December 2021 – Joy of the Journey

At the Threshold

Luke 1:39-55 [watch sermon here] It’s only been a few dayssince Mary heard the newsthat that would change her life forever. Mary had just learned that she would be part of the processof birthing a revolution for her people. Unable to stay still, Mary set outand ran with haste to the hill country. There’s an intensityContinue reading “At the Threshold”

I Want to Change My Life

I want to change my life, I think this December. Each Sunday this month, as I prepare to preach, the Christian lectionary* has given me a scripture reading about change. The message that it drives home is this: Prepare for Christmas by changing your life. Yet, I am still stuck on this question:How do weContinue reading “I Want to Change My Life”

What Then Should We Do?

Luke 3:7-20 The crowds empty out onto the desert.They have heard about John.His words can cut like a knifethrough the shroud of societal lies.His words can make your heart beat again,even after the coldness of apathy has stilled it. The people ache to see John.The people are afraid to see John. What would he sayContinue reading “What Then Should We Do?”

The Art and Athleticism of Preaching

When I was six years old, I drew a picture of a painter and a painting. On it I wrote, “I wot to be a artist.” A few years ago, when my parents moved out of their house, they gave me all my childhood papers. I threw many straight into the recycling bin, but IContinue reading “The Art and Athleticism of Preaching”

Lesson and Carols: Rose Edition

Prelude Introduction Roses exude a sweet perfume and dazzle the eye with their intricate layers of petals. This Sunday we will reflect on the rose as a symbol within the Christian tradition. What do roses teach us about God? Mary, mother of Jesus, is traditionally associated with roses. In the Catholic tradition, people use theContinue reading “Lesson and Carols: Rose Edition”