We begin a new sermon series on Spiritual Practices based on the book Mudhouse Sabbath by Lauren Winner. Matthew 4:1-11 is the scripture reading and tells of Christ’s time in the wilderness. Pastor Teresa’s sermon “Fitting Food and Fasting” will explore our relationship with food impacts our relationship with others and with God.

We hear the reading from Matthew’s Gospel of the Transfiguration of Christ. In this story, three disciples go with Jesus to the top of a mountain where they see a vision that includes a radiant Jesus visiting with Moses and Elijah. This pivotal moment takes place just before Jesus enters the wilderness. Likewise, this scripture lesson is often shared in churches on the Sunday before we begin our Lenten journey.

We hear a scripture reading from the Prophet Isaiah and welcome Rev. Dr. Stephen Ray to the pulpit. Rev. Dr. Ray is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ currently serving as the Black Religious Scholars Group’s Scholar-in-Residence at Seminary of the Southwest.

Pastor Teresa preaches and we hear a reading from the prophet Micah reminding us to “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.”

We celebrate Laity Appreciation Sunday and Pastor Teresa preaches on John 15 which includes these words from Jesus: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”

We welcomed Pastor Ashley Valenzuela of St. Mark UMC, Austin as our guest preacher as we remember University UMC’s decision to affiliate with Reconciling Ministries Network. RMN is committed to working for the full participation of all LGBTQ+ people throughout the life and leadership of The UMC.

Pastor Earl preaches on the symbolism of the river in the Bible, and the way it inspires us to see how God created us to live in a network of love. Along with the symbol of the river, we will also reflect on the words of Dr. King.

Pastor Teresa preaches on the story of the Magi’s visit to the Christ Child from Matthew’s Gospel. The following quote from Vincent Van Gogh floated in her mind as she wrote this week’s sermon, "For my part, I know nothing with certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream." We will also receive “star words” as an invitation to a prayer practice for the new year.

Megan Otto preaches on Psalm 91. She will talk about perspectives for 2023 and our hopes for new beginnings.

We hear the lesson from Luke’s Gospel about Mary’s visit to her cousin Elizabeth including the powerful words of the Magnificat.