A sermon by Rev. Barbara Lemmel and Rev. Mitchell Hay.

Epistle 1 Peter 3:13-18a

Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and respect. Maintain a good conscience so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if suffering should be God’s will, than to suffer for doing evil. For Christ also suffered for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, in order to bring you to God.

Gospel Lesson John 14:15-20, 25-27

If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

And I will ask Abba, and God 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 nor knows her.

You know the Spirit, because she abides with you, and 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 Abba,

and you in me, and I in you. …

I have said these things to you while I am still with you.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom Abba will send in my name,

will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.

I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.