Is Christ Divided?
Easter 5 – Narrative Lectionary 2
April 24, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Acts 18.1-4; 1 Corinthians 1.10-18
I got talked into team teaching an ethics class by a golfing buddy of Al Simonson and Bill Anderson. He had always wanted to teach a class on ethics but felt he couldn’t do it on his own, so he asked me to help. Through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute of the University of Minnesota, “OLLI” as it is known, uses volunteer teachers. So, although it didn’t pay anything it was enjoyable. We’ve met in the Cities four Fridays, my day off, and we’ve examined ways to “do” ethics.
After the third and penultimate session, we asked attendees what we haven’t covered that they’d like us to address. More than one member expressed a desire to learn more about how to have ethical conversations. One woman was especially interested because of her experience of differing value systems than other generations, particularly her granddaughter.
Though we don’t know for sure, having ethical conversations may be a question the Corinthian church asked Paul or that Paul was addressing with them. Last week we heard about the Thessalonian church Paul also founded, one he dearly loved and one that experienced conflict due to persecution from external sources, Jew and Gentile alike. This week the conflict is internal to the church and threatens to blow it apart. Corinth was a major seaport on the Aegean Sea in Greece, located on an isthmus in the Peloponnesus. It was a trade center with diverse population and had a reputation for “anything goes.” The church at Corinth reflected that diversity and the congregation was having a hard time figuring out how to get along with one another.
Although we can’t know for certain, there seem to be several issues creating conflict. Apparently, different groups lined up behind favored theologians and personalities. Furthermore, some of the more affluent members were eating the good food and drinking the good wine before the poorer folk showed up for worship. There also seemed to be an argument about which spiritual gifts were better than others and finally some of the members thought the resurrection was a this-life only experience. Probably the biggest irony of it all was that the one thing that should have united them as a church seemed to be a bone of contention: baptism. They even argued about who baptized whom.
Now, I’m sure some of you are shocked that there could be conflict and division in a church (wink, wink). The reality is that the history of Christianity is one of conflict: in addition to our text, there were disagreements about the divinity of Jesus. There was the great schism around 1100 CE that resulted in the Eastern and Western churches, known as the Orthodox and Roman Catholic respectively.
A few hundred years later, the Protestant Reformation resulted in multiple splits throughout Europe, a phenomenon that continued in the United States today resulting in denominationalism. The Enlightenment, which elevated reason and science about religion, caused churches to respond in various ways, the effects also being felt today. And the Civil War brought further divisions. And although our own denomination, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, was born through mergers, we haven’t been immune to splits. And, if doctrinal battles weren’t enough, there were issues of women’s ordination, the music wars and most devastating to congregational harmony: what color the carpet should be.
In 2007 I was privileged to be a voting member at the ELCA Churchwide Assembly in Chicago. To vote on matters, we had these nifty voting boxes in front of us. To get us used to the way they worked, then Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson give us some practice. He said he wanted to find a question we could all agree on and settled on “Jesus is Lord.” However, on second thought, he was pretty sure he didn’t want to know the answer.
The question is not how to prevent conflict; the question is how we resolve conflict without splits that destroy community. In the weeks ahead, with Paul we’ll address some of the issues in the Corinthian church I mentioned above and get some pointers on how to have conversations. For today and for your consideration, we answer Paul’s rhetorical question, “Is Christ divided” with a resounding, “No!” We listen deeply and intently to one another; and we begin and end our conversations that Jesus Christ, crucified and risen, is our Lord and is the center of our life together.
Last Friday, at our last OLLI session on ethics, we practiced having ethical conversations. We agreed that we need to listen to one another with a sense of humility and curiosity. We need to share our experiences with one another with respect. It has been said, “They will know we are Christians by our love” and I hope that is true. But I would also hope that it could said, “They will know we are Christians by the way we handle conflict.” Our world desperately needs us to figure out how to get along so we can help it do the same. We have hope because Christ is risen; he is risen indeed, alleluia! Amen.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Sunday, April 17, 2016
"The Fear Factor" - Sermon for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
The Fear Factor
Easter 4 – Narrative Lectionary 2
April 17, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Acts 17.1-9; 1 Thessalonians 1.1-10
Last weekend I had a dad-daughters date with our girls and we went to see the newest Disney movie, “Zootopia.” If you haven’t seen it, I won’t spoil it, but the basic story line involves a city where all animals live in harmony. I think the title is a mash-up between “zoology” and utopia.” A rabbit from a rural community has a dream to become the first of her species to be a police officer in Zootopia. She does, but it doesn’t turn out the way she hopes. Furthermore, along the way something happens to make those animals that were formerly “prey” distrust and fear those who were formerly “predators.” In addition to being Disney-funny, the movie is a great social commentary on fear of the other.
I think that the theme of fear runs throughout our texts today. We’ve made quite a jump in Acts since last week and the three movements we sketched out are full swing. Peter has made way for Paul as the featured apostle. The mission to the Gentiles is overshadowing the one to the Jews. And though we are not there yet, we’re getting closer to Rome as the gospel spreads outward from Jerusalem. Paul wants to go into Asia, but is prevented by the Holy Spirit. Then, in a dream, a man from Macedonia, an area of northern Greece, beckons. So Paul goes to Thessalonica, a Roman city that is both a seaport and on the Via Egnatia, a major trade route of the day. It’s an important city to make a base. Per custom, Paul goes to the synagogue first and engages with the local Jewis in the time honored art of disputation. But Paul also plies his trade as tentmaker and therefore is able to make contacts with Jew and Greek alike.
The book of Acts in general and today’s reading—combined with 1 Thessalonians—in particular, shows that the spread of the gospel doesn’t always go smoothly and is even met with hostility. The good news of Christ’s death and resurrection is not always good news to everyone who hears it. The gospel turns peoples’ worlds upside down, including those who embrace it as fully and passionately as the Thessalonians do. The love of God through Jesus brings new life to people, which includes a transformed life. For some people that is not good news and for others, it brings push-back from friends and family. That was certainly true for me when I returned to the church after almost a decade away. Some people didn’t know how to handle my “new life.”
Whether you are threatened by the gospel of Jesus or trying to live out the gospel of Jesus, there is one factor that runs through both: the fear factor. For the Thessalonians, it was fear of persecution. For us almost 2,000 years later, who also struggle with living the life of faith, the fear may take other forms. We may be afraid to be associated with the typically negative view of Christians in our society. Or we may be afraid to speak from our religious convictions in a society that discounts such a voice. We may even be afraid to step into new territory and let go of the old familiar ways of doing things in order to try new things, new things that our new life asks us to do.
This month’s issue of Living Lutheran carries a column by Peter Marty on fear that speaks well to this topic of fear. Marty says “the greatest achievement of Easter is not a freedom from death, but freedom from our fears.” He goes on to say, “The gift of faith turns out to be nothing less than the courage to live and act in spite of our fears.” In other words, the same good news of Jesus that transforms our lives also gives us the courage to face our fears. Like the animals in “Zootopia,” we have the opportunity to speak against the fear of the other and the good news of Jesus Christ crucified and raised from the dead gives us courage to do so. Although it is correct to say, “Christ has been raised,” we put it in the present tense: Christ is risen! Christ is risen, indeed, alleluia. Go with great courage. Amen.
Easter 4 – Narrative Lectionary 2
April 17, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Acts 17.1-9; 1 Thessalonians 1.1-10
Last weekend I had a dad-daughters date with our girls and we went to see the newest Disney movie, “Zootopia.” If you haven’t seen it, I won’t spoil it, but the basic story line involves a city where all animals live in harmony. I think the title is a mash-up between “zoology” and utopia.” A rabbit from a rural community has a dream to become the first of her species to be a police officer in Zootopia. She does, but it doesn’t turn out the way she hopes. Furthermore, along the way something happens to make those animals that were formerly “prey” distrust and fear those who were formerly “predators.” In addition to being Disney-funny, the movie is a great social commentary on fear of the other.
I think that the theme of fear runs throughout our texts today. We’ve made quite a jump in Acts since last week and the three movements we sketched out are full swing. Peter has made way for Paul as the featured apostle. The mission to the Gentiles is overshadowing the one to the Jews. And though we are not there yet, we’re getting closer to Rome as the gospel spreads outward from Jerusalem. Paul wants to go into Asia, but is prevented by the Holy Spirit. Then, in a dream, a man from Macedonia, an area of northern Greece, beckons. So Paul goes to Thessalonica, a Roman city that is both a seaport and on the Via Egnatia, a major trade route of the day. It’s an important city to make a base. Per custom, Paul goes to the synagogue first and engages with the local Jewis in the time honored art of disputation. But Paul also plies his trade as tentmaker and therefore is able to make contacts with Jew and Greek alike.
The book of Acts in general and today’s reading—combined with 1 Thessalonians—in particular, shows that the spread of the gospel doesn’t always go smoothly and is even met with hostility. The good news of Christ’s death and resurrection is not always good news to everyone who hears it. The gospel turns peoples’ worlds upside down, including those who embrace it as fully and passionately as the Thessalonians do. The love of God through Jesus brings new life to people, which includes a transformed life. For some people that is not good news and for others, it brings push-back from friends and family. That was certainly true for me when I returned to the church after almost a decade away. Some people didn’t know how to handle my “new life.”
Whether you are threatened by the gospel of Jesus or trying to live out the gospel of Jesus, there is one factor that runs through both: the fear factor. For the Thessalonians, it was fear of persecution. For us almost 2,000 years later, who also struggle with living the life of faith, the fear may take other forms. We may be afraid to be associated with the typically negative view of Christians in our society. Or we may be afraid to speak from our religious convictions in a society that discounts such a voice. We may even be afraid to step into new territory and let go of the old familiar ways of doing things in order to try new things, new things that our new life asks us to do.
This month’s issue of Living Lutheran carries a column by Peter Marty on fear that speaks well to this topic of fear. Marty says “the greatest achievement of Easter is not a freedom from death, but freedom from our fears.” He goes on to say, “The gift of faith turns out to be nothing less than the courage to live and act in spite of our fears.” In other words, the same good news of Jesus that transforms our lives also gives us the courage to face our fears. Like the animals in “Zootopia,” we have the opportunity to speak against the fear of the other and the good news of Jesus Christ crucified and raised from the dead gives us courage to do so. Although it is correct to say, “Christ has been raised,” we put it in the present tense: Christ is risen! Christ is risen, indeed, alleluia. Go with great courage. Amen.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
"What’s in Your Wallet?" - Sermon for the Third Sunday of Easter
What’s in Your Wallet?
Easter 3 – Narrative Lectionary 2
April 10, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Acts 3.1-10
What’s in your wallet? Take out your wallet or purse and look in there. What is one thing that is in there that signifies something God has given you for the sake of the world? Hold that item in your hand or mind for a while.
Two weeks ago on Easter I posed the question, “What now?” I did this because of the empty tomb and the abrupt ending of Mark’s story as evidence that resurrection is not a conclusion but a beginning or invitation. The resurrection is an invitation to new life. The book of Acts and the letters to the churches that follow are accounts of the early Christians trying to figure that out and it’s helpful to know that there wasn’t a blueprint on how to do it. In fact, they make it up as they go along.
In the book of Acts in particular, it’s helpful to know there are three major movements in the story: from Peter to Paul, from Jew to Gentile and from Jerusalem to Rome. Peter has center stage at the beginning with spreading the gospel to the early Christians, who are Jewish. When it becomes evident that Gentiles are included, the spotlight shifts to Paul and his work. Finally, though the story begins in Jerusalem, it ends in Rome, signifying the universality of the gospel message. One more important thing to note about the book of Acts: it’s helpful to think of it as the “Acts of the Holy Spirit” rather than the Acts of the Apostles. The Holy Spirit is mentioned 43 times in the book. The Holy Spirit is in charge, not the apostles.
Two weeks ago I could have easily posed the question, “So What?,” which is a slightly different question. In other words, what difference does it make that God came in the flesh, preached good news to the poor, healed the sick, died on a cross and was raised from the dead? Last week, John did a great job talking about how Jesus “passed the torch” to his followers and us, inviting us to continue Jesus’ ministry. Today we hear the story of how Peter and John attend to another aspect of that ministry: healing. One point of the story is the assertion that the resurrection has real, tangible consequences. It prods us to consider whether we really believe that the resurrection and name of Jesus make a difference in our lives and in the world.
It’s important to note that the man’s healing does not necessarily mean all people will be healed in the name of Jesus in this particular way. But it is a sign of hope for all people that Jesus continues to be active in the world. Furthermore, we want to acknowledge that healing stories in the Bible operate on more than just the literal level and this is no exception. I was drawn today to Peter’s claim that he can’t give the man what he asked for, but what he had. Now, I want to set aside the issues of whether Peter really didn’t have anything and how he presumed to know what the man needed to focus on what it is God gives us for the healing of the world.
As I pondered this, I recalled a credit card commercial that asks, “What’s in your wallet?” What did you find there? Are there things in there you forgot were there? Where did they come from? I’m pretty sure almost everything comes from someone or somewhere else and there probably things that you didn’t remember you put there. Now, using an item from your wallet think: what about your spiritual wallet? What are the things God has given you to heal others, to make a difference in the world?
I asked this question Wednesday night and had people talk about it. Mark Szybnski mentioned he had a band-aid in his wallet, reminding him of God’s call to bring healing to others, like the Good Samaritan. Sam Anderson talked about his blood donor card and how God has given him the gift of life that he can give others. Barb Heller mentioned her driver’s license, which enables her to give people rides to places they need to be. I see my business cards, which reminds me that all people are called to serve God and neighbor through our various vocations.
Again, last week John talked about the many ways the people of Grace give ourselves away through the God’s ministry in this place. This week, our leadership convened the building and building finance teams that will move us forward in our goal to support God’s mission and ministry through a mission-ready building. This is important and exciting and terrifying work, and we’ll ask you to be a part of it. But I also invite you to think about other items in your spiritual wallet, things that God has given to you. Maybe it means looking intently at those who we fail to see at our doorstep and giving them a hand in some way. So, what’s in your wallet? Amen.
Easter 3 – Narrative Lectionary 2
April 10, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Acts 3.1-10
What’s in your wallet? Take out your wallet or purse and look in there. What is one thing that is in there that signifies something God has given you for the sake of the world? Hold that item in your hand or mind for a while.
Two weeks ago on Easter I posed the question, “What now?” I did this because of the empty tomb and the abrupt ending of Mark’s story as evidence that resurrection is not a conclusion but a beginning or invitation. The resurrection is an invitation to new life. The book of Acts and the letters to the churches that follow are accounts of the early Christians trying to figure that out and it’s helpful to know that there wasn’t a blueprint on how to do it. In fact, they make it up as they go along.
In the book of Acts in particular, it’s helpful to know there are three major movements in the story: from Peter to Paul, from Jew to Gentile and from Jerusalem to Rome. Peter has center stage at the beginning with spreading the gospel to the early Christians, who are Jewish. When it becomes evident that Gentiles are included, the spotlight shifts to Paul and his work. Finally, though the story begins in Jerusalem, it ends in Rome, signifying the universality of the gospel message. One more important thing to note about the book of Acts: it’s helpful to think of it as the “Acts of the Holy Spirit” rather than the Acts of the Apostles. The Holy Spirit is mentioned 43 times in the book. The Holy Spirit is in charge, not the apostles.
Two weeks ago I could have easily posed the question, “So What?,” which is a slightly different question. In other words, what difference does it make that God came in the flesh, preached good news to the poor, healed the sick, died on a cross and was raised from the dead? Last week, John did a great job talking about how Jesus “passed the torch” to his followers and us, inviting us to continue Jesus’ ministry. Today we hear the story of how Peter and John attend to another aspect of that ministry: healing. One point of the story is the assertion that the resurrection has real, tangible consequences. It prods us to consider whether we really believe that the resurrection and name of Jesus make a difference in our lives and in the world.
It’s important to note that the man’s healing does not necessarily mean all people will be healed in the name of Jesus in this particular way. But it is a sign of hope for all people that Jesus continues to be active in the world. Furthermore, we want to acknowledge that healing stories in the Bible operate on more than just the literal level and this is no exception. I was drawn today to Peter’s claim that he can’t give the man what he asked for, but what he had. Now, I want to set aside the issues of whether Peter really didn’t have anything and how he presumed to know what the man needed to focus on what it is God gives us for the healing of the world.
As I pondered this, I recalled a credit card commercial that asks, “What’s in your wallet?” What did you find there? Are there things in there you forgot were there? Where did they come from? I’m pretty sure almost everything comes from someone or somewhere else and there probably things that you didn’t remember you put there. Now, using an item from your wallet think: what about your spiritual wallet? What are the things God has given you to heal others, to make a difference in the world?
I asked this question Wednesday night and had people talk about it. Mark Szybnski mentioned he had a band-aid in his wallet, reminding him of God’s call to bring healing to others, like the Good Samaritan. Sam Anderson talked about his blood donor card and how God has given him the gift of life that he can give others. Barb Heller mentioned her driver’s license, which enables her to give people rides to places they need to be. I see my business cards, which reminds me that all people are called to serve God and neighbor through our various vocations.
Again, last week John talked about the many ways the people of Grace give ourselves away through the God’s ministry in this place. This week, our leadership convened the building and building finance teams that will move us forward in our goal to support God’s mission and ministry through a mission-ready building. This is important and exciting and terrifying work, and we’ll ask you to be a part of it. But I also invite you to think about other items in your spiritual wallet, things that God has given to you. Maybe it means looking intently at those who we fail to see at our doorstep and giving them a hand in some way. So, what’s in your wallet? Amen.
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
Sermon for the Second Sunday of Easter - John Odegard, Minister for Discipleship and Faith Formation
Sermon for Easter 2 - Narrative Lectionary 2
John Odegard, Minister for Discipleship and Faith Formation
Grace Lutheran Church, Mankato, MN
Acts 1:1-14
Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ, I am once again grateful for the chance to share the good news with you today.
Today, our focus scripture is from the book of Acts. The author of this book is the same who wrote the book of Luke and in our text today the author is bridging the gap between Jesus physical ministry here on earth, where He has shown us that He is the Savior, the Son of God Most High. He has performed miracles among us, He has been crucified, died for us and was buried. On the third day, He rose again. He appeared to many people, reached out His hands for Thomas to touch, and spoke with the disciples about the Kingdom of God. 40 days pass from His death until Jesus ascends into Heaven from Mount Olivet. The author is bridging the gap between the narrative of Jesus’ physical life on earth, and that of what Jesus did through Peter and the other apostles as they went out as witnesses to the gospel. This begins the new narrative of what Jesus did and continues to do, through the Holy Spirit and the church. While the book is called the Acts of the Apostles, it is really about what Jesus is doing in, with, and through them. Jesus ministry is not over when He ascends into Heaven, it just changes shape.
The 19th century preacher and writer Alexander MacLaren describes this change in a way that I can relate to, and I hope you can too. He said, “It is one thing to lay a foundation; it is another thing to build a house. And the work of laying the foundation must be finished before the work of building the structure upon it can be begun.”
So Jesus ascends into Heaven, but He doesn’t leave us; He is simply changing the nature of our relationship. Through this new relationship, Jesus invites us to know Him better. When He was among them, the Gospel points out that the Disciples were often confused by what He was saying to them and teaching them. It was only later that they fully understood the purpose of Jesus life and death. It was only after His ascension into Heaven that they realized that Jesus is King and the cross was His throne. It is because of the cross that Jesus is king of all. Jesus ascends into Heaven and gives us a deeper understanding of His ministry in the process. He sends us the Holy Spirit and all of the gifts that come with it and makes US His hands and feet here. He tells us by way of the disciples, that we will be His witnesses not only to the Jews, and not only to other believers, but to the very ends of the earth. Lo, and behold, here we are almost as far from Jerusalem as a person can get, more than 6,000 miles away acting as witness to the Gospel every day.
Whether we like it or not, whether we know it or not, as a Christian we are acting as witness to Jesus every day. Being a witness to Christ is not something we choose to do. It’s not something Jesus instructed us to do either. Look at the way He says it in our text today. Jesus said you WILL be my witness. And that’s true, isn’t it? Sure, sometimes we actively choose to intentionally share the Gospel. The rest of the time though? That’s our time off, right? I punch out when I leave church, when I’m out with friends, or at the gym, eating dinner with my family. Those times I’m off duty right? Just a regular guy.
Whether we like it or not, we ARE a witness to Christ all of the time. If you identify as a Christian, if you confess that Jesus is your Lord and Savior, whether you realize it or not we are His witness all of the time. In the very Lutheran idea of being a Sinner and Saint, we witness to Christ both through our brokenness and though the changes evident in our character because of Jesus. We are a witness to the fact that Jesus came and died for all of us, even us normal folk.
Everything we do defines what it means to be a Christian to our children, to our neighbors, and to the world.
As a parent, I’m constantly thinking about how to make sure my kids know Jesus. It always comes back to one thing though, no matter how many books you read on youth ministry or how many pastors you talk to, you will find that one thing makes a bigger impact on our kids than anything else. If I make my faith a priority, my kids will know it’s important to me. How you do that is open for discussion but when you treat something as important, people notice. It gets a little weight behind it. When we make an effort to focus our sights on what God is calling us to do, to serve Him and to serve others, we not only open ourselves up to Him, but we automatically demonstrate to others the importance of our faith not through words, but through actions.
When you, the members of Grace come down here and make food for the Tuesday lunch for a buck up at Crossroads, every month. When you are this consistent force for good in the eyes of those kids and adults who rely on that meal. When I hear through others that Grace is the church those kids recognize up there for everything you are doing, I am grateful that you are being a witness to the Gospel and its awesome power to make this world a little brighter. I am grateful for what Jesus is accomplishing through your hands in our kitchen.
When I hear about the time you spend volunteering at The Reach with homeless youth, and you invite others to get involved, you are really demonstrating that Jesus cares for and loves those who are lost. You are showing that everyone is important to Him, and that even the least of these are loved by Our Lord. I am grateful for what Jesus can do through your generous and loving hearts.
One of the things I am most proud of is the way the people of Grace bear witness to Christ as the one who welcomes all. The way that our congregation uses it’s building as a tool for the greater good, to be shared with all of God’s people is a remarkable demonstration of Jesus Christ welcoming all. Furthermore, you went out into the community to talk about ways our building could serve others even more as we look at a future building renovation. We aren’t just thinking of serving those already here in the church, we’re reaching out. We already have people in here multiple times every week, using our building for everything from weight-loss support to foster parenting classes. From the girl scouts to autism awareness groups. And still, we‘re reaching out to do more, and to give more of ourselves.
And then every Sunday and every Wednesday we proclaim that all are welcome to Christ’s table. We usually say this multiple times so that everyone knows, even if you have never been here before, you are welcome to Christ’s table here. I am in awe of what Jesus can do through a community of believers.
Sure, it can get messy sometimes (point to confetti) but living your faith and sharing it both through your words and actions is the only way for it to grow.
Remember, faith isn’t just supposed to happen in church. This message of the life changing love of Jesus Christ isn’t just for those who already belong.
In our companion text for today, in the Gospel of Mark, we hear of the Disciples being sent out into the world. He sends us out too. Even now we are sent out to be His hands and feet.
We all have doubts and fears. One of the most common fears I hear is that people don’t think they have what it takes to teach, that they aren’t a good enough Christian. The Disciples probably felt that way too, but still Jesus sends us out. Then He tells us not to bring any of the things we sometimes think are necessary. The things we think will give us the life that He wants for us. I will gladly tell you, Jesus told us it’s not money, or clothes, it isn’t food or the place we live that makes us able to be a witness to Him, it’s the Holy Spirit. He gives that to each of us, and He has already given us everything we need.
We can do it in joy or sorrow, when everything seems to be going well or through hard times. Every season of life has its opportunities. We can bear witness to Christ though our charity when we are doing well, and through our genuine vulnerability when we are not.
Jesus knows you and loves you. He wants you to have life abundant. He wants you to grow in faith and understanding. On Wednesday night I had you use a candle as we talked about sharing faith. I talked about how our faith is like a candle in the darkness. We can hold on tight when the power goes out and patiently wait it out, clinging to what we have. Or we can share it with our neighbor and watch as it grows.
That was close to what I meant, but then I came across a quote from novelist Edith Wharton that says what I believe is really happening when we live out our faith. She said,
“There are two ways of spreading light; to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”
We are the mirror that reflects the grace of Our Lord. Go and reflect His light throughout the world… Amen.
John Odegard, Minister for Discipleship and Faith Formation
Grace Lutheran Church, Mankato, MN
Acts 1:1-14
Greetings brothers and sisters in Christ, I am once again grateful for the chance to share the good news with you today.
Today, our focus scripture is from the book of Acts. The author of this book is the same who wrote the book of Luke and in our text today the author is bridging the gap between Jesus physical ministry here on earth, where He has shown us that He is the Savior, the Son of God Most High. He has performed miracles among us, He has been crucified, died for us and was buried. On the third day, He rose again. He appeared to many people, reached out His hands for Thomas to touch, and spoke with the disciples about the Kingdom of God. 40 days pass from His death until Jesus ascends into Heaven from Mount Olivet. The author is bridging the gap between the narrative of Jesus’ physical life on earth, and that of what Jesus did through Peter and the other apostles as they went out as witnesses to the gospel. This begins the new narrative of what Jesus did and continues to do, through the Holy Spirit and the church. While the book is called the Acts of the Apostles, it is really about what Jesus is doing in, with, and through them. Jesus ministry is not over when He ascends into Heaven, it just changes shape.
The 19th century preacher and writer Alexander MacLaren describes this change in a way that I can relate to, and I hope you can too. He said, “It is one thing to lay a foundation; it is another thing to build a house. And the work of laying the foundation must be finished before the work of building the structure upon it can be begun.”
So Jesus ascends into Heaven, but He doesn’t leave us; He is simply changing the nature of our relationship. Through this new relationship, Jesus invites us to know Him better. When He was among them, the Gospel points out that the Disciples were often confused by what He was saying to them and teaching them. It was only later that they fully understood the purpose of Jesus life and death. It was only after His ascension into Heaven that they realized that Jesus is King and the cross was His throne. It is because of the cross that Jesus is king of all. Jesus ascends into Heaven and gives us a deeper understanding of His ministry in the process. He sends us the Holy Spirit and all of the gifts that come with it and makes US His hands and feet here. He tells us by way of the disciples, that we will be His witnesses not only to the Jews, and not only to other believers, but to the very ends of the earth. Lo, and behold, here we are almost as far from Jerusalem as a person can get, more than 6,000 miles away acting as witness to the Gospel every day.
Whether we like it or not, whether we know it or not, as a Christian we are acting as witness to Jesus every day. Being a witness to Christ is not something we choose to do. It’s not something Jesus instructed us to do either. Look at the way He says it in our text today. Jesus said you WILL be my witness. And that’s true, isn’t it? Sure, sometimes we actively choose to intentionally share the Gospel. The rest of the time though? That’s our time off, right? I punch out when I leave church, when I’m out with friends, or at the gym, eating dinner with my family. Those times I’m off duty right? Just a regular guy.
Whether we like it or not, we ARE a witness to Christ all of the time. If you identify as a Christian, if you confess that Jesus is your Lord and Savior, whether you realize it or not we are His witness all of the time. In the very Lutheran idea of being a Sinner and Saint, we witness to Christ both through our brokenness and though the changes evident in our character because of Jesus. We are a witness to the fact that Jesus came and died for all of us, even us normal folk.
Everything we do defines what it means to be a Christian to our children, to our neighbors, and to the world.
As a parent, I’m constantly thinking about how to make sure my kids know Jesus. It always comes back to one thing though, no matter how many books you read on youth ministry or how many pastors you talk to, you will find that one thing makes a bigger impact on our kids than anything else. If I make my faith a priority, my kids will know it’s important to me. How you do that is open for discussion but when you treat something as important, people notice. It gets a little weight behind it. When we make an effort to focus our sights on what God is calling us to do, to serve Him and to serve others, we not only open ourselves up to Him, but we automatically demonstrate to others the importance of our faith not through words, but through actions.
When you, the members of Grace come down here and make food for the Tuesday lunch for a buck up at Crossroads, every month. When you are this consistent force for good in the eyes of those kids and adults who rely on that meal. When I hear through others that Grace is the church those kids recognize up there for everything you are doing, I am grateful that you are being a witness to the Gospel and its awesome power to make this world a little brighter. I am grateful for what Jesus is accomplishing through your hands in our kitchen.
When I hear about the time you spend volunteering at The Reach with homeless youth, and you invite others to get involved, you are really demonstrating that Jesus cares for and loves those who are lost. You are showing that everyone is important to Him, and that even the least of these are loved by Our Lord. I am grateful for what Jesus can do through your generous and loving hearts.
One of the things I am most proud of is the way the people of Grace bear witness to Christ as the one who welcomes all. The way that our congregation uses it’s building as a tool for the greater good, to be shared with all of God’s people is a remarkable demonstration of Jesus Christ welcoming all. Furthermore, you went out into the community to talk about ways our building could serve others even more as we look at a future building renovation. We aren’t just thinking of serving those already here in the church, we’re reaching out. We already have people in here multiple times every week, using our building for everything from weight-loss support to foster parenting classes. From the girl scouts to autism awareness groups. And still, we‘re reaching out to do more, and to give more of ourselves.
And then every Sunday and every Wednesday we proclaim that all are welcome to Christ’s table. We usually say this multiple times so that everyone knows, even if you have never been here before, you are welcome to Christ’s table here. I am in awe of what Jesus can do through a community of believers.
Sure, it can get messy sometimes (point to confetti) but living your faith and sharing it both through your words and actions is the only way for it to grow.
Remember, faith isn’t just supposed to happen in church. This message of the life changing love of Jesus Christ isn’t just for those who already belong.
In our companion text for today, in the Gospel of Mark, we hear of the Disciples being sent out into the world. He sends us out too. Even now we are sent out to be His hands and feet.
We all have doubts and fears. One of the most common fears I hear is that people don’t think they have what it takes to teach, that they aren’t a good enough Christian. The Disciples probably felt that way too, but still Jesus sends us out. Then He tells us not to bring any of the things we sometimes think are necessary. The things we think will give us the life that He wants for us. I will gladly tell you, Jesus told us it’s not money, or clothes, it isn’t food or the place we live that makes us able to be a witness to Him, it’s the Holy Spirit. He gives that to each of us, and He has already given us everything we need.
We can do it in joy or sorrow, when everything seems to be going well or through hard times. Every season of life has its opportunities. We can bear witness to Christ though our charity when we are doing well, and through our genuine vulnerability when we are not.
Jesus knows you and loves you. He wants you to have life abundant. He wants you to grow in faith and understanding. On Wednesday night I had you use a candle as we talked about sharing faith. I talked about how our faith is like a candle in the darkness. We can hold on tight when the power goes out and patiently wait it out, clinging to what we have. Or we can share it with our neighbor and watch as it grows.
That was close to what I meant, but then I came across a quote from novelist Edith Wharton that says what I believe is really happening when we live out our faith. She said,
“There are two ways of spreading light; to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”
We are the mirror that reflects the grace of Our Lord. Go and reflect His light throughout the world… Amen.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
"Now What?" - Sermon for Easter Sunday
Now What?
Resurrection of Our Lord – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 27, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 16.1-8
Someone talked. Someone had to have talked otherwise we wouldn’t be here today. This abrupt and deeply unsatisfying non-ending of Mark’s has been hotly debated for centuries. Early transmitters were so uncomfortable they added not just one but two endings. Mark’s ending reminds us of the season ending TV show cliffhanger that leaves us frustrated. If Mark were to submit this manuscript today, modern day editors would do the same, if it was accepted at all. Of course, as modern day pundits might posit, it would be accepted if Mark would make it a trilogy. But, as someone observed, this is no way to run a resurrection. There is no fanfare or pageantry, just three women running away in fear. Their faithfulness seemed so promising, but in the end they stumble like their male contemporaries.
I can’t prove it, but I think they finally found their voices because someone told and that gives us a hint about Mark’s ending. It’s incredibly important to our life of faith to remember that life is not solved in 30-60 minutes or even over several episodes and there is no such thing as closure in life. I think closure is the worst idea that has been foisted upon us these days. We need to remember that resurrection isn’t an ending; it’s a beginning. When we think about it, this story is as real as it gets. These people, who stumble, are us. And the story is told so shabbily it must be true. You just can’t make this stuff up, so we can relate to the open-ended, messiness of life.
One of my favorite commentators of all things biblical, David Lose, reminds us that resurrection isn’t a conclusion; it’s an invitation. It’s an invitation to live resurrection lives, which doesn’t mean that our lives are tied up like a nice bow. The resurrection life means that God beckons us to be a part of God’s work in the world. Resurrection means that, as we’ll see in the book of Acts, we’ll be making it up as we go. Resurrection means that we’ll stumble and fail just as spectacularly as those first men and women followers of Jesus, but that Jesus promises to meet us anyway and show us the way.
Yet, we must be careful not to think it’s up to us. It’s not up to us; it’s up to God working in, with, and through us. Most importantly, Mark’s story in general and the ending in particular shatters our expectations about Jesus and how he works. Remember, this is a Jesus who sides with the poor, oppressed, marginalized and outcast. This is a Jesus who says that true life is found by giving ourselves away. This is a Jesus who overthrows the politics of fear. This ending shows us that neither the tomb nor the ending can contain Jesus and neither can we. The good news is that that God can neither be shut in nor shut out of the world.
This non-ending in Marks tells us that there is hope because Jesus cannot be contained by a tomb and God can be trusted to finish what God has begun. And when we look at the pain and suffering in our world we see that this is even better news. Why? Because the good news is that God isn’t done yet and God is inviting us to help. One of the things I love about Grace is that we are learning to ask, “Now what?” We’re learning to be nimble and move wherever the Holy Spirit is leading us. God isn’t asking us to solve it all; in fact, God isn’t asking us to solve anything at all. God is inviting us to look for places where we can make a difference, to work for peace and justice in the world.
What I want you to know today is that, no matter what is going on in your life, God is there working to bring resurrection life. Christ is risen from the dead and as you go from here today, may you be part of that new life that God so graciously offers. Amen
Resurrection of Our Lord – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 27, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 16.1-8
Someone talked. Someone had to have talked otherwise we wouldn’t be here today. This abrupt and deeply unsatisfying non-ending of Mark’s has been hotly debated for centuries. Early transmitters were so uncomfortable they added not just one but two endings. Mark’s ending reminds us of the season ending TV show cliffhanger that leaves us frustrated. If Mark were to submit this manuscript today, modern day editors would do the same, if it was accepted at all. Of course, as modern day pundits might posit, it would be accepted if Mark would make it a trilogy. But, as someone observed, this is no way to run a resurrection. There is no fanfare or pageantry, just three women running away in fear. Their faithfulness seemed so promising, but in the end they stumble like their male contemporaries.
I can’t prove it, but I think they finally found their voices because someone told and that gives us a hint about Mark’s ending. It’s incredibly important to our life of faith to remember that life is not solved in 30-60 minutes or even over several episodes and there is no such thing as closure in life. I think closure is the worst idea that has been foisted upon us these days. We need to remember that resurrection isn’t an ending; it’s a beginning. When we think about it, this story is as real as it gets. These people, who stumble, are us. And the story is told so shabbily it must be true. You just can’t make this stuff up, so we can relate to the open-ended, messiness of life.
One of my favorite commentators of all things biblical, David Lose, reminds us that resurrection isn’t a conclusion; it’s an invitation. It’s an invitation to live resurrection lives, which doesn’t mean that our lives are tied up like a nice bow. The resurrection life means that God beckons us to be a part of God’s work in the world. Resurrection means that, as we’ll see in the book of Acts, we’ll be making it up as we go. Resurrection means that we’ll stumble and fail just as spectacularly as those first men and women followers of Jesus, but that Jesus promises to meet us anyway and show us the way.
Yet, we must be careful not to think it’s up to us. It’s not up to us; it’s up to God working in, with, and through us. Most importantly, Mark’s story in general and the ending in particular shatters our expectations about Jesus and how he works. Remember, this is a Jesus who sides with the poor, oppressed, marginalized and outcast. This is a Jesus who says that true life is found by giving ourselves away. This is a Jesus who overthrows the politics of fear. This ending shows us that neither the tomb nor the ending can contain Jesus and neither can we. The good news is that that God can neither be shut in nor shut out of the world.
This non-ending in Marks tells us that there is hope because Jesus cannot be contained by a tomb and God can be trusted to finish what God has begun. And when we look at the pain and suffering in our world we see that this is even better news. Why? Because the good news is that God isn’t done yet and God is inviting us to help. One of the things I love about Grace is that we are learning to ask, “Now what?” We’re learning to be nimble and move wherever the Holy Spirit is leading us. God isn’t asking us to solve it all; in fact, God isn’t asking us to solve anything at all. God is inviting us to look for places where we can make a difference, to work for peace and justice in the world.
What I want you to know today is that, no matter what is going on in your life, God is there working to bring resurrection life. Christ is risen from the dead and as you go from here today, may you be part of that new life that God so graciously offers. Amen
Friday, March 25, 2016
"A Mockery of Justice" - Sermon for Good Friday
A Mockery of Justice
Good Friday – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 25, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 15.16-39
Last evening, we remembered the part of the Jesus story spent with his disciples at the Last Supper. That most intimate of meals with his closest friends ended with Jesus predicting their desertion, denial and abandonment. After that meal, they go to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus engages in fervent prayer and where sleeping is more important than watching. (Modern day pundits have the disciples texting while Jesus is praying.) It is here that Judas’ betrayal bears fruit and Jesus is arrested by the temple guard. He is then “tried” before the religious ruling council where it was decided he was worthy of death, a death that could only come at the hands of the Roman government.
Before Pilate could even question Jesus, Peter does indeed deny Jesus three times and the cock crows in response. In a tightly worded narrative, Pilate questions Jesus and is forced to hand him over for crucifixion, preferring to sacrifice one innocent man to forestall a riot by a mob. We heard a few moments ago the mockery of Jesus by numerous characters in the drama: Pilate’s soldiers, the religious leaders, the criminals at Jesus’ right and left hands, and the crowds. There’s no need for Mark to relate the gory details. Not only would the early readers be familiar with the brutality of crucifixion, Jesus’ cry of forsakenness and utter abandonment speaks volumes.
As we watch and listen, we are tempted to stand emotionally distant, believing these events haven’t anything to do with us. But, deep down we know better, because it has everything to do with us; it is our story, too. Each gospel writer emphases a particular aspect of Jesus’ death and for Mark it is Jesus’ kingship. Of course, Jesus isn’t the king they were expecting, but he is king nonetheless. It is also appealing to claim that, unlike the leaders, soldiers and crowd, we know him as king even if they don’t. Yet, if we are honest, we know we don’t really treat him as a king, not any more than the decorative kings we read about in other countries. In other words, we fail to stop and come to grips that Jesus really is King of our lives and all that entails.
Not recognizing Jesus as king means a number of things. One thing I think it means is that we make a mockery of him and his rule whenever we exchange an authentic version of the life he came to bring for a cheap one. We sell our souls cheaply. But, on Good Friday the cross of Jesus Christ nudges its way into our souls, pushing us to admit there are things that get in the way. There are things that we’ve allowed to be rulers of our lives, things that keep us from the life God has for us. Some of them are good things, such as our possessions or our relationships or various activities. Some are downright demonic: anger, hurt, resentment, jealousy and the rest of the seven deadly sins. On Good Friday, it’s our delusions that get crucified.
There are many theories about what Jesus’ death means and does, but I prefer Martin Luther’s. In short, he says that Jesus takes all of the yuckiness of our life and willingly exchanges it for his righteousness. And that’s what I’m going to invite you to do tonight, to write down on that slip of paper the biggest thing that’s making it hard to live the life God intends and place it on the cross.
As you do, I want you to remember, as David Lose says, that God doesn’t hold back, that God is determined to join God’s own self to us so completely that we might live in hope and courage. For this king is the King of Love, who loves us until it hurts and then loves us some more. Amen.
Good Friday – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 25, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 15.16-39
Last evening, we remembered the part of the Jesus story spent with his disciples at the Last Supper. That most intimate of meals with his closest friends ended with Jesus predicting their desertion, denial and abandonment. After that meal, they go to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus engages in fervent prayer and where sleeping is more important than watching. (Modern day pundits have the disciples texting while Jesus is praying.) It is here that Judas’ betrayal bears fruit and Jesus is arrested by the temple guard. He is then “tried” before the religious ruling council where it was decided he was worthy of death, a death that could only come at the hands of the Roman government.
Before Pilate could even question Jesus, Peter does indeed deny Jesus three times and the cock crows in response. In a tightly worded narrative, Pilate questions Jesus and is forced to hand him over for crucifixion, preferring to sacrifice one innocent man to forestall a riot by a mob. We heard a few moments ago the mockery of Jesus by numerous characters in the drama: Pilate’s soldiers, the religious leaders, the criminals at Jesus’ right and left hands, and the crowds. There’s no need for Mark to relate the gory details. Not only would the early readers be familiar with the brutality of crucifixion, Jesus’ cry of forsakenness and utter abandonment speaks volumes.
As we watch and listen, we are tempted to stand emotionally distant, believing these events haven’t anything to do with us. But, deep down we know better, because it has everything to do with us; it is our story, too. Each gospel writer emphases a particular aspect of Jesus’ death and for Mark it is Jesus’ kingship. Of course, Jesus isn’t the king they were expecting, but he is king nonetheless. It is also appealing to claim that, unlike the leaders, soldiers and crowd, we know him as king even if they don’t. Yet, if we are honest, we know we don’t really treat him as a king, not any more than the decorative kings we read about in other countries. In other words, we fail to stop and come to grips that Jesus really is King of our lives and all that entails.
Not recognizing Jesus as king means a number of things. One thing I think it means is that we make a mockery of him and his rule whenever we exchange an authentic version of the life he came to bring for a cheap one. We sell our souls cheaply. But, on Good Friday the cross of Jesus Christ nudges its way into our souls, pushing us to admit there are things that get in the way. There are things that we’ve allowed to be rulers of our lives, things that keep us from the life God has for us. Some of them are good things, such as our possessions or our relationships or various activities. Some are downright demonic: anger, hurt, resentment, jealousy and the rest of the seven deadly sins. On Good Friday, it’s our delusions that get crucified.
There are many theories about what Jesus’ death means and does, but I prefer Martin Luther’s. In short, he says that Jesus takes all of the yuckiness of our life and willingly exchanges it for his righteousness. And that’s what I’m going to invite you to do tonight, to write down on that slip of paper the biggest thing that’s making it hard to live the life God intends and place it on the cross.
As you do, I want you to remember, as David Lose says, that God doesn’t hold back, that God is determined to join God’s own self to us so completely that we might live in hope and courage. For this king is the King of Love, who loves us until it hurts and then loves us some more. Amen.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
"Searching for Sunday: Holy Communion" - Sermon for Maundy Thursday
Searching for Sunday: Holy Communion
Maundy Thursday – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 24, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 14.12-31
The church feeds us. The church feeds us. That’s what Rachel Held Evans wants us to know about the church. It’s is the last section in our Lenten series using Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church. Evans has used the traditional seven sacraments of the church as lens for finding the church anew in our time. We’ve been using the book as a framework for renewing our life of faith. Though we recognize two of the seven in her book as sacraments, we can claim the other five as sacramental. Even so, there’s no disagreement that Holy Communion is a sacrament for most Christians. It is also good to remember that both sacraments and sacramental things say, “Pay attention, this stuff matters, these things are holy.”
The church feeds us and what a meal it is! Barbara Brown Taylor reminds us that of all the things Jesus could have said to his followers to think about while he was gone, instead gave them some concrete things to do: “Do this for the remembrance of me.” Now, this meal has evolved down through the ages and is celebrated differently in various Christian communities. However, Evans points out that regardless of the celebration at some point someone says, “Remember,” We do this to remember. Here’s the thing when someone gives up on the church, whether for a season or several seasons. When we leave the church we have to do without Communion. The fact is, it’s much easier to remember things together than to do them alone. That’s why we need church. The church feeds us.
One of the first things I noticed about Grace when I arrived five and a half years ago is that we do food often and we do it well. I don’t know whether our practice of Holy Communion every service every week was derived from our graceful food practice or whether our meal practices derived from our Holy Communion practice. Either way, it doesn’t really matter. The point is that we who are “Home of the Hot Dish” do church this way because people are looking for Jesus. We somehow know that we sit down and break bread together we glimpse Jesus in each others’ eyes. Either place, altar or fellowship hall, we know that food is the language of caring for others. The church feeds us.
Evans goes on to say that we need Holy Communion because when we come forward we are forced to open up our hands to receive God’s very grace into our lives. We need the practice of opening up and letting go. Furthermore, opening up and receiving God means being reminded that we’re not the boss of what comes into our lives. Frankly, it also reminds us that it is not up to us to keep score and put up boundaries to Gods’ love. What I love about Grace is that we openly feed everyone, here or downstairs: young and old, member and visitor, long-time church-goer or somebody searching for Jesus, black or white, gay or straight. All get fed here. The church feeds us.
Though we often take this for granted, we need to recognize what a subversive practice this is in our culture and society. Just as Christ welcomes all, including his betrayer, Judas, so do we, regardless of who they are. And we do it because we need it. For this is the sacrament of unity that overcomes the deepest estrangements and brokenness in our community.
A number of years ago I was a lay leader at Nativity Lutheran in Alexandria VA. We were finally going to build our sanctuary after too many years of worshiping in the fellowship hall. To do so meant meeting with some representatives from the churchwide office. For reasons I don’t remember, the meeting was strained and did not go well. At the end of our time together, we engaged in worship, including Holy Communion. The act of gathering around the table of the Lord did what we couldn’t do, bring peace and unity to our fractured relationships. The church feeds us.
As you come forward to receive Christ’s very body and blood, as you are fed with God’s grace, love and mercy, may you remember that this place and others like it will always feed you. Amen.
Maundy Thursday – Narrative Lectionary 2
March 24, 2016
Grace, Mankato, MN
Mark 14.12-31
The church feeds us. The church feeds us. That’s what Rachel Held Evans wants us to know about the church. It’s is the last section in our Lenten series using Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church. Evans has used the traditional seven sacraments of the church as lens for finding the church anew in our time. We’ve been using the book as a framework for renewing our life of faith. Though we recognize two of the seven in her book as sacraments, we can claim the other five as sacramental. Even so, there’s no disagreement that Holy Communion is a sacrament for most Christians. It is also good to remember that both sacraments and sacramental things say, “Pay attention, this stuff matters, these things are holy.”
The church feeds us and what a meal it is! Barbara Brown Taylor reminds us that of all the things Jesus could have said to his followers to think about while he was gone, instead gave them some concrete things to do: “Do this for the remembrance of me.” Now, this meal has evolved down through the ages and is celebrated differently in various Christian communities. However, Evans points out that regardless of the celebration at some point someone says, “Remember,” We do this to remember. Here’s the thing when someone gives up on the church, whether for a season or several seasons. When we leave the church we have to do without Communion. The fact is, it’s much easier to remember things together than to do them alone. That’s why we need church. The church feeds us.
One of the first things I noticed about Grace when I arrived five and a half years ago is that we do food often and we do it well. I don’t know whether our practice of Holy Communion every service every week was derived from our graceful food practice or whether our meal practices derived from our Holy Communion practice. Either way, it doesn’t really matter. The point is that we who are “Home of the Hot Dish” do church this way because people are looking for Jesus. We somehow know that we sit down and break bread together we glimpse Jesus in each others’ eyes. Either place, altar or fellowship hall, we know that food is the language of caring for others. The church feeds us.
Evans goes on to say that we need Holy Communion because when we come forward we are forced to open up our hands to receive God’s very grace into our lives. We need the practice of opening up and letting go. Furthermore, opening up and receiving God means being reminded that we’re not the boss of what comes into our lives. Frankly, it also reminds us that it is not up to us to keep score and put up boundaries to Gods’ love. What I love about Grace is that we openly feed everyone, here or downstairs: young and old, member and visitor, long-time church-goer or somebody searching for Jesus, black or white, gay or straight. All get fed here. The church feeds us.
Though we often take this for granted, we need to recognize what a subversive practice this is in our culture and society. Just as Christ welcomes all, including his betrayer, Judas, so do we, regardless of who they are. And we do it because we need it. For this is the sacrament of unity that overcomes the deepest estrangements and brokenness in our community.
A number of years ago I was a lay leader at Nativity Lutheran in Alexandria VA. We were finally going to build our sanctuary after too many years of worshiping in the fellowship hall. To do so meant meeting with some representatives from the churchwide office. For reasons I don’t remember, the meeting was strained and did not go well. At the end of our time together, we engaged in worship, including Holy Communion. The act of gathering around the table of the Lord did what we couldn’t do, bring peace and unity to our fractured relationships. The church feeds us.
As you come forward to receive Christ’s very body and blood, as you are fed with God’s grace, love and mercy, may you remember that this place and others like it will always feed you. Amen.
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