Browsing Preach
Thirst
Third Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection Year A
March 23, 2014
In the Samaritan woman at the well we dare not see someone “other†or “less than†ourselves. Rather, mirrored in her eyes is the reflection of our own brokenness and shame. We all thirst for the living water that only God can provide. (Photo: kateausburn, Creative Commons)
Stewarding the Mysteries
Second Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection, Year A, March 16, 2014
Yes, we are charged with stewarding the mysteries of faith in a world that seeks ready, quick, and easy answers. Impossible? Thanks to the faithful witness of those who have gone before us, we continue to share the good news and sacred mysteries that defy explanation–and that defy sin and death. Along with Nicodemus, we still sometimes wonder “How can these things be?” (Photo: Punktraum, Creative Commons)
The Examination
First Sunday in Lent Lectionary Reflection, March 9, 2014
Our Lord faced the tests and temptations of the evil one, and so do we. What can we learn from Jesus’ wilderness experience that will help us to be more faithful disciples? (Photo: out0fwave, Creative Commons)
Listen Up, Disciples!
Transfiguration Sunday, Year A, March 2, 2014
Listening is hard work. Just ask Peter! If, however, we can stop long enough to really listen to each other and to God, amazing things happen. Don’t believe me? Well then, listen up.
(Photo (c) Carlosphotos via Bigstock.com.)
Dirt People: An Eco-Sermon for Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday is a perfect opportunity to remind people that God created us from the earth, suggests “ecopreacher” Rev. Leah Schade. “Finding ways to reconnect with the earth from which you were created is so essential to finding wholeness and being at rest in God.” (Photo by Josh Larios, used by Creative Commons license.)
Stewards of One Another
Seventh Sunday after Epiphany Year A Lectionary Reflection
February 23, 2014
Jesus clearly cares about how we treat one another. The “Sermon on the Mount†is full of teachings about proper human relationships. He begins many by referring to traditional law, saying, “You have heard that it was said…†Following the letter and spirit of the law is tough enough, but Jesus ups the ante considerably by doing what he does so well—drawing the circle of inclusion ever wider. (Photo: abhi, Creative Commons)
Community Gardening
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany Lectionary Reflection, Year A
Christian, Christian, how does your garden grow? Who waters, who plants, and who gives the growth? Consider this week’s lessons as part of an “instruction manual” from the master gardener in how to be and grow as disciples. It’s not easy, but the rewards are myriad. (Photo: d-olwen-dee, Creative Commons)
Consider Your Own Call
Lectionary Reflection for the 4th Sunday after Epiphany, Year A
February 2, 2014
This week’s lectionary lessons invite us to ponder what it means to be disciples, called to love and serve God and others. Our calling is not one to which most of the world aspires, but it is exactly in pursuing what the world deems foolish that we find our meaning and our salvation. (Photo: Aaron Geller, Creative Commons)
Preaching on Money
Most pastors would rather preach on almost anything besides than finances and stewardship, but as the preaching pastor, you are the chief development officer for your church. Provocative words from Ministry Matters. (Photo by Sumos, via Bigstockphoto.com)
Jesus in Pieces?
Lectionary Reflection for the Third Sunday after Epiphany, Year A
January 26, 2014
Leading and serving the people of God can be tough sledding; just ask Paul. This week’s gospel and epistle lessons offer important words for leaders AND for the people they lead. Blessings on the work you do and on the communities you serve! (Photo: Steve Snodgrass)
