Rotten Apple Seeds

Here is today’s sermon, October 13, 2024, Proper 23, Year B. It is based on Mark 10: 17- 31, the Rich Young Man. In it I explain that the mission of Jesus was to proclaim the Jubilee in which debts are forgiven, slaves are freed, and the land is redistributed. I make a connection to today’s web of debt.

Here is today’s sermon, October 6, 2024, Proper 22, Year B. It is based on Mark 10: 2- 16, Jesus’ teaching on divorce. In it I offer a theological and pastoral reflection on broken relationships. I observe that the end of a relationship often involves anger, falsehoods, and grieving. Certainly in relationships which include abuse or addiction, there is a pastoral urgency for safety. I also acknowledge that not all divorces end in anger and grieving. Some people are able to cultivate a reconciliation and reoriented relationship with an ex. This is also a grace.

Here is today’s sermon, September 29, 2024, Proper 21, Year B. It is based on Mark 9: 38- 50. It tells of the conflict in the early Church and the struggles to manage differing viewpoints. I explain how Anglicanism, as a communion of Common Worship, rather than Common Belief, was conceived in conflict. The polity of Anglicanism is ideally matched to the management of conflict and maintenance of communion despite conflicting beliefs. This is a much needed gift we can offer to the United States at this moment in our common history.

Here is today’ sermon, September 22, 2024, Proper 20, Year A. It is based on Mark 9: 30-37, “Who is the greatest in the Kingdom?” In it I explain that Jesus’ prediction of His death and resurrection shows a vulnerable God, willing to accept and absorb rejection and death. His disciples were looking for a Messiah to rescue them, while Jesus wanted disciples who will take up their own crosses. I show how a child is a wonderful image of a vulnerable God, One Who is part of our lives now and in the future.

Here is today's sermon, September 15, 2024, Proper 19, Year B. It is based on Mark 8: 27- 38, "Who do you say that I AM?". In it I explain that Jesus rejects the title, Messiah, and insists that God is not to rescue you from your situations. Instead, you are empowered by Jesus' life to model your response to your challenges to overcome them and find the abundance of God's life through them.

Here is today’s sermon, August 25, 2024, Proper 16, Year B. It is based on John 6: 56-69, the Bread of Life. In it I discuss the nature of sacrifice in the Hebrew Scriptures, the Seder meal, and the Eucharist.

Here is today’s sermon, August 11, 2024, Proper 14, Year B. It is based on John 6: 35, 41-51. It has s based on “I AM the Bread of Life”. In it I explain how we find abundant life in sharing a meal.