April 1, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Un-Ending”
Sermon: sermon
Easter celebrates the central truth of the Christian story, that God’s grace and love are more powerful than sin and death. We see signs of resurrection in the return of Spring and fill the sanctuary with beautiful flowers. We sing “Alleluia!” and dare to hope in the truth of this good news. Yet the stories of that first Easter show us that Jesus’ followers were perhaps as confused as they were hopeful on the morning of the resurrection.
Early on the morning of the resurrection three women make their way to the tomb. Just days before they had watched as the body of Jesus was laid there, and a stone rolled over the opening. Now they come to anoint his body with spices. As they walk, they wonder who will remove the stone. When they arrive, they find that the stone is already gone – but so is the body. The tomb lies empty. A young man in white tells them not to be alarmed – Jesus has been raised from the dead and will meet them back in Galilee. But rather than rejoice at the news, the women are overcome with fear. They flee from the scene, saying nothing to anyone. The text for Jonathan’s sermon, “Un-Ending,” is Mark 16:1-8.
Scripture: scripture
April 8, 2018 – April Herron “Signs of Life”
Sermon: sermon
On the second Sunday of the Easter season, Jesus comes in an unexpected way to be among us. He addresses our sadness, fear, and confusion by saying, “Peace be with you.” We may not recognize him at first, but the signs of life he brings are unmistakable. With a breath, he gives us renewed purpose. We have a role in sharing God’s grace with others!
The gospel text for the day is John 20:19-23. April’s sermon title is, “Signs of Life.” We will participate in Holy Communion and enjoy hymns and songs of hope.
Scripture: scripture
April 15, 2018 – April Herron “Mixed Emotions”
Sermon: sermon
Over the course of generations, it has become the habit of the Christian church to celebrate Easter for fifty days. We sometimes call this the “Great 50 Days.” We think of it as a time when we are learning to live, speak, and act as people transformed by Christ’s resurrection.
This Sunday, as Easter continues, we will find in Luke’s report of an evening resurrection appearance that the friends and disciples of Jesus are described “in their joy” as “disbelieving and still wondering.” Thus we know that we are not alone if we experience key moments in our lives as a confused jumble of feelings, thoughts, sensations and impressions. As we explore Luke 24:36-48, and consider a related story in Acts 3:1-21, we will discover how Christ addresses our questions and wonderment. April’s sermon title is, “Mixed Emotions.”
Scripture: scripture
April 22, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Other Sheep”
Sermon: sermon
Our gospel for the fourth Sunday of Easter describes the life of sacrificial love shown to us in Christ, the Good Shepherd. He describes the difference between a shepherd who truly loves the sheep in his care and the “hired hand” who runs away when trouble appears. Jesus wants his followers to know that he will keep them together, and gather others into the fold as well. His love for the sheep reaches farther and wider than his disciples yet know. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is John 10:11-18, “Other Sheep.”
Scripture: scripture
April 29, 2018 – Jonathan Chute “Family Ties”
Sermon: sermon
The hope of Easter continues as this Sunday’s gospel tells a story of unexpected community. While walking along the road, a follower of Jesus meets a royal officer from a distant land. The man is an Ethiopian, returning home after visiting Jerusalem. He had come to worship at the temple, but seems still to be searching for more. As the two men talk along the way, suddenly the Ethiopian asks to be baptized. Though he is far from home, he finds welcome and belonging in this new family of faith. The text for Jonathan’s sermon is Acts 8:26-40, and his sermon reflects on “Family Ties.”
Scripture: scripture
