April 4, 2021 – Jonathan Chute, “Loose Ends”
Sermon: sermon
On the morning of the resurrection three women come to the tomb. Just days before they had watched Jesus’ body laid there and the stone rolled into place over the opening. Now they bring oil and spices to anoint the body of their friend, as was the custom. It is early. The sun is just up. As they make their way along an important question comes to mind – “Who will roll away the stone?” But when they arrive they are stunned to find the tomb already open. A young man in white speaks words they can hardly believe. Jesus is not there. He has been raised from the dead! To the women this comes as shocking news. Overcome with amazement and fear, they flee from the scene. Now, who will tell the story? Mark 16:1-8 leaves us wondering. Jonathan’s sermon is “Loose Ends.”
Scripture: scripture
April 11, 2021 – Jonathan Chute, “The Risen, Wounded Christ”
Sermon: sermon
This week’s gospel describes the appearance of the risen Christ to several of the disciples on the evening of the resurrection. They are hiding behind locked doors in the house where they were staying. Afraid for their lives, they are struggling to understand what has happened, let alone what it means. If anyone is going to tell the story of Easter, it is clear that they still have a long ways to go. As the day comes to an end Jesus appears among them. He invites them to leave the safety of the upper room, to go and serve the needs of a broken and hurting world. But one of the disciples was not with them at the time. When the others tell Thomas that they have seen the Lord, he cannot believe it. It will take more than words to convince him. John 20:19-31 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “The Risen, Wounded Christ.”
Scripture: scripture
April 18, 2021 – April Herron, “Still Wondering”
Sermon: sermon
With each Sunday of Easter, we continue to be among the disciples as they encounter the surprise of resurrection. Mark told us about the initial fear of those who discovered the tomb was empty. John described how the risen Jesus invited his followers to see and touch his wounded body. This week, we learn from Luke about how the crucified-but-living Jesus shared a simple meal of broiled fish with his friends. Our confusion and uncertainty are once again met with compassion and encouragement. We are urged to see ourselves as recipients of God’s grace and sharers of God’s good news. The text is Luke 24:36b-48. April’s sermon title is, “Still Wondering.”
Scripture: scripture
April 25, 2021 – Jonathan Chute, “Following the Shepherd”
Sermon: sermon
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is known as “Shepherd Sunday” in much of the Christian world. This week’s gospel portrays the life of self-giving love shown to us by Christ, the Good Shepherd. Jesus describes the difference between a shepherd who truly loves the sheep in his care and the “hired hand” who runs away when trouble appears. He wants his followers to know that he will keep them together, keep them safe, and even gather others into the fold as well. His love for the sheep reaches farther and wider than his disciples yet realize. That turns out to be good news for us. John 10:11-18 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Following the Shepherd.”
Scripture: scripture
