Sermon Podcast Audio

Christ Church is an Episcopal church in South Tulsa, Oklahoma; we welcome all saints, sinners, and skeptics alike.

Christ Church is an Episcopal church in South Tulsa, Oklahoma; we welcome all saints, sinners, and skeptics alike.

Christ Church is an Episcopal church in South Tulsa, Oklahoma; we welcome all saints, sinners, and skeptics alike.

Christ Church is an Episcopal church in South Tulsa, Oklahoma; we welcome all saints, sinners, and skeptics alike.

In today's homily, we're invited to shift our focus from external cleanliness to the true essence of faith. The Gospel story of Jesus confronting the Pharisees about hand-washing rituals serves as a springboard for deeper spiritual reflection. We're challenged to consider: are we, like the Pharisees, too focused on outward appearances and traditions? The sermon reminds us that Jesus' hands were often 'unclean' by societal standards, yet they brought healing and restoration. This paradox invites us to examine our own hearts and actions. Are we creating barriers or breaking them down? Are we reaching out to those deemed 'unclean' by society? The message encourages us to embrace a faith that's not afraid to get its hands dirty in service to others, mirroring Christ's own ministry. It's a call to move beyond surface-level piety to a faith that transforms us from the inside out.

In Sunday's message, we're reminded that being a Christian isn't a part-time commitment or a mere social club. It's a call to follow Christ wholeheartedly, in all aspects of our lives. We're challenged to move beyond a commodified, easy version of faith and embrace the true essence of Christianity—one that involves hardship and tribulation, but ultimately leads to profound love and inner transformation. The sermon draws parallels to the Israelites' struggle with false idols, emphasizing our need to choose God decisively. Just as exercise strengthens our bodies, living out our faith strengthens our spirits. We're encouraged to keep showing up, to persist in our faith journey, knowing that there's something beautiful waiting for us as we abide in Christ.

Christ Church is an Episcopal church in South Tulsa, Oklahoma; we welcome all saints, sinners, and skeptics alike.

Plan your visit, contact us, watch online, and more on our website.

Plan your visit, contact us, watch online, and more on our website.

Plan your visit, contact us, watch online, and more on our website.

Plan your visit, contact us, watch online, and more on our website.