October 6, 2024 –Jonathan Chute, “Gotcha”
Sermon: sermon
Our Gospel shows Jesus being tested, in one case by opponents and the another (once again) by his closest friends and followers, the disciples. With the disciples it appears to be another case of utter cluelessness. With the Pharisees it is clear that something more is at stake. They are actively seeking to trip Jesus up. Mark 10:2-16 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Gotcha.”
Scripture: scripture
October 13, 2024 –Tony Moretti, “The Power of Human Contact”
Sermon: sermon
The second Sunday in October is often observed as Laity Sunday at RHUMC. The tradition is holding up in 2024! Our Lay Leader, Patty Koester, has put together a leadership team that includes Tony Moretti as the preacher for the day, Merrietta Fong offering the prayers of intercession and thanksgiving, and Debra DeLuca creating the children’s time. The celebration of Laity Sunday honors the fact that the ministry of the church is carried out by ALL the people involved, each contributing personal and professional talents to make God visible in the world.
Tony’s text will be Hebrews 4:12-16. The book of Hebrews is understood to be the writings of a preacher who was eager to make us aware of God’s gift of salvation through Jesus. In this particular passage, we are reminded of the power of God’s word. We are encouraged to draw near to God so that we can dwell in God’s love and receive the help we need for getting through hard times. The sermon title is, “The Power of Human Contact.” Tony will be drawing on some personal life experiences to shape his message.
Scripture: scripture
October 20, 2024 –April Herron, “Possibilities”
Sermon: sermon
Our gospel reading from Mark introduces us to a person on a spiritual quest. This person comes to Jesus for instruction. The inquiry is sincere and the response, though lovingly given, is shocking to the seeker. The questioner goes away greatly saddened. Jesus continues to reflect with the disciples about entry into the kingdom of God. The focus is on both what is given and what is gained. The scripture text is Mark 10:17-31. April’s sermon is “Possibilities.” Jonathan plans to be back from Canada to lead us in worship and prayer.
Scripture: scripture
October 27, 2024 –Jonathan Chute, “Seeing the Way”
Sermon: sermon
Our gospel for this Sunday tells the story of a healing. It is the last healing Jesus performs during his life, restoring the sight of a blind man named Bartimaeus. When Bartimaeus hears that Jesus is coming he calls out. Others in the crowd try to silence him, but he cries out all the more. Jesus calls Bartimaeus over, and then tells him to go… his faith has made him well. But rather than go off his own way, he chooses to follow the one who has restored his sight. It is a new day in the life of Bartimaeus. Once a beggar, he is now overcome by gratitude. Where will that take him? Mark 10:46-52 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Seeing the Way.”
Scripture: scripture
