October 5, 2025 – Jonathan Chute, “Planting Trees in the Ocean”
Sermon: sermon
This Sunday Jesus speaks to the disciples about forgiveness, faith and duty. The disciples find his expectations unreasonable. If they are going to forgive someone who wrongs them seven times a day, they say they will need a lot more faith. But Jesus says that even a little faith is more than enough. Just a tiny amount makes even absurd tasks possible. Luke 17:5-10 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Planting Trees in the Ocean.”
Scripture: scripture
October 12, 2025 – April Herron, “What Are The Chances?”
Sermon: sermon
As Jesus traveled the land in which he lived, he encountered people in all kinds of circumstances. He once had an opportunity to heal ten individuals at one time. He did not hesitate to extend mercy. The healing process involved consulting with, and being declared “clean,” by a priest. Out of the ten, only one person came back to say, “Thank you.” The identity of that person came as something of a surprise. Jesus commended the faith of the one who returned. The text is Luke 17:11-19. April’s sermon is titled, “What Are The Chances?”
Scripture: scripture
October 19, 2025 – Nancy Wallis, “Breathe Pray Live”
Sermon: sermon
Our gospel for this Sunday describes what happens when an irresistible force meets an immovable object. A widow brings a legal case to a judge who has no interest in justice. It is not clear whether he is lazy or corrupt – but he won’t lift a finger to help her. He refuses to act. However, the widow refuses to let his inaction be the last word on the matter. He does not care for her. He has no respect for God. But the unjust judge finally gives in simply because the woman wears him out. Luke says that Jesus offered this parable to help his followers understand the need for persistence in prayer. Luke 18:1-8 is the text for Nancy’s sermon, “Breathe Pray Live.”
Scripture: scripture
October 26, 2025 – Jonathan Chute, “Above Average”
Sermon: sermon
This week’s gospel continues a series of parables that cut against the grain of conventional righteousness. Jesus tells the story of two men who go to the temple to pray. In daily life, one of them does everything he’s supposed to do. Not only does he follow the rules, he goes above and beyond what is required. The other is a complete failure. He is a sinner and he knows it. But when the two men come before God in prayer, the results are surprising. Luke 18:9-14 is the text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Above Average.”
Scripture: scripture
