Sermons
Proper 18. Year C. September 5, 2010Texts: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Philemon 1-21; Luke 14:25-33 .
One of the classic Christian songs from the 70's had a chorus that went, "And they'll know we are Christians by our love, by our love. Yes, they'll know we are Christians by our love." It was of course, a response to the words of Jesus. When he said, "I give you a new commandment: love one another," he added, "If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples" (John 13:34-35). Our gospel reading today seems to challenge that though. Here Jesus seems to be suggesting that if we're serious about following him, we might have to hate people who mean a lot to us.
PROPER 17. YEAR C. August 29, 2010 Text: Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16,.
Last Sunday I returned to the pulpit inspired by an experience of awesome nature. Today I come after a week of experiencing the church historical, and even my own history.
Proper 16. Year C. August 22, 2010. Texts: Isaiah 58:9b-14; Hebrews 12:18-29; Luke 13:10-17
Mary and I have just returned from our excellent adventure in the Pacific Northwest. We experienced many awesome places-places that are sacred; sacred first to native Americans, but now sacred to all Americans since they are enshrined in national parks.
Proper 8. Year C. June 27, 2010 Text: Galatians 5:1, 13-25
Normally on a hot, muggy day like this, I recommend mind over matter. Don't think about the fact that our bodies are uncomfortable. But today I'm going to risk making us more uncomfortable by focusing precisely on the body, the flesh, even on sex. I need to do this because there's a lot of confusion about Christianity and the physical body and human sexuality. Our second reading today invites these reflections.
