November 3, 2024 –Jonathan Chute, “Not Far from the Kingdom”
Sermon: sermon
This Sunday’s gospel tells of an encounter between Jesus and another leader of the Jewish community, a scholar of the law. He is interested in what Jesus might have to say about God’s law. He asks “which is the most important commandment?” Jesus not only answers the question, but leaves him with something more to ponder. The lawyer agrees with Jesus about the core of Jewish teaching and life. And Jesus commends him for his understanding. Mark 12:28-34 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Not Far from the Kingdom.”
Scripture: scripture
November 10, 2024 –Jonathan Chute, “Give or Take”
Sermon: sermon
n this week’s gospel Jesus warns his followers about religious leaders who seek out the places of honor in society. Then he sits down outside the temple and watches as people place large gifts into the treasury. Among the crowd he notices a poor widow who contributes just two small coins. It is an almost invisible act, at least until Jesus points her out to the disciples. What is important about the widow’s offering is not the size of the gift itself, but the spirit behind it. Mark 12:38-44 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Give or Take.”
Scripture: scripture
November 17, 2024 –April Herron, “Provocations”
Sermon: sermon
The first chapter of the first book of Samuel tells the story of a woman who turned to God in prayer to pour out her frustration and her sorrow. Hannah is misunderstood by the priest who overhears her prayer. She speaks up to correct his inaccurate assumptions. Her act of trusting her hopes to God brings peace. Ultimately, she receives the gift for which she longed. We learn about her situation in 1 Samuel:1:4-20. The lectionary also includes a reading from the book of Hebrews. This text (originally a sermon) contains words of guidance which suggest that Hannah’s approach to faith may be viewed as exemplary. Hebrews 10:23-25, in its English translation, contains a word that makes an interesting echo to a feature of Hannah’s experience. April’s sermon, titled “Provocations,” will explore the links between the two passages.
Scripture: scripture
November 24, 2024 –Jonathan Chute, “The Early Rain”
Sermon: sermon
In this week’s scripture God announces the end of a time of a terrible drought. The land has dried up, and locusts have demolished what little remained. The promise of relief comes through the words of the prophet Joel. God sends rain again – to water the earth, to give life to all living things, to fill the stores with olive oil, grain and wine. God’s people will give thanks for the goodness of the Lord, and even the ground rejoices. The title of Jonathan’s Sermon is, “The Early Rain.” Joel 2:21-27
Scripture: scripture
