The Carry On Cast: Recent Episodes
Easter Lutheran Church
Every week, the pastors at Easter Lutheran Church talk about the Bible, current events, and profound (sometimes bizarre) stories from life.
the conflict within the church, and his call for forgiveness, reconciliation, and living together as a faithful Christian community. They also reflect on how Paul's words encourage believers today to extend grace and pursue unity in the midst of conflict.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss 2 Corinthians 1:1-11. In this reading today, we learn something that we all share that we don’t like, we want to avoid it but we can also help each other carry the burden of suffering in different times in our lives. Our faith speaks to that of word and good news.
This Sunday, join us in honoring Rachelle and all her work at Easter as we celebrate her retirement! Pastor Kevin, Pastor Erik discuss 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18. We hear a mentoring letter—a moment where Paul is passing the torch to Timothy. He shares what he has done, what he has experienced, and what he has learned, then reminds Timothy: this truth is yours too. That same invitation reaches us through Scripture today. The Bible carries the wisdom, faith, and testimony of those who have gone before us, pointing us back to the same truth: Jesus is enough.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss 2 Timothy 3:14-4:5. They explore more about what does it mean to be a follower of Jesus today! What is a way you could be growing more in your faith life?
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik have guest Pastor Bonnie Wilcox join the podcast this week again, and they discuss 2 Timothy 2:8-15. They talk about their experiences visiting Tanzania as it relates to the discussion and sermon this week.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik have guest Pastor Bonnie Wilcox, who will be preaching this Sunday, July 5th. They discuss 2 Timothy 1:1-14 and a handful of things! It’s a Holy practice to ask questions, it’s important, it’s how we learn what our church is about, and why we believe what we believe. There’s always a devotion involved.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Timothy 6:6–19, the concluding section of Paul's first letter to Timothy. As Paul offers final instructions for church leaders and congregations, he contrasts true faith and godly contentment with the pursuit of earthly riches. Together, they explore Paul's timeless wisdom, written to believers from a variety of cultures and backgrounds, and examine the powerful influence money can have on our hearts, minds, and priorities. Join the conversation as they unpack what it means to place our trust in God rather than wealth.
2 Timothy and its instruction as we consider our vision statement to learn with devotion and what it means for us!
2 Timothy and its instruction as we consider our vision statement to learn with devotion and what it means for us!
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 9:1-6, 10-18. This is the story of the conversion of Saul/Paul and might need some context. It’s not only a story of God working on Saul’s heart, but Ananias – he had to trust God and bring the good news to someone he feared. If our series is about how we continue to believe, how we live out faith in the world, then we must also make space for those we might fear, ignore, or distrust.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 2:32-39. This Sunday, the church remembers especially that we know our God as Creator, Christ, and Spirit, a unique (and sometimes challenging!) way to know God. Peter’s sermon reminds us that the fullness of who God is works for our good in the world, and we have the privilege of sharing it with others.
It is Pentecost Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 2:1-8. In many ways, this is the beginning of our series – this is what gives the believers the ability to do what they’ve been doing in Acts. The Spirit wasn’t a one-time thing. It continues to work among us today. How are we being moved by the Spirit? How are we open to its action among us? What is the Spirit up to among us today?
Welcome to this time of devotion and reflection; this week, we hear more about the story we heard in worship on Sunday and remember that God’s word calls us together. Thanks for joining![Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.]
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 8:26-31, 35-39. A big part of this story is the dramatic difference between these two men and their willingness to learn from and with each other anyway. Who do we tend to leave out of important conversations? What could we learn when we are a true, full community? There is a willingness both to teach and to learn. We are all called to this.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 6:1-7. This can sound a little harsh, like the disciples are trying to punt on taking care of others. But they see the need and see they aren’t equipped for it. We frequently hear scripture tell us that there are many gifts and they are all needed for the good of God’s work in the world. How will we honor and uplift that? Part of the joy of being in one space at Easter now is that we can see the fullness of our community and the many ways we work together to serve.
Welcome to our time of devotions together as we consider our call to serve God in the world and reflect Christ’s love to others.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 4:1-13. Context is needed – Peter and John are imprisoned for an act of healing and testifying. Sometimes we struggle to state our faith clearly and boldly. How can you learn what you believe and practice it meaningfully so you can be clear about it in hard times? It’s not just about verbally bearing witness. It’s about having the confidence to do what needs to be done for your neighbor even when there is pressure not to.
Welcome to our time of prayer and reflection. We continue to reflect on the holy call to kindness and care that we have started in our congregational read “Stranger God”. Thank you for being part of these many acts of love in the world.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 3:1-10. This Sunday, Richard Beck will be guest preaching. See v4 – Peter truly stops to see someone who others would ignore. What are we tempted to ignore? Who are we ignoring in the process? What do we have to give and share in the name of Jesus with the world around us?
How is God calling you to set aside fear and welcome others into Christian community? In our devotions today, we pray that we might do just that. Thanks for joining us this and every Monday morning.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 20:24-31. We are in our long-awaited new space – what will this mean for us as we continue to go out from here? This isn’t about a doubting Thomas but a believing Thomas. Sometimes, we do need to see. Where will you see Jesus? How does this place help you watch for him at work in your life?
Happy Easter! As we continue to celebrate the good news of the resurrection, we listen for the ways God continues to speak into our lives. Thanks for joining this time of scripture, reflection, and prayer today.
Christ is risen! We continue to celebrate the good news of the Easter season as we gather for our weekly time of prayer and reflection. Thanks for joining!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss John 20:19-23. Jesus twice wishes them peace in the face of their fears. What does it look like for us to forgive or retain sins? What does that have to do with peace? Where in our lives are we stuck in fear and/or unwillingness to forgive?
Happy Easter and Resurrection of Our Lord! Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss John 20:1-2, 11-18. Join us this Easter Sunday for worship at 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 AM. How will we live – and what will we say – trusting that we have seen the Lord?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 12:12-19 (processional), John 12:20-28 (preaching). The two readings are continuous. The triumphal entry reminds us that Jesus is being declared to the whole world, as we hear in the preaching gospel. Jesus reminds us that it’s not about our glory in this world, but about losing ourselves so that the whole world can hear the good news. We begin our Holy Week remembering that there will be suffering and struggle but that God is glorified through it.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 17:20-26. This text has our theme verse – we know that we are called to be one in Christ. Glory is not for us to feel important, but so that all may know Jesus and all may be one in him. How will we share God’s love in Jesus together, as one people?
Thanks for joining us in this time of devotion where we are reminded that God is always with us and always at work.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 13:1-14. Jesus points us towards his crucifixion. Service is the whole point. Jesus loves us with his whole life; we are also called to love and serve each other with everything we’ve got. This is what unites us: a desire to serve to the glory of Jesus Christ and his gospel. How will we serve each other now that we are side by side?
We continue through Lent and remember we are never alone, that God always goes with us, and that God sees us when we hurt. Thank you for being together in this time of devotion.
With Jesus our Good Shepherd, we have confidence that even in adversity and change we can find peace and comfort. May this time of prayer and reflection help you follow him more closely through your week. Thanks for joining us!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 11:38-44, the story of Jesus' power over death. Lazarus still dies eventually. Death is still real. But Jesus reminds us that it is not the last word. Continue our journey to notice Jesus in unexpected ways and as he unites us all in his life, death and resurrection.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 10:1-16. Jesus uses metaphor to try to describe how he cares for and unifies us – and how others don’t. There is a word of promise and a word of warning. We listen for Jesus but also learn to avoid those who won’t care for God’s people. This is meant to be a comforting word, especially in the last verse – Jesus protects all of us. What does it mean that we all belong to our good shepherd?
Welcome to the season of Lent and its call to repentance and renewal. May this time of prayer help you in that faithful discipline. You may join us Mondays at 9 am or whenever it works in your week.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss John 9:24-38. This is a complex story of healing, judgment, cowardice, blame, and anger. Where do we see ourselves in this story? Jesus does not let anyone remain in suffering or without community. Jesus calls us together. What keeps us from being one in Christ – and what brings us together?
Easter has now fully transitioned to our unified building at 4545 Pilot Knob Road. We give thanks to God for this new season and remember fondly all that God has done with us in our history. Thanks for joining in this time of devotion as we mark this meaningful moment.
This is our last worship service in this pattern. We’re about to go into a transitional stage. More than ever, we trust that Jesus is the one who brings us life. Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss John 3:1-17. Nicodemus tries to hide his seeking under cover of darkness. Maybe we feel suspicious or nervous, too. But Jesus meets us right where we’re at. Transfiguration Sunday is meant to remind us of the divinity of Jesus and start us on our journey to the cross. This year, we come together in this walk and trust in Jesus as one people.
We trust in God’s action and presence among us, even through transition and trial. God promises to always love and care for us, and that is good news. Thanks for joining this time of devotion, whether you join at 9 am on Mondays or any other time in your week.
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss John 4:46-54. This story comes right after the story of the Samaritan woman. It’s another story of Jesus crossing cultural boundaries to restore life and relationship. What Jesus has done doesn’t just bring the official to faith, it brings everyone around him to faith. While projects are a part of our partnerships, it’s not all there is. It’s also about being partners in faith and being changed by each other. We encourage each other as we walk in faith together.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss John 4:31-42. Even though the woman seems ostracized, she still returns to her community to proclaim Christ. Her witness is what brings people to Jesus, but their encounter with Jesus is what really brings them to faith. How will we trust people to point us to Jesus? How will we truly meet him in unexpected places? A community is restored and faith grows. This is part of our own faith relationships. We build relationship and faith together.
On this day, when we remember the legacy and ministry of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, we hear again that the gospel calls us out into the world to love and serve our neighbors. Thank you for taking this pause for devotion and community today. From January 19
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss John 4:16-29. Continued from last week: she is likely trapped in Levirate marriage, promised to the family member of a deceased husband who won’t marry her. She might be seen as bad luck, having caused many deaths. Jesus doesn’t judge this, he sees it and her. She engages with him in earnest questioning and truth-seeking. In this case, about the appropriate place for worship. But Jesus continues to break down boundaries by focusing on “spirit and truth”. We encounter Jesus in the life and testimony of the people we meet. We travel to visit our partners not to change them, but to learn from them and be changed by them. We see the people and the faith we share.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss John 4:1-15. Samaritans are culturally different and even despised by Jews of Jesus’ time. The text admits that Jesus should not be talking or sharing anything with the woman. More on this next week. When we want to share our faith or hear others’ stories, there can be too many cultural barriers. This encounter reminds us it’s still possible and worthwhile. Jesus focuses on water, a symbol with great meaning to both. What are some places of common ground where we can talk about faith and learn from others?
Through hard news and challenging times, we cling all the more to God’s promises. In our devotion today, we remember the gift of baptism and how it charges us to oppose evil and point to Jesus. Thanks for joining us; these devotions typically go live Mondays at 9 am.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and pastor Erik discuss John 1:25-34. John doesn’t baptize Jesus in this gospel. In many ways, it’s beside the point. Who baptizes isn’t as important as God’s love revealed in baptism. John says baptism is meant to reveal Jesus. It is still true – in our baptism, Jesus’ grace and mercy are revealed to us and to all. This story focus on Jesus and John’s proclamation of him. It’s an opportunity for us to talk more about baptism, too. It is truly a foundation of our faith and meant for anyone. How can we trust in our baptisms and all God’s gifts to us through this promise?
Happy new year! We take a moment together to reflect on all God’s gifts, especially the gift of communion. We remember that all are truly welcome to receive our Savior’s gifts at his table. Thanks for joining this time of devotion that typically goes live Mondays at 9 am.
Join Pastors Kevin, Megan, and Erik in discussion of John 1:35-46. Jesus’ invitation to “come and see” is more than words—it’s a call to reveal His presence through our lives.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss John 1:1-14. We often hear this passage on Christmas Eve – today is still the Christmas season! This reading reinforces Jesus’ deity while reminding us that he truly lived as a human in our world. We remember God’s ongoing promises fulfilled in Jesus. How will we celebrate God’s promises incarnate in Jesus?
As we come to the end of the Advent season, may this time of prayer give you space to prepare your heart for the good news of Christmas. Remember that you are welcome to join us for Christmas Eve worship here at Easter. Go to easter.org/christmas for schedules and details. We’ll be glad to see you there!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Isaiah 55:1-13. Some of these verses are again familiar and the temptation is to pull them out of context. This comes to God’s people while they are in exile, while they are suffering. This is the shortest day of the year. How does this promise bring light to us? God’s promises are good news, especially as they remind us that God sends Jesus so all might have what they need.
We continue through Advent, watching and listening for the good news of great joy that will come at Christmas. Thank you for joining this weekly time of reflection and prayer. Remember that you can go to easter.org/christmas to make your plans for this season, especially for Christmas Eve worship.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Ezekiel 37:1-14. Through the prophet, God promises a return from exile and new life. It’s a kind of macabre image for this season, but the message is visceral and clear: God brings new life. This is the promise we celebrate: that the coming of Christ brings life. How will you share that good news in this Advent season?
Welcome to our time of prayer and reflection together in this second week of Advent. May you find space throughout your week for rest and listening to what God is up to in your life.
Welcome to Advent! Together, we take time to prepare our hearts for the good news of Jesus’ birth, even in the midst of so much going on. Thanks for joining us wherever you can; devotions are typically posted Mondays at 9 am.
Thanks for taking this time to be recentered and reminded of God’s love for all people.
Christ the King Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Reading: Amos 1:1-2; 5:14-15, 21-24. Some of these verses have become separated from the texts themselves. Remember that they come in the context of God’s warning that external piety is not enough. We do not put on a show of faithfulness to our King, but worship God seven days a week in all we do and say. What does it mean to worship Christ as our King – and how is it different from the world’s expectations of power and glory?
We come together to praise God because God is worthy of all our praise! Thanks for taking this time to be recentered and reminded. Devotions are typically posted Mondays at 9 am.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Psalm 150. We’ve been talking about the many commitments we make as people of faith, and being here in worship (onsite or online!) is one of them. We live out our other vision statements as we worship with joy – we are in community, we care for each other, we give, we learn. From the vision statement: weekly worship centers us in relationship with each other and with God. It’s good that you are a part of it! All the gifts you share keep our worship life vibrant and Christ-centered for years to come
Our whole lives bear witness to our faith, including the way we use money. Together, in this time of prayer and devotion, we’ll reflect on how God calls us to use all gifts well.
We celebrate all the saints as we come together for this time of prayer and reflection. Thank you for joining us every week!
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Psalm 112:1-9. Generosity is the antidote to fear. We trust in God’s abundance and know that we are free to share what God has first given us so that all may know God’s love. From the vision statement: we share our space, time, ability, energy, and finances here at Easter and throughout our lives. This is truly lived faith. When we commit to truly sharing what God has given us, it doesn’t stop anywhere. Nothing happens at Easter without your loving generosity.
Disclaimer: we had technical difficulties with microphones this week, please bear with us. This is All Saints Sunday, Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 34:17-22. We name the power that death has in our lives and don’t hide from it. We know we need care, love, mercy, and hope. We name those saints who have gone before us to remember that God’s love and care for us is true in this life and the next. From the vision statement: we will pray, walk together, build relationships, and offer support from a place of listening. This work matters in a hurting world! Your giving makes it possible. We do this work together.
Together, we affirm our faith and listen for how God calls us to reformation for the sake of the church and the gospel. Thanks for joining us in this time of devotion and prayer.
This Sunday is Reformation Sunday! Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 119: 29-38. Being able to learn about faith in our own language, in our own homes, using our own reason was a key component of the Reformation. Our tradition values a faith that is constantly engaged and never limited to one person or position. From the vision statement: there will be space for everyone to learn, grow, be curious, and discern. We are always reforming, as individuals and as a community. Our devotion to growing in faith does not begin or end at any point in our faith. Reference ways Easter encourages learning. What will you take on so that you can keep learning, so others can keep learning?
With apologies for last week, we meet every week to pray, reflect, and spend time with each other and God. Thanks for being here and tending to your faith this week.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik andPastor Kevin discuss Psalm 133. Some understanding of the metaphors – these are holy images. Living in community is as holy as anointing oil or holy places. From the vision statement: we will value connection, conversation, and companionship – this work is holy, as God calls us to relationship with each other. Reference ways Easter helps us build community. How are you a part of that work? What does your time, money, energy, prayer sustain so that everyone has a place here at Easter?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Exodus 20:1-17. The commandments focus on our respect for God and our respect for others. It is a check on our desire to be the center of our own universes (like the first sin). The commandments also show us how to show respect to ourselves (for instance, sabbath). If we are always at risk of thinking we are our own god, we are also at risk of letting ourselves be held by something that we’ve made into a false god.
Sometimes, we need to slow down and remember that God cares about us and for us. Thanks for taking that time today as we join in prayer and reflection. Ep
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Exodus 3: 1-8, 13-15. There is contrast in this story – a God who commands Moses but also concedes to him, a God who appears through a miraculous fire but also shares a holy name. God truly wants to be known – by Moses and by all the Israelites. We cannot always understand it all but God still can be known by us. From this story comes the Exodus and God’s liberation of the enslaved people. There is freedom in God’s name.
As we join in reflection and devotion today, we celebrate all who serve as mentors and teachers in our faith. We rejoice that God calls us to keep learning and growing as an act of care and compassion in our community.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Genesis 17:1-9. God’s promise is very particular here – through Abraham and Sarah (v 15) there will be a nation with a home in a particular place. God’s promises are general (like Noah) and specific (like Abraham). Eventually, even Abraham’s covenant will bless all people. For now, he is the ancestor of a multitude of nations. God chooses us for particular work but never at the exclusion of others. Even Abraham isn’t exclusive to Christians.
We're excited to kick off a brand-new podcast series hosted by Easter member David Johnson, featuring powerful stories about our partners, Guatemala and Easter’s Outreach. In this first episode, Pastor Kevin joins David, along with special guest Kim Becker, a fellow Easter member!
Thanks for taking time to breathe and reflect on God’s word today. Prayer and listening always return us to each other and God’s will in our lives. While these devotions usually go live at 9 am on Mondays, this week’s devotions were delayed as we dealt with reports of the large-scale text message scam against Easter people. Please stay alert and know that we will never request gift card or debit card information from you over text or email for any reason.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Genesis 9:8-15. While God’s covenants might get more specific as time goes on, this one is broad: God will never again destroy all people and creation like in the flood. The covenant is huge! God makes this promise to all people, all land, all creation. What might it mean that we are all part of this one promise from a God who wants us to flourish, not live in fear of destruction?
We celebrate the goodness of all God has made - and the goodness of being together. Thanks for joining this time of prayer and devotion every week. (September 8)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Genesis 3:1-7, 21-24. Much of our sin comes from ultimately wanting to have power and control on the level of God. Our brokenness comes from our inability to let God be God and live like it’s true. There is less focus on punishment for this reading – more focus on how God actually helps the people after they’ve messed up and wants to protect them in some way.
We gather in prayer and reflection as we listen for God’s call to peace and care, especially in the wake of violence. We continue to hold the community of Annunciation Catholic School and Church close in our prayers as we commit to acting for the good of all people. (September 1)
As we remember that we are a community together, we celebrate that we are called to relationship and care for each other. Thanks for joining this time of devotion every week, posted Mondays at 9 am. (August 25)
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Genesis 1:1-4, 26-27, 31 and introduce the new sermon series called, First Things. There are many elements to this story – order out of chaos, goodness of creation, elevation of humans to a place of responsibility. This is the first first in the story of scripture. It sets the context for everything we will hear after. The point of the story is not prescription, but description – not defining how things must be, but helping understand what God does.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Romans 12:9-18. No one verse in this passage should stand alone (even though that’s what often happens here). It’s a full picture of faithful Christian life. Let this passage sum up our learning over the summer and move us into what it means. What will this look like for Easter? How will we truly change our behaviors so everyone can know God’s love in Jesus through our words and actions? How will a new building be a fresh start for our hospitality, welcome, and care for others?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Peter 4:8-11. We won’t always get it right. We’re going to mess up (sin). But when we act authentically in love, we get it wrong for the right reasons. When we value hospitality, we value dynamic learning and interaction with others. We grow and adapt because we hear from people what they really need and how they can truly be welcomed. If our habits or expectations actively hurt others, it is we who change – not they
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin dive into 1 Corinthians, exploring what faith truly looks like. They reflect on how the Apostle Paul and Apostle Peter, help guide our understanding of living out faith in real life. The conversation touches on the deep questions the early Christian community had, many of which are still relevant today: How do we welcome strangers? How is God working through us? It’s a reminder to us that faith isn’t just belief, it’s action. God is using you, shaping your life, and working through you each and every day.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 9:36-42. This is a rare opportunity to talk about the ministry of a named woman in the New Testament. Tabitha’s ministry is charity – especially towards widows, those who were continually ignored and marginalized in that society. It’s not her prestige that gets her noticed, but her love towards others. Our hospitality towards others is for all people – not just those who are convenient, who gain us a good reputation, or who can repay us somehow.
Our denomination met to elect new leadership this past week, so we remember that we are called to pray for those who lead - and encouraged to be leaders ourselves, by God’s grace. Thank you for joining in this time of prayer and reflection. (August 4)
Thank you for joining together in this weekly time for reflection and encouragement. This week, may you not only take time for your own faith but to reach out and encourage and thank another in Christ’s name. (July 28)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 14:7-14. This is a parable that Jesus tells. It’s hard to ignore something that Jesus gives us directly – we’re called to “carry on the work of Jesus Christ”! How literally might we take this parable? What seats can we give up for the sake of others? We don’t do these things so others will notice us (although Jesus indicates we will get our reward). We do these things because Jesus invites us into humble obedience and love for others.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Isaiah 58:2-9a. God points out a great hypocrisy: we might act like we are obedient and put on a show of faithfulness but our daily actions show a lack of devotion to God. This is a text of judgement and hard to hear. It is a reminder that there is always growth, always more work to be done, always a need to be corrected and try again. We don’t welcome others because it makes us look good. We do it because this is what God calls us to do.
Being in community means also being together through grief and loss. We welcome you to this time to be in mourning or hold space for those who are. Thank you for being together in prayer. (July 21)
Welcome to our time for reflection and devotion in this church season of ordinary time. Thanks for taking time to build a rhythm of prayer and reflection into your week. (July 14)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and pastor Erik discuss 1 Kings 17:8-16. The widow thinks she has nothing to give, no way to serve. Is that true for us, too? How might we dig deep to stay faithful to the call to care and provide for others? Elijah comes to her house asking for help. Think of our own church: when people show up here, do they know they’re welcome? Do they know we want to be good neighbors? Would anyone from Easter be prepared to show love and care? Everyone has a role in hospitality. Everyone has something to share.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and pastor Erik discuss Ruth 2:1-12. Boaz goes above and beyond. He doesn’t just follow the law – he makes sure Ruth is safe and fully cared for in his fields. For that matter, Ruth has done more than she needed to! She didn’t need to stay with her mother-in-law and come to another country, but she intentionally made herself an outsider to stay with Naomi. Hospitality isn’t doing the letter of the law, it’s going the extra mile. We are called to give more than enough to ensure the safety, security, welcome, and inclusion of others – even if they might never return the favor
Sometimes, God’s word can be hard to sit with. We sit together and remember that servants of Christ are called to the good of all people through the power of the Spirit. Thank you for holding each other in prayer today as we do this work together. (July 7)
Thank you for joining us in this time of reflection and prayer. This week, we especially celebrate the freedoms we know and the responsibilities we share, both in our country and our faith. (June 30)
With challenging headlines in the news, we return to prayer and reflection as we trust in God’s peace and justice. Thanks for joining us either when videos are posted Mondays at 9 am or any time during your week. (June 23)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Exodus 22:21-24. We don’t like talking about God’s wrath, and that’s fair. But it doesn’t mean our actions don’t have consequences. Care for others matters to God. The dire warning that not caring for orphans, widows, and outsiders means those you love will be left destitute – we are reminded that we are all at risk if we consider only some worthy of care and protection.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Leviticus 19:15-18, 33-34. Hospitality is a key rule of Biblical life from the very beginning. These rules for how we treat others come in the mix of a wide variety of laws. They are all about our public identity as God’s people. There is a “golden rule” element to this law. How would we wanted to be greeted, cared for, welcomed, accommodated? Can we go beyond that for the sake of others?
We celebrate fathers and name God as our Father, even as we recognize how complicated both can be. We rejoice in goodness, we grieve the challenging, and in all things, we listen for the Spirit’s guidance among us. (June 16)
With the pain and anxiety of this weekend’s events, we need this additional time for prayer and reflection. While our usual devotion will go live on Monday at 9 am, this special devotion speaks to the current moment and unites us in prayer and hope. (June 16)
Happy Pentecost! As we gather for our time of prayer and reflection, we especially rejoice in the gift of the Holy Spirit and its guidance and wisdom in our lives. These devotions go live every Monday at 9 am and you are welcome to join whenever you can. Feel free to share, too!
Welcome to our time for prayer and reflection, which goes live every Monday at 9 am. But no matter when you join in, you are held in prayer and the love of the whole community. Let’s keep all these end-of-year events and milestones close as we listen for what God is up to in our lives. (June 2)
Welcome to Episode 1 of Devotions with Pastor Megan! Instead of recording live on Facebook, they will now be prerecorded and posted Mondays at 9 am. As always, our time for prayer and reflection can be watched any time. (May 26)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Matthew 25: 31-40. The story continues to the flip side – those we exclude or ignore, even unintentionally, show us how we would receive Jesus in our midst. This is about service and walking with others in need and it’s about always watching for anyone and everyone who might be easy to forget and ignore. This includes inside and outside our walls. Hospitality is an act of faith that we are called to do as if we were serving Jesus himself.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 2:37-43. This Sunday is Holy Trinity Sunday, an immediate aftermath of Pentecost – prayer, promise, conversion, devotion. There is a triune promise at work through the realized gift of the Holy Spirit. How do we name and celebrate the work of our Triune God among us?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 2:1-12. We go backwards for the sake of the liturgical calendar, but this is the basis for all the newness and reaching-out that Acts does – the Spirit calls and empowers them to do it. Where are all these people and languages that are listed? What does it mean for how far-flung God’s people are in all their diversity and variety? What gifts do we need to do God’s work in our church, community, and world right now? How can we live into those gifts together?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 15:1-4, 12-19. This is faithful listening to God doing a new thing and not stopping anyone who comes to God in ways we couldn’t have imagined. How do we evaluate what stays and what goes? How will we listen to God in this work? We are receiving new members this Sunday – we are an ever-changing community. The thing that stays the same is God’s faithfulness to us.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 8:26–36, focusing on Philip and the Ethiopian official. In this passage, we see a powerful example of how the Gospel is spreading beyond traditional boundaries. We've been talking about the beginning of the Church—how the Good News is going out, people are coming to faith, and the message of Jesus is expanding into new regions. That same spirit of expansion is still happening today. How will we learn from each other, especially in our differences?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 6:1-7. Different people have different work and it is all to God’s glory. Note the racial divide and the internal dissension. This is human! But we can overcome these challenges and keep working for unity. How will we work together to make sure everyone has what they need – and all are called to serve?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 4:31-35. Note all the together things: prayer, profession of faith, possessions. We are called to radical community and sharing. The Sprit makes the place shake! What might that feel like to us today? How do we live our faith in community, with boldness, and for the good of all?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 24:36-43. The presence of Jesus can be unsettling – even the disciples were surprised and scared! Jesus demonstrates not only his resurrection but his full humanity. There is something holy and affirming about making sure people have enough to eat. Jesus wishes his disciples peace. This is Jesus’ first wish for them. What does peace look like for us now?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 24:28-35. This is the start of our new Sermon Series, “Called Together And Sent Out”. These are stories of bridging differences and finding common ground, especially in faith. Jesus is revealed in reading scripture and breaking bread – when we learn, worship, and have community together, we find Jesus. How are we called to both build community and continue to always look beyond to love and serve?
This Sunday is Easter Sunday, Resurrection of Our Lord! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 24:1-12. Even as the women remembered Jesus’ words, the men dismissed it as an “idle tale”. It can be hard to trust the promise of new life! We feel hopeful and ready to celebrate today – but what about the days to come? How can you keep centered in Jesus’ gift of life? Even those who followed him most closely couldn’t find the ability to trust – we must always practice our faith so we can rely on it in challenging or confusing times
This Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week with Palm Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 19:36-40 (processional gospel), 41-48 (preaching gospel). Between the two readings, there is joy, celebration, anger, grief, frustration, condemnation, and praise. Where do you see yourself? How does this story sound for you today? It’s easy to forgot that the triumphal entry and the cleansing of the temple are on the same day in Luke. Maybe this is why the leaders were even more convinced to kill him.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 19:1-10. Zacchaeus works hard to see Jesus! Sometimes, our growth in faith will be challenging and see obstacles. Is it more unexpected that Jesus eats with a sinner or that Zacchaeus so radically and willingly reforms his life? How will you live differently because of Jesus?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 16:19-31. Much of this chapter focuses on love of money and how it can corrupt our faith. Do we feel offended that a rich person is sent to torment because “during your lifetime you received your good things”? Does our relationship with money bear witness to and live out our faith, or serve as an obstacle to God’s love? What do we let control our lives?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 15:1-10. The things that get lost in Jesus’ story aren’t of high value – or at least, aren’t worth risking everything else. His examples aren’t logical! Your position matters. If you think of yourself as “found”, you may be frustrated or jealous of Jesus’ attention to the lost. If you think of yourself as “lost”, you finally hear a word of love and grace. How often do we pretend to be a place where only the “found” are welcome? How do we ensure we bring God’s love and care to all?
This Sunday is the 2nd Sunday In Lent, where Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 13:31-35. Jesus’ reflections are specific and universal. He’s specifically talking about Jerusalem and how this holy place frequently doesn’t live into its reputation. But broadly, he’s speaking to us – we’re often unwilling to be called together and cared for by Jesus, choosing to go our own way. There is grief in what Jesus shares – he wants to care for us, he wants to call us together, he wishes it wasn’t like this.
Daylight saving time begins this Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 9:51-56. From here, Jesus’ ministry is all about heading towards the cross. What does it mean for you to start looking towards Jesus’ cross? Jesus does not rebuke those who don’t receive him – even when they’re outsiders that others might prefer to penalize. What might Jesus be challenging us to do, especially in this season?
This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday where Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 9:28-35. After seeing so much of Jesus’ humanity in the way he loves and cares for others, we get a reminder of Jesus’ holiness and power. Peter, John, and James want to respond by staying right where they are. This is obviously not the point of the story. God calls them to go back out into the world. We often want answers, clear directions, and our expectations met when we follow Jesus. Instead, we often get mystery, redirection, and struggle. But we are still invited to listen to him.
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 7:36-39, 44-50. The point keeps getting made in Luke and all these stories: the ones who are unexpected are the ones who Jesus welcomes. Jesus does not reject us for our sin. We get to come to him, to be right next to him, and to love him! The woman is called a sinner, although we don’t get more description than that. She’s a contrast to someone who’s meant to be seen as sinless. Jesus pronounces forgiveness without her even asking for it.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 7:18-23. Jesus’ definition of the Messiah appears to be: the one who provides miraculous healing and brings good news to the poor. Even John, whose role is to point to the Messiah, isn’t sure that Jesus is the Messiah. He doesn’t act or teach as people might expect. there have already been many who have taken offense at Jesus, and it is still true today. People continue to try to make Jesus into something he’s not. Why can’t people recognize Jesus for who he is?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 7:1-10. Jesus heals someone who isn’t inside the promise, but still, Jesus shows up. And still, the centurion shows faith in what Jesus can do, using his own experiences as an authority figure to relate to Jesus. Insiders aren’t a thing with Jesus. He continues to make this clear throughout his teaching and ministry. He has come to be the Messiah, a specific religious and cultural expectation – but he doesn’t stay within those boundaries. Why doesn’t Jesus stick with his own kind?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 6:1-11. Jesus values life over laws – he chooses eating and healing over Sabbath commandments. But the Sabbath is still valuable! Just not when it is used as a means of control and stands in the way of abundant life. It can be tempting to see Jesus wanting to break the rules we don’t like. But it’s not about liking a rule or not – it’s about making sure that the rules promote life and point back to God’s purposes for us.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 5:1-11. Simon is exhausted! And Jesus is a carpenter, not a fisherman. We can’t blame Peter for second-guessing Jesus’ instructions. And still, it looks almost ungrateful. Simon’s confession in v8 – he realizes that he’s misjudged Jesus. But Jesus still calls him. There is space to question Jesus, to get annoyed or tired, to get it wrong. We get to be wrong, be corrected, and be included. Do we get to talk back to Jesus?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 4:22-30. The crowds turn on Jesus so quickly. First, they’re impressed by the hometown boy doing big things. Then, they’re angry that Jesus tells them that those on the outside of the margins are on the inside of God’s love. Jesus’ teachings aren’t easy. They won’t always make us feel safe and comfortable. They should challenge us, push us outside our boxes, and always call us to those who are more vulnerable or excluded. What do we do when Jesus offends us?
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 3:2b-6, 15-17, 21-22. John is unwilling to claim power even though people are obviously drawn to him. How do we use our power, influence, and prestige to point others to Jesus? There is great expectation in the people (v15). They knew God would be true to the promises. Do we feel the same way today? What do we expect Jesus to do for us? This is an opportunity to speak directly to baptism – what it is, why we do it, and how it is truly for everyone. You are welcome at the font no matter who you are.
We continue learning about Jesus life before public ministry with our series, “In My Father’s House”. Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 2:41-52, its a story of an adolescent Jesus. We often focus on Jesus death and resurrection as the core of his ministry. But it is good to remember that his teaching and life bear witness to God’s promises for us, too. This is one of the earliest reminders of this. What can we learn from how people learned from Jesus?
We start a new sermon series this week called “In My Father’s House”. Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 2:25-38. God has prepared people to hear this good news! This is one of the few stories of a young Jesus and his parents. It gives us space to see more of the humanity of Jesus. There is a balance of prophetic witness here. Both stories are included. Why might this be meaningful? While Mary and Joseph knew who Jesus was, this must have still been unsettling for them to hear. What do we learn about who Jesus is from this story?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Luke 1:26-38. This is the passage that gives us our key verse for this series. This is the culmination of all promises, with Mary’s faithfulness front and center. Mary’s trust isn’t without question (v34) or confusion (v29). But she stays with it – and so does God. We may not be asked to do a big thing like this – but then again, we don’t know. God makes big promises and does big things. It is our joy to be a part of it. Trusting in the coming Savior, how will we continue to do God’s will according to God’s word?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Isaiah 61:1-9. This is a powerful Advent word – it points to a time that is both now and not yet. This promise was for the exiles, for the arrival of Jesus, and for us now. God’s promises are always the same and always new. Jesus reads this passage in the temple at the beginning of his ministry. This promise reminds us who Jesus’ incarnation brings God’s justice to the world.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Joel 2:12-13, 28-29. We heard Peter quote this passage in Acts back in August. We hear the promise again – God’s promise to dwell with all people continues to mean all people. The promise is twofold – our repentance is welcome and God’s Spirit is limitless. Sermon series title: how will we live according to God’s word here in Joel? How can we trust these promises for ourselves and for others?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Daniel 6:16-27. Daniel faces death because of his confidence in God’s promises. We’re rarely called on to make this commitment. What does that look like in our lives? Advent begins today, an opportunity to prepare our hearts for Christ’s incarnate arrival in the world. Jesus ultimately endures death for us. We are invited to set aside fear and doubt as we trust in the Word.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Jeremiah 31:31-34. This Sunday is Christ the King Sunday and the start of our new sermon series, According to Your Word. Christ the King Sunday is sometimes called Reign of Christ Sunday. What does it mean for Jesus to reign in our lives? How are we showing that we belong to Him? God makes this promise: to write the law on our hearts. It is always there. God will stick with us. God forgives us. This is what it means to be God’s people.
This Sunday’s theme is 1st Communion. Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Deuteronomy 8:1-3, 6-11. History lesson: when does this reading happen, and why does it matter? When we bring young people to the table for the first time, we’re fulfilling our promises to them (and each other) to do exactly this. But when we come together for communion every time, we’re also living into the promises God has made to each of us, that Jesus would always be with us and we would always be one people in Christ’s name. We remember this covenant every time we come to communion!
This Sunday is commitment Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 146 and talk about what commitment Sunday is all about. Serving others, sharing the gospel, ensuring a place for faith to grow for generations – our giving to the Most High does this! When we give out of sheer gratitude for what God has done, how do we bring in God’s
This Sunday is All Saints Sunday, this is a day to remember those who have built faith in us, who we call saints. Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 24:1-6. We recognize everything they have given us so that we might know Jesus. We are called to similarly live and serve, trusting that God’s work is done through us. The blessing we have received from the Lord is through the saints of the church before us – and the blessing we share is that we become those saints to untold generations – this is how we pay our vows!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 46:1-7. This Sunday is Reformation Sunday, the reminder that God’s love can’t be bought, that God’s love is sure and steady no matter what. Because God has taken action, we are free to respond. We don’t give to earn God’s grace or to assuage our guilt. We offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving. We give what can’t be taken back or earned to celebrate that God is truly with us. Stewardship is discipleship!
We start our new sermon series, “Offer to God” Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Psalm 50:3-6. Psalm 50 is meant to tell people how about how to rightly celebrate festivals and remind them of God’s covenant with them. The whole psalm reminds the people that not only does God delight in our celebrations, but they’re necessary to connect us to our joy in God. We offer to God what God has given us because we celebrate that God is truly good – and that all we have and are comes from God. What do we know about God that makes us want to offer anything to God?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik read Jonah 3:1-5, 10; 4:1-4, 11. They discuss Jonah’s call, God doesn’t deny the brokenness of Nineveh, but God also doesn’t deny that their destruction would not be God’s desire. We might be inclined to judge who is worthy of God’s love and mercy, but God doesn’t see people the same way we do. This Sunday is Bible Blessing Sunday! It’s dangerous and challenging to put these stories into our children’s hands. But that is why we do this together – to be challenged, to ask questions, to be reminded that God’s word is for all people, and we are called to share that message.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik read Isaiah 6:1-8. They discuss Isaiah’s call, Isaiah protests that he’s not good enough, and not worthy. In a way, he’s right. God makes him right, ready, worthy. God will do that for us, too. This gift of being made right to do God’s work isn’t so we can be more special or important – it’s so that all people can know God’s love and grace in their lives. God’s call in your life is something to take on with humility, not superiority.
This is Easter Cares Sunday, where we lift up all our wonderful care teams at Easter! Past Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin read Esther 4:6-16. They discuss Esther’s call, Esther seems to think the rules are too rigid to be broken, even when it’s a matter of life and death. What excuses do we make to avoid doing the hard things? Esther has power she’s not accustomed to having. We often don’t realize how much we can actually do to God’s glory and for our neighbor’s good.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin read 1 Samuel 16:6-13. They discuss David’s call, the history of David, how we got here, why he will be important (think of Jesus as Son of David). David is written off because he is the youngest and smallest. But God sees something else. What do we use to discredit someone when they’re not who we think they should be? We have to help each other listen, discern, be accountable – even Samuel wouldn’t have considered David as worthy. We miss out on what God is up to when we’re not working together to hear all voices.
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Kevin read Exodus 3:1-6, 13-14. They discuss Moses’ call, who is Moses? Why does he become important? How did he end up in the wilderness? Balance of response: understanding that the land is holy, that God’s call is something deeply spiritual, but also, that we get to question, consider, push back to learn what God really wants of us and who God really is. How are you listening? If God called you, how would you know? What practices do you have, what signs do you watch for, how do you interact with God’s call?
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Kevin discuss Genesis 12:1-9. This week we start our new series called HEAR THE CALL. We look to Old Testament stories of Abram, Moses, David, Esther, Isaiah, and Jonah, each one had a calling and each one heard in their own ways. We can take heart knowing that they had difficulty with what God asked. We know God is calling each of us. What is your call? When we look at Easter, how do we know what God’s call is for Easter? How far will God call us to go? Let’s Hear the Call together.
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 2:43-47. “All who believed were together and had all things in common” – v44. This isn’t a fable – this is gospel truth. This is what Christian living looks like. How are we truly called to generosity in all things? How are we living and giving as if we truly are together and have all things in common?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 2:37-42. Verse 39 says “For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” This Sunday, we will bless backpacks to send our kids out into the world. How will we truly remind them – and all children – that the promise of Jesus is for them? Our actions inspire faith in the next generation.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 2:29-36. Verse 36 says “Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Peter meets criticism and confusion with conviction. We are likewise invited to bold proclamation. His invitation is to “the entire house of Israel” – this good news is for everyone. How are we inviting all? How will our ability to proclaim and share grow when we look and act like one unified church? How will we share the gospel clearly, boldly, and faithfully for years to come?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin continue reading Acts; this week is Acts 2:22-28. This is another example of Jesus’ death coming front and center in proclamation. How do we avoid death in our culture? At what cost? What among us needs to die? What could live and flourish instead?
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin have a discussion about doubt, shame, and question while reading Acts 2:12-21. How will we face doubts, criticisms, and despair as we choose bold faith? Peter doesn’t give in to the doubts – he speaks more boldly because of them. What would it look like to meet criticism with transparency and gospel truth?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Kevin discuss Acts 2:1-11. What does it look like for us to truly include and invite? In what ways do we make sure to speak about Jesus in a language others can understand? What brings us together today? Or, to reflect from the text: how can we be sure we’re speaking each others’ languages?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss John 3:1-10. Nicodemus shows up by the cover of night to ask questions and learn from Jesus. But that’s not the only time he appears in scripture and the other moments are a lesson in what it means to risk little, and show up too late. How might these later stories of Nicodemus teach us that there is always more to learn about ourselves, each other, and God?
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik are joined by Easter lutheran’s Outreach Director, Rhonda Doran. They discuss Acts 27:7-11, 13-14, 18-22. Paul is a prisoner on a ship that sets sail in less than ideal conditions and they run into trouble. In a moment of crisis, Paul stands up and tells them that in order to survive, they’re going to have to wreck the ship. Paul tells the truth, and how the different people on the ship react to this truth can tell us a lot about the church today and what is happening around us.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Revelation 3:14-20. Revelation is the scariest book of the Bible for many in our communities. But it contains intimate correspondence to real churches and a vision for God’s promise that sustains all of creation. Apocalypse literally means unveiling. How can the apocalyptic verses at the end of scripture wake us up to the pressing concerns that are crying around us?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Luke 2:41-52. They continue our new sermon series “The Good Book” and talk about young Jesus in the temple, growing up, and growing into faith. Coming of age stories show up throughout our common experience on television, in novels, and in our families. But what if God’s only son is coming of age? Dig into the tension between God being fully divine and fully human in the only story of Jesus’ adolescence that we have access to.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Exodus 1:15-22. Puah and Shiprah, midwives play a significant role. They’re willingness to look at what was going on around them and realizing it was not right, they stand up to authority, and were brave because of their faith. They care what pharaoh says, but realize it was not at all what God would want. God works through them, he blesses them and many babies were born because of them.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Genesis 50: 15-21. Joseph wept when they spoke to him. Then his brothers also wept, [and] fell down before him – v17b-18a. Years after Joseph is the recipient of his brother’s jealousy and sold into slavery in Egypt - he comes face to face with them again. They are in need, he is in power. When he could respond with vengeance or anger, he does not. But how he does respond can offer us a blueprint for naming and repairing the breaches between us.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Genesis 32:24-28. Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until daybreak. – v24a. Jacob is a trickster and sees all of his tricks coming back to catch him. But God stands in the way with a wrestling match that will leave him wounded and clear of his calling. He’ll come out of the wrestling match with a new name and a new closeness with God. Maybe that’s something we can learn from, as people of faith–that wrestling with God may be part of being human, and one of the ways we grow in faith and love.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Genesis 19:15-17, 24-26. Historically, interpreters haven’t had much grace for Lot’s wife. We’ve made a lot of assumptions about her, without stopping to ask why she may have looked back. And that’s something we can all relate to: a time when we made assumptions about others, without taking the time to dig deeper. But what if we did? We might find we have a lot in common with one another and with characters in Scripture, too. Why did Lot’s wife look back? Maybe for the same reasons we do–and maybe her story can be an invitation to move forward.
This Sunday is Holy Trinity Sunday! Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Romans 5:1-8. This liturgical day is one of the few where we get to talk about the doctrine of the Trinity. Help people out! Give them a way to think about such a complex idea. This celebration comes after Pentecost, allowing the church more time to reflect on the gift of the Holy Spirit, and has been around for at least a thousand years in some form. Note the interplay of the Trinity and what it means for us in Romans – love, peace, grace, glory. What does God as Trinity mean for as we love God and our neighbors?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 2:1-8, 22-24, 37-39. At Pentecost, God makes it clear that the church is for everyone. No one is excluded from the good news. We get to make sure there is a place for all! Community isn’t about making everyone “like us”. It’s about meeting people where they are and finding ways to learn from each other. The languages are actual languages spoken by those in attendance (v8). The Spirit allows all to hear the good news. No one is left out – everyone is met where they are with their own language. How will we continue to ensure that we can walk alongside everyone in our community?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Corinthians 15:1-11. The statement that Paul makes is a basic, clear expression of faith. He reminds them about what they believe – being there to remind each other is part of what we do in community. Paul counts his greatest failing as persecuting the church. It’s not just about denying Jesus, it’s about hurting the community of believers. How can we keep teaching each other and learning from each other?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Corinthians 1:1-9. Background on 1 Corinthians: Paul writes to a community he loves that faces dissension and infighting. He wants them to find a way through in spite of their differences, because community is worth it. Saying “thank you” matters – it’s easy to take others for granted and not lift up the joy of being together. We recognize those who are helping serve our community. We say thank you for the way they build community. But the work belongs to us all – “the grace of God... has been given to [us] in Christ Jesus.”
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik are joined by Easter lutheran’s Adult Ministries Director, Jami Day! They discuss Acts 18: 1-10, be careful of (v6) – this passage is used to justify antisemitic sentiment. Does Paul’s words do him any good? Are we really meant to let his frustration dictate how we’ll treat others? Paul finds points in common with Aquila and Priscilla. In fact, they are fellow Jews. Here, Paul finds things that draw them together. How often do we let our frustration with others dictate how we treat them? How can we find ways to connect with each other and draw ourselves together?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 17:1-9. Jason is attacked and jailed because of his relationship with Paul and Silas. When we choose each other, we may have to decide if we’ll stay by each other when it’s risky. People are uncomfortable with how Paul and Silas preaches about “another king” (v7) – they don’t want their safety at risk because of who is in their community. Community means caring for each other even when others might pressure us to reject those who don’t quite fit. How will we keep choosing each other even when we face confrontation?
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 3:1-10. A story of healing is ultimately about the worth of another person. A stranger who may not “deserve” care still gets it. All people have worth. Healing comes in many forms. A faith community isn’t about perfection. It’s about bringing more and more people into a place of relationship, safety, and care. How will you include others, care for them, serve them, in ways that bring healing?
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Acts 1:1-8. Church isn’t just about what you get out of it. It’s what you have to give others and how we’re better together. The disciples stay together (v4) before they’re sent out (v8). This is what we do week after week in worship and learning. We come together to be sent back out into the world. How will we encourage each other as we share the gospel throughout the world?
This week is Easter Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Mark 16:1-8. In some of the earliest versions of Mark, the gospel ends here. It ends with running away and fear with no resurrection account. Somehow, the word still got out! The story still got told, in spite of fear and confusion. The risen Lord still made himself known. Are you paying attention? Are you watching and listening for the good news? There are always reasons to be afraid or feel uncertain. Jesus gives us a reason for hope and this is the story we’ll tell!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Mark 11:1-10 (processional gospel), Mark 14:1-11 (preaching gospel). This day takes a hard pivot. It moves from joy and celebration to fear and sadness. We prepare our hearts and minds for Holy Week. Don’t look away. Jesus is open and honest about his upcoming death. We cannot look away and pretend death isn’t real. It has power. But in Jesus, there is hope. How do we hear the juxtaposition of these stories, especially considering the woman’s story?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Mark 13:28-37. Awareness is a gift we don’t always appreciate. We stay busy and distracted, missing what God is up to. We can take time to listen. We are called to be here, now, paying attention to what God is doing here. We invite others into this attentiveness and awareness of God’s work around us. Might be able to reference the Centering Prayer practice going on at Easter this Lent. It is good to set aside time and space to be open, listening, centered.
Pastor Erik and Pastor Megan discuss Mark 13:1-8. We trust that God will always care for us, even in uncertain times. We therefore can provide and care for others too, without fear. Two thousand years ago, Jesus knew there would be unrest, fear, and conflict. But it doesn’t mean the disciples would stop doing the good work of the gospel. God provides for us. We can trust God, especially when nothing else seems sure. How will we continue to trust in God, especially when things seem hard?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 12:28-34. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” The second is this, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” – v 30-31. We have a unique opportunity to truly glorify God and serve our community with the gifts we share and the facility we build together. This Sunday is Response Sunday for One Easter One Mission Capital Appeal! We rejoice in 50 years of God’s mission at work here at Easter. We want to build something that will support God’s work with us for 50 more years and beyond. Our generosity is an act of love. We give out of joy for what God has done and will do. How will we honor God and love our neighbor with what we share?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 10:13-16. This is another verse in Mark about welcoming children! We are truly called to invite all people of all ages into a full congregational life. What we want to build together is something that has a place for everyone to learn, to serve, to be cared for, to be empowered. We are all together in the congregational event happening this Sunday, February 25th. We want everyone together so they can share what God has given them for the good of all. What would it mean for you to receive the kingdom of God as a child? What joy, generosity, and selflessness might that involve? How can you live and share that right now?
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Kevin welcome us into the season of lent and discuss Mark 9:30-37. What we build together isn’t to make ourselves look like the greatest. It’s to answer Jesus’ call to serve, especially for the sake of welcoming all. Think about how Easter’s ministries have benefited you. Think about the difference it makes in the community. Think about how young people are learning about the gospel here. This is a mission worth supporting and serving. How does our faith and life truly call us to love and care for others?
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 8:34-9:8. Peter has a clear vision of what needs to happen – he wants to bask in glory and not have to sacrifice (see 8:31-33). Too often, the same is true for us. In the Transfiguration, we see Jesus as part of God’s ongoing work for the good of all people. What we build together is because we are listening to Jesus – it’s so we can have the resources to truly follow Jesus and invite others to do the same. Faith asks something of us. We don’t only get filled up and inspired – we get sent out and get to work. In our work to “carry on the work of Jesus Christ”, how will we live faithfully and generously?
Pastor Erik, Pastor Kevin, and Deacon Hans Vigesaa discuss Mark 6:34-44. This is a story many people feel like they know. Try to bring out just how ridiculously abundant the food is. Jesus shows people that there is way, way more than enough! This is all based in compassion. Jesus teaches and feeds them – as a church, we are meant to both serve and listen. We can do both in our love for Jesus. The world tries to tell us to keep more for ourselves because there’s not enough. Jesus shows us you can give abundantly from what you have to make even greater things happen to God’s glory. What if we trusted that there was more than enough right now?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 4:21-32. Key verse: Jesus said to them, “Is a lamp brought in to be put under the bushel basket, or under the bed, and not on the lampstand?” Mark 4:21. How are we living in the full abundance of God’s goodness right now? This passage reminds us that we can always be more, to God’s glory. We can always grow in our acts of service, compassion, financial giving, devotion – because big things start small.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 4:2-8, 13-20. This text is about growth, joy, and richness. Lutheran faith claims that the Spirit plants faith in our heart. If that is true (and it is!) then we get to make bold choices that live the faith we know we have. Many times we try to determine whether we’re good soil or not. What if we declared that we were? What if we chose to live our faith like seeds in good soil? How will we let our faith lives bear good fruit?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 2:1-12. Jesus has been on tour: healing, casting out demons, and teaching. People want to raise theological questions (v 7) but this is about the life and wellbeing of a person here and now. Jesus is at work - let’s do the same! It’s time: to get up and go! To trust that Jesus heals, forgives, strengthens, and goes with us! What can we do because we trust that Jesus is Lord?
We celebrate baptism today! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Mark 1:9-15. This is where God calls and claims us. It’s good enough for Jesus – it’s good enough for us! The offer to come to the waters never expires. Right after Jesus’ baptism, there is temptation and bad news (John’s arrest). Baptism doesn’t promise a perfect life – it promises that God will be with us in good and hard times. It’s time: to trust that God loves us and goes with us no matter what.
Pastor Erik, Pastor Kevin, and Deacon Hans Vigesaa discuss the beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. They read Mark 1:1-8. The story of Jesus in Mark begins with John as a prelude. We learn who Jesus is through John. How do we point to Jesus in our own lives, like John does? We don’t always feel so confident in sharing this good news. But in this Christmas season, we are reminded that God loves us enough to come to us in Jesus Christ – that’s good news worth sharing! It’s time: to trust that you can speak to the love you know in Jesus to others.
Pastor Erik, Pastor Kevin, and Deacon Hans Vigesaa discuss Luke 2:1-20. We remember and celebrate the story of Jesus’ birth from so long ago, but we remember that God continues to be present among us today. All these details of the place and history: the emperor, the registration, shepherds at work. These can pass us by because we repeat them every year. But remember: these details ground us in God’s action at a particular place and time. As we share gifts, return to traditions, light candles, sing songs, and feel both wistful and hopeful, pay attention: God is showing up in these days, too. Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!
This is the third Sunday of Advent, the Pastors touch on fulfillment, relationship, and trust. Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik, and Pastor Kevin discuss Ezra 1:1-3; 3:10-13. There is power in relationship and worship in this story. What truly draws the people together and lets them voice both their hope and their grief is returning to the temple together. God calls us back into a worshipping community, now and always. It’s time: to be together and hear God’s renewed promises to love us. What is God’s love rebuilding among us today?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Isaiah 40:1-11. The words are spoken to the people once they become exiles in Babylon. This is meant to comfort them in their most difficult time. For many of us, this season is a challenge. Stress, missing a loved one, finances, SAD, finals – it’s okay to not be happy this time of year! But God reminds us that he wants to care for us, to comfort us, to hold us even in hard times. How do we know God’s peace in challenging times?
It’s Time! Advent begins on December 3. Pastors Kevin, Erik, and Megan discuss Jeremiah 33:10-11, 14-18 and our new series, It’s Time.In Advent, we live in the paradox of knowing Christ has come and waiting for Christ to come. Our faith holds space for trusting God’s action now and waiting for fulfillment. We hope for you a time to watch, wait, and be ready for God’s promises now and to be challenged by what we still must do to live into God’s promises that are yet to be fulfilled.
It’s Christ The King Sunday! Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin read 2 Kings 22:15-20, 23:1-3. Josiah chooses faithfulness even though there will be pain and destruction for his people. He demonstrates servant leadership that calls people beyond themselves. When we care for others, we recognize that the outcome may not be what we hope and pray for. But we still trust in God and serve faithfully. How will we lead and serve in a way that points to who leads us?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin read Isaiah 11:1-5. Isaiah is a book of prophecy to a particular time and people. It was meant as both warning and promise to the people who originally heard it. There is hope and caution. The same is true for us today. While we tend to read this as about Jesus, that’s likely not what was originally intended. It’s meant to remind the people that even though hard times were ahead, there was still promised life and renewal. How do we see life springing up even in hard or desolate times?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Hosea 11:1-9. God makes this statement through Hosea in the face of great unfaithfulness from the people. God has every right to be mad! A key component of life together is forgiveness. We have to be able to confess, forgive, make amends, and keep moving forward together. God chooses to stay faithful even when there are consequences for the people.
Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 116:1-8. The Psalmist recognizes powerful, true emotions: stress, pain, fear, grief. This Sunday is a rare opportunity to talk explicitly about death. We can be honest about it, we don’t need to avoid it or talk in euphemisms. Faith reminds us that death isn’t the final word. How do we mark our grief of loss while still trusting God’s goodness?
Pastor Megan, and Pastor Kevin discuss 1 Kings 18:17-26, 36-39. We think of these stories of false gods and idols as something in the past, but we’re constantly worshiping that which is not God. This day in the church year reminds us that God is never done calling us back in line with God’s desires for us. Elijah shows us that faithfulness to God’s call is risky, powerful, and worth it. How does this day remind us of God’s constant work to reform our hearts and the church as a whole?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss 2 Samuel 5:1-5; 6:1-5. This is a story about the people coming together in worship! “David and all the house of Israel were dancing before the Lord with all their might, with songs and lyres and harps and tambourines and castanets and cymbals” – v6:5. How did we get to David? What was at stake? How did this become such an incredible high point for God’s people? One of them is worship, and it’s vital to our lives as Christians. No matter the style or site, we are together in our worship (hopefully even more together very soon!)
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Ruth 1:8-18. This story reminds us that the things that keep us together are deep and powerful. Love, devotion to God, desire to care for each other, and so much more as this is radical commitment: a daughter-in-law choosing to stay with her mother-in-law, even though it meant leaving her whole life behind. How does Ruth’s commitment to Naomi challenge us? Are there people who we don’t want to claim? How do we express being one people in Christ’s name?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Deuteronomy 6:4-9. It talks about the giving of the law. This is part of God’s establishment of the boundaries that promote life among people. At the top: know who God is and stay connected to that truth. This Sunday is Bible Blessing Sunday, as we give the word directly to the hands of these young people. This is the work of our whole congregation and we will keep making and keeping these promises!
Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin read Exodus 3:1-15. God said to Moses, ‘Thus you shall say to the Israelites, “The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you” Verse 15. God constantly self-identifies by relationship. We are called to do hard things, not for our glory, but for the sake of others. The God of relationships asks for our faithfulness to others.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin, and Pastor Eric continue our series we are in “Together For Good” and read Genesis 32:9-12, 22-30. They discuss faith stories in the old testament that remind us that we are meant to be in community and that we are built to be in relationship with God and each other. For a little background on Jacob (grandson of Abraham, recipient of the promise, trickster) he faces possible destruction – and probably deserves it! But God stays with him. Even when we mess up, God continues to work in our lives for good. Faith can feel like a struggle. God gives us strength to endure and sends us a community to support us.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik read Genesis 18:10-15; 21:1-7. The point of this story is not only that God keeps promises, but that God’s works are worth rejoicing in and declaring. How do we, as a community, keep track of the incredible things God has done in our community? How do we point to them and share them? How can we stay connected to the incredibly, miraculously good things God is up to among us?
This episode encounters audio complications that could not be fixed, our apologies. Pastor Megan, Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin introduce our new sermon series “Together For Good.” There’s a lot going on this Sunday! It’s a great opportunity to look around and celebrate the ways Easter supports its community and each other. This is who God means us to be! The pastors discuss Genesis 2:4b-8, 18-25. This text is often used to justify misogyny. What if it’s not about hierarchy but equality? What if it expresses the fullness of human experience and draws us back to each other? What does it look like to live as God intended: as those meant to always work together for the good of all creation?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss Psalm 150. This is a pure praise psalm, all about rejoicing in God’s goodness. That’s what we do at Easter! That’s what worship is for. We want to carry this praise on for generations, celebrating what God has done through us and the future. Let’s keep celebrating – our past, present, and future – all to God’s glory
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik read Hebrews 3:1-6. This is a story about widening faith. “We are his house if we hold firm the confidence and the pride that belong to hope” – what we build, we build to Christ’s glory, centered in honoring his name and celebrating faith in him. How will we continue to recognize God as the builder of all things?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Kevin and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Corinthians 3:9-13a. This passage reminds us that what we do is built upon the work of those who go before us. This process is about honoring our past and building our future, but even more so, remembering that our foundation is Jesus Christ, whom we serve with our time, money, energy, and even our buildings. How do we build on the work God does among us?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss 1 Peter 2:4-10. This passage reminds us that Christ is the cornerstone on which we build all things. Not any other part of our identity but Christ alone. If we are to be “living stones” and “a holy priesthood” it is so that we can “proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you”. In other words: anything we do, including build a building, is so that we can share the good news of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Ephesians 3:14-21. Verses 20-21 “Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever.” A church is more than a building, but a building helps us do what a church needs to do. Like this passage references: prayer, learning in faith, unity with the full body of faith, and more. Ultimately, this prayer is for us, too – that we may be strengthened by the Spirit, that we might be grounded in faith, that we might know the Christ’s love for us, and experience all of God’s presence.
This weeks story, Luke 10:25-37 is deeply familiar to people. How does Jesus’ well-known story keep challenging us to care for others? By using a Samaritan as the “good guy”, Jesus reminds us that the ability to care isn’t exclusive to the insider. Easter has great energy around caring for each other and our community. How does this really live into Jesus’ reminder that loving our neighbor as ourselves is one part of the greatest commandment, right along with loving God?
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin welcome Amy Vigesaa to the podcast this week. They dive into Exodus 15:19-21 and talk about different ways to worship and where we see God, where he is present. There are many right ways to worship – some more choreographed, some more spontaneous, some more joyful, some more stoic. It’s not the style that matters, it’s the connection to God’s action in the community and the opportunity to praise God. Point back to a time where you saw God move in your life.
This week, the Pastors dive into John 3:1-17. Nicodemus doesn’t feel comfortable coming to Jesus by the light of day. Sometimes, we’re nervous about asking or worry we will be judged for our questions. But Jesus doesn’t condemn! We learn in so many ways – classes, conversations, service opportunities, even music. We can trust that learning more about our faith is worthwhile no matter how that learning comes to us.
Pastors Megan, Erik and Kevin discuss Acts 2:43-47. At Easter, connection is part of everything we do: worship, serving, learning, caring, growing, giving. It’s all done in community. They talk about generosity and what giving means. Whatever you do here at Easter, how can you add connection? Who can you welcome, talk with, invite, share, encourage? How can you do that every week?
Pastors Megan, Kevin and Erik dive into our new sermon series for the month of July called “Stories of Faith.” The series focuses on Biblical characters who exemplify the Easter values we discussed during Lent: worship, care, learn, give, connect. These stories encourage us to share our own stories of faith at Easter. They discuss the book of Acts and what connecting is all about. What can we learn from the early church about connecting with each other?
It is installation weekend! It’s a chance to talk about Easter as a community, especially with two new pastors and a big future ahead of us. In worship, we come together from a variety of backgrounds to be one, in Christ’s name. Pastors Megan, Kevin and Erik discuss Colossians 3:12-17. We practice the work of community, forgiving each other and being patient with one another but we will never be perfect. We have a promise, let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, don’t flight it, don’t let the sin rule but let the peace of Christ rule.
Pastors Megan, Kevin and Erik continue their discussion about why we worship. There are many places we may hear God’s word in our life, but we are promised that in worship for all of our best intentions, we don’t always hear from scripture throughout the week. In worship, we receive it in numerous ways so we don’t forget. How do you hear (or experience) God’s Word in worship?
Pastor Erik and Pastor Kevin discuss Hebrews 10:19-25. The message talks about encouraging others. We may experience God in many places – relationship, creation, daily work – but God promises to be present with us in worship. Entering worship can feel intimidating, overwhelming, or not worth it. This passage reminds us that God invites us and has shown us that God will always be with us in worship, you might not always feel it, but it’s always true!
This is Holy Trinity Sunday, when the church remembers the triune nature of our God. The Pastors talk about why worship is important. They introduce our new sermon series “Why We Worship” and read Psalm 8. The act of praise reminds us that God is other than us, something this psalm recognizes. It helps us live out the truth that God is God and we are not. As the psalm says, God has shown us love and entrusted creative work to us. We celebrate that interaction when we praise God.
Pastors Megan, Kevin and Erik discuss Romans 8:14-28 and the meaning of Pentecost! It’s where we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit to Gods people. They discuss the importance of Baptisms, how we can actually see the Spirit at work as the Spirit is present because of Gods promises to us. How do we understand the work of the Spirit in our lives? Everyone is going to suffer at some point in their life. Paul speaks to us here, even in the midsts of suffering, all things work for good as God has sent his son to speak that into your life for a reason.
Pastor Kevin, Pastor Erik and Hans Vigesaa talk about what Baptism is. They discuss the letters to Paul, where he reminds us that in our baptism we have died to sin and death, and because of that we bring faith to our neighbors. We don’t find life in Law, the life is found in the way we love and take the teachings of Jesus into our own lives and live that out with the care we have for others. How will we continue to live as baptized children of God, even in the face of sin and death?
Pastors Megan, Kevin and Erik talk about revival, renewal and the presence of the spirit. Everyone experiences suffering differently and you may have trouble seeing God in the mist of the suffering. It is okay if it doesn’t feel real to you, the promise is still real and it will still be there for you, there is still peace with God through Jesus Christ even if it doesn’t feel real right now. What is a sin that you’re struggling with today and how can we trust this promise of grace through Jesus Christ and the life it gives us?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik read Romans Chapter 4: 13-16 20-25. Paul was very educated on scripture and tried to find common points to bring young believers together as one community. They discuss the difference between the law and the gospel. Sometimes we get it mixed around, it’s not that you need to do good things to receive Gods love but instead, because you have received Gods love, you can go do good things. What does it mean to be part of a wider faith, one family in Jesus Christ?
Pastors Megan, Erik and Kevin dive into Romans 3: 21-28 this week. Paul moves us away from good people and bad people and said we all fall short, it’s the human condition. We are sinners as christ died for us, we don’t need to reach riotousness to receive riotousness. What does it mean for us that all have sinned and fall short but that all are saved by faith?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik welcome Pastor Kevin to his first Podcast! They discuss Romans 1:1-17, Romans talks so much about grace and faith. Some of this sermon will be setting up the rest of the series: who is Paul, what is this letter, and what impact Romans has had on Lutheran theology. Paul ends this section with saying why he wants to get to Rome: to proclaim the gospel so others can hear and know. How will we do this work, too?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Eric discuss Matthew 28:16-20.We are told to go out into the world and teach others to follow Jesus. We also remember that “some doubted” but the power of the Holy Spirit overcomes, and we have victory even when we do doubt. You can still do what Jesus calls you to do if you don’t have all the answers.
Pastor Eric, Pastor Jen and Deacon Hans Vigesaa read Matthew 28:1-10 and talk about Easter. They discuss the good news of the gospel of Jesus Christ, how the Son of God has risen! We are called not only to come and see, but to go and tell. We leave this place so that we can share the good news with others.
Pastor Erik, Pastor Megan and Pastor Jen discuss the lengths God will go to to redeem us, and to be with us, don’t miss this story! When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, ‘Who is this?’ This is a huge reversal – it starts with crowds praising Jesus, but turns to Jesus being controversial and even hostile. Eventually, the crowd turns against him, too. It forces us to think about the ways we pivot from praise to persecution, both in our faith and in our lives.
Pastor Erik and Pastor Jen are joined by Deacon Hans Vigesaa to discuss Mathew 25:31-46. "When the Son of man comes in his glory and all the angles with him, then he will sit on the thrown of his glory, all the nations will be gathered before him" Mathew 25:31. One of the big questions in this text is what are those nations, who are we talking about, are we talking about just his followers or the larger nations? In this passage, obedience to God is made known in love and care for others. What parts of our worship help call us back out into a world that needs God’s love?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Erik discuss Mathew 23:1-12. We often feel shame around learning, as if we’re not good enough because we don’t know enough. But the invitation to learn about faith is for all people. What is the purpose of learning about our faith? Superiority, prestige, and privilege? Or to learn how better to serve God and our neighbor on a daily basis?
Pastor Megan welcomes Pastor Erik Sevig to the podcast, his first ever podcast. Get to know Pastor Erik! The two discuss Matthew 22:1-10. They talk about power, and how people hold power over one another. The story points out how people make a lot of excuses without even realizing it. How do we truly offer welcome and care to all people, regardless of their perceived worthiness?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Jen are joined by Deacon Hans Vigesaa, they discuss Matthew 20:1-16. This parable challenges us to see all as worthy of God’s love, our support, and a place in the community. This lesson can seem unfair. We are used to people getting what we think they deserve or are worth. This does not come into play for God. Easter has demonstrated incredible generosity of time, money, goods, and prayer. Do we ever think of it as what people deserve, or simply what we are called to be?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Jen chat about humility, obedience, and caution. Reflection on Lenten theme: in this time of humility, austerity, and sacrifice, we are freed up to think about who we really are and who Jesus calls us to be. How will you approach this season with the spirit of a child? Remembering the low status of children at the time, what does it mean to not think too highly of yourself?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Jen are joined by Deacon Hans Vigesaa to discuss what Transfiguration Sunday is all about. Transfiguration prepares us for Lent. We are reminded that Jesus is our Teacher, but is also God’s Son, and his teaching leads us to salvation. In his teaching and in his miracles, how does Jesus reveal God to us?
Pastor Jen Hackbarth is joined by Deacon Hans Vigesaa to discuss Jesus’ use of parables. We continue in Matthew 13:24-35. How do Jesus’ parables about the kingdom of heaven encourage us to seek out God’s action in the world?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Jen continue to discuss Mathew as we reach the end, closing out with the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus urges us to not just listen to his teaching, but to act on it. If we have Jesus as our solid foundation, we have to stay connected to it. How do you remain engaged with his teaching, in prayer, and in developing your faith lives?
This is Jays last podcast with Easter lutheran as he will be starting his call at Holy Cross Church soon. Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen, continue talking about Mathew(Mathew 6:7-15) which is all about love, service, and prayer. We don’t only pray words from the Bible because Jesus taught them, although that would be enough. We pray them to be reminded of how we live and trust in God’s action.
The pastors announce a very special Congregational Meeting for Easter Lutheran Church this Sunday, January 22nd. You'll get to meet the two candidates, and hear them talk about who they are and why they're excited about Easter. They discuss Matthew 5:1-12, how Jesus teaches a new way of being in the world, one based not in power and wealth but on God’s message of lifting up the lowly and truly loving all. How do the Beatitudes help us understand God’s will for us today?
Pastor Megan and Pastor Jay continue talking about the book of Mathew, the story of temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. This comes right after the baptism story – claimed and loved by God, we can face evil and temptation. Faith does not guarantee we won’t face struggle or temptation, but it does promise that we will have what we need to endure it.
Pastors, Megan, Jay and Jen move into a new sermon series called "The Great Teacher." Entering the season of epiphany, Jesus is revealing himself through these texts as a teacher and as a healer. Focusing on what we learn from Jesus through these stories in Matthew, how do we follow someone like this?
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen are still in the book of Mathew this week as they talk about the three wise men(magi). The magi followed God over human leaders. This is a chance to talk more about their faithfulness, wisdom, and ability to discern God’s will in a challenging, shifting political climate. What guides you as we end the Christmas season? How will you ensure the light of Christ stays in front of you, wherever you go?
It’s Christmas time! This week the pastors discuss readings for Christmas eve, and Christmas Day from Luke and Mathew. Luke 2: 10-11 “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.” At the center is the miracle of Jesus, God choosing to come as one of us is the greatest joy and biggest glory we can imagine. In Mathew, God’s ongoing revelation through an angel in a dream, shows that God continues to be active in history and in our lives. This story has more of the wonder and mystery of dreams and angels. We remember the many ways God works and speaks in this world.
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen have a conversation about Mathew 1: 1-17. Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called the Messiah. It can get easy to get lost in the names, but pay attention to the many outsiders, women, and lawbreakers in the list: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, for instance. The promise to the people here is that God has continued to work throughout history to save and protect us, and now realizes that promise in Jesus.
Pastors Megan, Jen and Jay have a discussion about Isaiah 42: 1-9. We have a promise of a coming savior who brings justice and compassion, for us and the whole world. How does God’s promise in Isaiah give us hope for renewal and salvation today? How will we watch for those new things? How does Advent help us stay alert?
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen discuss Esther 4:1-16 which kicks off the action of the story and the big burden placed on Esther on behalf of her people. This story is about salvation, confidence and power. They discuss Jews living in diaspora, learning how to be a distinct person in a hostile environment. God’s ongoing work of salvation was true for Esther and her people, through the promised birth of Christ, and among us still today.
Hans Vigesaa joins Pastor Jay Carlson, and Pastor Jen Hackbarth in a conversation about strength, hope and how God shows his presence even after the most painful times. They discuss Habakkuk and how he receives a reminder: injustice and suffering are not God’s intentions for us. While we might have to endure the consequences of our actions, God brings restoration, strength and healing, after the hardest seasons.
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen discuss Micah 5: 2-5; 6: 6-8 (walk humbly with God) along with starting our new worship series “People of the Promise.” While almost all of Micah is a dire warning, the last verses remind the people (and us!) that there is always time to live in keeping with God’s desire for us – especially God’s call for us to live in justice and humility. How do Micah’s promises – good and bad – remind us of what Jesus means for us?
Pastor Megan, Jay and Jen discuss new things here at Easter including the act of giving, and why we give the way we do, How have God's people looked at the act of giving in this weeks reading from Deuteronomy?
Pastors Jay and Jen dive into Proverbs 16:1-3, 8-9, which is full of advise and ways to live life. How do you think about Wisdom? How will you continue to commit yourself to God in your words and actions?
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen continue their conversation about the new sermon series “All Things New” with Deuteronomy 14:22-29. A lot of Deuteronomy is focused around how do God's people demonstrate that they are Gods people, and a big part of that is how you worship.
Pastors Megan, Jay and Jen kick off our next series “All Things New” with 1 Corinthians 16: 1-3. This series digs into generosity season, the importance of giving as a part of life, and as a faithful habit.
Pastors Megan, Jay, and Jen wrap up the last week of the sermon series. They discuss who we are, how people mess up and get lost in the wilderness but that does not cause God to stop loving us. There's no promise that life is easy but we do know that God never stops loving us. How will we continue to fulfill this call in the choices we make? How will we call others into the same life?
Pastors Megan, Jen, and Jay talk about Exodus and how it is an incredibly informative and important story. It tells about God saving the people and fulfilling promises. This story gets told and retold to remind us that we belong to God, God will defend us, and incredible things are possible through God.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Jay Carlson, and Pastor Jen Hackbarth have a conversation about Joseph and what went on in his life. The point of this story isn’t that God made it all okay. These were real, unjust, and horrifying struggles. The point is that God goes with Joseph into these struggles. There were blessings even in the worst circumstances. How do we see God at work in our lives, especially in difficult times?
Pastor Megan, Pastor Jay Carlson, and Pastor Jen Hackbarth have a conversation about Abraham and how humanity is sometimes messy. "God of the promise, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and love. Make us faithful to what you command as we trust in the life we know through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen" Genesis 12:1-9.
Pastor Megan welcomes Pastor Jay Carlson, and Pastor Jen Hackbarth to the podcast, their first ever podcast with Easter Lutheran. They discuss Noah and the story of God's grace, Genesis 9:8-17. God promised life to the world, to gather people into his arms and protect with his mercy.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Mary Sue Dreier, and Pastor Gary Dreier start a new conversation about Who We Are. God makes humankind in the image of God, a reflection of God’s presence in the world. We live out that creative, life-giving identity every day. God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness” Genesis 1:26-31. Think of beginnings: start of school year, installation of call committee – God creates something new among us in these things, too.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Mary Sue Dreier, and Pastor Gary Dreier continue the conversation on Faith practices, this week why testimony is important with scripture from Matthew 28:16-20. Why do we share faith? Because it is of value. Because it has changed our lives for good. Because Jesus brings life and hope for all. We are called to community
Pastor Megan, Pastor Mary Sue Dreier, and Pastor Gary Dreier continue the conversation on Faith practices, this week why Worship is important with scripture from Psalm 95:1-7. The style of worship isn’t what’s at stake here. What matters is the time to come into God’s presence, to recognize God as other than us, and to listen for God’s voice.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Mary Sue Dreier, and Pastor Gary Dreier continue the conversation on Faith practices, this week Service with Romans 12:9-21. How can we truly serve all people in God’s name? Service is an act of love. We answer the call to love by actually meeting the needs of others, not as we want to do, but as they need. Service can look like lots of things.
Pastor Megan, Pastor Mary Sue Dreier, and Pastor Gary Dreier continue the conversation on Faith practices, Giving. 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 has the often threatened line God loves a cheerful giver, what do these pastors have to say about that?
Pastor Megan welcomes Pastor Mary Sue Dreier and Pastor Gary Dreier to the podcast, their first ever podcast. They continue the discussion on Faith Practices with Fellowship and 1 Corinthians 12:12-20, 26-27. How do you practice fellowship and caring relationships?
Ep 239 | 8th Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Brandon, Megan, and Steve talk about the next faith practice: Prayer from our series “Grow In Faith” with scripture from Mark 11:22-25. How do you engage in conversation with God? There is no wrong way and no right way. This is the last podcast for Brandon and Steve, so be sure to listen to the end for a surprise. *farewell party is postponed
Ep 238 | 7th Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Steve, Brandon, and Megan talk kick off our next series “Grow In Faith” with Psalm 119:9-16. The series will dig into the seven faith practices of the ELCA starting with Reading Scripture.
Ep 237 | 6th Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Steve, Brandon, and Megan talk about Deacon Hans’ favorite Bible passage John 9. The age old of question of, why is this happening to me or what did I do to deserve this. The process of faith and discipleship is often a long journey. Throughout the text he is questioned, belittled, doubted about who he was and who he is becoming, even by those who know him best.
Ep 236 | 5th Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Steve, Brandon, and Megan talk about Pastor Megan’s favorite Bible passage 1 John 4:7-11,17-19. Like so many parts of faith, it’s easy to weaponize love. We can pretend love is the same thing as putting up with abuse, hatred, or discrimination. Love is hard work. Love means telling the truth, having compassion, and standing up for yourself and others. Our love for others is centered in how God cares for us. Be sure to count how many times the pastors say a form of the word ‘Love’.
Ep 235 | 4th Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Brandon and Megan talk about Pastor Brandon’s favorite Bible passage Isaiah 43:1-3a. Have you ever asked, Where is God, who are we? Easter is going through some big changes, are you looking for God in this? We are still God’s people and God is with us.
Ep 234 | 3rd Sunday After Pentecost Pastors Steve, Brandon, and Megan talk about Pastor Steve’s favorite Bible passage, Philippians 1:9-11. Each day we should ask, ok God, what are you doing today and how can I join in on it?
2nd Sunday after Pentecost Pastors Steve, Brandon, and Megan start the new sermon series Word of Life, each preacher will share their favorite Bible passage. We invite you to choose your favorite passage(s). This week Deacon Krista Lind will preach on Psalm 80:1-3, 14-19.
Ep 232 | Holy Trinity Sunday Pastors Brandon and Steve discuss John 16:7-15 the text for Holy Trinity Sunday. It is the day when we recognize one of the most confusing teachings of the Christian tradition. What is Trinity? How do you explain something that is three, yet one, and three? Listen in to hear the pastors try to make the unexplainable explained.
Ep 231 | Pentecost Pastors Steve and Brandon, head back to Acts 2 (2:1-21) to celebrate Pentecost. What are tongues? Was this a miracle of speaking or of hearing? The Holy Spirit is a gift for EVERYONE. This passage is Jesus fulfillment of the promise to pour out the holy spirit.
Ep 230 | 7th Sunday of Easter Pastors Brandon and Megan, continue reading the letter to the Philippians (Philippians 2:1-13). This text can get misused by telling some (but not all) people that they must endure all kinds of suffering because Jesus did. This is not about manipulating people or endorsing abuse. This passage works against much of what we assume we’re supposed to do: look out for ourselves, take care of ourselves, hustle to get ahead, expect others to do the same.
Ep 229 | 6th Sunday of Easter Pastors Brandon, Megan, and Steve continue learning about Life in His Name in Philippians 1: 1-18a. What is an epistle? Is it a flowering, thorny plant? The Gospel should be offensive, the way believers spoke of Jesus, Jesus is Lord , was offensive to the Roman government. Everyone is represented by Jesus, the Gospel effects the way we live in the world, we are all looking for how to do life in his name. God has a promise!
Ep 228 | 5th Sunday of Easter Pastors Megan, Brandon, and Steve travel to Rome in Acts 17:16-17, 22-31. We follow these Acts of the Holy Spirit, watch how the Holy Spirit continues to break and challenge the laws of Moses to bring everyone to the risen Christ. Paul opens eyes and hearts to the Truth, without judgement. How to you keep God in your daily life? How can you keep idols from being the center?
Ep 227 | 4th Sunday of Easter Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon dig in to Acts 16:16-34 in 3 parts because there is a lot happening in the life of Paul here in Phillipi. This story exposes some of the darkest aspects of humanity: slavery, misuse of the justice system for economic power, bigotry and scapegoating. We also get to see the liberating power of the Holy Spirit.
Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon move into Acts 9:1-19a where we meet Saul persecuting followers of Jesus. How does Saul/Paul encounter Jesus? What would you do if you were Ananias? What does all this have to do with Star Wars ep 7? How does God work with each of us to use our strengths?
Pastors Megan and Steve read John 20:19-31, When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, it’s late the day of Jesus resurrection. Where are the disciples? What do they do when they see Jesus? What if the point of the story isn’t: “don’t question Jesus”, but rather, “Jesus can stand up to your questions”?
Ep 224 | Holy Week! Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon read John 20:1-18 (Maundy Thursday and Good Friday gospels 19:23-30, 31-42). How does John’s Gospel paint the portrait of Jesus? Why is it ‘Maundy’ Thursday? How does John’s Gospel focus on the Maundy? What’s Good about Friday? We see that God will go to the end with and for us. Mary is the first Apostle to share the Good News. When Jesus calls our name it can clear our vision. Jesus is Risen!
Palm Sunday Pastors Megan and Brandon discuss Palm Sunday, readings from John 19:16b-22 Passion and John 12:12-27 Processional Gospel. Our Gospels go from celebrating Jesus entering Jerusalem for the last time to His crucifixion. What does the palm mean to you? This transition from celebration to crucifixion is deliberately difficult. As difficult as it is for us, Jesus is in control. Jesus dies for everyone.
Ep 222 | together in the face of evil, suffering, and loss Pastors Megan and Brandon discuss John 19:1-16a as we begin the passion story. What has brought the Jewish leaders so much anger and hatred as to deny their entire religion? Pilot is questioning Jesus, Where are you from? What does Pilot want to know? The murder of an innocent man should make us uncomfortable.
Ep 221 | together as we remember how easily we are pulled apart Pastors Brandon and Megan discuss John 18:12-27 notice all the connections to Jesus as our shepherd. What happens when we leave the fold? Sticking to our belief in Jesus is hard, sometimes we get it wrong, but we are still accepted.
Pastors Megan, Brandon, and Steve discuss John 15:4-17. Jesus begins his farewell discourse in a teaching about the Vine and Branches. We all ABIDE with God and are invited into a dynamic relationship with God. What you do now matters. We are Better Together when we are connected to the body of Christ and each other.
Ep 219 | Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet Pastors Brandon and Steve discuss John 13:1-17 and the start of Lent (what is Lent?). Jesus invites us to show greater hospitality. What can we learn from the example of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet? Is there anything in our culture today that compares to the act of Jesus washing feet? Jesus challenges his disciples and us to share him with the world.
Pastors Megan, Brandon, and Steve discuss John 11:21-44. The passage is often read at funerals. It shows us that Jesus demonstrates that he has power over death – Jesus is life itself. But also, it shows us the power of the community gathered in faith for the sake of each other. It says, “The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, 'Unbind him, and let him go.’” Like these people gathered, Jesus invites us in to being new life for other people.
Pastors Brandon, Megan, and Steve discuss John 17:1-12. It's Transfiguration Sunday this weekend. It leads us our of the season of Epiphany and into Lent. There's so much we don’t (or maybe can’t) know about the holiness of Jesus and what it means for us. How can we comprehend Jesus as both human and divine, physical and spiritual, incarnate and mysterious? We're invited to live into the mystery and trust in God’s love made known in Jesus.
Pastors Steve and Megan discuss John 7:37-52. Jesus is telling a crowd that he is the living water, the Messiah. The crowd is divided saying “Surely the Messiah does not come from Galilee, does he?” Some in the crowd were hung up on the belief that the Messiah was supposed to be from Bethlehem. Human desire to hold on to power and create hierarchy creates infighting and big problems for the religious authorities. The church of today isn’t exempt from these issues. Let’s not get hung up on the institutional stuff and just be the body of Christ in the world.
Pastors Steve and Brandon discuss John 6:35-56. Bread and water are incredibly important staples to sustaining life, especially to people in the first century. In these verses, Jesus calls himself the bread of life. He is the gift of life, love mercy, grace, and forgiveness. Through Communion, you receive a connection with God, then you get to be the gift of love, mercy, grace, and forgiveness to others in the world.
Pastors Brandon, Steve, and Megan discuss John 5:1-18. In these verses, Jesus is challenging religious tradition by healing a man on the sabbath and claiming he’s the son of God. For the time, it’s seen as a threat to God’s own laws. It’s taken as heresy. Today, we often try to make Jesus into what we’d rather deal with than what he tells us he is.
Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon discuss John 4:1-26. Jesus openly reveals that he’s the Messiah and he does so to a Samaritan, a woman far outside his inner circle. It can be easy to turn this into a story about condemnation and acceptance. What if it’s about revealing and telling the truth? The truth of Jesus can be revealed through people we try to discount, like the woman at the well.
Pastors Megan, Steve, and Brandon discuss John 3:1-21. In these verses, Jesus is talking to a Pharisee named Nicodemus. He tries so hard to rationalize and discredit what Jesus says. But Jesus tells him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.” (Verse 5). What does new life in Jesus look like? Rebirth and new life can’t always be so neatly defined. All we know for sure is that the new life we receive through Jesus changes who we are and how we act.
Pastors Brandon, Megan, and Steve discuss John 2:13-25 and our new worship series “I Am.” Every story in this series tells us about who Jesus is. In this text, Jesus confronts and disrupts the sale of temple sacrifices. These sacrifices were an important and expected part of religious life for the people who travelled to visit the temple. Jesus’ act of hostility (flipping over tables and making a whip to drive out the people selling animals) is a significant challenge to established practices. Sometimes, our faith needs to be upended.
Pastors Brandon, Steve, and Megan discuss John 1:29-34. John the Baptist recognizes Jesus as the Son of God, the one who brings hope. He boldly proclaims Jesus as such. Through baptism, we’re promised that Jesus will be with us always. Whenever we see a baptism in worship, we make promises to those who are being baptized and remember the promises made to us at our own baptisms. Baptisms continually restore and rebuild our hope.
Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon discuss John 1:19-28. John the Baptist describes himself as “…not the Messiah,” but the one who prepares the way. People were so eager for some answers, direction, and salvation. They wanted to turn John into something he wasn’t so they could know what to do and who to follow. In our rush to find something to give us hope, we might grab onto the wrong thing. It’s always worth being patient to discern what God is really doing.
Pastors Megan and Brandon discuss Luke 2:1-20 and 2:25-40. The birth of Jesus shows God’s love and commitment to us. We tend to think of the story as something cute and sweet — like a Christmas Pageant. In reality, it was messy and scary. But it was also filled with praise, tenderness, and trust. Following a messy and scary year, how does the story restore hope to us this year?
Pastors Brandon, Steve, and Megan discuss John 1:1-18. "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God … And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father’s only son, full of grace and truth.” We hear this passage a lot this time of year. It’s the fulfillment of God’s promises for life and hope. How does the promise of Jesus Christ continue to bring you hope?
Pastors Steve, Megan and Brandon discuss Isaiah 55:1-13 using the Grow Guide. It’s a useful tool to get you thinking about the upcoming weekend’s text with helpful context and thought-provoking questions. Visit easter.org/growguide to see this and previous weekend’s Grow Guides.
Pastors Megan, Steve and Brandon discuss Jeremiah 29:1, 4-14. Advent is a time of waiting, watching and praying. The people in this reading are living in exile, but God tells them to build lives rather than long for a place and time that no longer exists. They’re encouraged to make the most of whatever situation they’re in. God promises to be with us no matter where we are or what life looks like.
Pastors Brandon, Megan and Steve discuss Isaiah 9:1-7. “For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders; and he is named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” The reading comes just before the exile — a time of incredible pain and suffering. At the time, it probably pointed toward the hope of a just political king. The way we read scripture can change. Today, we hear this as a promise of the coming of Jesus. God’s promises can be renewed and updated for our time. How do you see God’s hope at work when things seem hopeless?
Pastors Megan and Brandon discuss Genesis 50:15-24. Joseph has come into power in Egypt and his brothers come to depend on him for food. But he doesn’t hold a grudge or harm his brothers. Instead, Joseph says “Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good, in order to preserve a numerous people, as he is doing today.” He has hope and faith in a God who sustains and cares. No matter what we endure God will always care for us.
Pastors Megan, Brandon and Steve discuss Genesis 39:20 – 40:8. Joseph (of 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat' fame) has been abandoned by his brothers, sold into slavery in Egypt, and thrown into jail for a crime he didn’t commit. And still, Joseph uses the gifts entrusted to him to help the people around him. God doesn’t remove all obstacles or make life perfect. We still trust that God is generous and we can be generous with the people around us too.
Pastors Steve, Megan and Brandon discuss Genesis 35:9-15. God appears to Jacob again and blesses him. God changes Jacob’s name to Israel and promises him “…a nation and a company of nations shall come from you, and kings shall spring from you. The land that I gave to Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and I will give the land to your offspring after you.” Then, Jacob sets up a pillar of stone, pours an offering on it, and calls it Bethel (House of God). This reaffirmation from God to Jacob comes in the midst of struggle, trial, suffering, and loss. But nothing can keep God’s promises from us. Trusting in God’s sustaining presence, how will we remain connected to the church on earth and in heaven?
Pastors Brandon and Steve celebrate the 200th episode of the podcast and discuss Genesis 32:9-12, 32:22-33:4. Isaac’s son Jacob has cheated his brother Esau, run away, and fears for his life and the lives of his family. He put himself in a desperate place. God restores not only Jacob’s relationship with Esau, but Jacob’s sense of hope and identity. We see that God is a force of renewal and we’re in need of reformation. It’s fitting for Reformation Sunday (this weekend). The church affirmed a God who is always doing new things and walks with us even when we go off-course.
Pastors Megan, Steve and Brandon discuss Genesis 22:1-18. God tests Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his son, Isaac. Abraham does what God asks and prepares an altar. Before he can sacrifice Isaac, God stops Abraham and says, “...for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from me.” It’s impossible for us to truly understand what God is up to, which makes it hard to follow God sometimes. In this lesson, we see that God ultimately works for live and will always provide where there is a need.
Pastors Brandon, Megan and Steve discuss Genesis 21:8-19. Abraham and Sarah discard Hagar and Ishmael in the desert. Even though Abraham and Sarah don’t love them, God shows special concern and love for them. We’re invited to be caring, compassionate, and kind not matter what we think about another person. How can share God’s love for all people?
Pastors Steve and Brandon discuss Genesis 17:1-7, 15-22. Abram tried to make God’s promises ("I have made you the ancestor of a multitude of nations.”) come true on his own. God’s vision for our lives is much longer-range than we’re willing to accept and we lose track of God’s faithfulness. God's promises keep expanding, even when we’re impatient.
Pastors Megan, Steve and Brandon discuss Genesis 12:1-5a, 10-20. In this story, God calls Abram (later known as Abraham) and promises to defend him. Shortly thereafter, Abram tries to save himself instead of trusting God’s promise, which has some unintended consequences. We are sometimes (frequently) forgetful, but God is always faithful.
Pastors Brandon, Megan and Steve discuss Genesis 6:13-22, 9:8-15. In the story of Noah, God’s decides humanity is worthless, but changes and feels bad about the flood. God recommits to Noah and humanity. God only desires a flourishing creation and a relationship with us. Because God can change, how will we make sure we are listening and following?
Pastors Steve and Brandon discuss Genesis 3:1-13, 22-24. We were created to be in relationship with God, with nature, and with each other. Our shame, blame, and pain disrupts our relationship with God. What are we called to do in the midst of this? Love God and love our neighbor. “When people look at the church, they should see people who know how to love enemies and love people who are different from them.” - Pastor Steve
Pastors Megan, Brandon, and Steve kick off our new worship series, “God Is – We Are” with talk of sabbatical, meaning, order, separation, and filling. Because God has created all things, even rest, how should we live, serve, and worship? Reading: Genesis 1:1-5 and 1:26-2:3
Pastor Megan is joined by Pastor Liesl Spitz to discuss Sermons in our Renewing Worship Series with text from 1 Corinthians 1:17-25. What is a sermon for, and what is it meant to do? Sermons give the whole community a chance to hear more about what God might be up to and how they might be a part of it. A sermon isn’t necessarily teaching or public speaking, although it can do both. It is a faith event made possible by the Holy Spirit.
Pastors Megan and Steve discuss CREED and CONFESSION. Confess doesn’t mean admit (like in confessing to a crime), it means declare. When we confess faith, we state it publicly. The creed(s) we use are shared by the whole church. This connects us to believers beyond our own community. We practice it in worship so we can be bold in our confessions in public.
How does a weekly confession of faith unite us with the whole church?
Pastors Megan and Steve discuss Psalm 71:15-24. Sharing witness or testimony in worship isn’t typically thought of as “Lutheran" behavior, but it can be. In our online worship services, we have Offering Moments. They’re a chance to share what the church is doing in people’s lives and what it means. We can practice telling our faith stories in worship, so that we’re comfortable telling them in our daily lives. How can we invite each other to talk about faith publicly and share what God is doing in our lives?
Pastor Steve and guest speaker Dr. Terri Elton discuss Matthew 18:1-7. “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me.” What does it mean for a faith community to fully include all people, especially children, in worship?
Pastors Steve and Megan discuss Galatians 3:23-29. “…in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.“ What does it mean to be baptized? It’s God’s blessings coming through ordinary water and spoken promises. We need to hear and see these promises. It unites us in worship, makes us one family, and keeps us accountable to each other.
Pastor Megan and guest speaker Pastor Lindsey discuss Matthew 6:19-21, 24-34. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” It can be difficult to talk about money in church. It’s a source of guilt, anger, or superiority for some. But Jesus is very open in talking about money, and being generous with our resources, time, and talent.
Pastors Steve and Megan discuss 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” Why is it so important to receive communion?
Pastors Megan and Steve discuss Psalm 98:1a, 4-9. “O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things." Music can reflect culture, society, and so much more. In worship, its sole focus is on praise of God and building community. The full variety of musical styles connect us to God and each other in worship. But how?
Pastors Steve and Megan discuss Joshua 1:1-9. Through scripture, we hear what God has done, how to live as God’s people, and how to listen for what God is doing among us.
Pastors Megan and Steve discuss 1 John 1:5-10. When we confess together, we recognize that together we have individually and as a community fallen short of God’s vision for us. The good news is that God’s forgiveness is for us all!
Pastors Steve, Megan, and Brandon discuss Psalm 95:1-7. Worship reminds us that we worship something other than ourselves. It joins us in community in praise of our God who has made all things. How does worship connect us to God?
Pastors Brandon, Megan, and Steve discuss Galatians 4:1-7, 5:16-26 (Fruits of the Spirit). We cannot fully know our God, but God still wants to be with us. We are limited even if God isn’t. It can be hard to think about God as one and three. What does it mean to have a God who is Trinity?
Pastors Brandon and Megan discuss Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost). In the early church, the ability to preach the gospel in many languages was powerful. How can we find the courage to speak to what the Spirit is doing among us today?