Sermons Out of Rural Ministry

"More Than Enough," our sermon reflecting on Holy Communion, is the final in our series on the Lutheran Small Catechism. The Table is where we are called by Christ to experience forgiveness and being whole. Jesus commands the disciples to come because on our own, we won't do it. The Table is also where we gather with people across time and geography, binding all God's faithful into one body. A perpetual reminder for God who loves us that you are never alone. #Communion #Lutheran #sermon #smallcatechism

"Having a Chat with God" seems both an obvious thing to do, and something most of us don't do very much. For all the reasons. Jesus is inviting us to speak to God, and if we can't find the words, breathing is enough. Images, ideas, vague colors and feelings are enough. Our infinite Creator is also always as close as our flesh and blood. God is listening, and gives us space to be ourselves with God. #sermon #Lutheran #LordsPrayer

"Living the Apostles Creed" is a reflection on who we are, whose we are, and why we gather for worship. There are worldly powers all around that steal life, convince us we are weak, try to demonstrate that God has no place or presence. Christ reminds us that even the shadow of death, which hangs low over our cities and homes, is in the shadow of the cross. Christ brings light to shadows, God brings life in the midst of suffering and death. Our neighbors, especially our Black, brown, and immigrant neighbors, are longing to see and hear the nearness of God. This is why we are here.

"Baptism Sets us Free" The first in our sermon series on the Small Catechism  introduces us to the depth of baptism, that is far more than a sprinkle of water and few nice words. Baptism gives life, and it liberates us from every barrier and limit of this world, even death. From the water, there is nothing stopping us from bringing mercy, peace, and life to every person we encounter. Our identity is found and affirmed in Christ, who claims us and sets us free.

Jesus is with the disciples, preparing them for life after his death and resurrection. Though Easter feels like an event in the past (a person can only die once?), we are post-resurrection people still confronts by signs and words of death. Beyond the confines of our safe spaces, God is not terribly visible. Jesus tells his disciples to look for love, framed by the cross, and to see where love is being denied. There is where we find God, and are called to be present for our neighbors.