UMC Darlington: Recent Episodes
Darlington United Methodist Ch
Darlington United Methodist Church is located in Darlington, IN. Sermons are available weekly with the goal of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. We hope to be a sign of restoration and hope in our community. May this podcast help serve our mission.
Pastor Dirk Caldwell - based on scripture 1 Peter 1:13-25 and the sermon series Almost Christmas
Pastor Dirk Caldwell - based on scripture Luke 6:22-23. From the sermon series "Almost Christmas"
Pastor Dirk Caldwell - based on scripture 1 Peter 1:3-5 and the sermon series Almost Christmas
Pastor Dirk Caldwell - based on scripture Luke 16:19-31
Luke was very concerned about the end times and was urging everyone to do what they could do to get themselves prepared for the Messiah. We'll talk about being separated from God and what we can do to NOT be!
We have all been Samuel—reluctant to move forward as we are called. God is already where we are called to be. Let us embrace the new season by first letting go of the old.
Jesus addresses his disciples late in our Gospel we call "John." He tells them they are no longer servants (the greek means slaves) but friends. Then he expresses the love for his friends he is about to show them through the cross.
What does it mean to be friends with God?
Do you feel like God is your friend?
Do you have the same kind of relationship with God you have with your closest friends?
Or are you still afraid of God...like God may not actually be your friend but a slave master (as if you are still a servant)?
What does a friendship with God look like?
In December of 2017, I took a trip to Israel with my seminary (Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary) for a cross-cultural experience. We did much more than sight-see.
These past months I have been forming the appropriate way to tell people about the experience. This is where I currently stand with the continual life-changes of my time in The Holy Land.
Our mission as the United Methodist Church is "to make disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world."
Where do we even begin?
Let's focus on the Holy Spirit and our own spirits to understand what Jesus invites us into when we are called to be "born from above/anew."
If we can learn from Nicodemus's difficulties, perhaps we can begin to discover transformation within which will lead to transformation of the world.
We celebrate 50 years of the merger which created The United Methodist Church. Our history runs much longer and deeper, but it is a time of celebration as we look back to the more ancient observance of Pentecost.
We look across time to see how God is ever drawing us together through the Spirit which unites us. Will we continue on the way forward?
Let's revisit our past to help us moving towards the will of God.
God IS love, and we are all invited in.
Jesus offers the disciples the image of he as the vine and God as the vineyard grower to help his disciples endure the events of his death in the following days.
In this Easter season we remember the words and image as a reminder for the life we are called...for the invitation we are offered. We often confuse the idea of Love and then taint our relationship with our faith by trying to get God to fit into our own ideas.
Let's revisit the image and see LOVE for how God reveals it in Jesus Christ. Let's consider how a disciple put this love into practice as a way for us to understand our own invitation today.
Come, grow into LOVE.
The strange scene on the resurrection day of Jesus offers us many wonderful images of grace and faith. The scene eight days later follows up with a goldmine of images to reflect and ponder.
Let's walk through the passage and consider some of the more unsung details.
Let us hear how the story of Jesus is the story of us all.
The passage where we find two disciples heading to Emmaus is a popular and powerful scene. The ways we can all relate to these two people (possibly husband and wife) are abundant.
Let us hear the story and hear our own story within.
Let us remember and be Re-Membered into the household of God through Jesus Christ.
Matt Hudson has been a member of Darlington UMC for a couple of years. He asked to share his story to express his appreciation to God and the congregation full of his sisters and brothers in Christ Jesus.
This is his story and testimony.
The Gospel of Mark ends strangely...with confusion, fear, and misunderstanding.
Given the many stories of that nature throughout the Gospel, should we be surprised?
We all have our ending to the story, and we need to tell it and live it.
Or are we telling another story by the way we try and be the judge?
Let's revisit the story and consider the gospel of Jesus Christ UNCONTAINED.
It's Palm Sunday! Jesus is riding towards Jerusalem...people are throwing their cloaks on the ground...branches are waving...and shouts of "Hosanna!" fill the air.
Just a few days later they will be shouting "Crucify him!"
What happened?
What changed?
What about their turn is true in our own lives?
Let's revisit the Way of the Kingdom and decide if we are ready to see what Jesus came to reveal to us.
Immediately preceding the Last Supper (two days before Passover) comes a scene at Simon's (the leper) house. During the meal a woman comes in (we don't know from where) who is not named. She breaks open a jar of perfume oil and pours every drop upon the head of Jesus.
Some people present (disciples? Simon? others?) get angry and try and discredit and even condemn her actions, but Jesus lifts up her act as important as the good news itself (v.9).
Why did she do this? We never get insight into her motives but Jesus claims the gift as the sign of his imminent death as a king on his throne.
What does this story say to us?
How can this story speak to us about the Kingdom of God?
Let us leave everything behind and venture into the story to see in what way God's Holy Spirit is waiting to speak to us.
After some fierce debating and biblical sparring, a scribe asks Jesus a serious question out of respect and curiosity. They exchange some wisdom on the greatest commandments as the scribe (an expert in the Law/lawyer) understands the love of God and neighbor as yourself to be greater than even the happenings of the temple...which they were standing in to have the discussion.
Jesus tells him, "You are near to God's Kingdom."
Isn't that what we all hope for?
So let's spend time with these great commandments to understand how we can invest our whole selves into the only thing worth investing them in: love.
Mark 11:12-25
A fig tree, a Temple, and faith.
In our Lenten journey, we are ready to consider what is offered to us through the Holy Spirit: cleansing.
In preparation for the Kingdom, we will need to be cleansed.
Are we ready?
Let's start simple with t-shirts and coffee.
A rich man approaches Jesus...
He follows all of the rules...
He believes the right things..
But he lacks one thing...
After his encounter with Jesus, he says no to following in a life of discipleship for the Kingdom of God.
What do we say?
Our 2018 Lenten Season will be focused on The Kingdom of God in the Gospel of Mark. This earliest Gospel's author had a unique perspective on the good news of Jesus Christ. We will spend the next several weeks walking through Mark's presentation and narrative to identify the understanding of Jesus' message of the Reign of God.
We begin with the question of "What are we striving for in life?"
Are we seeking opportunities to be great? How does this kind of living measure up in the Kingdom perspective of Jesus?
One of God's greatest gifts are the prophets. Sadly, most people resist the message of the prophet.
Let's consider the work of the prophet. Let us understand how Jesus was the perfect prophet who calls us to continue his work of proclaiming the Kingdom of God here and now.
Jesus begins his ministry by proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God.
"The time is fulfilled and the Kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe the good news!"
This call has as much relevance in our lives now as ever in history. Not because we are special, but because the message continues to call us into a new way of life. We are invited to drop our nets and follow Jesus.
This way of life never ends. We constantly find new ways to come into a new understanding of what it means to live as followers of Jesus who proclaims the good news of the Kingdom of God.
How is God speaking to you today?
How is the Spirit of God guiding you?
Where is Jesus calling you to follow him?
Jesus calls some disciples. Accepting such a call means you give up everything you think you knew about yourself, God, the world, faith, etc. and open yourself to the process of learning/growth.
When you follow Jesus of Nazareth you are proclaiming that he is a teacher/Rabbi worth following.
You prove your belief by what you are willing to let go of.
Disciple = student.
This process never stops.
So what has gotten in the way of your learning and growing?
Luke 2:1-20 We've heard this story dozens of times. Baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, donkeys, shepherds, angels, and a manger. But...what if we read it again, slowly, and carefully? We might find that this familiar story is unfamiliar. After all, there was no inn...there were no animals mentioned at all. And why did the angels appear to shepherds? Shepherds were despised by "civilized" people. And how did no one in Joseph's family (remember...he's from Bethlehem) have room for his betrothed who was about to give birth? Let's hear the story again and allow it to speak. We may find ourselves confronted with the dilemma of deciding whether we have room in our own hearts for this infant king.
Luke 1:46-55 & Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 Mary receives the word from Gabriel that turns her world upside down. This young girl (maybe not even a teenager yet) learns she is pregnant before she is married and that her son will be the long awaited anointed Son of God. She quickly leaves town and goes to her cousin Elizabeth whom the angel has also spoken of giving a miraculous birth in her barrenness. Upon their meeting Mary receives the comfort and confirmation she needed and responds with a beautiful song...the Magnificat. Let us consider the words closely to understand just how monumental the gift of Jesus Christ was then and is now.
Mark 1:1-8 & Isaiah 40:1-11 Prepare for the way of the Lord! Familiar words from Isaiah echoed by John the Baptist. Advent challenges us to hear those words today. John offered water as a way for his contemporaries to wake up to the actions of God. We are in need (always) to consider the same call. Where have we fallen asleep? Where can we receive the call to "Wake Up!" in our own lives?
Mark 13:24-37 & Ezekiel 64:1-9 Advent is here! We await the arrival of Jesus. We are NOT awaiting the arrival of baby Jesus for he has already come and gone. Rather, we await the arrival of Jesus and the consummation of all things in the full presence of the Kingdom of God on earth to put all things to rights. We await the presence of Jesus much sooner than we think. For wherever there is the least significant of our brothers and sisters, there is Jesus. How can we prepare ourselves this Advent season? Jesus says, "Stay Alert!"
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 & Matthew 25:31-46 As we wrap up the Christian year, we celebrate Christ the King. What does it mean for Jesus Christ to be the king Israel always hoped for? We often miss the point of Christ's kingship because we look for power and greatness. Interesting that much of 1st century Israel missed it for the same reason. Looking back to a prophecy, let's revisit what the Kingdom of God with Christ as King will be about. Let us consider what it means for us to live into the Kingdom today.
Matthew 25:14-30 & 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 A Parable and a title... How do we live as "children of light"? What does it mean for us to live responsibly with our talent? Good questions worth investing time in exploring for us all. Let's revisit these wonderful passages with hopes that we can emerge with a faith that is based on more than following rules and uttering particularities.
Matthew 25:1-13 & 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Scripture about preparation are always timely. When Israel was awaiting the arrival of their Messiah, many missed it. As we prepare for the celebration of Jesus' arrival, many miss it. What does it mean to prepare ourselves? What does it mean to be awake, alert, and alive? What does it mean to be wise? Good questions with answers in our Scripture. Let us consider the meaning of preparation for the arrival of Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 2:9-13 & Matthew 23:1-12 Walking the walk is different than talking the talk. Paul reminds the church in Thessalonica of the way he and his companions walked/lived among them. They intentionally walked in such a way that demanded nothing from the people of the church. They walked in such a way that they offered themselves completely to the people out of love. They allowed their walk to reflect their faith. Jesus calls us to remember who we are: "Little Christs" We are not the "Great Christ" but the "Little Christs (Christians)". Sometimes we get caught up in trying to be great. Our culture constantly and consistently demands our greatness. Paul offers a different message. Paul invites them to "walk about" in their faith; to live their every day lives differently. There is no pressure to make a great a grand gesture to God as a means of "earning" or "impressing" God or others. Instead, live your walk as a reflection of your faith in the day to day. Let us consider the simplicity of the life of faith we are called to live.
1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 & Matthew 22:34-46 Paul has been traveling around Asia Minor sharing the good news of the love of God made available through Christ Jesus. He has encountered hostility, ridicule, slander, abuse, and imprisonment. He has also had a number of people receive him and his message: some so well that their reputation is known all around the region. We know this to be the case in Thessalonica. In a world where there were always people peddling new wisdom and religion, what made Paul’s Jesus so convincing to this group of people who became a church? What is it that brings us today to understand the truth of God’s love through Jesus? Paul offers the Thessalonians a word of truth. We would do well to hear it again for ourselves. Let us understand what made Paul’s life such a powerful witness; that we might believe and become witnesses ourselves.
Matthew 22:15-22 & 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Jesus is confronted about paying the Tribute to Caesar. He smells their attempt to trap him using logic from a mile away. He flips the script and puts the decision to them while also giving a monumental command: Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God. No small task. The church in Thessalonica has been living just this way. Paul writes to them commending them for imitating Christ so well that people from all around the land are talking about them. They have given to God what is God's because that what Jesus calls us to do and...that's what Jesus did himself. How are we holding back in our day, in our town, in our life, in our family? Perhaps it's time to dig deep and consider where the Caesars of our day are demanding from us what is rightfully Gods. Perhaps it's time for us to be honest with ourselves and consider where we can TURN more to God and imitate Christ Jesus; that we might be transformed entirely.
Matthew 22:1-14 & Philippians 4:1-9 A King throws a party...and everyone is invited. Not everyone comes, of course, and even one who comes was not really interested in being there. Paul encourages a church divided to "Rejoice in the Lord always, again (he says), Rejoice!!" Rejoice? Can we find a joy which persists? What about days when there are mass shootings or diseases taking the life of a loved one? Can we rejoice always? Perhaps we are looking at this all wrong. Let's consider another way in our quest to find the joy in Christ; that we can both live in joy and be source of joy through which others can find their way to God as well.
Matthew 21:33-46 & Philippians 3:4b-14 Jesus is the stone, the corner stone, which changes everything. Through the resurrection of Jesus we find the vindication of both this title and our faith. Paul offers the resurrection of Jesus as a truth for us all; that we may live a life in pursuit of Christ Jesus. How does resurrection influence your daily life? Should it? Could it? Let's consider Paul's message for the church in Philippi in our own day and wonder about what will be.
Philippians 2:1-13 Paul writes to the church in Ephesus from prison. Apparently, the church in Paul's day dealt with argument and disagreement. He offers some words of encouragement and instruction to help them come together in Christ. Let us hear those words of Paul's day in our day.
Matthew 20:1-16 A parable is an invitation to struggle within; that you will be renewed, challenged, and pushed into a new understanding of yourself, God, and your world... That is, of course, if you open you accept the invitation. Jesus encounters a young man (Luke's author refers to him as a rich man) who is seeking to understand how he may enter into God's Reign. Jesus has a conversation with him which leads to the man walking away sad. The disciples are perplexed and begin asking their own questions. They ultimately want to know--what we all want to know--"Who can be saved?" Also, they want to know what they will get for their work. Jesus tells a parable in response; to explain what the [Kingdom] Reign of God is like. You are invited into the story. Join us as we venture into the holy struggle.
Forgiveness is something everyone needs. The thing is... when you need to forgive someone else it's not about something they need. When you forgive someone, it sets YOU free. There are many things about forgiveness that are misunderstood. Let's spend a moment and consider the art of forgiveness.
What is a Christian? What might you think a Christian is NOT? What makes a Christian a Christian? Let's spend some time thinking through Paul's message to the Church in Rome to help us learn more about ourselves and others.
Who are you? If someone were to ask, what would you say? Would you give a name? What does your name mean? Does it mean anything? Does it mean anything to anyone? What determines who you are? Actions...words...faith...reputation? Moses asks God for a name. God says, "I Am what/who I Am." Jesus asks the disciples, "Who do you say I am?" They respond saying he's the Messiah, the Son of the Living God. The disciples and Moses have a name/title, yet they have no idea what they mean. Maybe it's time to rethink ourselves... Maybe it's time to rethink God... What are you willing to rethink in order to find a life worth living?
Romans 12:1-8 & Matthew 16:13-20 Jeff Hansen is a Lay Speaker from Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church who brings us his message.
Matthew 15:10-28 First, the ultra-religious and biblical experts complain at Jesus because the disciples aren't following the tradition of the elders; they aren't washing their hands before they eat. So Jesus responds by showing how they use the traditions to overrule God's commandments. Then, Jesus calls the crowd close to explain that it's what comes out of the mouth that makes someone unclean or impure. Last, a story about a Canaanite (or Syrophoenician, if you read it in Mark) woman approaches Jesus only to be called a dog. What in the world is going on here? Let's consider some of the context from which this passage came and we'll quickly see how Jesus was working to shake people free from the political practices of their day. Jesus does what no one else would do. We are called into the same life. How are you living your life today? Are you living as if "one day" is already here?
Walking on Water The account given to us by the author of the Gospel story we call Matthew presents an interesting twist to this popular story found in 3 of our 4 Gospels. What is the author trying to convey to the early church? What can we understand as the church today? In a world where violence, hatred, bigotry, and prejudice runs rampant, we can feel like a boat being tortured in the waves of this world. What are we to do? Let's listen again to the story, but with fresh ears.
The Feeding of the 5,000 The only miracle recorded in all four Gospels offers us some insight into the identity of Jesus as Messiah as well as one who empowers. 5 loaves and 2 fish become much more when they are offered in the name of Jesus. What do you have to offer? What costly part of yourself will you put in the hands of Jesus to be used for the sustenance of others?
The Kingdom of heaven is like... A mustard seed taken and planted, a woman who worked yeast into flour, a merchant who finally finds the pearl he's been searching for, a farmer who just so happens to find treasure in a field, a net which catches all of the fish, and more. Makes sense, right? We find these strange parables painting an ever-changing and radical idea of what God's empire is all about. Just when you think you've gotten the hang of a parable, another look leaves you with more questions. What a strange way to tell people about God's empire. Let's listen with our ears wide open and see what old and new things arise.
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 The Parable of Wheat and Tares. As the author of the Gospel we call Matthew writes it, Jesus is preaching in Galilee using parables ("to lay alongside") to help the crowd catch a vision/conception of the Reign of God Jesus has come to announce and usher in. But, like us, they struggle to understand. When things don't look like you expected, it's hard to continue on the path. It was no different then. Hear again the parable and consider what it can mean for us today.
The Parable of The Seed Sower. Jesus is the sower; we are the soil. Sounds easy enough, right? Let those who have ears, hear again. In a place and time surrounded by people and religion who were doing everything possible to miss the entire wonderful and life-giving movement that Jesus was ushering in, Jesus offers the call to hear. People were so certain they knew what the work of God should look like that they were missing the work of God in their very midst through Jesus. Are we any different? Jesus told a parable; sow what?
John the Baptist was having trouble "getting it" when it came to Jesus and what he was doing. Various Israelite towns were having trouble "getting it." Religious leaders were having trouble "getting it." Those of society in Jesus' day who were looked down upon, labeled sinful, and oppressed through injustice and elitism were the only ones actually understanding what Jesus was up to. Jesus breaks it down in a blunt and clear way in the Gospel of Matthew. Let's hear the words again and realize the invitation we are all offered through the grace of God revealed through Jesus.
Genesis 22:1-14 & Romans 6:12-23 Abraham is tested by God. Abraham enters the scene trusting that God will provide, and his faith is proven. This seemingly barbaric story would not have shocked it's first audience. In a troubling time in Israel's history (having been exiled to Babylon), the people are in need of a story to remind them that God is different than other gods. This God, The LORD, provides. God is not a demanding God who orders us to live in particular ways holding the carrot of eternal life ever before us. No, this God provides and offers eternal life right here and right now. All we need to do is believe in God's providence. Paul explains it more eloquently in his letter to the church in Rome. We are all devoted to something/someone. True life and freedom comes when we devote ourselves to the God who eagerly provides us with all we need to have fullest life. God's grace cannot be earned; it is a gift to be received.
Genesis 21:8-12 & Matthew 10:24-31 The story of Hagar and Ishmael is not commonly shared, but we can learn a great deal about God's grace and mercy through this scene. The parallels between Ishmael and Moses are hard to miss and, once again, God delivers slaves from death. We need to remember that God hears us in our darkest days. God fills us with hope and reveals the wellspring of life available to us all.
Genesis 18:1-15 & Matthew 9:35-10:23 & Romans 5:1-8 Abraham and Sarah...The Disciples...Paul and the churches in Rome...all believed in such a way that they were willing to be a source of love and grace for anyone and EVERYONE. Hospitality is an outward expression of our inward faith. The great leaders of our faith exercised extraordinary hospitality because they had faith in the possibility of the impossible through the power of God. Where Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) failed to offer hospitality so completely, where Gibeah (Judges 19) failed in the exact same way...we see a different response from the faithful. What about the acceptance of the impossibility possibility leads to a life of faith which is expressed through loving hospitality?
Genesis 1:1-2:4 & 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 Did God create in 7 literal days? Was there a morning prior to the creation of the sun? These are the wrong questions that would not have entered the minds of the first readers of this ancient poem. We often begin where WE are rather than where the story is. When we read this poem, we discover some pretty basic ideas. They are monumental ideas in their own time, but they are basic nonetheless. God created and it was good. The world as we know it was given order. Then, God gave living beings power to continue the work. Creating, multiplying, growing, changing, expanding, serving, working with and for, etc. We (the Church) have allowed our own ideas and desire for power to get in the way of our calling. Division and disagreement have crippled us. The church in Corinth was no different. Let us revisit the origins of this poem and understand the ongoing mission which Israel and Paul received from God. Their story is our story. We were created to be one.
Acts 2:1-21 & John 7:37-39 The Holy Spirit came (like fire and wind) upon everyone in the whole house: men, women, slaves, free, old, and young. The Spirit came and everything changed. Boundaries were expanded, dialectic divisions were overcome, rituals were adjusted, people's hearts and lives were changed, and that was just the beginning. Have we really grasped the Holy Spirit? The book of Acts is a story about the expansion of the faith of Israel to all people of different cultures and practice. Acts 15 features a council of decision-making to decide what to do with people who operated outside of the normal ways and rules. Do we really grasp the Holy Spirit? Can we? Should we? The work of the Spirit begins with each of us and comes to fruition when we gather together as one. One people, many faces. One body, many parts. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be the presence of God wherever and however we are. Let's remember our story once more. Prepare for the purifying presence of the Spirit. Ask for the Spirit. Then trust what comes.
John 17 Before the ministry of Jesus concludes and the passion story begins, we have a scene in the Johannine Gospel where Jesus prays directly to God for himself, his disciples, and his church. We need to read this prayer often to remember who and what we are called to be and by whom we are empowered to answer that call.
John 14:1-14 & 1 Peter 2:2-10 This passage is often misinterpreted to be related to what happens after we die, but Jesus offers us so much more. Jesus calls himself the Way, Truth, and Life. What is he talking about?? The metaphor of a dwelling place is echoed in 14:10. God dwells with Jesus as Jesus dwells with God. We are invited into that same relationship. Jesus is the truth of God revealed. Jesus showed (shepherded) us the way of God; to love others. Jesus is the Gate into full life. Consider the life-giving, truth-filled, way of Jesus which turns our modern religious systems upside down just as they did the religious systems of Jesus' day. Hear again the good news, and be ready to spread the word.
Psalm 23 & John 10:1-10 The image of the shepherd has been used to help humanity understand God for thousands of years. Jesus adds a new twist to the idea by inviting us into the image of both the shepherd and the gate. What does it mean to be the Beautiful Shepherd and the Gate for others?
John 20:19-31 Jesus breathes upon his followers and instructs them, "As the Father sent me, so I send you." The Divine Breath of the Holy Spirit is once again (Genesis 2) breathed into humanity. All are instructed to go forth and give breath to others: men, women, young, and old. So where did the church lose track of this message? If we look back throughout the extent of the entire Bible, we see plenty of times the religious folks lost sight of their mission. If we look back at our church history, we see plenty of times the religious folks lost sight of their mission. If we look at ourselves today, we have forgotten once again. Hear the Word of God and receive the Divine Breath; that you may go forward and bring others into the Light of Christ.
Luke 24:13-35 Native American Spirituality is a vital part of our history whether we know it or not. Rev. Dr. P.T. Wilson joins us to share about Native American Ministry and Spirituality in the United Methodist Church. Hear the passage often called "The Road to Emmaus" in a new light and consider how we are all on our own walk in our seasons of circles in life.
John 20:1-18 The Gospel of John's author gives us a grand vision of the Jesus experience from the beginning of all existence through the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. We have to consider the entire Gospel when we consider any one scene. We have to consider the entire biblical spectrum when we consider the Gospel. How do you explain a divine encounter using words on a page? Simple: you interweave an entire history of divine story and encounter throughout the text while also creating a double meaning to almost every detail. Did we say 'simple'? We meant, 'carefully.' You tell this story with careful attention to intention. Easter is the greatest and most monumental moment in our history. Let's hear the 4th Gospel's account again from beginning to end and consider the incredible truth being offered.
John 13:31b-35 & 1-17 Phase 8 - Accept In the Gospel of John we find a most peculiar scene where Jesus steps away from the honored place at the table, removes his robes, ties a towel around his waist, grabs a basin of water, and washes the feet of his disciples. Then he gives them a commandment: Love one another as I have loved you. We need to remember that we are loved; that Jesus stepped away from his place of honor to come and serve us with the most sacrificial love. If we are to ever live up to the commandment to love one another, we must first realize that we are loved. Tonight we are challenged to ACCEPT the washing from Jesus. Only then can we even begin to understand how we can go and do likewise.
John 11:1-45 & Matthew 21:1-11 Rising Up and Bowing Down. We have arrived at Palm Sunday of Holy Week. We will now travel through the passion of Jesus for all of it's meaning and relevance in our lives today. We spend the first portion of our time with John's account of the resurrection of Lazarus before we jump back to Matthew for the entry into Jerusalem. Jesus is the resurrection and life. Jesus is the king. What do these mean for us? Join us as we continue our Lenten journey towards the cross of Christ and out of the tomb on Easter morning. Where are you dead and bound in this life? What is holding you back from bowing to the king?
John 9:1-41 & Ephesians 5:8-14 Where Nicodemus struggled (John 3), the nameless Samaritan woman thrived (John 4). Now we come to the healing of a blind man and the turmoil it creates for an entire community of faithful Jews. The author of our fourth Gospel is trying to get their readers to see something about Jesus. We find this effort laid out clearly and cryptically in the telling of the healing of a man born blind. A simple man who received sight walks through the gauntlet of inquisition armed only with what he knows. His knowledge and understanding grows throughout the pericope until he finally worships Jesus as the Human One. The Pharisees in this story are struggling to let go of their understanding of scripture. Everything Jesus does challenges their interpretation and they defend the authority and integrity of the Word vigorously. They claim to know the truth, but in the end it is them and their relentless pursuit of upholding their own interpretation that proves them to be the ones who are actually blind. So where are we in this story? In what ways are we the man born blind? In what ways are we the Pharisees? In what way are we the parents or neighbors? Do we fight against the new things God is doing in our world because of our own interpretation of scripture? Do we fight for the right reasons, but still find ourselves blind? Perhaps it's time to discover the freedom of being able to respond as the blind man; to feel confident when we offer simple answers or even the occasional, "I don't know." All we need to know is Jesus is the Light of the world. The rest will come with time if we open our eyes to see. Invite the Spirit to speak in the silent reflection to reveal how you are in need of sight. Continue journeying inward trusting the Spirit to open your eyes and lead you onward into a deeper and more meaningful faith where all we need is what we know. The rest is up to Jesus to reveal to us.
John 4:5-42 & Romans 5:1-11 In Phase 4 of our Lenten Journey Inward & Onward, we thirst. The religious expertise and scriptural genius of Nicodemus from John 3 could not help him understand the invitation Jesus offered for Spiritual Rebirth. The marginalized and discounted (and nameless) Samaritan woman from chapter 4 receives a similar invitation and responds in the most incredible way. These two stories are told almost back to back. What is happening here? Where can we find ourselves in both Nicodemus and "the woman at the well"? Let us consider what it is to thirst. Let us consider the invitation of Jesus as Living Water. Continue your journey with us inward in silence and reflection to discern where the Holy Spirit, given to us through Jesus, is inviting you onward.
John 3:1-17 & 1 Kings 19:3-13 & Galatians 5:16-25 We have prepared and set out on a journey inward. We have faced the wilderness in our hearts (3.1.17). We have encountered our temptations (3.5.17). Now we consider Spiritual Birth. We are inviting the Spirit to speak and lead us, but are we ready for what we may hear... or where we may be called to go? We turn to a strange encounter in our 4th Gospel Jesus has with a Pharisee named Nicodemus. This well-educated and well-meaning man comes to Jesus to learn, but he has limits on what he is open to hearing. He walks away from Jesus' description of the mystery of the Spirit/Breath/Wind of God remaining in the dark about the meaning. Later in the Gospel he sees the Light, but he resists early in the story. Don't we all? We come to God, we pray to Jesus, and we listen for the Spirit with a half willing heart. We want blessing, but stall when it comes to living sacrificially. We want to change the world for God, but we set limits on where we will go, what we will do, and to whom we will show love and mercy. We are interested in spreading the good news as long as it's on our terms. Nicodemus knew his stuff. He was an expert and a leader. Still he resisted. Are we ready for what the Spirit might reveal to us in the stillness? Do we have expectations of God? Do we find ourselves doubting or running away when the expectations are not met? Consider the passages above. You will hear all three in this week's sermon. The latter two will be followed by a minute of silence. Pause the recording if you want a longer moment of quiet to contemplate the words or to perhaps allow the Spirit to speak and lead you. Let the Word of God whisper to you and listen for the Spirit's stirring in your heart and soul. Journey inward, and consider your Spiritual Birth.
Matthew 3:15-4:11 & Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 & Romans 5:12-19 We are journeying through this Lenten Season of fasting and self-examination on our way to the cross of Jesus. We must walk closely with Jesus if we are to succeed. In our culture we do all we can to avoid silence and stillness. Devices, social media, and advertisements interrupt almost ever second of silence we might have. When you engage silence, you wrestle with your own voice and the leading of the Spirit in your heart. Don't believe me? Try it. We are including silence in our worship services for Lent, but you won't hear that part in the recording. After each recording we read the next passage of scripture followed by several minutes of silence. We then read the third passage followed by another several minutes of complete silence. No distractions, no visual aids, nothing but our own hearts and minds. Try this practice for the duration of Lent. Try it on your own at home. Read each scripture passage followed by several minutes of silence. Set a timer so you won't have to look at a watch to keep track. Or...don't keep track and just reflect until you feel you are done. Three passages...three moments of silence... Try praying or singing between each reading/reflecting time. Experiment; do what works for you. Allow silence to have its moment and you will see what can happen when we reflect silently on scripture. Need some help? Perhaps for the Genesis passage you can ask a question: What fruit of temptation in my life am I tempted to eat? Or what fruit am I already eating? Am I seeking to serve myself with this fruit like Jesus would have served himself by turning a stone into bread? What is tempting me? Perhaps for Romans you can think on the comparison between Adam and Jesus. One brought the consequence of sin; death. The other brought the consequence of obedience; life. What do these terms mean to me? What is the difference between Adam in the garden and Jesus in the wilderness. Are garden and wilderness opposites? Do these opposites matter? (you get the idea). Play around, try new things. Just do not get distracted. Sit in silence, close your eyes, and listen for where your heart takes you. Journey inward, and you will journey onward in faith with Jesus.
Psalm 51 & 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 & Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 From Transfiguration to Crucifixion... we are on a journey into the wilderness the lies within. Our goal: for God to create in us a clean heart that is no longer focused on worshiping and honoring ourselves, but on worshiping and honoring God. They journey we are on leads to a cross before a resurrection. To rise again as a new creation into the new Reign of God that bursts forth from the tomb of Jesus, we must first die to ourselves. Jesus leads the way to new birth, resurrection, eternal life, salvation,... or however else you have heard it labeled. Will you journey with us? To begin a journey, we must prepare. Silence will be our guide into the wilderness of our hearts. The wilderness within is often unexplored, which is why we struggle to know who we are. The challenge: read each passage of scripture above (one at a time) and sit in silence for 5 minutes after each reading. Create a space for complete silence, no distraction, and no interruption. This silence is awkward and hard, but if you journey within using scripture as a guide, the Holy Spirit will speak to you. You will find your inner struggles coming to the forefront of your mind. Engage this struggle. Enter into the struggle knowing that we are going to be placing ourselves on a cross on Good Friday mid April. What will you offer? What needs to die within to allow for you to have the life God so badly wants to give you? Prepare yourself for the journey inward, which will lead you onward. The Holy Spirit transforms us, if we allow her to. Use your time of fasting to be cleansed spiritually. Journey.
Matthew 17:1-9 The Transfiguration of Jesus is one of the most bizarre stories in the Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew, and Luke). The placement of the story in Matthew tells us a great deal about how the author wants us to understand the divine encounter on the mountain. The Hope of Jesus is directly connected to the Suffering of Jesus. Join us as we place the Transfiguration side by side with the Crucifixion. The season of Lent is bookended by these two stories and we can learn a great deal about Jesus and ourselves if we approach the Lenten Season with them both in the forefront of our mind. Follow Jesus up the mountain as we begin our journey to the hill of Jerusalem where a cross awaits. Spend this Season in examination of what in our life we will place on the cross on Good Friday (4/14). Walk in the footsteps of our Savior, and you will never be the same.
Matthew 5:38-48 & 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23 In the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7) Jesus offers the antitheses; "You have heard it was said... but I say..." Jesus does not abolish the Law; he fulfills it. This means that he is bringing us into the meaning of the Law. As humanity grows and learns, we are able to become more human/humane/the creatures were always meant to be. Jesus moves us forward and deeper into the heart of the Law. Turn the other cheek is often misunderstood out of its context as either a simple metaphor or as a call to be walked on by an abuser. Jesus did not have either of interpretations in mind. Let's take a closer look and understand how we can find a solid foundation in Jesus for how to live, act, and be in this world. The storms of life are raging--plenty of people are full of anger and frustration and ready to take their aggression out on others. In a world that thrives on a "dog eat dog" mentality, let us open ourselves to a new way. Open your eyes and heart and consider the message of this new Kingdom led by a different kind of king.
Matthew 5:1-12 & 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 The final week of the Beatitudes focuses on the last three pronouncements of blessing Jesus gives upon the peacemakers and the persecuted. While the message of peace and persecution seems simple, the practice he uplifts is difficult and necessary for our world today. Something about the people Jesus describes as blessed and fortunate seems foolish in 21st Century America. The Kingdom of Jesus is upside down and backwards to the ways of our culture. Hear the words of Jesus and consider the truth found in the seemingly foolish blessings.
Matthew 5-7 is the Sermon on the Mount. The "prelude" to the Sermon in Matthew's Gospel are the strange and elusive "Beatitudes." This title references the idea of a blessing being upon those who are poor in spirit, mournful, meek, longing for justice, merciful, and pure-hearted. This blessing is already upon people who are described by Jesus. Everything about the Kingdom which Jesus consistently speaks of in Matthew is upside down from any and all kingdoms of this world. Jesus keeps telling people they are invited into the Kingdom/Reign/Rule of God/Heaven right here, right now. Salvation is at hand for all who have faith. As we, the Church, struggle to live into this invitation... As we struggle to live in gratitude for all that God offers us... As we fail to live as faithful examples of the love of God in Jesus...we lean upon the truth that God is with us and for us through Jesus. As we let go of our own kingdoms in this world to grab hold of the Kingdom of God, we long to be like the folks in the first part of this Sermon of Jesus. As we continue into week 2 of 3, let us consider what it means to be hungering and thirsting for justice, merciful, and clean-hearted. Let us join in with our fellow fools for God!
Matthew 5:1-12 & 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 & Micah 6:1-8 - The Sermon on the Mount is the most important teaching of Jesus according to the author of the Gospel we call Matthew. In chapters 5-7 we find the kind of way we are called to live which leads to a life in the Kingdom of God now, and forevermore. Jesus ushered the Reign of God into this world; it's available right now! So what does a life in the Kingdom look like? The "Beatitudes" announce that the poor in spirit, broken-hearted, and meek of this world are...blessed, happy, and fortunate. The truth is that this Kingdom is foolish by the world's standards, but the life found within is the only true life we can come to know. Are the poor in spirit, broken-hearted, and meek blessed, happy, fortunate, etc.? Yes! Walk with us over the next few weeks as we take the Beatitudes, bit by bit, in an attempt to understand a little more about the new Way of the Kingdom ushered in by Jesus of Nazareth. Join us on this seemingly foolish quest
Matthew 4:12-23 & 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 Jesus withdraws to Capernaum where he finds fishermen along the Sea of Galilee. He says, "Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of people." Immediately they drop their nets and follow. Is that all it takes? A request to follow and a promise to repurpose leads to a world-changing recruitment. We are looking to become fishers of people today. But how do we accomplish this task? Is your life headed in a direction worth following for others? Let us take a look at the qualities of fishermen in Jesus' day to see if we can understand why these men were chosen then. Let us apply what we learn so that we can all become fishers of people in our world today; we just might change the world.