August 5, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Full, or Fulfilled?”
Sermon: sermon
In this week’s gospel Jesus addresses the crowd that has followed him across the sea. He suggests that their interest in him may have more to do with having eaten their fill of bread the day before than with any genuine hunger for God. Jesus wants the people to understand that there is more to what he is offering than a full stomach. Jonathan’s sermon is drawn from John 6:24-35, and his sermon is “Full, or Fulfilled?”
Scripture: scripture
August 12, 2018 – Youth from SSP
Sermon:
This summer 39 junior and senior high youth, and 12 adult counselors, took part in the Sierra Service Project. Since 1975 SSP has been working with families (mostly) in rural California and the West, repairing homes and renewing communities. In the last month, our youth traveled to Smith River, just south of the Oregon border on the coast of California. This Sunday we get to hear from them about their experiences in compassion and community.
The scripture for this Sunday is a verse that provided the theme for this summer’s SSP. In it, John emphasizes God’s love for humanity and God’s desire that we show our love for God by loving one another. It’s an encouraging word to hear, and even more helpful when we put it to work! Our speakers will share different perspectives from their week of service. We’ll have a slideshow running in the entry as well.
Scripture
August 19, 2018 – April Herron “The Life God Wants to Give Us”
Sermon: sermon
What would you ask for if you could have anything you wanted? According to the Bible, King Solomon had to answer this question early in his reign. While Solomon slept in a holy place, God visited his dreams and said, “Tell me what you want me to give you.” If you were Solomon, how would you have answered?
Interesting questions turn up throughout the scriptures. In the gospel reading for Sunday, critics of Jesus want to know, “How can this man give us himself to eat?” Jesus offers “true food and drink” and promises that those who partake will abide in him, and he in them. Can his listeners swallow this teaching?
Sunday worship provides opportunity to reflect on what we value and where we are headed. April’s sermon title is, “The Life God Wants to Give Us.” The texts, should you want to read them in advance, are 1 Kings 3:3-14 and John 6:51-58.
Scripture: scripture
August 26, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Dwelling”
Sermon: sermon
Our scripture for this week tells the story of the dedication of the Temple. King Solomon offers a prayer over the just-completed building, whose construction he had ordered years before. He understands that no building – even “God’s house” – can ever contain God. But he also knows that it will be a place of prayer, where God’s people will renew their faith, and find forgiveness, hope and peace. He sees that the Temple will also be a sign to those beyond the people of Israel. They, too, may call on God’s name, and know that their prayer is heard. Jonathan’s sermon, “Dwelling,” draws on 1 Kings 8:22-30, and 41-43.
Scripture: scripture
