Solid Food: Recent Episodes
Ascension Lutheran Church
A dynamic weekly exploration of faith and hope from Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California.
Confusion...befuddlement...thinking the worst...These states of being are all very much a part of the Easter story, when Jesus' disciples were unprepared for the reality of resurrection. In this thought-provoking sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about those "messy" parts of the story, and about how Jesus comes to them -- and us -- even in the midst of such times. There are new ways to see. Find out how.
Find out why the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp says "I don't want normal; I want Easter" in this sermon on Easter Sunday during the pandemic.
"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases..." So the Bible says in Lamentations Chapter 3, and so notes Pastor Steve Herder in this comforting and energizing sermon at the beginning of Holy Week. "The church is not a building" declares Pastor Steve. It's people, and faith, and people of faith helping others in their communities near and far. It's worship, in ways familiar and in new ways. It's God's love in the midst of scary times. Find out more by listening to Pastor Steve of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California.
We all know the story of Lazarus -- and how Jesus brought him back to life. But have you taken time to understand the deeper meaning of this story? Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about caves -- not only Lazarus' cave, but the metaphorical caves of those around him, the darkness meaning death. Today, we find ourselves in a cave of sorts. But hope is bright. Listen and understand.
Early Christians were certainly no strangers to plagues. In this powerful and inspiring sermon, Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, finds guidance for these times in the Christian answer to from Paul and others.
You might have heard it before. It is just a story about some guys that go from “fishers of fish” to becoming “fishers of people.” But there is so much more. Why do we need to know that it happens in the land of Zebulon and Naphtali? What exactly is a “fisher of people?” And… here is the real kicker: can we really be expected to believe that they just dropped their nets and immediately followed? Somehow it all works, and very importantly, God is trying to speak to us through this story. Learn about it in this inspiring sermon from Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp, senior pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California.
You are blessed. Even if you don't think you are. Even if you don't feel like you are. Even if your circumstances might indicate that you are not. This was an important message of Jesus that is conveyed so beautifully and clearly in the "beatitudes" section of his "Sermon on the Mount" in Matthew Chapter 5 that Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California preaches about in this sermon.
"I am the vine; you are the branches," said Jesus Christ. "If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." What does it mean to abide in Jesus? It means joy. It means to spend some deep, relationship-building time with Him. And it means sharing the Good News of his resurrection. In this sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about what it means to be a "come and see" kind of person. What does it mean to share our faith? To experience what we have as people who abide in him, and his words in us? Come and see.
Are you yearning for something? Empty? In need of comfort? What do you turn to in times of need, asks the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp in this thought-provoking sermon. People try to fill that space inside with everything from wealth and power to sports, but what we really, really want and need is a deep connection with the Almighty. French author, mathematician, physicist, author and theologian Blaise Pascal said that there is a God-shaped hole inside each of us that nothing else will satisfy. Here, Pastor Tim gets to the heart of our hearts' deepest desire.
"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it." These words from the Gospel of John bring comfort to a struggling world. In this sermon, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about God's gifts of love and hope and the abundant evidence thereof. God came down...God always comes down, he says. Hear more.
Here is Pastor Julie McCain's sermon from the 5 PM Christmas Eve worship service with a special emphasis for families with children.
Our Bishop talks about God giving the growth, whether garden seeds or bringing help to those in need near and far.
Are you free? According to Jesus, if we “continue in His word” we will “know the truth” and “the truth will set us free.” Martin Luther was set free from his paralyzing guilt and it led to the Lutheran Reformation. The Apostle Paul was set free from his need to be perfect and most of the New Testament was written. Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California says he knows people who have been freed from addictions, shame, bad habits, etc. and they received new life. So what do you need to be set free from? And what will you do with your freedom? In this sermon, Pastor Tim talks about all these important questions.
When is the last time God surprised you? Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, shows in this sermon how God works in surprising ways. It reminds us to keep our eyes open and be looking for God all around us. God can use anyone and anything. God can be anywhere, even where we least expect him to be.
Can you think of a time when someone has really seen you? A time when they’ve looked you in the eyes when you really needed it, or seen the child of God in you when you were struggling to see it yourself? In this sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, considers our call to really see each other.
Jesus' words about faith as a mustard seed are familiar, but a closer look reveals surprises. Do you need God to meet you and help you in your faith today? There is a simple path. In this sermon, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about that path and finds fresh meaning in the time-honored gospel lessons.
shrewd
/SHroÍžod/
adjective
having or showing sharp powers of judgment; astute.
Did you know that Jesus calls us to be shrewd? We are supposed to use the gifts that He’s given us, supposed to be creative. The good news about this? He has equipped us to do so, and He is with us as we try. This is the subject of the parable Pastor Tim Delkeskamp looks at in this sermon at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, Californioa. Known as one of the strangest of Jesus’ parables, the parable of the shrewd manager is, says Pastor Tim, "also one of the most delightful ones, too." Listen and see what the Holy Spirit does!
Humble leaders channel their ambitions and drives towards the greatest good. They have the desire to help other people become great, instead of themselves. Jesus talks about this in the Gospel of Luke, the fourteenth chapter, where he also addresses the idea of true hospitality. “Hospitality, Jesus style” includes offering hospitality to the stranger, the poor, the infirm, and prisoners reminds Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, in this absorbing sermon. Pastor Steve delves into the riches found in Jesus’ parable of the great banquet, and asks, as followers of Christ, are our thoughts and actions different from the world’s? Yes, and the world is watching.
So often, people focus on the "Thou Shalt Nots" of the 10 Commandments and the Bible in general. But when we focus on the "Thou Shalts" we get a picture of what God wants us to do for the greater good. Pastor Ron Cox gets to the heart of the matter in this inspiring sermon at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. Thou Shalt...love the Lord your God with all your might...love your neighbor as yourself...help the widow...the poor...the stranger. These are, indeed, words to live by.
Youth at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, went on a service tour this summer, heading north in in our big, color splashed bus. It included serving at a homeless shelter, toiling under the sun in a community garden, and experiencing the Holy Spirit at work. Here, they talk about this memorable trip.
Pastor Jack Ledbetter preaches this sermon titled, “Who Are You Waiting For?” from the Gospel of Luke, 12:32-40. Jesus tells us to be ready, that the Son of Man will come when He is least expected.
Maybe you remember a commercial from a couple years ago, the one in which job seekers come in for an interview, only to learn that the position being offered is downright outlandish? It's one of the threads woven together in this uplifting sermon by Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, spinning off the familiar words of Jesus about the good things we give our children -- and how God wants to give to us.
Jesus' beautiful story of The Good Samaritan who helped a man who had been robbed and left in a ditch is brought forward into our lives today as Pastor Ken Caudill preaches at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. Pastor Ken takes us from the ancient encounter to his own moving story of an encounter with a homeless man in downtown Los Angeles. Listen and be inspired!
In this sermon, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, preaches on the familiar story of Mary and Martha from Luke 10:38-42. He reflects on “the Marthas and the Marvins of this world, probably many of us, myself included, and how to be like Mary." We only have so much time. Follow this Gospel wisdom in deciding how to spend yours.
In this compelling sermon, visiting Pastor Rick Ertel recounts a Chinese proverb in which a mother who has lost her only child and is consumed with grief asks a holy man to bring her son back to life. She is sent on a quest to find a magical seed that will only be found in a house where no tragedy has occurred. This quest accomplished multiple purposes, which Pastor Rick delves into -- leading into Jesus' call for us to share each other's burdens. In fact, there is more to that sharing than than you might realize. Find out more. Listen.
"Act in such a manner that you are living proof of a loving God." This is a key message of this sermon by Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. Extrapolating from the scriptural story of Jesus casting demons out of a man (Luke 8:26-39), Pastor Steve talks about how we can share the transforming power and love of Christ today.
“The voice of God speaks to every living creature, tree, plant, mountain, river and valley, and we heard it before we were washed in the warm sweet darkness of our mother’s womb….The voice of God is the great gift of his creation, but we may not understand until we hear his voice, until we love -- until we find ourselves in every living thing.” In this sermon at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, Pastor, poet and professor emeritus Jack Ledbetter talks about the ineffable, impossible to understand yet undeniable voice of God and where we may hear it. Come…learn…and listen!
This Pentecost, we hear the story of the birth of the church and we celebrate the movement of the Holy Spirit. We remember that God is up to big wonderful things in this word in spite of the fact that we sometimes forget, lose hope, or miss the signs. Join Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California for this perspective restoring sermon.
In this sermon, Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California looks at the last few sentences of the last book of the Bible. It is a beautiful section of verses in Revelation where we hear from the “Alpha and the Omega” who calls “everyone who is thirsty” to come and “take the water of life as a gift.”
Are we prepared to receive this invitation? Do we know life changing joy that we can have just knowing that this invitation awaits us at the end of the story?
Listen and explore!
In this sermon on John 14, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, reflects on the roles of the Holy Spirit in our lives. This gift from Jesus is here with us now!
This sermon focuses in on that beautiful vision in Revelation of a new heaven and a new earth, and God’s promise that he is already making all things new. Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California asks, "What evidence of God’s coming kingdom, of God’s newness bursting forth, do you see in your life?" Listen, have your awareness raised, and find your God-sighting vision renewed.
In this sermon, delivered on Mother's Day, the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California delves into Jesus' words, "My sheep hear my voice." Those words are all about the joy and harmony of a beautiful relationship -- like the way a relationship between a mother and child is supposed to be. Listen and be uplifted!
In this thoughtful sermon, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about Jesus' last words to Peter, which were "Follow me." Those two words were his first words to him too! In our John 21 reading, Jesus also says to Peter and to each of us: "Do you love me?.... Feed my sheep." What is the meaning behind these words? And what does it mean for all of us in verse 18, when Jesus talks to Peter of his old age. Find out more, and learn about Senior Adult Ministries at Ascension.
Having faith doesn't automatically make us fearless, points out Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. Indeed, Jesus' own disciples showed deep fear after the crucifixion. Even when word first reached them that Christ had risen, they were afraid. But when Jesus came to them, he did not rebuke them. He said, "Peace be with you." Imagine the relief they must have felt as those words soaked in, says Pastor Julie in this post-Easter sermon. She notes that even when we deny and disappoint Jesus, he doesn't give up on us. He finds a use for each and every one of us. Listen and be uplifted.
It's Easter! Our Lord Jesus is risen! Join Pastor Tim Delkeskamp at Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California to revisit the greatest of stories -- it is the story that gives us perspective and hope and reminds us of our salvation given to us as a gift through our faith in Jesus Christ. He is risen indeed!
How is your attention span these days? If you are still reading this it may be longer than most people’s. No wonder our culture’s collective attention span has gotten shorter. We have so much information coming at us all the time. We have so many details to try to pay attention to that we can’t focus on anything for too long. The consequence is that with limited attention spans we may miss the things that God wants us to see.
So how can we pay attention to the right details? This Palm Sunday sermon by the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, can help ground us in the truth and teach us how to pay “spiritual attention.”
“Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, 'Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land.'” That is the sermon text from Deuteronomy at the core of this sermon by Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, along with Denise Cortes, director of the new Harbor House social welfare organization. Looking for a place to find Jesus? There is an answer here.
The Prodigal Son. This is a story so famous that many people outside the Christian realm have heard it. But has it become too familiar? So familiar that it’s lost its original power? In this sermon by the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, the old story is told anew. So forget what you think you know about it and come and hear it again…for the first time. And may you be moved by the beautiful grace it conveys.
Sometimes, when traveling through life's dark valleys, it is hard to see the long view -- that God's purpose in all things is to bring us, as said in the 23rd Psalm, to green pastures. God's love is steadfast and sure. How to remember God's promise of abundant living no matter what is happening in life? This is the journey you can take with Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. Share her vision of Jesus' feast!
In this compelling sermon, the Reverend Dr. Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutherna Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about Jesus' Sermon on the Plain. Here, Jesus tells his disciples they must love their enemies. Really? Us? Today? Yes. But Pastor Tim points out that Christ does not say enable your enemies. Find out more.
Be inspired! Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about the light and life that we can bring to the world.
In this uplifting sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about those negative influences that work on us, stealing from us our confidence and sense of well being. Devil inspired, yes. You can certainly find them out in the media, in social media. And maybe in yourself. Other voices around us are nourishing, and remind us we're beloved children of God. Bless yourself each day. Here's how.
Advent is here, the season of HOPE. In these turbulent, troubled times, having hope is an act of courage -- one our Lord Jesus Christ instructed us to take on. In this inspiring sermon, Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about taking on a posture of defiant hope and light, and asks us to BE the candle of light in the darkness.
Jack Schottel, a member of Ascension and our youth group, shares the inspiring story of his journey through injury, and the greatness of friendship and faith.
In the wake of the Borderline mass shooting and even as the fires continued to rage around us, Pastor Tim Delkeskamp had a message Sunday morning that many will never forget.
"In times of grief, God's heart breaks along with ours," says Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. In her All Saints Sunday sermon, Pastor Julie uses the story of Lazarus being raised from the dead by Jesus to remind us of the one even death obeys. "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?"
In this thought-provoking sermon, the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp, senior pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, looks into the Gospel lesson of John 8:31-36. These words of Jesus' resonate perhaps more today than ever.
The Gospel story (Mark 10:17-31) of Jesus and the rich young man leaves some disheartened. The idea of giving away everything he had weighed heavily on the young man, who walked away sadly. But the story has a positive conclusion, in the view of Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. And it relates to much more than posessions. Listen, and gain new insights. Jesus demands a lot from us, too. But only because He has already given us so much.
Did you know that Psalm 145 is the only psalm of praise in the Psalms? In this uplifting sermon, the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about this great exultation.
In this inspiring sermon, the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA, talks about why resting and sabbath time is important to our faith. Rest is a gift and gives us a chance to remember that God is in charge, not us. We are called to live differently than the rest of the world.
The Holy Spirit shows up in unexpected ways, sometimes calling upon us to extend ourselves beyond our comfort zones. In this uplifting sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about such challenging and rewarding experiences, and learning to rely upon the power that is always with us.
The world is in tough shape. Sometimes it seems overwhelming. But luckily for you, you're More Powerful Than You Realize. That's the message this week, as Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA talks to the 2018 confirmation class -- and all the rest of us, too.
Those days when everything takes more energy than you'd imagined it would, when you come home so drained you can't think...maybe you feel like you can't even focus enough to pray. Jesus prayed when he was exhausted, and it wasn't always perfect. In this heartening sermon, Pastor Julie McCain of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about those "imperfect" prayers and what it is to find peace like a river.
What does it mean to be a friend? With Jesus? With others? Friendship and love in Jesus are the themes in this sermon by Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, Ca. Pastor Steve preaches from the beautiful text of John 15:9-17:
I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit. Those beloved words from the Gospel of John carry so much meaning for us in our daily lives, in so many ways. Considering God as the gardener of our lives gives us a striking new perspective. In this sermon, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks delves into the riches of Jesus' words. Listen and be uplifted.
Did you know that some of the religious figures we most revere struggled with doubt? Did you know that sometimes doubt leads to stronger faith? Did you know that if you have doubts, it's okay? Find out about this by listening to Ascension's new Children, Youth and Family Pastor, the Reverend Julie McCain, in a terrific, energetic sermon that can make a positive difference for you.
The turmoil of the world today would seem to preclude finding peace. However, there is a different kind of peace, an enduring peace that we can take with us wherever we go, whatever we are doing. In this post-Easter sermon, the Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock takes us on a journey toward that peace of Jesus Christ.
Do you feel that Easter Good News joy? Are you out fighting the good fight? Making a difference?..."I realize, the answer could be 'No. Pastor, it's been a tough year....'" observes the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. In this powerful Easter sermon, Pastor Tim talks about how we as humans have an inborn love of stories, how we all relate to stories, and have our own stories...and the Easter story. How does the Easter story impact your story and mine? Listen and find out.
On Palm Sunday, we remember what Jesus did as he came into Jerusalem, riding on the donkey and letting the crowds wave palm branches, place their cloaks on the ground in front of him and shout “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” It is a powerful moment in the story of Jesus’ ministry and a powerful insight into the “mind of Christ” that Paul talks about in our reading for this week. Join the Reverend Dr. Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California as we fathom the depths of the gospel and talk about Philippians 2: 5-11 in a sermon called “A Beautiful Mind.”
People who know the love of Jesus Christ tend to be calm even in times of crisis and turbulence, have an inner joy that is unassailable by life's stresses and woes, and have deep reserves of endurance some find hard to comprehend. And when people see that and express an idea like, "I want some of that" -- those are the perfect moments to share the Gospel. In this sermon (that starts off with his desire to be cool like Fonzie on "Happy Days" as a kid), the Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about the joy of sharing the Good News. In other words, evangelism. It's a great feeling.
If there is nothing that we can do to separate ourselves from the love of God in Jesus Christ, why must we do our best to be good and do good? Hear the wonderful reasons -- and what in the world that Subway line has to do with it -- in this sermon by Pastor Ken Caudill of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California.
The Gospels show us a time when our Lord was filled with righteous anger, chasing the moneylenders from the temple. As Christians, we understand the dangers of anger, but there are times when righteous anger is appropriate. When are these times? Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California explores the questions and finds meaningful answers in this sermon, filled with memorable takeaways.
Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp, senior pastor of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about the Gospel of Mark, the eighth chapter, in which Peter tries to dissuade Jesus from the trials he faces ahead. But Christ rebukes him, saying, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.” What can we learn from this tough message? Pastor Tim sheds light on the immortal words.
Jesus went into the wilderness to fast and pray in preparation for his mission. What does this mean to us today, and what can we learn from his practice? Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California gives insights in this inspiring sermon.
It's Super Bowl Sunday -- and have we got a story for you. Listen to Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church and learn about Simon Peter's Mother-in-Law and the meaning of her healing.
Reverend Dr. Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California with a sermon that will make you think and laugh and be uplifted, and think some more.
Pastor Ron Glusenkamp serves as the Director of Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA, a five-year, $198 million comprehensive campaign that will establish a strong culture of stewardship that will position this church to bodly do God's work in Jesus' name throughout the world.
Prepare to be uplifted and inspired -- and have a laugh or two -- as Pastor Ron talks about the great work being done and our great hope for the future.
On this All Saints Sunday, Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about saints of yesterday and saints here and now, all of us.
Leading up to the 500th anniversary of the beginning of the Reformation, Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California takes us back to the life and times -- and places -- of Martin Luther by way of a recent journey to Germany.
Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA, talks about Biblical wisdom for our world today, going back to Paul's beloved advice in Philippians and how it applies to us.
Find out about God's Mercy, compassion and forgiveness. Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, tells us that the Psalms were Jesus' prayer book and hymnal. Psalm 103 encompasses everyone and all of creation. It is a perfect psalm of praise.
Going out into the world as God's laborers isn't necessarily easy. We live in a broken world with values often different from our own. But God calls us to Serve Him in whatever we do. Listen as Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock of Ascension Lutheran Church of Thousand Oaks, California, talks about fathers, vocations, and who really does know best.
Listen as Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California talks about creation -- a subject even more inspiring when you consider the science of it all. We reside on a planet with the exact amount of oxygen in our atmosphere to keep us alive and thriving. The moon is the exact distance from the earth and sun to create a sort of breathing involving our turning and tides -- any farther away, and it could spin off into space; any closer, it could crash into the earth. The world is full of magnificent wonders of God's hand. It is up to us to care for this life-giving gift.
Do we need to be dis-oriented to be re-oriented? Do we need to empty the contents of a cup to fill it with new? In this thought-provoking and inspiring sermon, Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA, examines the impact of the Holy Spirit. The pouring out and the filling up. And why we never have to be afraid.
This inspiring talk by Addie Behm, Ascension Lutheran Church of Thousand Oaks, California's Youth Director, recounts the experiences of our youth joining youth from St. Julie Biliart, building houses in Tecate, Mexico. Those hands,
As our 2017 confirmands reaffirm their baptism in Christ, Pastor Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks reaffirms their -- and our -- being in the life everlasting.
Have you heard the story of the two seas? The River Jordan flows into the Sea of Galilee which is filled with many species of fish and is home to a wide variety of animals and birds, providing life-giving benefits and beauty. And the Jordan flows into The Dead Sea, which is bitter and toxic. The difference is, the river also flows out of the Sea of Galilee, while the Dead Sea holds its intake. There is a parallel between this story and our own lives, notes Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California. We take in, and we give out in order to lead our healthiest lives. In this sermon, Pastor Steve talks about his dream of the heart, and how its four chambers that take in and give our parallel a healthy existence for a believer and for the church – all four must be functioning.
In this wonderfully uplifting Mother’s Day sermon, Reverend Dr. Tim Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, recounts the quote, attributed to Michelangelo, that “The job of the sculptor is to liberate the sculpture from the stone” – and goes on to compare that to the job of mothers. He talks about the Grandma of one of the teens who first integrated a high school in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957, how she answered the girl’s fears and stress by telling her, “You are God’s idea”-- to be where she was, who she was at that time. Mothers and grandmothers impart that priceless knowledge to their children of Whose they are. Asks Pastor Tim, “Can you believe that you have infinite worth, that you’re not junk, that Jesus wouldn’t have died for you if you were junk? You have infinite worth. Can you believe that about yourself? Can you? We all mess up all the time and yet we remain a royal priesthood.” Find out more by taking 15 minutes to listen.
What does the Biblical story of Jesus' appearance to travelers on the Road to Emmaus have to say to us today? The Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California reminds us in this sermon about how sometimes, we are buried so deeply in our own grief or concerns, we don't see the Good News right in front of us. Pastor Paul makes the point that "Stewardship is everything we do after we say, 'I believe.'"
Do you know the Lord? Are you a Christian? "I'm not the one to ask," said the old farmer -- in an anecdote recounted by Reverend Dr. Tim Delkeskamp. He told the evangelist to ask the people around him. Ask his banker, his family, his friends. They know how he spends his time and money and energy. The answer should show what he believes in, what he holds dearest. It's something to think about: what do our actions show about our beliefs?
“Grace wins, even when it doesn’t seem like it or feel like it,” says Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp in this Easter sermon. Do we have the courage to live this way, knowing that Grace wins every time? Even in times of despair and challenge, even when we feel wronged? Pastor Tim talks about the newness of the Easter story every year, and how it makes that journey – knowledge in our heads to our hearts. Hear and be uplifted.
“The deep meaning of the cross of Christ is that there is no suffering on earth that is not borne by God.” So said the great German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who was hanged by the Nazis for his resistance to Hitler on April 9, 1945. On this anniversary of Bonhoeffer’s death, Ascension Lutheran Church Pastor Steve Herder delves into Bonhoeffer’s writings on God’s presence with us in our sufferings. Christ’s grace, the ultimate reassurance.
In this sermon, Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about bones of man and breath of God. Ruach is the ancient word referring to breath, wind or spirit; you will find references to this throughout the Bible. God’s answer, when asked about His identity, I am, leads to the conclusion that every breath we take is a prayer. Find out how.
“Jesus is Lord” – when we Christians acknowledge this central fact or our lives, it makes us different. Though here in America we are not persecuted for our faith, as in places like North Korea and Somalia, we are different from others around us, which is not always an easy thing. In this sermon, Reverend Dr. Timothy Delkeskamp of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California, talks about this phrase, what it means, how it challenges – and delivers – us.
The season of Epiphany is a time of realization and discovery. Listen as Reverend Dr. Paul Gravrock of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, CA preaches on how this impacts us today. From the Gospel of John, 1:29-42.
The words are familiar: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord's face shine upon you and give you peace. There is more to them than you may have realized. Pastor Steve Herder of Ascension Lutheran Church in Thousand Oaks, California goes deeper into this time-honored benediction, bringing new-old meaning that will uplift and inspire you for the year ahead.
In this Advent sermon, Pastor Jack Ledbetter talks about John the Baptist's questioning of Jesus -- "Are you the one?" When we enter the season of Advent, we're encountering the real thing, today. We need to know, we want to know.