March 6, 2022 – Jonathan Chute, “Open Book”
Sermon: sermon
In this week’s gospel we find Jesus preaching by the sea. Surrounded by an eager crowd, he gets into a Following his baptism Jesus begins his active ministry in confrontation with the devil. Led into the wilderness by the Spirit he experiences temptation and testing over the course of forty days. In the face of these trials it seems that he is all alone. But Jesus recalls the story of his people, and draws on resources available to us as well, as he rejects the offers before him. Out in the desert he gathers a whole community around him. Luke 4:1-13 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Open Book.”
Scripture: scripture
March 13, 2022 – Jonathan Chute, “Urgent, or Important?”
Sermon: sermon
On this Second Sunday in Lent we find Jesus on his journey to Jerusalem. But just as he is under way, a group of Pharisees comes to him, warning that Herod plans to kill him. They suggest that he should get away while he can. But Jesus will not be diverted from his path. The stakes are too high. He will journey on to Jerusalem, even knowing what lies ahead. Luke 13:31-35 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Urgent, or Important?”
Scripture: scripture
March 20, 2022 – Kristin Sutrave, “Taking Up Space”
Sermon: sermon
The scripture for this Youth Sunday contains two rather distinct parts. In the first half of the passage Jesus describes two instances of disaster that happened in their community and rejects the common assumption that misfortune results from sin. Then he tells a parable about a barren fig tree that is given a second chance. We are left in suspense, however, for the tree is given a final year either to become fruitful or be chopped down. How will it turn out? Luke 13:1-9 is the text for Kristin’s sermon, “Taking Up Space.”
Scripture: scripture
March 27, 2022 – April Herron, “Hoping For A Happy Reunion”
Sermon: sermon
“Once there was a father who had two sons…” So begins one of the most well known stories Jesus ever told. The tale was directed to the critics and complainers who did not appreciate the grace-filled welcome that Jesus extended to all kinds of people. The opponents of Jesus wanted him to be more discerning and restrictive as he chose his friends and associates. Jesus, for his part, was determined to be widely welcoming. The parable of the big-hearted father was intended to invite listeners into a more generous view of God’s love. April’s sermon is titled, “Hoping For A Happy Reunion.” The scripture text is Luke 15:1-3 and 11b-32.
Scripture: scripture
