K Karpen: "Called This Way?" (Sermon for June 21, 2026)

“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace but a sword." - Matthew 10:34That saying of Jesus has got to be among his most controversial. Really, Jesus? Aren't you our Prince of Peace, who departed from your disciples with the words, "Peace, I leave with you, my peace I give to you."? And didn't you chastise Peter, saying, "Those who live by the sword, die by the sword?But Jesus was never one to shy away from controversy, and even conflict.At the end of last week's New York Annual Conference meeting, our bishop congratulated us for avoiding contentiousness and disputes. And yes, that made it a welcome respite from some years. But, as we all know, without conflict, there can be no change.And so much in our nation and world today demands change.See you Sunday!KPS: Please stay after for our Potluck "Cook Out/Eat In". Bring a salad, side, drink or dessert to share, if you can. Or just yourself!