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An Idle Tale and Unlikely Evangelists
Resurrection of our Lord, Year C, March 27, 2016
Are twelve short verses, an idle tale, and some unlikely evangelists enough to make an Easter sermon this year? With God all things are possible, and what we have is more than enough. Get ready to celebrate! (Photo: Ted, Creative Commons)
To Serve and Love: Following the Way of Christ
Palm/Passion Sunday, Year C, March 20, 2016
When we, as followers of Christ, set out to serve one another and all whom we encounter in this beautiful yet broken world, we are going to get dirty. I can guarantee you that much. Our hands will be soiled, our hearts will be stained, and our dreams will be sullied. (Photo: Paukrus, Creative Commons)
Costly: A Life Poured Out
Fifth Sunday in Lent, Year C, March 13, 2016
I’m pretty sure most of us would rather pour costly perfume on Jesus and see ourselves worshiping him extravagantly instead of acting like a greedy, selfish traitor that seems to be Judas’ lot in life. But would we do so when it comes right down to it? Can we break ourselves open in radical discipleship? (Photo: Paul Kussrow, Creative Commons)
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)
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)
