St. Moses Church

In this lecture, Sam from St. Moe's addresses the importance of serving within the context of a Christian community as part of a five-part summer series focused on the habit of community. He emphasizes that service is deeply rooted in one's identity in Christ and highlights the model of Jesus as the ultimate shepherd who serves, seeks, heals, and restores. This session serves as a continuation of previous discussions on service, emphasizing the deliberate formation of behavior and character through acts of service among believers.

The anchor text for this discussion is Mark 10:35-45, which features an exchange between James, John, and Jesus. Sam provides a reading of the scripture and opens with a prayer that seeks understanding and purpose for those gathered. He notes the emotional context in which the apostles approach Jesus—their request for positions of glory, and the subsequent discontent from the other disciples, revealing an underlying tension and competitive spirit within the group. Sam draws attention to how Jesus navigates this moment, demonstrating that scripture does not condemn emotions but rather invites engagement and dialogue about them.

Sam highlights three key points in his teachings. Firstly, he observes the awkwardness in the request made by James and John, pointing out human emotions like jealousy and indignation displayed by the other disciples. This moment illustrates that Jesus does not shy away from difficult conversations but engages with His followers’ emotions in a constructive manner. Secondly, Sam emphasizes that rather than dismissing their desire for greatness, Jesus redefines it. He encourages ambition by stating that true greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others, which challenges conventional definitions of success and achievement.

Lastly, Sam discusses how Jesus transforms the concept of greatness by illustrating that serving others is the pathway to true honor and significance. Drawing parallels to modern ideas of greatness in professions and societal status, he argues that Jesus’ teaching elevates serving as the ultimate aspiration. Sam references a sermon by Martin Luther King Jr. that echoes this sentiment, asserting that anyone can achieve greatness through service, irrespective of formal education or social standing.

The lecture culminates with an appeal for attendees to recognize serving as a core aspect of their spiritual identity. Sam encourages the church community to seize opportunities to serve one another, reinforcing that true motivation for service stems from the example set by Jesus, who served first. He closes by invoking the image of Jesus washing the disciples' feet, reminding listeners that service is an expression of Christ's love and a source of healing. The call to action is clear: service is not merely an obligation, but a profound gift that enriches both the server and those being served, embodying the essence of the Christian faith.

In this lecture, the speaker concludes a five-week series focused on two central Christian habits: community gathering and serving one another. Emphasizing the significance of these practices, they argue that gathering as a community is indeed a discipline that fosters connection and support within the faith. The session highlights the pressing issue of isolation in contemporary society, particularly exacerbated by the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has contributed to a decline in participation in communal activities and volunteerism.

The speaker candidly shares their own struggles with feelings of isolation, likening them to a common tendency to retreat to the comforts of digital distractions rather than engaging in meaningful community involvement. This personal reflection underscores the broader cultural trend of individuals opting for solitary activities over collective engagement, which hinders both personal growth and community vitality. The call to action centers on intentionally forming habits of service, challenging both themselves and the audience to move beyond mere self-interest and towards collective benefit within the body of Christ.

Transitioning to discussing the urgent need for volunteers, the speaker recognizes the responsibility of church leadership not to manipulate congregants into service but to inspire genuine engagement rooted in love and compassion. By stressing the importance of every role within the church—be it making coffee, serving in children's ministry, or community outreach—the lecturer paints a vivid picture of the interconnectedness required in serving others. They invoke a sense of urgency without resorting to guilt, instead inviting reflection on the joy and fulfillment that can come from being part of something greater.

The discussion takes a theological turn through the exploration of Scripture, beginning with a powerful passage from Ezekiel 34. This text highlights God's discontent with Israel's leaders who neglect their responsibilities to care for the people, drawing a direct parallel to the importance of servant leadership within the church today. The speaker points to the consequences of poor leadership, illustrating that self-serving actions lead to a lack of care for the vulnerable, and emphasizes the need for true shepherds who are invested in the well-being of their flock.

Furthering this theme, the lecturer references the Gospel of John, where Jesus identifies Himself as the good shepherd who lays down His life for the sheep. This profound imagery serves to remind the congregation of the ultimate model of service, challenging them to follow Christ’s example in their own lives. The message is clear: serving is a reciprocal act, reflecting the service and love that Jesus first demonstrated.

Throughout the lecture, the speaker interweaves personal anecdotes, Scriptural insights, and social commentary, creating a compelling narrative that urges listeners to rethink their relationship with community and service. They conclude by encouraging attendees to consider how they might engage with their local church, emphasizing that serving others not only meets communal needs but also cultivates personal spiritual growth. This session effectively melds encouragement, scriptural teaching, and a heartfelt call to service, inviting participants to embrace both the challenges and rewards of active involvement in their faith communities.

In this episode, I explore the transformative nature of servant leadership, drawing on experiences from my recent work with junior crew leaders at VBS. The overwhelming involvement from the church community was inspiring and reminded me of the profound teachings of Jesus on service. Jesus not only taught about serving others but embodied it throughout his ministry, presenting the ultimate example for us to follow.

We dive deep into the concept of service, referring back to biblical foundations in Exodus and the New Testament, where God clearly outlines His expectations for His people. I emphasize that we, as a collective body of believers, are called to be a kingdom of priests, serving as a bridge between God and the world. This notion is echoed by Peter in the New Testament, where he describes the church as a holy nation, illustrating our purpose to be set apart for the benefit of others, not just ourselves.

Further, I engage the audience with practical reflections based on Jesus’ act of washing his disciples’ feet, which redefines greatness and what it means to serve. It challenges us to consider why, despite knowing these truths, we sometimes continue to fall short in our actions. To address this, I identify three key malformations in our lives that hinder our capacity to serve: self-sufficiency, unholy comfort, and illegitimate allegiance. Each of these idols distorts our understanding of service, leading us away from dependence on God's strength and grace.

Throughout the discussion, I point out how self-sufficiency can create a bootstrap mentality that neglects the profound necessity of God’s grace in our lives. Unholy comfort can lead us to avoid the discomfort required for genuine service, and I challenge listeners to reflect on privilege and justice in the context of their faith. Together, we explore the importance of living not in isolation but in a community, actively serving even those who may not align with us or whom we find challenging.

In the second half of the episode, I emphasize counter-formation practices to combat these malformations. I outline the path of discipleship through intentional actions: being with Jesus, being like Jesus, and being on mission with Jesus. I suggest practical steps for creating a culture of service within our community, such as reevaluating our schedules to create margins for service and engaging in prayer as a constant reminder of our need for God.

As we conclude, I underscore the radical notion that serving others is not just an act, but a heart posture that reflects the essence of Jesus’ ministry. I challenge listeners to consider their personal responses to this calling and to identify ways they can step into their roles as servants in a world that so desperately needs Christ’s love and light. Encouragement is given to reach out for prayer and support, reinforcing our commitment to each other in this journey of service. The episode is a powerful reminder of our shared mission to serve, grounded in the example of Jesus and ever reliant on His strength and grace.

In this lecture, Ellie Talley explores the complex relationship between technology, community, and isolation, launching the discussion by referencing a scene from *Modern Family*. The scenario highlights a family's profound disconnection despite their technical ability to communicate, illustrating a paradox where increased connectivity can lead to emotional and relational alienation. Throughout the summer series titled "Formed in Community and Formed in Service," Talley addresses the shaping influence of community practices and the nuances of technology in contemporary life.

Talley presents three central questions guiding the series: what we were made for (formation), what has gone wrong (malformation), and how Jesus invites us into a redemptive way forward. She emphasizes that while technology has the potential to foster connection and community, it often leaves individuals feeling scattered and alone. Rather than advocating for an anti-technology stance, she calls for a thoughtful approach to engagement with technology, guided by a desire for deeper connection with God and each other.

Bringing awareness to her own experiences, Talley engages the audience through relatable anecdotes about modern distractions—texting within the same room, mindlessly scrolling through content, and yet feeling disconnected from people both online and in person. She emphasizes the necessity of reflecting on how technology shapes our behaviors and relationships, and she invites listeners into this critical self-examination. Following a moment of reflection, Talley dives into biblical narratives, starting with Genesis, which reveals humanity's created purpose for relational connection. The scripture serves as a foundation for understanding our need for community and the potential benefits of technology when used wisely.

As she elaborates on the implications of technological use, Talley warns against the dangers of an uncritical adoption of tech, giving the historic example of the Tower of Babel as a cautionary tale about how advancements can foster pride and a false sense of community. This is juxtaposed against modern experiences with social media and tech. She identifies five specific ways technology contributes to malformation today: treating people as content, mistaking networks for true community, burdening future generations, undermining reliance on one another, and demonizing those with differing views.

Transitioning from these insights, Talley speaks to the challenges of recognizing the impact of our technological habits on mental and spiritual health, referencing studies on increased anxiety and depression among youth due to inappropriate tech exposure. She offers hope, praising the transformative power of Jesus who invites individuals into healthier relational patterns. Instead of simply reducing technology use, she calls for a fundamental shift in how we engage with it—promoting a transformation of habits that aligns with loving God and others.

Toward the conclusion, Talley introduces the concept of the "examine," a reflective practice adapted for digital life to help listeners assess their tech engagement critically. She encourages participants to identify their most frequently used apps, explore their motivations, and discern how these habits shape relationships with God and one another. The lecture culminates in a communal exercise inviting attendees to share their reflections with one another, emphasizing the necessity of real-life connections as they navigate technological engagement.

Ultimately, Talley reinforces that although the modern family experience depicted earlier might resonate too closely with reality, it is possible to foster genuine connections and live differently in a tech-saturated world. Through Jesus and the supportive community of the church, attendees are reminded of their inherent design for relationships, inviting them to pursue richer, more meaningful interactions in all areas of life. The session concludes with a prayerful reflection on the importance of intentionality in technology use as a means of building community and nurturing authentic relationships.

In today’s episode, I delve into Colossians chapter 3, verses 8 through 15, where the scripture prompts us to shed harmful behaviors such as anger, malice, and slander, and instead adopt a new nature that embodies love and peace. Drawing upon the profound truths within this passage, I explore both the personal and communal implications of our Christian identity in Christ, particularly in a time marked by division and polarization.

Reflecting on the COVID pandemic, I recount how it initially evoked a spirit of solidarity, as communities came together to support essential workers. However, this unity was short-lived, giving way to divisions that were often exacerbated by differing perspectives on risk and guidelines, highlighting the pre-existing fractures in our society. As we navigate through this discussion, we recognize that the pandemic has brought to the forefront long-standing issues of division that we must confront as a community.

Linking these observations to our current cultural context, I note that we live in an era marked by loneliness and a failure to connect. With statistics revealing that many Americans experience profound isolation, I emphasize the Church's calling to foster community as designed by God. Building upon Ginny’s insights from the previous week, I introduce the concept of community and service as core Christian practices and reflect on the intrinsic and extrinsic forces that push us away from this divine design.

I then transition into an examination of polarization and its effects on our communities. Drawing from social psychology, I introduce the term 'homophily'—the tendency to associate with those who are like us—and unpack how this tendency, combined with external sorting forces like economic disparity and geographic segregation, leads us further apart. In stark contrast, the early Church exemplified a polarization-resistant community, breaking down barriers and embodying a new humanity in Christ.

As we delve deeper into the scripture, I highlight how our identities in Christ unify us beyond all earthly divisions—be they ethnic, socioeconomic, or ideological. In Christ, we have the opportunity to build a community that transcends these barriers, aligning ourselves with His teachings of forgiveness and love. I challenge listeners to reflect on the clothing imagery Paul uses, urging us to shed garments of anger and resentment and instead wear compassion, humility, and patience.

Finally, I present practical steps for counter-formation. These include replacing our instinct towards rage with mercy through prayer, intentionally engaging with those who are different from us, and transforming consumption of religious services into active participation in community life. By leaning into these practices, I invite everyone to discover the richness of relationships that Jesus offers and to take part in creating a polarization-resistant new humanity that genuinely reflects the love of Christ.

As we conclude this episode, I encourage listeners to embrace their role in fostering unity within the body of Christ and to actively invest in relationships that illustrate our common identity in Him.

This is the first teaching in our summer formation series on Community and Service. Through the lenses of Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 and Romans 12:9-2, Ginny Becker explores God's design for humans to live in deep relationship with one another and with him, the wounds that can cause us to pull back from community, as well as practical steps for engaging more deeply in Community.

Preached at St Moses Church, Baltimore, on Sunday, July 6th, 2025.

In this lecture, Sam presents a powerful message centered around themes of forgiveness, repentance, and personal accountability, tailored specifically for a family service at St. Moe's. He emphasizes the importance of including children in the worship experience, indicating that the entire community, regardless of age, plays a vital role in the life of the church. The lecture opens with a call for unity in chaotic moments, underscoring that everyone, including children, belongs within this faith community.

Sam transitions into discussing the biblical story of King David, particularly focusing on 2 Samuel 12. He illustrates how Nathan the prophet confronts David about his wrongdoings. Through a parable, Sam narrates the events that lead to David's realization of his own moral failings. The allegorical story of two men — one rich and one poor — reveals a profound truth about human behavior, particularly the imperfections inherent in leadership and authority. As David reacts with anger towards the rich man's actions, he is blindsided by the prophet's piercing revelation that he embodies the very wrong he detests.

The use of hands as a metaphor is a significant part of Sam's message. He prompts the audience to reflect on the power and consequences of their actions, highlighting that hands may serve to heal or to harm. David misuses his authority and power, resulting in destructive outcomes. Sam relates this to the notion that often, attempts to cover up misdeeds lead to greater complexity and guilt. The lecture encourages the congregation, particularly the children, to acknowledge their wrongdoings rather than allow shame or fear to dictate their actions.

Continuing on the path of David's journey, Sam explains the concept of repentance — a change of mind and heart. He equates this spiritual practice to the challenging sports drills of changing direction while running, pointing out that genuine repentance requires significant effort and humility. The discussion naturally leads to the role of the Holy Spirit as a guiding force in the process of transformation. Sam reassures the audience that while forgiveness is available, it often comes at a cost, which in David's case was the loss of his son, exemplifying the gravity of consequences tied to our actions.

As Sam concludes, he connects the narrative back to the central theme of redemption offered through Jesus Christ, underscoring that through Him, believers are granted the opportunity for a fresh start. He likens this to the gaming concept of "respawning," emphasizing that forgiveness leads to new beginnings and enhanced potential for benevolent actions. The final call to action implores the audience to use their bodies — hands, feet, and words — in ways that contribute positively to the community, all the while recognizing the Holy Spirit's role in helping them move towards right actions. The lecture wraps up with a heartfelt prayer, reinforcing the importance of seeking divine guidance and living lives that glorify the essence of faith.

The lecture explores the profound idea of blessing as a central theme in the Biblical narrative, focusing primarily on John 17:13-21, where Jesus offers a prayer for his followers during a pivotal moment before his crucifixion. The speaker provides insight into Jesus' expectations that his disciples would experience joy even while facing the trials of a world that stands in opposition to God. This joy, rooted in a relationship with Christ, counteracts the despair often found in a reality separated from divine grace. The emphasis is that, despite being immersed in a challenging world, true discipleship is marked by an enduring joy that transcends circumstances.

The lecture then transitions to a broader discussion on what it means for followers of Jesus to be blessings within the world, which includes examining historical figures who embodied this principle. The speaker encourages listeners to look beyond just acquiring knowledge of these figures, urging instead for a transformative engagement that expands the capacity for imagination regarding their own roles as conduits of God's blessing. This discussion serves to highlight the call for contemporary believers to actively participate in bringing about a new reality infused with God's goodness.

Three poignant historical portraits serve as case studies to illustrate this theme, beginning with Richard Allen, a profound figure in American religious history who emerged from enslavement to establish the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Allen's conviction led him to advocate against the injustices of his time, particularly in the face of racial discrimination and societal neglect. His profound commitment to serving others during a yellow fever epidemic in Philadelphia showcases how acts of sacrificial love can arise from deep personal pain and suffering, ultimately resulting in significant impact and community transformation.

The second portrait features Josephine Butler, a prominent advocate for women's rights whose activism was catalyzed by personal tragedy. Following the heartbreaking loss of her daughter, Butler dedicated her life to alleviating the suffering of others, particularly women caught in oppressive systems. Her efforts led to significant reforms, lifting the voices of marginalized individuals and challenging unjust societal norms. Butler’s life serves as an inspiration for turning personal grief into a driving force for communal blessings through compassion and advocacy.

The final figure discussed is C.S. Lewis, a renowned author whose early life was marked by loss and hardship. Despite the trials he faced, Lewis ultimately found joy in his faith, which propelled him to use his literary talents for greater good. His life exemplifies how personal hardships can inform a commitment to generosity and service, as he utilized his resources to support others while remaining grounded in humility. Lewis’s insights encourage contemporary followers of Christ to recognize that true generosity often requires sacrifice and may elevate the needs of others above one's personal comforts.

The speaker wraps up the lecture by calling the audience to embrace their identity as blessings in the world. This approach entails a commitment to live joyfully and sacrificially in a way that points others back to God. The final exhortation encourages participants to deepen their roots in faith and actively engage in transforming their communities through acts of love and service, fostering a spirit of conspiratorial collaboration with the divine in the pursuit of a new world filled with God's blessings. This call underscores the overarching commitment to embody joy and blessing that exudes from a personal relationship with Christ, serving as a beacon of hope and transformation in a world often marked by despair.

This lecture centers on the biblical narrative involving Barnabas and Saul, exploring the theme of commissioning and sending as an essential aspect of faith practice. The lecture opens with an examination of Acts 13, where the early church at Antioch, comprised of diverse leaders including Barnabas and Saul, engages in worship and fasting. During this time, the Holy Spirit prompts them to appoint Barnabas and Saul for a special mission, marking the onset of a profound journey of spreading the gospel beyond their immediate community.

The speaker reflects on a recent personal experience of being involved in welcoming families from various backgrounds into the community, exemplifying the blessings that come from stepping outside one’s comfort zone. This introspection leads to a broader discussion on the importance of blessing others during times of unrest and uncertainty, paralleling individual experiences with the biblical call to bless and serve others. The lecture transitions into the concept of centrifugal blessing, where the church is seen not merely as a reservoir of faith but as a dynamic entity called to actively extend blessings outward.

With a detailed analysis of the commissioning of Barnabas and Saul, the speaker emphasizes the dual nature of sending: the church’s initiative to send based on its discernment and the Holy Spirit’s involvement in affirming that sending. The lecture highlights the emotional complexities tied to sending beloved members of the community on a mission, sharing personal anecdotes about the difficulty of parting. By dissecting the Greek terminology related to 'sending,' the speaker shifts the understanding from mere dispatching to a deeper act of releasing, which involves trust, sacrifice, and active participation in God’s wider purpose.

Continuing further, the lecturer explores the implications of being a part of a dynamic, mission-focused church, emphasizing that this mission transcends geographical boundaries. With reference to the historical context and the diverse background of the Antioch church, the speaker illustrates the importance of community discernment in recognizing and responding to God’s call. The narrative unfolds into a broader theme of how believers are invited to participate in God’s mission, whether through direct sending or through supporting those called to go.

The lecture addresses potential fears and barriers to responding to God’s call, reinforcing that such fears are legitimate yet surmountable through faith. The speaker encourages reflection on personal capacities and contexts that lend themselves to being a blessing to others, urging attendees to identify their unique callings in their immediate environments. This leads to an empowering message that every member of the congregation has a role to play in God’s mission, whether through direct involvement or by supporting others in their journeys.

As the lecture transitions to conclusion, the speaker encourages engagement with the community and prayer for clarity regarding personal callings. Invoking the audience to put their “yes” on the table, the lecturer highlights the importance of community support in facilitating individual commitments to be a blessing. The discussion culminates in a moment of reflection on the significance of communion, connecting the themes of the lecture back to the shared experience of the faith community.

Through the exploration of commissioning, the speaker invites all to reflect on their roles within the greater narrative of sending and blessing, emphasizing that this is not just a historical account but a contemporary call to action for believers today. This thoughtful engagement with scripture not only brings to light the practice of commissioning but also reinforces a community ethos centered on mutual support and active participation in God’s mission to bless the world.

This lecture centers on the narrative of the Queen of Sheba's visit to King Solomon, as detailed in the biblical account from 1 Kings 10. The speaker begins by introducing the significance of this story, highlighting that it not only illustrates Solomon's extensive wisdom and wealth but also serves to reveal deeper themes regarding God's blessings. The Queen of Sheba, described as a notable figure of antiquity with much intrigue surrounding her persona, brought with her a caravan filled with riches and difficult questions. Her visit was not merely diplomatic; it was also a pursuit for understanding and a recognition of divine favor displayed through Solomon's reign.

The discussion shifts to explore the cultural and symbolic implications of the Queen's journey. The speaker notes how the extraordinary wisdom and organization of Solomon's court left her in awe. The details of her experience, such as the opulence of Solomon’s palace and the provision of bountiful feasts, demonstrate the flourishing life of God's people in a land filled with justice and righteousness. The Queen acknowledges the connection between Solomon’s prosperity and the glory of the God of Israel, praising Yahweh for delighting in Solomon and establishing him as king. This connection underscores a poignant theme: the blessings bestowed upon Solomon are not solely personal achievements but are intricately tied to God’s overarching divine plan for the nations.

The conversation further explores how Solomon's reign serves as a fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham, emphasizing how God’s blessings are meant to flow outward, touching all people. The speaker stresses that, akin to breadcrumbs, the blessings found in Solomon's Israel are intended to guide others back to the source of goodness, urging those outside of God's covenant to seek and celebrate the God of Israel. The implications of this are profound, suggesting that God’s people are called to be sources of blessing for the world around them, creating environments where all can flourish.

As the lecture progresses, the exploration of blessings expands into how God’s faithfulness is intended to create conditions for holistic human prosperity. The speaker references historical narratives, drawing parallels to modern societal structures that reflect characteristics of communal flourishing. The prosperity derived from God's blessing challenges listeners to consider the socio-economic dynamics of their own communities and how they can facilitate environments of equity and justice.

The theme of complexity arises with an acknowledgment that wealth, like Solomon's, can intertwine with moral ambiguity. While God's blessings manifest in tangible success, the speaker cautions against blind adulation of wealth without introspection on its use and impact. Solomon's wealth, although grand, is presented as a double-edged sword, with hints of his shortcomings foreshadowing eventual downfall. This reflection demands a nuanced view of success that interrogates the means by which wealth is acquired and its effects on both individuals and broader society.

Continuing the discussion, the speaker introduces the notion of "centripetal missions," a concept derived from missiology where God's blessings draw people inward, contrasting it with centrifugal missions that compel believers outward with their light. The central premise is that when God’s people are faithful to steward their blessings well, they embody an attractiveness that draws others toward the heart of God. The speaker notes that this gathering of people around God's presence reflects God's intention for communities to act as agents of blessing, fostering a culture defined by love and charity.

To illustrate this point further, the lecture transitions to the New Testament, where Jesus emerges as the pinnacle of blessings personified. By examining Christ's ministry, the speaker emphasizes how Jesus’s actions created spaces for healing, dignity, and belonging, compelling others to seek the blessing he offered. This transformation of personal and communal lives captures the essence of God’s intent to bless, reaching beyond traditional boundaries.

In concluding the lecture, the speaker emphasizes the imperative for the church to embody this model of blessing, encouraging congregants to facilitate environments that promote healing, support, and community. The call to action is clear: the church must be a beacon of hope and a tangible expression of God’s blessings, inviting the hurt and lost to experience the nurturing environment that reflects the character of God.

The lecture culminates with a vision for the local community and church, emphasizing the need for intention in establishing a culture of blessing that addresses both spiritual and practical needs. The speaker prays for divine guidance as the congregation seeks to manifest the love and compassion that should naturally flow from a community grounded in God's goodness.