The Preaching Moment

SummaryMother Nan Doerr reflects on three condensed stories from Matthew's Gospel, exploring how Jesus reaches out to sinners, the sick, and the outcast with mercy and compassion. Through the calling of Matthew, the healing of Jairus' daughter, and the woman suffering from bleeding, she reminds us that Jesus came to restore the lost and the forgotten. In return, we are called to share that same love and mercy with those on the fringes of our own society.The GospelMatthew 9:9-13, 18-26As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth; and he said to him, “Follow me.”And he got up and followed him. And as he sat at dinner in the house, many tax collectors and sinners came and were sitting with him and his disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard this, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.”While he was saying these things to them, suddenly a leader of the synagogue came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus got up and followed him, with his disciples. Then suddenly a woman who had been suffering from hemorrhages for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his cloak, for she said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. When Jesus came to the leader’s house and saw the flute players and the crowd making a commotion, he said, “Go away; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl got up. And the report of this spread throughout that district.Artwork: "The Resurrection of Jairus' Daughter" by Vasily Polenov, 1871

SummaryOn Trinity Sunday, Mother Suzanne leads her congregation through an exploration of one of the Christian faith's most central and mysterious doctrines — the Trinity. Drawing on images like St. Patrick's shamrock and the concept of the "divine dance," she unpacks the three-in-one nature of God as not merely a theological abstraction, but an intimate, living reality that shapes how believers relate to God, to themselves, and to one another. Ultimately, she reminds her congregation that we are forever pursued by a God whose very nature is love and relationship.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 28:16-20The eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”Artwork: The Trinity, Laurent Girardin - 1455

SummaryOn the Day of Pentecost, Mother Suzanne invites her congregation to celebrate the birthday of the church — the moment when the Holy Spirit transformed a small, frightened group of 120 disciples into a fearless, Spirit-filled body of thousands. Just as the disciples were empowered to go into the world as the hands and feet of Jesus, so too are believers today called to inhale God's breath and carry that same Spirit into their communities. Mother Suzanne closes by inviting those who have been led to Grace Church to sign the Book of Belonging and claim it as their spiritual home.THE GOSPEL John 20:19-23When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you.” After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”Artwork:  The Pentecost

SummaryIn this Mother's Day sermon, Grace Community Missioner Ed Carrette draws on the image of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage to remind us that the spiritual life cannot be rushed. Drawing from Jesus' promise, "I will not leave you orphaned," Ed calls us to slow down, pay attention, and discover that God has been walking beside us all along. The goal, he reminds us, is not to arrive faster, but to become aware of the presence that has never left us.A reading from the Gospel of John                                                                                                   John 14:15-21    Jesus said, ”If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you, and he will be in you.”I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. They who have my commandments and keep them are those who love me; and those who love me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them.”Artwork:  Mother Suzanne and Andrew at km. 0.000 The Camino De Santiago

SummaryMother Nan Doerr draws on the letters of Peter and the Gospel of John to remind believers that even when rejected by the world, they are chosen and precious in God's sight. Just as the early followers of the Way were cast out of synagogues yet continued to spread the Gospel, so too are we called to become living stones in God's spiritual house. To know God, we need only look to Jesus — the way, the truth, and the life.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                            John 14:1-14Jesus said, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also. And you know the way to the place where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.”Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and you still do not know me? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; but if you do not, then believe me because of the works themselves. Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father. I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.” Artwork:  Carl Bloch (Collection 1865-1879) 

SummaryMother Suzanne draws on the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd to remind her congregation that Christ came not to offer a half-hearted, mediocre existence, but a life that is overflowing and abundant. Through the moving story of Roxanne, a single mother in recovery, she illustrates how the economy of God works through small, intentional acts of love — a snack, a Dr. Pepper, and a cooking pot. Living abundantly, she reminds us, is not about worldly goods, but about choosing hope, generosity, and trust in a God who desires good for each of us.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              John 10:1-10Jesus said, “Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” Artwork: The Good Shepherd, Bernhard Plockhorst (1878) 

SummaryIn this Easter season sermon, Mother Suzanne walks us through the road to Emmaus, reminding us that the risen Christ shows up quietly and humbly in the small, ordinary moments of our lives — often without us even realizing it. Just as the disciples only recognized Jesus when he broke bread in his own unmistakable way, we too are invited to open our eyes and hearts to his presence in the everyday rhythms of our lives. Mother Suzanne calls us to lay down what no longer serves us, trusting that in that surrender, space opens up for new life, new love, and personal resurrection.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                Luke 24:13-35Now on that same day two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. Artwork: “The Road to Emmaus” Robert Zund, 1877

SummaryThe Rev. Canon Perry Mullins explores how fear of disappointment often keeps us from hoping, using the story of Thomas and the disciples after Christ's resurrection to show that Jesus enters our locked rooms of fear and grief. Christ's wounds on his resurrected body serve as Marks of hope, proving that while we experience suffering, hope in the resurrection will ultimately not disappoint us. Jesus meets us in our pain and shows us his scars not to demand belief, but to give us reason for it—demonstrating that death did not get the last word in him, and will not get the last word in us either.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                            John 20:19-31When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. Artwork:  Incredulity of Saint Thomas by Paolo Moranda Cavazzola 1520 

SummaryMother Suzanne celebrates Easter by highlighting Mary Magdalene as the first apostle who stayed at the empty tomb when others fled, recognizing Jesus when he called her by name. She connects Mary's faithful witness to three baptisms happening that morning - Mykala, Jacob, and baby Zachary - emphasizing that Jesus has also called each of them by name to be his beloved children. On this resurrection day, these new Christians are charged with the same task as Mary: to tell others they have seen the Lord.The Gospel                                                             John 20:1-18     Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” Then Peter and the other disciple set out and went toward the tomb. The two were running together, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb. He saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not understand the scripture, that he must rise from the dead. Then the disciples returned to their homes.But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had been lying, one at the head and the other at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you looking for?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbouni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not hold on to me, because I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her. Artwork:  From 12th Century St. Albans psalter: Mary Magdalene Announces the Resurrection to the Apostles

SummaryOn the fourth Sunday in Lent, Grace Community Missioner Ed Carrette explores the theme of spiritual awakening through Biblical stories of people "seeing the light," from the blind man healed by Jesus to Paul's conversion experience. Using Bruce Springsteen's "Blinded by the Light" as a metaphor, Carrette emphasizes that God's grace and love come first—before our actions, baptism, or spiritual practices—and our lives become a response to that unconditional love. The central message is that we are called to live as "children of light," offering the same grace, mercy, and forgiveness to others that God has already given us.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                    John 9:1-41Artwork: Christ Healing the Blind - El Greco (c. 1570)  

SummaryOn the third Sunday in Lent, IONA Postulant Ginger Wolfe explores the striking contrast between Nicodemus in John 3 and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4, highlighting how Jesus was tough with the educated, respected Nicodemus but gentle and patient with the marginalized, unnamed woman. While Nicodemus left confused despite his knowledge, the Samaritan woman experienced a profound transformation through Jesus' offer of living water, abandoning her water jar to become the first evangelist to her village with the joyful message, "Come and see."THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              John 4:5-42Artwork:  Christ and the Samaritan Woman - Vincenzo Catena c. 1520–1530

SummaryIn this Second Sunday of Lent sermon, Bishop Andy Doyle challenges the congregation to embrace the discomfort of true discipleship, using Nicodemus's nighttime visit to Jesus as an example of cautious faith. He emphasizes that following Jesus means allowing Him to disrupt our comfortable lives, politics, and relationships, calling us to see others through God's eyes of love and compassion rather than our own preferences. The Bishop calls for a Lenten journey of humility, prayer, and genuine transformation - being "born again" in a way that makes us better human beings who hunger for God's deliverance in a troubled world.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              John 3:1-17 There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.” Jesus answered him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” Jesus answered him, “Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?“Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”Artwork: Christ Instructing Nicodemus, By Crijn Hendricksz Volmarijn (ca 1604-1645) 

SummaryMother Suzanne explores how Jesus deliberately entered the Judean wilderness for 40 days of testing, following in the footsteps of Moses and Israel's 40-year journey. She encourages the congregation to embrace their own wilderness experiences this Lent, recognizing that God calls us into difficult places not to abandon us, but to transform us and speak to us in the solitude where His love proves more certain than any fear.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                 Matthew 4:1-11Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. He fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was famished. The tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written,‘One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”Then the devil took him to the holy city and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written,‘He will command his angels concerning you,’  and ‘On their hands they will bear you up,so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.’”Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’”Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor; and he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! for it is written,‘Worship the Lord your God,  and serve only him.’”Then the devil left him, and suddenly angels came and waited on him. Artwork:  The Temptation of Christ, created by the French painter Ary Scheffer in 1854. 

SummaryMother Suzanne explains that Lent is not about punishment or self-denial for its own sake, but rather a season of preparation that helps us move closer to God by removing the distractions and masks that prevent us from seeing clearly. Through the three pillars of Lent—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—we can experience spiritual clarity and authenticity by stepping away from our cluttered patterns and excessive consumption. She emphasizes that this 40-day journey is a choice that leads to freedom and to becoming who we are meant to be.The Gospel                                                                                                            Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21Jesus said, “Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 

SummaryMother Suzanne explores the Transfiguration as a pivotal moment where Jesus, accompanied by Moses and Elijah, is transformed on a mountain before his disciples Peter, James, and John. She emphasizes that rather than trying to decode this mysterious encounter, we should enter into it, understanding that the Bible is less a book of certainties than a book of life-changing encounters with God. The transfiguration serves as God's loving preparation for Jesus before his descent toward Jerusalem and his ultimate death.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                Matthew 17:1-9Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” And when they looked up, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” Artwork:  The Transfiguration, by Raphael (Rafael Sanzio), 1516

SummaryOn Scout Sunday, Mother Suzanne uses the beloved children's song "This Little Light of Mine" to illustrate Jesus's teaching about being salt and light from the Sermon on the Mount. She emphasizes that God works through simple, ordinary acts of service, praising the scout troop at Grace Episcopal Church for their faithful work tending the playground, collecting food for the blessing box, and serving the homeless community. Mother Suzanne encourages the scouts to continue being salt and light in the world through their everyday acts of courage, service, and putting others before themselves.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 5:13-20Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot.“You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.“Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” On Scout Sunday, we celebrate the anniversary of the Scouting movement (founded Feb 8, 1910), recognize volunteers and Scouts, and foster faith-based relationships with the scouts and leaders of Troop and Pack 400. 

SummaryGrace's Community Missioner, Ed Carrette, preaches on the Presentation of Jesus, emphasizing that God is the "God of time" who continues to enter human history unexpectedly, just as Simeon and Anna encountered the divine in the Temple. He challenges the congregation to recognize God's sudden appearances in their midst, pointing to their church's remarkable growth in feeding the hungry and serving the community as evidence that "the Lord has appeared in his temple."THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 2:22-40When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord"), and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons."Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,"Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."And the child's father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed-- and a sword will pierce your own soul too."There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.Artwork:  Presentation of Christ in the Temple by Simon Vouet (1590 – 1649)Adapted from a sermon by Michael Toy, an assistant professor of practical theology at the School of Theology at Moravian University, a seminary formed by the merger of Lancaster Theological Seminary and Moravian Theological Seminary. He has been involved in lay ministry professionally and as a volunteer for over a decade. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, writing, running, and searching for the best noodles in town.

SummaryMother Suzanne reflects on Matthew 4 and how Jesus called ordinary fishermen to follow Him immediately, leaving everything behind to become "fishers of people." She emphasizes that God calls everyone—not just those in ordained ministry—to do extraordinary things through ordinary relationships and daily work, encouraging listeners to pay attention to how God might be calling them through scripture, people, and creation.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 4:12-23When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:“Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—the people who sat in darkness  have seen a great light,and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death  light has dawned.”From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. Artwork:  Christ Calling the Apostles James and John by Edward Armitage (1817-1896)

SummaryIn this Epiphany sermon based on John 1:29-42, Suzanne explores how John the Baptist pointed to Jesus as "the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." She shares a personal story about encountering pain at her son's basketball game and finding God's presence through a dancing butterfly, illustrating how God often reveals himself in small, overlooked moments rather than mighty displays.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              John 1:29-42John saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.”The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter). Artwork: Agnus Dei, by Jose Campeche y Jordan (1806-1809)Make an offering: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=B6YW632BMP3T6

SummaryMother Suzanne reflects on the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord, which commemorates Jesus' baptism and our own initiation into Christ's body through water and the Holy Spirit. On this significant day Marking her seventh anniversary as a priest, she celebrates how Grace Church has transformed from a small forgotten church into a vibrant community that embraces those who have been overlooked and models their lives after Jesus. She emphasizes that Grace Church has become a sacred space where heaven parts a little and grace is poured down each Sunday, enabling the congregation to give that grace away to a world in desperate need of it.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 3:13-17Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.” Artwork: The Baptism of Christ by Andrea del Verrocchio / Leonardo da Vinci (1475)Make an offering: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=B6YW632BMP3T6

SummaryMother Suzanne reflects on the Feast of Epiphany and the journey of the Magi, who were outsiders and stargazers who followed a star to worship the newborn King of the Jews. She draws parallels between the Magi's pilgrimage and our own spiritual journeys, encouraging us to follow Christ's light into unknown places courageously. The sermon emphasizes that darkness can never overcome the light and challenges us to be bearers of that light to those who sit in darkness.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                  Matthew 2:1-12In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him homage." When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him; and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They told him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:`And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;for from you shall come a ruler who is to shepherd my people Israel.'"Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child; and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage." When they had heard the king, they set out; and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen at its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. Artwork:  The Magi, by Henry Siddons Mowbray (1858–1928)Make an offering: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=B6YW632BMP3T6

SummaryMrs. Ginger Wolfe celebrates the incarnation, emphasizing how God chose to take on flesh and enter our dark world to show us how much He values creation and wants to be part of it. Through Jesus becoming flesh, we receive not just divine standards but divine mercy and freedom from sin, allowing us to live as children of God with hope, purpose, and the ability to be lights in the darkness.A reading from the Gospel of John                                             John 1:1-18In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through him, and without him not one thing came into being. What has come into being in him was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify to the light, so that all might believe through him. He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world.He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God, who were born, not of blood or of the will of the flesh or of the will of man, but of God.And the Word became flesh and lived among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father's only son, full of grace and truth. (John testified to him and cried out, "This was he of whom I said, 'He who comes after me ranks ahead of me because he was before me.'") From his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace. The law indeed was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. It is God the only Son, who is close to the Father's heart, who has made him known.Artwork:  In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.Make an offering: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=B6YW632BMP3T6

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches that God's greatest surprise came not through worldly power like Caesar Augustus, but through the humble birth of baby Jesus announced first to lowly shepherds. She emphasizes that God works in unexpected ways, using even a Roman census to fulfill ancient prophecies and bring the Messiah to Bethlehem. This Christmas message offers hope that God comes to meet us wherever we are, promising to be with us always and make beauty from our brokenness.The Gospel                                                                                                                                  Luke 2:1-20In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see-- I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!"When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us." So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child; and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.Make an offering: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=B6YW632BMP3T6

SummaryMother Suzanne explores Matthew's brief two-verse account of Jesus' birth, focusing on Joseph's perspective as the earthly father who, like Noah, demonstrated righteousness through silent obedience to God's plan. Despite the challenging circumstances, Joseph chose to stay and marry Mary after receiving divine guidance through a dream, showing how ordinary people can participate in God's extraordinary story. On this fourth Sunday of Advent, when the candle of love is lit, we are reminded that our Emmanuel comes to bring love, healing, and transformation to those who trust and obey like Joseph did.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 1:18-25Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet:“Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,”which means, “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus. 

SummaryMother Suzanne reflects on the second Sunday of Advent and the candle of peace, acknowledging how difficult it can be to slow down during this busy season. She focuses on John the Baptist's call to "bear fruits worthy of repentance," explaining that this means doing what we're already doing in our daily lives, but doing it better - with more love, honesty, and service to others. Through our ordinary actions empowered by the waters of baptism, we participate in God's work of cosmic renewal and help announce the good news to the world.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 3:1-12In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said,“The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:  ‘Prepare the way of the Lord,  make his paths straight.’”Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.“I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

SummaryMother Suzanne welcomes the congregation into the Advent season, explaining how this four-week period serves as a time of hopeful waiting and preparation for Christ's coming, rather than rushing straight into Christmas. She addresses the seemingly apocalyptic gospel reading, clarifying that such texts are meant to offer hope that "all things will be made new," and challenges the congregation to stay awake and live with expectancy, recognizing that God is always making His way to us.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Matthew 24:36-44 Jesus said to the disciples, “But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so too will be the coming of the Son of Man. Then two will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left. Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.”Artwork:  “But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father."

SummaryOn Christ the King Sunday, Mother Suzanne preached about how Grace Church tells an "alternative story" of second chances and redemption, just like Jesus offered to the criminal on the cross. She emphasized that the church transforms the community one person at a time by offering grace and new beginnings to all who need them, including herself.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 23:33-43When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. The people stood by, watching Jesus on the cross; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews."One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise." Artwork: The Crucifixion, by Jan van der Straet (1523-1605)

SummaryMother Suzanne teaches that when faced with apocalyptic passages describing wars, earthquakes, and persecutions, we shouldn't focus on doomsday preparation but rather see them as invitations to live with faith and hope in the present. She emphasizes that endurance is a hallmark of following Jesus, reminding us that while difficult times are simply part of human life, God's faithfulness sustains us through every storm.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 21:5-19 When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, Jesus said, "As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down." They asked him, "Teacher, when will this be, and what will be the sign that this is about to take place?" And he said, "Beware that you are not led astray; for many will come in my name and say, `I am he!' and, `The time is near!' Do not go after them."When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for these things must take place first, but the end will not follow immediately." Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom; there will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and plagues; and there will be dreadful portents and great signs from heaven."But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. This will give you an opportunity to testify. So make up your minds not to prepare your defense in advance; for I will give you words and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, by relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name. But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls." Artwork:  The Wailing Wall, Jerusalem by Gustav Bauerfeind (German,1848-1904) . 1887

SummaryMother Suzanne tackles a challenging gospel passage where the Sadducees question Jesus about resurrection using a hypothetical scenario involving Levirate marriage, where seven brothers successively marry the same woman. Jesus responds by explaining that resurrection life is qualitatively different from earthly life, not merely an extension of our current existence. Mother Suzanne emphasizes that as "resurrection people," we are called to live with purpose and intention, reflecting Jesus' light and love while trusting in God's goodness.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 20:27-38 Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus and asked him a question, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies, leaving a wife but no children, the man shall marry the widow and raise up children for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first married, and died childless; then the second and the third married her, and so in the same way all seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had married her."Jesus said to them, "Those who belong to this age marry and are given in marriage; but those who are considered worthy of a place in that age and in the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection. And the fact that the dead are raised Moses himself showed, in the story about the bush, where he speaks of the Lord as the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Now he is God not of the dead, but of the living; for to him all of them are alive."Artwork:  The Pharisees and the Sadducees Come to Tempt Jesus, by James Tissot (1836–1902)

SummaryMother Suzanne delivers a heartfelt All Saints Day sermon celebrating both the saints who have gone before and three individuals being baptized that day: baby Hailey, Anthony, and Calvin. She emphasizes that baptism is not a solitary act but a community celebration where the entire church family promises to support these new believers in their faith journey, surrounded by the communion of saints both past and present.THE GOSPEL Luke 6:20-31Jesus looked up at his disciples and said:“Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.“Blessed are you who are hungry now,  for you will be filled.“Blessed are you who weep now,  for you will laugh.“Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven; for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.""But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation."Woe to you who are full now, for you will be hungry."Woe to you who are laughing now, for you will mourn and weep."Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets."But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. Do to others as you would have them do to you.Artwork:  The Sermon on The Plains

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches on the parable of the Pharisee and tax collector, emphasizing how Jesus turns expectations upside down by showing that the humble tax collector's prayer for mercy was more pleasing to God than the Pharisee's self-righteous prayer. She shares a personal story about judging a well-dressed man who came to their food pantry, only to discover he was a longtime volunteer and government worker who hadn't been paid due to the shutdown and desperately needed help feeding his five children. The sermon calls us to examine our tendency to judge others and instead recognize our own need for God's mercy and grace. THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 18:9-14 Jesus told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, `God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.' But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, `God, be merciful to me, a sinner!' I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted." Artwork:  Pharisee and the Tax Collector, an 1882 painting by the French artist James Tissot

SummaryMother Suzanne explores the parable of the persistent widow from the Gospel of Luke, emphasizing that continual prayer should be a way of life rather than a burdensome task. She teaches that prayer can take many forms - from breathing to walking to singing - and encourages the congregation to persist in prayer just as the widow persisted in seeking justice from the unjust judge. The message reminds us that if even an unjust judge will eventually respond to persistent pleas, how much more will our just and loving God hear our continual prayers.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 18:1-8Jesus told his disciples a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart. He said, "In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor had respect for people. In that city there was a widow who kept coming to him and saying, `Grant me justice against my opponent.' For a while he refused; but later he said to himself, `Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.'" And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? I tell you, he will quickly grant justice to them. And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?"Artwork: Parable of the Unjust Judge and Persistent Widow, engraving by Jan Luyken, created in 1712

SummaryMother Suzanne explores the story of the 10 lepers from Luke's Gospel, emphasizing how only one—a Samaritan outsider—returned to thank Jesus for his healing. She teaches that true salvation involves not just physical healing but also gratitude, which becomes a natural response when we experience God's grace and mercy in our lives.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 17:11-19On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" When he saw them, he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, "Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well."Artwork:  "The Healing of Ten Lepers", by James Tissot (15 October 1836 – 8 August 1902)

SummaryMother Suzanne teaches that faith isn't meant to be heroic or complicated, but instead consists of the ordinary, everyday actions we do consistently. Using Jesus's teaching about the mustard seed and mulberry tree, she explains that faith is simply doing what God has called us to do - loving others, caring for those in need, and showing up daily with intention and open hearts. True faith looks like being God's partner in the world through small, faithful steps that, when blessed by God, can become extraordinary.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 17:5-10The apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith!" The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, `Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it would obey you."Who among you would say to your slave who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, `Come here at once and take your place at the table'? Would you not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink'? Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded? So you also, when you have done all that you were ordered to do, say, `We are worthless slaves; we have done only what we ought to have done!'" Artwork: Parable of the Mustard Seed, etching by Jan Luyken (16 April 1649 – 5 April 1712)

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches on the parable of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke's gospel, emphasizing that Lazarus is the only character given a name in all of Jesus' parables, with his name meaning "God has helped you." She teaches that Jesus measures wealth not by what we have, but by how well we share what we've been given, calling disciples to live by God's economy of abundance and generosity rather than the world's economy of hoarding. The sermon connects this teaching to Grace Church's food pantry and upcoming pumpkin patch as examples of living into God's flowing economy of grace.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 16:19-31Jesus said, "There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. He called out, `Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.' But Abraham said, `Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.' He said, `Then, father, I beg you to send him to my father's house-- for I have five brothers-- that he may warn them, so that they will not also come into this place of torment.' Abraham replied, `They have Moses and the prophets; they should listen to them.' He said, `No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' He said to him, `If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.'" Artwork:  The Parable of Lazarus, etching is by Jan Luyken (1649-1712)

SummaryMrs. Ginger Wolfe explores the parable from Luke about a manager facing termination who shrewdly forgives debts to secure his future relationships. She challenges the congregation to apply the same strategic thinking and resourcefulness that worldly people use for material gain to spiritual matters, using our time, talents, and treasure to build God's upside-down kingdom and prepare for eternity.A reading from the Gospel of Luke                                             Luke 16:1-13Jesus said to the disciples, "There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. So he summoned him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Give me an accounting of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.' Then the manager said to himself, `What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.' So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he asked the first, `How much do you owe my master?' He answered, `A hundred jugs of olive oil.' He said to him, `Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.' Then he asked another, `And how much do you owe?' He replied, `A hundred containers of wheat.' He said to him, `Take your bill and make it eighty.' And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes. Artwork: Parable of the Unjust Steward, by Marinus van Reymerswaele (c. 1490 – c. 1546)

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches on the parables of the lost from Luke 15, organizing her sermon into two parts: addressing loss without finding (in light of difficult national events) and the joy of finding what was lost. She emphasizes that God never stops pursuing the lost - whether lost sheep, coins, or people - and that as followers of Jesus, we are called to help others find what they have lost, carrying the assurance that heaven rejoices when the lost are found.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           Luke 15:1-10All the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to Jesus. And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them."So he told them this parable: "Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, `Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.' Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance."Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? When she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, `Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.' Just so, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." Artwork:  The Lost Sheep by artist Robert T. Barrett (born May 13, 1949)

SummaryMother Suzanne addresses Jesus' extreme words in Luke 14 about discipleship, where he calls followers to "hate" family and give up possessions. She explains that Jesus uses hyperbolic language to emphasize that following him must be our highest priority - we must love him more than anything else. Being a disciple isn't something we put on and take off like a hat, but a complete way of life that transforms how we see and love others.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 14:25-33Now large crowds were traveling with Jesus; and he turned and said to them, "Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, `This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions."Artwork: Take Up The Cross, by George Samuel

Summary Mother Suzanne explores Jesus' teaching on table manners from Luke's Gospel, where Jesus instructs guests to take the lowest place and hosts to invite the poor rather than those who can repay them. She connects this lesson to Grace church's Thursday food ministry and shares a powerful story about welcoming an unexpected couple in need. The sermon emphasizes that God's kingdom is like a table where outcasts and oddballs are welcomed not because they're worthy, but because they're hungry and there's always room for more.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 14:1, 7-14On one occasion when Jesus was going to the house of a leader of the Pharisees to eat a meal on the sabbath, they were watching him closely.When he noticed how the guests chose the places of honor, he told them a parable. "When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not sit down at the place of honor, in case someone more distinguished than you has been invited by your host; and the host who invited both of you may come and say to you, `Give this person your place,' and then in disgrace you would start to take the lowest place. But when you are invited, go and sit down at the lowest place, so that when your host comes, he may say to you, `Friend, move up higher'; then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at the table with you. For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted."He said also to the one who had invited him, "When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." Artwork: The Village Feast, by Hans Bol (1534-1593)

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches on Luke's story of Jesus healing a woman who had been bent over for 18 years, emphasizing how Jesus saw her when others overlooked her and called her "daughter of Abraham." She challenges the congregation to recognize that we all live "bent over" by various burdens and struggles, but Jesus calls us to "stand up straight" as God's beloved children. The core message is that no matter what weighs us down, we are perfectly made and loved because we are God's beloved.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 13:10-17Now Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Woman, you are set free from your ailment." When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God. But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to the crowd, "There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be cured, and not on the sabbath day." But the Lord answered him and said, "You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to give it water? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen long years, be set free from this bondage on the sabbath day?" When he said this, all his opponents were put to shame; and the entire crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things that he was doing.Artwork: Jesus Healing the Sick, by Kenneth D Dowdy

SummaryMother Suzanne tackles a difficult Gospel passage where Jesus speaks of bringing fire to earth and potential family division, acknowledging that many preachers would skip this harsh text. She explains that Jesus, like Old Testament prophets, demands a loyalty so strong it might upset families and communities, but this "fire" represents purification and a new way of being. Rather than focusing on unpredictable things like weather, Jesus calls us to embrace change and new ministry, trusting that "with God's help" we can do this challenging but necessary work.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 12:49-56Jesus said, "I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed! Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! From now on five in one household will be divided, three against two and two against three; they will be divided:father against son and son against father,mother against daughter and daughter against mother,mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law."He also said to the crowds, "When you see a cloud rising in the west, you immediately say, `It is going to rain'; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, `There will be scorching heat'; and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?" Artwork: Fire Cloud, by Jennifer Walton

SummaryMother Suzanne preaches on Jesus's words "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom," emphasizing that God desires to shower us with good things and the kingdom itself. She calls the congregation to live in readiness and awareness for God's presence, finding ourselves through giving ourselves away in service and community. Through the example of Grace church's community impact, she demonstrates how kingdom work transforms both those who serve and those who are served.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 12:32-40Jesus said to his disciples, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the master finds alert when he comes; truly I tell you, he will fasten his belt and have them sit down to eat, and he will come and serve them. If he comes during the middle of the night, or near dawn, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves."But know this: if the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour."Artwork: The Light of the World, by William Holman Hunt (1827-1910)

SummaryGrace Community Missioner Ed Carrette explores Jesus's parable of the rich fool, emphasizing that the problem isn't wealth itself but greed and selfishness that lead us to forget God and neglect our neighbors. He challenges listeners to be "rich toward God" by showing gratitude through sharing our abundance with those in need, rather than hoarding possessions for ourselves alone.A reading from the Gospel of Luke                                              Luke 12:13-21Someone in the crowd said to Jesus, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the family inheritance with me." But he said to him, "Friend, who set me to be a judge or arbitrator over you?" And he said to them, "Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions." Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, `What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops?' Then he said, `I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, `Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, `You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God." Artwork:  The Man Who Hoards, by James Tissot (1836-1902)

SummaryGrace Community Missioner Ed Carrette explores the origins and meaning of the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing that it wasn't Jesus' personal prayer but rather a formula he taught his disciples when they asked to learn how to pray. He highlights that this is fundamentally a community prayer meant to be prayed boldly and courageously, focusing on praising God and placing our needs before Him. Carrette encourages the congregation to pray together as a community with boldness, standing strong in the knowledge that God is ready to hear us.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 11:1-13Jesus was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples." He said to them, "When you pray, say:Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone indebted to us. And do not bring us to the time of trial."And he said to them, "Suppose one of you has a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say to him, `Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; for a friend of mine has arrived, and I have nothing to set before him.' And he answers from within, `Do not bother me; the door has already been locked, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.' I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at least because of his persistence he will get up and give him whatever he needs."So I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" Artwork:  The Lord's Prayer (Le Pater Noster), by James Tissot (15 October 1836 – 8 August 1902)

SummaryMother Nan Doerr explores the Gospel story of Mary and Martha, arguing that Jesus criticized Martha not for working, but for being distracted by anxiety and the need for perfection. She emphasizes that Jesus loves us as we are and wants us to balance productive work with simply spending time in His presence, rather than getting so caught up in doing things for Him that we forget to just be with Him.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 10:38-42As Jesus and his disciples went on their way, Jesus entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."Artwork: Martha and Mary, by He Qi

SummaryIn this sermon, Mr. John Lothrop explores the parable of the Good Samaritan from Luke's Gospel, examining the interaction between Jesus and the lawyer who asked about inheriting eternal life. Lothrop challenges us to recognize the difference between "being right and doing right," emphasizing Jesus' call to show compassion to all people regardless of background or circumstance, and to "go and do likewise" as the Samaritan did.A reading from the Gospel of Luke 10:25-37Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he said, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" He said to him, "What is written in the law? What do you read there?" He answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." And he said to him, "You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live."But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and went away, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan while traveling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved with pity. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said, `Take care of him; and when I come back, I will repay you whatever more you spend.' Which of these three, do you think, was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of the robbers?" He said, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." Artwork:  The Good Samaritan, by Rembrandt (1606-1669)

SummaryMother Suzanne reflects on Jesus sending out 72 disciples to proclaim the nearness of God's kingdom with simplicity and urgency, drawing parallels to her own small but mighty congregation at Grace Church. She connects this Biblical lesson to a recent tragedy in Kerrville, Texas, reminding us that even in our darkest moments, we can glimpse heaven through acts of valor and community, inviting the congregation to light candles in remembrance and hope.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 10:1-11, 16-20The Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, `Peace to this house!' And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you. Remain in the same house, eating and drinking whatever they provide, for the laborer deserves to be paid. Do not move about from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and its people welcome you, eat what is set before you; cure the sick who are there, and say to them, `The kingdom of God has come near to you.' But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, `Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.'"Whoever listens to you listens to me, and whoever rejects you rejects me, and whoever rejects me rejects the one who sent me."The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" He said to them, "I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Artwork: He Sent them out Two by Two, by  Jame Tissot (1836–1902)

SummaryCommunity Missioner Ed Carrette explores how Christian freedom differs from American cultural freedom, explaining that "for freedom, Christ has set us free" (Galatians 5:1) means liberation from the slavery of sin rather than simply doing whatever we want. True freedom, as demonstrated by Jesus setting his face toward Jerusalem, is the Spirit-empowered ability to love our enemies and manifest the fruits of the Spirit.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 9:51-62When the days drew near for Jesus to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him. On their way they entered a village of the Samaritans to make ready for him; but they did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem. When his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?" But he turned and rebuked them. Then they went on to another village.As they were going along the road, someone said to him, "I will follow you wherever you go." And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, first let me go and bury my father." But Jesus said to him, "Let the dead bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Another said, "I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home." Jesus said to him, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God." Artwork: Elijah is taken up to Heaven, by Dr. He Qi (2001)

SummaryMother Suzanne examines Jesus's encounter with the Gerasene demoniac in "the land of the Gerasenes," highlighting how Jesus crosses boundaries to restore the identity of a man possessed by Legion. This Gospel story reveals how Jesus meets us in our brokenness, asks for our name, and transforms us from being captive to our own "legions" into missionaries who share God's healing love.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                              Luke 8:26-39Jesus and his disciples arrived at the country of the Gerasenes, which is opposite Galilee. As he stepped out on land, a man of the city who had demons met him. For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he did not live in a house but in the tombs. When he saw Jesus, he fell down before him and shouted at the top of his voice, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me" -- for Jesus had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. (For many times it had seized him; he was kept under guard and bound with chains and shackles, but he would break the bonds and be driven by the demon into the wilds.) Jesus then asked him, "What is your name?" He said, "Legion"; for many demons had entered him. They begged him not to order them to go back into the abyss.Now there on the hillside a large herd of swine was feeding; and the demons begged Jesus to let them enter these. So he gave them permission. Then the demons came out of the man and entered the swine, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned.When the swineherds saw what had happened, they ran off and told it in the city and in the country. Then people came out to see what had happened, and when they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. Those who had seen it told them how the one who had been possessed by demons had been healed. Then all the people of the surrounding country of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them; for they were seized with great fear. So he got into the boat and returned. The man from whom the demons had gone begged that he might be with him; but Jesus sent him away, saying, "Return to your home, and declare how much God has done for you." So he went away, proclaiming throughout the city how much Jesus had done for him.Artwork: The Swine Driven into the Sea, by James Tissot (Created between 1886 and 1896)

SummaryIn his sermon, Mr. Eric Moen weaves together a family story about his great-grandmother's unwavering service with three scripture readings that illuminate the Holy Spirit as our guide to truth. He reminds us that the Spirit of Truth promised by Jesus in John's Gospel continues to speak to us today, inviting us to approach life with humility and openness to God's wisdom that has been present since creation itself.THE GOSPEL                                                                                                                                                           John 16:12-15 Jesus said to the disciples, "I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own, but will speak whatever he hears, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, because he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine. For this reason I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you." Artwork: The Trinity, Andrei Rublev, 15th century