Advent 4At Christmas we are told we have to “believe” in all sorts of things, including miracles and even biblical miracles.  Pastor Rob reflects that the most challenging miracle of all to believe in:  That God still loves the world and that God still loves you!  Pastor Rob reflects on how God puts a new song of faith, hope and joy in our hearts through the birth of Jesus Christ.Includes a reference to Home Alone

Advent 3 This week we hear about the joyful encounter between Mary and Elizabeth, both pregnant women.  Pastor Rob reflects on the joy of Christmas.  This joy changes as we age; but is not necessarily diminished.  This joy is also threatened by many things going on in our lives.  Pastor Rob proposed the Magnificat Test to determine how to discover the joy God intends for you in the birth of Jesus! The Bible passage may be found here:  Luke 1:39-55 The image is from:  https://www.shcj.org/reflection-on-the-visitation-of-mary/

He is Risen!  On Easter we are ready for joyful celebration; yet we encounter scenes of grief and doubt.  Where is the good news?

As Pastor Rob announces he is leaving, he reflects on the strengths of the ministry at Zion's.

What kind of church shall we be?  Jesus today encounters two people in need of his powerful love.  In these encounters we find the blueprint of what kind of church we are called to be.

For this teaching sermon, you may want to look at the notes found here:  http://www.zionsjonestown.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Sowing-Seeds-Sermon-Notes.pdf

Baptism is about repentance.  How do we actually experience God's change in our lives?

Of course as a pastor, I don't like to talk about magic.  But there isn't something "magical" about Christmas.  What is it?

Is fear a gift of Christmas?  Fear isn't something we talk about at Christmas.  But it lurks in words of the Christmas story in the Bible.  What to do with fear?

Its a few days until Christmas.  Will everything get done for Christmas?  What is the true meaing of Christmas anyway?