Hearts Open to the Word

In this July 20, 2025 sermon exploring Luke 10:38-42 and Colossians 1:15-28, we examine the familiar story of Mary and Martha through the lens of Christ's reconciling presence. The sermon unpacks how Mary's radical choice to sit at Jesus' feet connects with Paul's cosmic vision of Christ as "the firstborn of all creation." Through three movements - Martha's dilemma, Mary's unconventional response, and Jesus' affirmation of "the better part" - we discover how choosing relationship with Christ over anxious activity transforms both individual discipleship and community life. This message speaks to our modern struggles between doing and being, challenging us to center our lives on the One who reconciles all things and offers what cannot be taken away.

July 13, 2025 by Charissa Clark Howe

Year c

Proper 9

First Scripture Reading Psalm 66:1–9

Second Scripture Reading Luke 10:1–11, 16–20

Today’s scripture is Acts 2:1-21

In this Ascension Day sermon focusing on Ephesians 1:15-23, we explore how Jesus' ascension completes the narrative arc of his earthly ministry and transforms our understanding of power. Through the metaphor of adjusting to light in a dark room, borrowed from Archbishop Rowan Williams, we see how Jesus becomes not just the light that blinds us, but the light by which we see the world anew. The sermon contrasts worldly power, which takes and dominates, with Christ's power, which serves and uplifts. Pastor Charissa examines how surrendering control and embracing vulnerability in community reveals the true power of Christ's kingdom. This message, delivered outdoors in the park, reminds us that the Ascension isn't just about Jesus leaving, but about his ongoing presence illuminating our path forward as we learn to see and live differently in the world.

First Sunday as the new installed pastor at Sixth Presbyterian Church. Sixth Sunday of Easter, Year C, May 25, 2025. Preaching on John 14:23-29.

From Psalm 133 and 1 Corinthians 13

Preached at Center Presbyterian Church 2/23/25, Luke 6:27-38

Woe to the Rich, the Well-Fed, the Carefree, and the Famous by Charissa Clark Howe

Jesus is exactly where he said he would be by Charissa Clark Howe