Confirmations
As Mary and Joseph told their story, we wonder how many of the family members and people of Nazareth believed them. Suddenly, a group of shepherds arrive, telling the same story! God not only acted, He confirmed his actions to inspire belief.
What makes a good gift?
King David wanted to build a house for God, which God had never asked for.
Instead, God promises to build the house of David with an eternal king.
Grinches to the Center
When things are difficult, especially when we're "supposed" to be celebrating, we can feel like outsiders. We have truble engaging in joy, and can dampen any mood. God has something to say about this.
Isaiah 65 is hope for the hurting. God's plan was always to bring the outsiders to the center. He loves us, sees how we hurt, and makes a plan for our healing.
What does greatness really look like?
The religious leaders sent messengers to discover what kind of strength John the Baptist had, and what kind of threat he posed.
With an odd statement about sandals, John begins the complete reorientation of greatness from strength to service.
Gospel Prologue
As we begin a series "Life with Christ", we begin at the beginning. In Mark's gospel - the first account of the life of Jesus does not even mention Jesus. It's about John, who prepares the way in the wilderness.
In the same way, many of our stories of life with Jesus begin with other people who prepare the way, meeting us with compassion and love in our times of interior wilderness.
When Jesus saves us, he saves all of us. The whole thing. Not just part of us.
Today, Amanda takes us through Psalm 80, where the people of God cry out for salvation. In this season of Advent, we acknowledge our own need for salvation and hope for a Savior.
God is a Great King
Psalm 95:3 calls us to praise the Lord. This Psalm is known as the "Venite" and proclaims His greatenss through Creation.
Looking closely at verse 3 today, we discover that because God is a Great King, His Kingdom is infinite, just, and powerful.
To our great comfort, because He is our king, it is also a kingdom of love and welcome.
Priesthood
Every reformation and revival in the history of the church has placed all believers in the role of ministry - a doctrine called the priesthood of all believers. Priests are called to ministry and service.
Today, Bp. Andrew shows from Exodus, 1 Peter, and Matthew the beautiful calling that Jesus gives us.
A Great Invitation
Today, Paul shares with us from Amos and Matthew about a feast.
Jesus' parable of the wedding feast instructs us to be ready. To be ready, we must accept the great invitation and be prepared for the arrival of the bridegroom.
Saints and Martyrs
Since it's beginning, the Church has celebrated saints and martyrs - those who lived and died for their faith.
This faith tells us that we are blessed when we are persecuted - which is something we don't hear too often.