JR.'s Sermons

A life of faith often seems to make little sense in a faithless world. We struggle to find meaning and purpose because we lose sight of the end goal – Heaven on Earth. But when we keep the End in mind, we find the courage to participate in a bold, vulnerable community.

Jesus says the defining mark of the Church is our love. Could it be in the end that fear is what keeps us from participating in God’s new life? What does having the courage to love look like?

Our lives are busy and hectic, and at times we feel as though there’s no hope. How do we remain faithful to God when life gets out of control? The early Christians found they needed to hear the voice of their shepherd and follow him. Spiritual practices are more than just things to do, they change who we are. They form us into people that are at peace, even in the midst of the storm. And when we are at peace, we can hear God’s voice and follow faithfully.

Forgiveness in the face of injustice is difficult. Seeking reconciliation is even harder – it often feels wrong not to fight back. But Revelation shows us a Jesus who is not a conquering lion, but a slaughtered lamb. And his sacrificial forgiveness and reconciliation – as demonstrated when he appears resurrected to Peter – make him worthy to rule the universe. How can we imitate his example?

The Church often struggles to be the body of Jesus in the world because we refuse to bear the marks of our crucifixion. What does it look like for the Church to lead from weakness and vulnerability?

The powers of our world have us trained to roar on command, to rage and be afraid to follow God's way. But Jesus' resurrection frees us to follow God's call boldly.

Mention the word Privilege and watch everyone get uncomfortable. But Privilege is an opportunity to talk about opportunity. And to see that God is a God who leverages Privilege for the good of those who have less position. How can the Church talk about Privilege and leverage our privilege for the good of those on the margins?

We live in a culture ruled by fear. Everyone – especially those in charge – want us to be afraid because our fear gives them control. When is fear healthy? When does it become an idol? God’s promises to Israel offer us hope in a fearful world. We can trust the God who promises to be with us and not let fear order our steps.

Our Consumeristic culture tells us that the way to the “good life” is to get more, buy more, have more. But God prescribes that the “good life” is found by giving. When the Israelites were about to enter the land, God gave them some specific instructions of how to handle their resources. Don’t take it all for yourselves, leave some for the poor and foreigner among you. What practices can the church give us that will help us resist consumerism and embrace generosity.

America's increasing suspicion can be tied to a lack of "third spaces" - spaces that blur the lines between public and private. But Christians are called to be radically hospitable. How can we create third spaces where we can embody God's radical love for everyone?