April 6, 2025 –April Herron, “Extravagant Love”
Sermon: sermon
The season of Lent continues with Jesus making a visit to the home of Lazarus, Martha, and Mary. These three siblings lived in the town of Bethany, not far from Jerusalem. Their household was known for its faith and devotion to Jesus. John’s gospel describes a surprising incident which took place during a meal that was served by Martha. As the guests are eating, Mary approaches Jesus and applies a generous amount of perfumed oil to his feet. One of the disciples criticizes the gesture, but Jesus defends Mary’s action. The text is John 12:1-8. April’s sermon title is, “Extravagant Love.” As it is the first Sunday of the month, we will share in the Lord’s Supper.
Scripture: scripture
April 13, 2025 –Jonathan Chute, “Somewhere in the Middle”
Sermon: sermon
With the arrival of Palm Sunday we come to the very heart of the Christian year. In the morning our services open with the waving of palm branches and the joyful procession of the children. From there we move through a series of readings which take us through the passion and death of Jesus. Our text includes several episodes from the last day of Jesus’ life. In the midst of the crisis and chaos of his arrest, trial, and crucifixion, we are reminded of the central themes of his life. He cares for his followers. He prays fervently. He acts calmly, and intentionally, refusing to be swayed by fear. He offers forgiveness and hope, even to the end. The title for Jonathan’s sermon is “Somewhere in the Middle.”
Scripture: scripture
April 20, 2025 –Jonathan Chute, “While It Was Still Dark”
Sermon: sermon
Our scripture for Easter morning is the story of Mary Magdalene’s discovery of the open tomb. At first she does not know what to make of it. In the darkness she cannot really see. She runs to tell the others that Jesus’ body has been taken away. That’s all she can understand. Later, even when Jesus appears and speaks to her, she still does not recognize him. It is only when he calls her by name that she recognizes him. It is as though the darkness has lifted. She sees him now in the light of a brand new day. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is John 20:1-18, “While It Was Still Dark…”
Scripture: scripture
April 27, 2025 –Jonathan Chute, “Causing Trouble After Easter”
Sermon: sermon
In the weeks after Easter, Jesus’ followers experience both success and opposition as they preach and heal in his name. In this morning’s text they are brought before the council in Jerusalem and asked why they are doing this work after being clearly told to stop. Peter answers that they must obey God and not human authority. Gamaliel, a leader of the council, argues on their behalf, saying that God will either confirm or refute the truth of their teaching. Acts 5:27-42 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Causing Trouble After Easter.”
Scripture: scripture
