1/03/16 – April Herron – “Gifts Set Free”
Sermon: Sermon
Matthew’s gospel contains the story of wise men from the east who journeyed to visit the Christ child. Though we read the story at Christmas, we continue to reflect upon it because it helps us to understand that Jesus did not come only for the people living near Bethlehem. Nor did he come only for the people who shared his religious background. He came for all people, everywhere, and all are welcome to worship and honor him. Scholars surmise that the wise men were well-educated Babylonian astronomers. They faced dangers both natural and political during their journey. They brought with them notable gifts. The text for the day is Matthew 2:1-12, and April’s sermon title is “Gifts Set Free.”
Scripture: Scripture
1/10/16 – April Herron – “Entering the River”
Sermon: Sermon
The gospel of Luke begins by telling the birth narratives of John and Jesus. In Luke, chapter 3, we learn that not only are John and Jesus relatives of one another, their ministry in the world is also closely related. John has been doing the work of preparation by teaching people what to expect and how to act. Then Jesus arrives at the banks of the Jordan River, joins the crowd, and is baptized. As he prays, a voice from heaven speaks words of affirmation. The text for April’s sermon is Luke 3:15-16, 18, 21-22, and her title is “Entering the River.”
Scripture: Scripture
1/17/16 – Jonathan Chute – “Missing the Glory”
Sermon: Sermon
We continue through the season of Epiphany, when the Church’s focus is on the revelation of Jesus Christ in his life and work. His baptism behind him, the work of the Messiah begins in earnest. This week’s gospel tells the story of Jesus’ first miracle, which takes place at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. The wine for the feast has run out and the groom faces a crisis. The mother of Jesus believes that he will know what to do. But Jesus has other priorities than solving a local beverage shortage. Something more takes place that afternoon. But not everyone can see it. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is John 2:1-11, and his title is “Missing the Glory.”
Scripture: Scripture
1/24/16 – Jonathan Chute – “Any Questions?”
Sermon: Sermon
This week’s gospel tells the story of Jesus’ first sermon, which was preached in his home synagogue in Nazareth. He reads to the people from the prophet Isaiah. The reading itself is short. The sermon is even briefer (It happens.). But what it will mean is not obvious to those who hear it. It will take a while for them to discover just what Jesus has in mind. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is Luke 4:14-21, and his title is “Any Questions?”
Scripture: Scripture
1/31/16 – Jonathan Chute – “Too Close for Comfort”
Sermon: Sermon
In this text we see how the congregation in Nazareth responds to Jesus’ first sermon. At first they’re quite happy to receive him. They admire his gracious words and celebrate their familiarity with him and his family. But Jesus believes they are missing the point – not only of the sermon, but of his whole ministry. So he tells them a couple of familiar Bible stories – stories which suggest that God’s grace may be even more amazing than we would like! What begins as a warm welcome home ends in outrage and attempted violence. Jonathan’s sermon is from Luke 4:21-30, and his title is “Too Close for Comfort.”
Scripture: Scripture
