Browsing Preach
Plenty, Paucity, and a Measly Kid Goat
Fourth Sunday in Lent, Year C, March 6, 2016
The story of the prodigal son is so rich: It touches on grace, abounds in hope, and drips with love. It also serves as a powerful story about stewardship. Jesus tells a tale that offers a fine comparison between living with an abundance mindset and nurturing a sense of scarcity. (Photo: Ted, Creative Commons)
Where are the Figs?
Third Sunday in Lent, Year C, February 28, 2016
Someday, like it was for that barren fig tree, there will be an accounting. For the barren church that means doors closed, windows shuttered, and opportunity lost. No one wants to see that happen to their congregation, right? Or do they? (Photo: Ian Scott, Creative Commons)
Waiting Game?
Lectionary Reflection for the Second Sunday in Lent, Year C, February 21, 2016
This week’s lectionary lessons have a common thread of waiting that weaves them together. And we Americans do a LOT of waiting (some 37 billion hours per year), yet we find it difficult to wait for God. (Photo: Andy Wright, Creative Commons)
A Fast of First Fruits
Lectionary Reflection for the First Sunday in Lent, Year C, February 14, 2016
Are you “giving up” something for Lent? Forget the nominal “sacrifices†this year. Ask instead, “What fast of ‘first fruits’ do I need to offer to God? What really matters? (Photo: Faith Goble, Creative Commons)
Treasure Hunt
Ash Wednesday Lectionary Nuggets, Year C, February 10, 2016
Here we go again! The 40 days of Lent are upon us and so, too, will be the ashen crosses on our forehead that mark this beginning. The lessons offer rich possibility for proclamation–everything from piety and spiritual practices to returning to God with broken and contrite hearts, to the cost of discipleship, and (of course) stewardship. (Photo: dimdimich-fotolia.com)
With Great Boldness
Transfiguration of our Lord, Year C, February 8, 2016
Here’s the good news we have to share with folks who are timid, downtrodden, terrified, or even just plain old bored: We are no longer separated from seeing and experiencing God’s glory thanks to Jesus. We do, however, need to listen to him. And then, having heard, we are called to act in the power of the Spirit of God. (Photo: Julie Jordan Scott, Creative Commons)
For the Love of Stewardship
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany, Year C
January 31, 2016
What if our congregations really took to heart 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 as “the more excellent way†of being the Body of Christ? Imagine the differences we might see and experience! All we need is love–just not the commercialized kind. (Photo: Bryan Brenneman, Creative Commons)
Body Builders
Third Sunday after the Epiphany, Year C, January 24, 2016
A new year means renewed attention to health, exercise, and overall wellness. The antidote to flabby faith is simple: exercise the body through regular, basic faith practices, strive for the greater gifts, honor all members, and welcome the stranger to the table. (Photo: Spirit Fire, Creative Commons)
Steadfast
Second Sunday after Epiphany, Year C, January 17, 2016
We may not be in exile ourselves, but we can welcome the refugee and open our arms to the stranger. We may not feel forsaken, but we can hold out our hand to the one who is and offer friendship and support. (Photo: Kelly Short, Creative Commons)
Lament, Repent, Relent
Lectionary Reflection for the Baptism of our Lord, Year C, January 10, 2016
This Sunday’s lessons, combined with recent events, offers preachers and teachers a real opportunity to “wade deeper” into the waters of our baptismal identity. We also have ideas for time with children and youth. (Photo: THX0477, Creative Commons)
