When we meet up with Jesus in today’s gospel lesson, he’s been walking all morning. So, by the time he finally sits down near Jacob’s well, he’s really tired and thirsty. (I think we all know what that feels like! Amen?!…) To be in need of rest and refreshment after a long journey … More Jesus Was a Rule Breaker
(Sermon for the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany A, based on Matthew 5:13-20) On Friday there was a wonderful story in The Oregonian about a woman named Mary Bayless. The article doesn’t say whether or not Mary is a Christian, but the way she lives her daily life certainly exemplifies what Christian living … More YOU Are Salt and Light!
(Sermon for the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany A, based on Matthew 5:1-12, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Micah 6:6-8) I’ll never forget the day about twenty years ago, when I was on my seminary internship, and my supervisor said to me, “For every pastor there comes a time when you have to decide, ‘What … More The Power of the Cross
I earned a new nickname this week: “Comrade Pastor.” Wow!… My new moniker was part of a lengthy email we received in the church office this past week. I’m not sure how I feel about being dubbed “Comrade Pastor.” Part of me feels resigned to the fact that this is … More A Love Letter to My Haters
The Fourth Sunday in Advent A 2016 Matthew 1:18-25 In Matthew’s story of Jesus’ birth, we don’t find the old familiar, cozy Christmas stable scene with angels and shepherds and animals. And I have to say I’m glad about that! On this fourth Sunday in Advent, with less than a week left to … More Just Say “Yes” to Jesus!
