Mountaintop Experiences (2/26/17)

Exodus 24:12-18; Matthew 17:1-9

Transfiguration, Mosaic along the entryway to the Basilica of St. Peter

It was great to have a week off and to spend some time away, but it's also great to be back. One of the recurring themes of the Epiphany season is that we are called to act on what we have learned. Yesterday was Transfiguration Sunday and I shared a story about my experiences on a mission trip to Nicaragua, and also how I was called to action because of my experiences. 

Choose Life (So that you and your descendants may live) (2/12/17)

Deuteronomy 30:15-20; 1Corinthians 3:1-9; Matthew 5:21-37

Maurice Harron, Hands Across the Divide

Sometimes it's difficult to decide which scripture to preach on. That was certainly true for this morning's gospel lesson. I didn't want to preach on divorce and remarriage because, well, I don't think I'm qualified. But sometimes that discomfort is a sign that I need to do some more investigation before I make a decision. 

Being the Salt and the Light (2/5/17)

Isaiah 58:1-12; Matthew 5:13-20

On Sunday, February 5th, we continued to examine the question of what true righteousness looks like. We heard from the prophet Isaiah and we continued to explore the Sermon on the Mount. Did I make another extended reference to The Godfather in my sermon? You'll have to read on if you want to find out. 

What Does the LORD Require of You? (1/29/17)

Micah 6:1-8; Matthew 5:1-12

The Godfather is, without a doubt, one of the best movies ever made. The opening scene is masterful. It may seem like an odd place to begin my sermon, but I believe the emotional tone of the prophet Micah is very similar to the tone of this scene. Furthermore, God's call, through Micah, to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God, provides an interpretive framework for all Scripture.