:1-9 ; Matthew 3:13-17
Joseph and Mary run for their lives... and the life of their son. King Herod dealt with competition ruthlessly (he had his own son killed) so the threat to the Holy Family was serious. When in life have you wanted to run away? When have you been a safe haven for someone who was afraid? Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 63:7-9; Matthew 2:13-23
St. Matthew tells us that Joseph was “a righteous man.” In virtually any situation, Joseph did things “by the book.” This time, he knew exactly what he should do and decided to do something else. Courageous or crazy? Yes. A leap of faith is often scary. Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 7:10-16; Matthew 1:18-25
John the Baptizer was in prison (for embarrassing King Herod) and wondering if he’d been wrong about Jesus and the kind of reign the Messiah would bring. Jesus says,“Watch what’s been happening and decide if that is God at work in the world.” John announced, “Justice is coming!!!” Jesus acted out mercy. Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 35:1-10; Matthew 11:2-11
Two prophets with the same message: Make a road! Get ready! Isaiah and John the Baptizer warned people that change was coming and to prepare for it. How do you prepare for when family or guests are arriving? How does God prepare us for the King to come? And, for the Kingdom to come?Accompanying Scripture:Isaiah 11:1-10; Matthew 3:1-12
Almost 2,800 years ago, Isaiah proclaimed that a new way of living is coming. The sculpture at the United Nations was inspired by Isaiah’s vision and serves as a visual mission statement...not just for the UN but for all humanity.
Accompanying Scripture: Isaiah 2:1-5; Matthew 24:36-44
Infants learn that mommy (or daddy or doggy) doesn’t cease to exist just because she’s out of sight or hearing. It’s a fundamental learning that allows the human brain to understand time and space relationships. It can also become idolatry foolishness.
Accompanying Scripture: Malachi 4:1-2a; Luke 21:5-19
How do you tell a sinner from a saint? A handy field guide is in the history of the martyrs (St. Stephen, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. Joan of Arc, etc.). They were universally seen as enemies of the state and/or the established religion (Martin Luther narrowly escaped becoming a martyr as an enemy of the Church). Wanna be a saint? Being a sinner is a good start.
Accompanying Scripture: Job 19:23-27a; Luke 20:27-38
Jesus tells a story about two people who come to the temple to pray, to present a “spiritual audit” to God. Both tell God the truth. One gives God all the glory. The other gives God nothing and asks for more. God is happier with the grifter than with the giver. Say what?
Accompanying Scripture: Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22; Luke 18:9-14
Jesus tells a story about a lawsuit brought before a callous judge. The facts are not in question but the character of the judge is. How would you rule?
Accompanying Scripture: Genesis 32:22-31; Luke 18:1-8
In both readings for this Sunday, pride plays a key role in the stories. Both featured characters in the stories had to change the way they looked at the situation... Sometimes, we need to turn our assumptions upside down and let go of our pride to see things clearly.
Accompanying Scripture: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15c; Luke 17:11-19
Jesus is pretty rough on his friends, accusing them of not having enough faith (trust). If THEY, the ones who walked and talked with him in person didn't measure up, how do we stand a chance of being worthy servants? Maybe - if we add our faith together - we could move a small plant… or build one.
Accompanying Scripture: Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4; Luke 17:5-10
Jesus tells a troubling story about two men on opposite ends of the rich-poor spectrum but their fortunes are reversed in the next life. Apparently, “love your neighbor” isn’t just about a sentiment: it’s about noticing and meeting others’ needs. Turns out, we get to do God’s work with our wallets, too!
Accompanying Scripture: Amos 6 1a: 4-7; Luke 16:19-31
From the trivial (a grocery list, an old sock) to the devastating (a job, a loved one), we all know the frustration, embarrassment, sorrow, anxiety, etc., of loss. Those are all common to the human experience… and the divine, too. Listen as Pastor Craig explores how does God – and how can we – deal with losing?
Accompanying Scripture: Exodus 32: 7-14; Luke 15: 1-10
We’re trained to calculate from early childhood on. We get very good analyzing costs. Jesus challenges us to spend some time and money considering values. What is a healthy relationship with God, partner, parent, child, friend worth to you in time or money? Listen as Pastor Craig explores the question, “What are the most important things in your life?”
Accompanying Scripture: Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Sometimes two passages of scripture seem to argue with each other. While we’re tempted to resolve tensions like this, it’s often healthier – but harder – to let them both work in our heads and hearts. Listen as Interim Pastor Craig considers two readings from Galatians and 1 Timothy that address gender roles… and illustrate a centuries-long debate.
Accompanying Scripture: Galatians 3:23-29; 1 Timothy 2:8-15
Our challenging text this week is the book of Job. In this book we see Job and his friends struggle with the question of why God permits evil in the world. Hint: It is not because God is mad at you.
Accompanying Scripture: Job 1:13-22
The challenging scripture we are looking at this week is Ezra chapters 9 and 10. Returning from exile brings challenges for everyone and a difficult decision is made about wives of the exiles. Is it surprising or not that not one woman is heard from on the issue?
Accompanying Scripture: Ezra 9: 1-4
This week's story from the last chapter of Judges forces us to ask whether reprehensible actions are justified when faced with the possibility of extinction. Or is this really all about God not wanting to give the Israelites the king they longed for?
Accompanying Scripture: Judges 21:1-7-6
Sometimes called the Battle Hymn of the Reformation, the hymn we will focus on this week, A Mighty Fortress Is Our God, was written by Martin Luther. He is quoted as saying "music is next to theology." Listen as Pastor Susanne considers what he thought about music in worship and what he might think about the way we worship today.
Accompanying Scripture: Psalm 150:3-6
The hymn we are focusing on this week, "Eternal Father, Strong to Save," can bring comfort in the times of trouble we all experience. Based in part on Psalm 107, it leads us back to the last line of that Psalm, "Let those who are wise give heed to these things, and consider the steadfast love of the Lord."
Accompanying Scripture: Psalm 107
The song we will focus on this week, "When Peace Like a River" has a refrain of "It is well with my soul." Listen as Pastor Susanne explores how singing can help our bodies, minds and souls.
Accompanying Scripture: 1 Corinthians 14:13-15
Long a staple in Lutheran hymnody, our featured hymn this week, "Beautiful Savior," has a lot to say about our understanding of Jesus.
Accompanying Scripture: Isaiah 9: 6-7
"Amazing Grace." How do we know God in the words of this beloved song? We begin our July series on beloved hymns and songs with a hymn from someone who went from being involved in the Atlantic slave trade to working as an abolitionist.
Accompanying Scripture: Romans 5: 1-5
We finish up our brief summer series of kids’ books with one last book about communion. We don’t invite people to the table, Jesus does. Jesus’ invitation is that all are welcome. Listen as Pastor Susanne considers what he mean by “all?”
Accompanying Scripture: 1 Corinthians 11: 23-26
We continue easing into the summer by reading a kids’ book during worship. This week’s story is “God With Us” and is about Jesus’ arrival here on Earth (yes a Christmas story in June).
Accompanying Scripture: Luke 2: 5-7
For the month of June, we will enter into a more relaxed time in church with our biblical texts told as children’s stories. Listen as Pastor Susanne shares the story of God’s promise to walk with God’s people every day by bringing them manna.
Accompanying Scripture: Exodus 16:13-16
In other places in scripture the Spirit is depicted as a gentle dove. Sometimes we envision Her as dancing. But in the scene described by Luke in Acts the coming of the Holy Spirit is no gentle appearance. Listen as Pastor Susanne explores the ways we experience the Holy Spirit today.
Accompanying Scripture: Acts 2:1-21, John 14:16-17
Paul has a lot to say about community in the first few sentences of this letter he writes from prison. New scholarship suggests what he had to say is even more important to us today. Listen as Pastor Susanne explores what we can learn from the lessons of Paul's letter to the community of Philippi.
Accompanying Scripture: Philippians 1:1-18a, Luke 9:46-48
This week, Paul is challenged to "make a case" for God and Jesus vs the other options available to the ancient world. What do you think of his arguments? Are there any you would add?
Accompanying Scripture: Acts 17:16-31, John 1: 16-18
The jailer asks "What must I do to be saved?" after Paul chooses not to escape from jail. He is not the only unnamed person in this story that is saved. Listen as Pastor Susanne explores what it means to be saved and the stories we all have of saved people known to God. Stories to be shared.
Accompanying Scripture: Acts 16:16-34, Luke 6:18-18, 22-23
Paul's trip to Damascus starts him on an epic journey that will take him to many places and many dangers, including imprisonment and shipwrecks. He does it all out of his love for Jesus. Listen as Pastor Susanne explores the challenging (and perhaps annoying) story of Paul and the question of our own blindness. Who do we not see?
Accompanying Scripture: Acts 9:1-19a, Matthew 6:24