(Sermon preached February 26, 2023) The story of the temptation of Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11) invites us to think about how temptation functions in our own lives. In this sermon, I turn to the writings of Evagrius Ponticus and his “Eight Bad Thoughts,” and then I add one of my own. Understanding how temptation is at work in our lives can help us to address it before it becomes sin.
Six Days
The loudest words we hear in the story of Jesus’ transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-9) are, “Listen to him!” This story happens after the disciples struggle to hear what Jesus is saying about being arrested and killed in Jerusalem and the cost of discipleship. Sometimes, like the disciples, we have a hard time listening to Jesus. When is that for you?
Love Out Loud
(Sermon preached February 6, 2023) In Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus says, “You are the light of the world?” Are we going to hide that light or let it shine?
What God Wants
(Sermon preached January 22, 2023) Micah 6:1-8 tells us what God wants; to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God. How are we doing with that?
The Drum Major (Honoring the Life and Legacy of MLK, Jr.)
(Sermon preached January 15, 2023) Two months before Dr. King was killed, he preached a sermon that included how he wanted to be remembered. He preached on the “Drum Major Instinct” which was inspired by a sermon by J Wallace Hamilton and based on Mark 10:35-45.
You can read Dr. King’s Sermon here: Sermon
You can read J Wallace Hamilton’s Sermon here: Sermon
I have included my “Invitation to Communion” which describes King’s vision of Beloved Community. King’s six nonviolent principles outline the philosophy of nonviolent action, the end result being Beloved Community.
You can learn more here: Six Principles of Nonviolence