Text: Matthew 5:1-13 In his translation of the Sermon on the Mount, recorded in Matthew’s Gospel, Eugene Peterson concludes the Beatitudes with these words: “Let me tell you why you are here…” You see, this sermon from Jesus is full of instructions for the people of God. It reminds us of the attitudes we are…
Kenotic Words
worship, sermons, lectionary
Taste and See God’s Provision
htt Text: Luke 13:6-9 Brandon and I planted raspberries in our backyard when we moved to Des Moines. This is officially the eighth summer… and we have yet to see an abundant crop. A handful of crumbling berries that won’t hold together is all we have ever had the chance to harvest. There were a…
Taste and See God’s Power
Text: Luke 24:28-32 One of my favorite experiences while on vacation just now was sharing tapas with Brandon at Jaleo – one of Chef José Andrés’s restaurants. From a perfect slice of toasted bread, brushed with crushed tomatoes and garlic… To an incredible dish of fried eggplant drizzled with honey and lemon… And beautiful cauliflower…
All Things Renewed
Text: Revelation 21:1-6, 21:22-22:5 Many of you know that I love to garden. Digging in the dirt is a spiritual practice for me. Pulling weeds is cathartic. There is nothing better than an afternoon spent tending and nurturing life in my yard. And enjoying the fruits of that labor – whether the beauty of a…
The Army of the Lamb
Text: Revelation 7:9-17 Today in worship, we confirm and welcome twelve new professing members of our congregation and of God’s church. They will stand before us, confess their faith in Jesus, and promise to serve him in union with the Church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races. These twelve…
The Center of the Universe
Text: Revelation 5: 11-14 Last week as we gathered for worship, we focused on the basic message at the core of the Book of Revelation: “Jesus is coming and he will sit on the throne… and the world and all its powers will not. Our work is to allow God to make us into a…
The End of the World as we Know it.
Text: Revelation 1:4-8 “It’s the end of the world as we know it… . It’s the end of the world as we know it… It’s the end of the world as we know it… And I feel fine.” More than fine, actually. I feel hope. I feel promise. I am clinging to the love of…
Graves into Gardens
Text: Luke 24:1-12 Earlier this week, I was preparing for worship and listening to some of the music selected for our time of worship today. And, friends, I’m going to be honest, I’m struggling a bit right now. I’ve got some family stuff that is heavy on my heart. We’ve got some things to navigate…