2 Samuel 11:1-14 Whenever I hear someone commending the Bible as a wholesome guide to family values, I think of this story, among others, and I wonder if they have ever actually read the Bible. King David was one of the greatest heroes Israel ever had. He was a fearless fighter, even in his youth, […]
Borderlands
A couple of weeks ago our text for the morning was from the beginning of Mark’s chapter 6. In those first verses of the chapter, we read about how Jesus went back to his hometown, back to the place that for him was at the center, to the folks who knew him best. Nazareth was […]
Be Careful What You Ask For
Let’s start by admitting that we’re into some dangerous territory with this morning’s Bible reading. I’ve heard a lot of people over the years tell me that they want their church to be just about religion. Don’t go mixing politics in. Politics should stay out of Sunday morning. And I understand that feeling. You get […]
The Holy Spirit Prevails
As I look around, I’ve got to say, you all look really good this morning. Really, you do. You look good. But now, even though you all look good, as I look around this morning here in this congregation, I see some who are tired, some who are angry, who are anxious. I see some […]
Everyone Loves a Parade
Today is Palm Sunday, and so, Holy Week begins. Many congregations are busy making palm frond crosses, dying eggs or preparing for a parade, like the one we celebrated with our Episcopalian friends earlier this morning. Stores are full of Easter bunny decorations and candy, trying to divert our attention from the real meaning of […]