Sermons with Reverend Killjoy

Ash Wednesday

Mark 6:1-6, 16-21

Ash Wednesday feels different on Zoom. This year we incorporated the imposition of ashes and also an anointing into a unique two-part sermon-and-ritual.

Transfiguration Sunday, Lectionary Year B

Mark 9:2-9

No matter how far we have felt from the mountaintop this past year, Jesus is here with us. He came down from the mountain for us.

Fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Lectionary Year B

Mark 1:29-39

In our Gospel story today, after Jesus heals many and casts out demons at Peter's house, Peter tells Jesus "everyone is searching for you." Today, again, everyone is searching for something. How can we be the body of Christ for one another in times like these?

Fourth Sunday after Epiphany, Lectionary Year B

Mark 1:21-28

Paul says don't eat meat! I haven't had meat since 2001. Ha! Just kidding. The decisions we make do affect others, and our faith calls us to act with responsibility toward our neighbors.

Third Sunday after Epiphany, Lectionary Year B

Mark 1:14-20

Jesus begins his public ministry in Mark's Gospel with the bold declaration that the time has been fulfilled. In the 100th year of our congregation, Hope Lutheran, we will be looking to God's fulfillment of time and what God will be doing next.

Baptism of Our Lord, Lectionary Year B

Mark 1:4-11

In light of the cross and the noose erected on the grounds of our nation's Capitol building this week, we looked into Dr. James Cone's The Cross and the Lynching Tree to help us make sense of Christianity in America today before diving back into the baptism and repentance of our scripture for today.

Second Sunday of Christmas, Lectionary Year B

John 1:10-18

We begin a new year with the Word made flesh and all that it means for us.

Christmas Eve

Luke 2:1-20

Is this the best Christmas ever?

Fourth Sunday of Advent, Lectionary Year A

Luke 1:26-55

Mary's conversation with the angel and the song she sings in response to her conversation with her cousin Elizabeth are among the most powerful witnesses of what it means when God intervenes in our world.

Second Sunday of Advent, Lectionary Year B

Isaiah 40:1-11

God's word of comfort to the people exiled to Babylon can be a powerful word to us today.