I published the written text of this sermon with a link to the actual video from my church’s Youtube channel. A friend said it was hard for her to hear, given her particular hearing issues. I have cleaned up the sound a bit to make things a bit easier, but I do find this a little lonely—the sounds of the church were really so nice for me.

In case this version works better for you, enjoy!

This sermon is part of my ongoing creative pilgrimage—an attempt to weave together ministry, art, and justice. If you’d like to read more about that journey, you can explore my spiritual autobiography and ministry call or follow along with the projects I build through Stoneroller Cooperative, where I work with churches and nonprofits to communicate their mission with clarity and care.

Texts Read for this Sermon

Book of Acts

Book of Luke

An Altar in the World by Barbara Brown TaylorAvailable at HarperCollins

Emergent Strategy by adrienne maree brownAvailable at AK Press

Rank Stranger Albert E. Brumley, Sr.sung by the Stanley Brothers

Readings for August 17, 2025

Isaiah 5:1-7

Psalm 80:1-2, 8-18

Luke 12:49-56

Next Month:

AUGUST | Season After Pentecost: Ongoing Growth

Book of 1 Samuel

The Shape of Content by Ben ShahnPurchase from Harvard University Press

Beholding: Deepening Our Experience in God by Strahan ColemanAvailable at David C. Cook

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