SSJE Sermons

“For us, in an era when it is easy for drone-equipped nations to quite literally rain down fire from heaven on their enemies, Jesus calls on us to be vigilant, discerning, and inclined always to mercy—for he shows us a God whose power is declared “chiefly in showing mercy and pity.” Br. Sean Glenn calls us into the tension of care and mercy with those who might not honor our religious convictions.

“Worship is important because it is a sanctifying act. The word ‘sanctify’ shares the same root as the Latin word ‘Sanctus’ which means: Holy. In the experience of worship, we offer all we are, all we have, all of our blessings, and all of our sufferings and we give it to God in sacrifice asking nothing but to be sanctified and become more like God, that is: holy and fully His.” Br. Jim Woodrum encourages us all to become like angels, joining in the eternal praise of God not only in church, but as we go forth from it.

“The disciples’ confusion stems from what seems to be a clear contradiction between Jesus’ power and his powerlessness. How or why would someone who has such power and authority find himself in the position of having his life determined by others?” Br. David Vryhof invites us to join the disciples "on the way," as we learn from our weakness, failings, and misunderstandings, trusting that the risen Christ will open our eyes to see and understand.

“Vincent was by temperament a very irritable, short-tempered person. He said of himself that, except for the grace of God, he would have been 'hard and repulsive, rough and cross.' But he became tender and affectionate, very sensitive to the needs of others, and he emulated humility.” Br. Curtis Almquist honors Vincent de Paul, the "Apostle of Charity," for both his humanity and his exemplary life.

“You cannot serve God and wealth.” This is a great line from today’s Gospel lesson. In it, Jesus offers a clear and unambiguous teaching. In many contexts, you might hear the word, “wealth,” go untranslated, as “mammon.” This is sometimes accompanied by an explanation that “mammon” is an ancient pagan god. There’s no historical evidence…

“Using startling images and seemingly contradictory metaphors, Traherne expressed the cohabitation of the sacred and what is not called sacred, all of which is to be claimed. Why? Because of God’s reclaiming creation in the birth and life of God’s Son, Jesus.” Br. Curtis Almquist celebrates the life and insights of Thomas Traherne, the great English poet.

“We remember St. Matthew, one whom Jesus selected, shaped, and sent with love. Following, we continue to learn mercy.” Br. Luke Ditweig considers the experience of Matthew for a lesson in learning mercy.

“We are God’s co-creators. All of life teems with God’s presence and creativity. Hildegard said, 'God made [us] mirrors of all heaven’s graces.' We should use all God’s gifts entrusted to us. God’s gifts are to be shared, not squandered, and not denied.” On Hildegard of Bingen's feast day, Br. Curtis Almquist invites us to take inspiration on how to live today from this incredible, creative woman born over 900 years ago.

“It is not our work or strength that will make us whole; no program will lift us to that place from which we finally lose our tiny, creaturely perspective. The only thing that can restore our vision is the mercy of God—an encounter with Jesus, the shepherd who has left all to “tramp the hills” in search of you and me. Our invitation as God’s people is not to pretend to be good, or pious or saintly; it is to open ourselves to the searching, active mercy of God.” Br. Sean Glenn tackles some tough words of Scripture as he confronts our human tendency toward self-delusion, only to reveal the tremendous, redemptive power of God's mercy.

“Surrender your life, surrender your destiny, and take Jesus at his word: that life for you will come out of death. Your dying is the gateway to real life.” On Holy Cross Day, Br. Curtis Almquist points us to the miraculous, real, amazing, constant promise of the cross: that life comes out of death.