Choosing God's Kingdom 

Mark 6:1-13

In today's sermon, Father Mark reflects on the juxtaposition of Herod's gruesome banquet and the serene memory of golfing with his late father. He recounts the Gospel story where Herod, pressured by Herodias and her daughter, beheads John the Baptist to save face. This story illustrates the stark contrast between the worldly kingdom ruled by power and ego and the kingdom of God governed by love, integrity, and self-giving.

Father Mark draws parallels to contemporary events, lamenting the pervasive violence in society, such as the tragic shooting at a golf course and the recent assassination attempt on a former president. He emphasizes the need to reject the kingdom of this world, which thrives on polarization and hatred, and instead embrace the kingdom of God, where love and righteousness prevail. He calls on the congregation to seek God's kingdom first, urging them to live in a way that reflects God's love and provisions.

Scripture quotations are from New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.