If the only tool you have is a hammer then everything in the world looks like a nail.
|
|
- Lynette White
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Top Five Things Sermon Series Things I ve Learned from Photography A Sermon for First UMC Olympia, February 24, 2019 Rev. Peter K. Perry Matthew 13:10-17 Then the disciples came and asked him, Why do you speak to them in parables? He answered, To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. The reason I speak to them in parables is that seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen, nor do they understand. With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah that says: You will indeed listen, but never understand, and you will indeed look, but never perceive. For this people s heart has grown dull, and their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes; so that they might not look with their eyes, and listen with their ears, and understand with their heart and turn and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it. (Matthew 13:10 17, NRSV) I ve been telling people who asked that today s sermon is about photography. But actually, that is a lie. The sermon is about how we experience awareness in the world as people of faith. Photography is just a metaphor to help us ask the questions and understand the answers related to our vision, and the vision of others that are different from our vision, and so often perplexing. Why don t you see things the way I see them, we wonder. I m sure your heard or said things like: The way I see things From my perspective Well, he should walk in my shoes for a while We intellectually acknowledge that we all perceive things in different ways, but despite knowing this, it is hard to get past our own points of understanding the reality around us. We are self-centered, and we know what we know. What s the saying? If the only tool you have is a hammer then everything in the world looks like a nail. The scripture this morning is the recounting of the disciples conversation with Jesus about his frequent teaching in parables. Apropos to this message, we have two different versions of this story. Mark s version of the story clearly suggests that the parables are a sort of secret language for the in crowd. But Matthew tells the story with a different, more inclusive, slant. He says, in essence, I tell these stories so that others may understand what you already know. Reminding them of Isaiah s words, he says, Those who do not see God, those whose hearts have grown dull, those who have shut their eyes, whose ears are hard of hearing I would heal them. You are blessed! You already see. But so many long to see, so many long to hear, to understand so I tell a story. You see, sometimes a parable can reveal a truth where other ways of sharing have failed to convey the fullness of a message. We are all different and we all learn in many and varied ways. It is often hard for us see beyond our own noses. So Jesus taught in parables to make it easier for us to understand.
2 I chose this passage today because as an amateur photographer I have discovered that photography (well, all art for that matter) helps me see the world through more eyes than my own. I have loved photography for a long time. When I was in high school, I turned a closet under the stairs in our house into a darkroom. My mother was a very patient lady and she put up with the smell of acid stop bath coming out of the closet for years. I took a couple of photo classes in college and got to use a real darkroom and then I got a job working a photo store. I did some team photography and publicity photos for a while but decided the amateur had more fun than the pro. Over the years I have gradually learned that the best images that have come out of my camera and now digital darkroom are not pictures that I have taken, but rather images that have been given to me. You see, when I take a picture I am simply capturing what I see in the moment. But when I receive a picture it is because I have seen something I didn t see at first, sometimes accidentally and sometimes because I made an effort to see more than what was obvious to me. And it occurs to me that what photography has taught me, and is teaching me still, is of value in the way we see the world. So let me share with you five lessons from photography that I think are spiritual lessons that can help us see more than we do. I m going to put some of my photos on the screen that will help illustrate the points I m making. The first life lesson I want to talk about is focus. When we think about the world around us, what is important to us, what matters most in each moment, we ought to recognize that we have a limited ability to focus. No matter how hard we try we can t keep everything in focus at the same time. Some things will be a bit blurry in the photographs of our lives. In photography it s Depth of Field or Selective Focus. In a field full of dandelions, sometimes our focus is on just one of them. How do we decide where our focus will be as we move through life. There are so many things that we can focus on, so many things that clamor for our attention. In the picture of the seagulls, which I took up in Port Angeles a few years ago, that bird in the extreme foreground was my focus, but look at that bird in the background with his wings outstretched! Something interesting is happening there and I am missing it because I only see the thing in front. It is hard to be focused on the things beyond our periphery. Photography teaches us this truth. It s why the news reports on tragedies close to home last fifteen minutes, but similar or greater tragedies far away are given fifteen seconds. Where is our focus? What is important to us? Photography has taught me to look beyond the thing closest to me to see the things nearby and to bring them out of blurry bokeh and into focus.
3 The second lesson I ve learned from photography is that no picture is ever perfect at least I have yet to create one that is. For example, since moving to Washington, I ve been looking for the perfect picture of a heron. I ve got some good ones, as you can see, but none of them has fully satisfied my own expectations. Even the imperfect ones have value, and beauty, and meaning. But the quest to do even better is at the heart of what it means to grow and become all we hope to be. In the quest for perfection, I rely on four tools, if you will. These tools are probably applicable to any vocation or avocation. They are patience, persistence, preparedness, and practice. So no matter what our goal in life may be, if we are patient, if we are persistent, if we are prepared, and if we practice, we will eventually arrive at that goal. The lesson here is that achieving our goals is a lifelong process, and it can be hard work. We must patient and persistent in pursuit of the dreams we possess. And we are more likely to realize those dreams, or at least approach a place where the dreams seem clearer and truer, if we are prepared and practiced. This includes our efforts to build the kingdom of God in our midst. It includes our desire to be a more a loving person, a kinder person, a more welcoming person. The next thing photography has taught me is that perspective is important. The same subject can appear very different depending upon where I am standing, what lens I m using, the time day, the season of the year. Here s a simple example. There s a beautiful old tree in the church parking lot that was planted before statehood. It looks very different in these two photographs. The first was a couple of years ago on a lovely late afternoon as the sun was setting. It was taken from the window in room 222, with a medium telephoto lens on the camera.
4 The second was taken two weeks ago, right after the snow storm, from the parking lot with a wide-angle lens on the camera. Same tree but seen in different light, from different perspectives, through different lenses. Here s another example of the importance of perspective, also starring a tree. This tree is at the Harvard Arboretum in Boston. From a distance the tree is seen as one among many. A bit closer, and the tree becomes the center of attention with the presence of Karen and Elizabeth gazing at it. Their hidden gaze emphasizes the beauty of the tree.
5 Coming even closer, we eliminate the distractions and we see one bough of individual blossoms. Where we stand, how closely we look, how we see things in relation to other things, all impact perspective. We ve all heard the expression can't see the forest for the trees. It s an expression used of speak of someone who is too involved in the details of a problem to see the situation as a whole. Perspective, like focus, is often a matter of stepping out of our comfrot zone of the known and familiar, and looking at something with new eyes. When you are too close to a situation you need to step back and get a little perspective. But similarly, if you aren t intimately connected to a issue, problem, person, crisis, sometimes you need to come closer and see details you can t see from a distance in order to understand more fully, and perhaps love more generously. I m trying to improve my perspective on some things in the world right now. I m looking for windows into worlds I don t know very well. One of the ways I am doing that is by reading books written by people who aren t like me. I am reading books from the perspective of Black Americans, and Buddhists, and non- Americans. I want to read twenty books by non-white, non-american authors in I expect that my perspective on some things might change if I reach that goal. And I will surely understand the world a little bit better.
6 A fourth lesson from photography that I am trying to embrace is the idea of negative space. A photo can be too busy, too filled with distractions. The object of interest doesn t have to fill the frame, and the space around it, what artists call negative space, gives some breathing room to the image. It is a simple enough concept, but finding a balance between negative space and the active part of the photograph can be tricky. And it is the same in life. We can be too busy, and we can be too purposeless. Finding the balance between movement and stillness, between action and rest, between fullness and emptiness is a life skill, a spiritual skill, that most of us need to develop. I think in the language of God-talk, negative space might be considered sabbath, or prayerful silence before God. I would note another thought in passing here, and that is photography is art, and one of the things you do with art is sit quietly in front of it, absorbing it, reflecting on it, immersing yourself in it. Art can change us if we let it. Photography has helped me develop observational skills for looking at life and reflecting on it, not just moving through it, not consuming it, but being in it. A good photograph draws you into the image. You become a part of it. I think that s the way we are supposed to live our lives. Jesus spoke of life in abundance. I think the only way to find that is to fully immerse yourself in the moments that we have been given.
7 I think there are many more lessons from photography remaining, but finally this morning I share this one. The fifth lesson I ve learned is that things are always in motion, always in a state of growth or decay, always changing. And there is beauty in all of the changes. There is beauty in the growing, beauty in the aging, beauty in the motion. It might be the raindrops on a window pane, frozen for a moment in time,
8 or water flowing over rocks. moving in a never-ending circular parade. Or it might be the blur of carousel animals It might be a rusty old truck,
9 or the remains of a shipwreck. There s beauty in all of the movement and all of the change, because these are parts of the creation, crafted by God or by the hands of God s children. There is so much beauty in the world all around us, and we are here for a time, a brief moment really in the grand scheme of things. And the images we capture, whether we capture them with photograph, an oil painting, or a memory, are but a record of an infinitesimal fraction of the brief span of our lives. And our lives a beautiful. And the practice of observing our lives, and recognizing the beauty God has put there is perhaps the most important thing we can do. For it helps us better understand our lives and our loves, and the lives and loves of the people around us, and the gift that is the creation, of which we are a part. The disciples asked Jesus, why do you teach with parables. And he said, if I may paraphrase, So that people may better see and understand the mystery of God. If asked why I take photographs, why I seek art in my life, I can think of better answer: So that I and others may better see and understand the mystery of God. Most of us have heard the poetry of Emily Dickinson, who in words and stanzas found another way to observe the creation and celebrate it more fully. One of her better known poems springs to mind as conclude this offering today: Earth is crammed with heaven, And every common bush afire with God; But only he who sees Takes off his shoes The rest sit around it and pluck blackberries.
CREATE. by Bronwen Henry. Make space for restorative practices. iii
CREATE Make space for restorative practices by Bronwen Henry iii Table of Content s Introduction How To Use This Workbook vi vii Week 1 Beginning 3 Week 2 Curiosity 17 Week 3 Resistance 31 Week 4 Courage
More informationThe Parable of the Sower
The Parable of the Sower Verses arranged so the parallel passages can be compared. (The text is from the World English Bible, public domain, in order to avoid copyright issues.) Previous context - The
More informationThe Extravagant Sower Matt 13:1-23
The Extravagant Sower Matt 13:1-23 Studies in the Parables The Parable 1 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat
More informationEmily Dickinson ( ) Selected Poems
Emily Dickinson (1830-1886) Selected Poems I heard a Fly buzz I heard a Fly buzz when I died The Stillness in the Room Was like the Stillness in the Air Between the Heaves of Storm The Eyes around had
More informationAn Interactive Walk Through the Lord s Prayer
An Interactive Walk Through the Lord s Prayer In Luke 11 the disciples ask Jesus to teach them to pray. He responds by giving them what we call The Lord s Prayer. This prayer has been prayed for 2,000
More informationLegal Notice Introduction Open Your Mind to the Possibilities Who Are You? Rewrite Your Reality Give to Succeed...
Table of Contents Legal Notice... 1 Introduction... 2 Open Your Mind to the Possibilities... 9 Who Are You?... 24 Rewrite Your Reality... 26 Give to Succeed... 54 Silence Your Mind... 63 Believe It Now!...
More information>> THE_PARABLES_PROJECT >> TEACHERS NOTES
/05 >> THE_PARABLES_PROJECT >> TEACHERS NOTES 03 CONTENTS PAGE_04 1.0_INTRODUCTION TO THE PARABLES OF JESUS PAGE_06 PAGE_07 PAGE_08 PAGE_09 PAGE_10 2.0_TEACHING THE PARABLES IN THE PRIMARY CLASSROOM 2.1_What
More informationHearing and Responding
Introduction Review last week Hearing and Responding By Bill Scheidler (Two Part Message, Part 2) Last week we began by describing the kind of Christian that we wanted to be including 1. A Christian that
More informationHearing and Responding
Hearing and Responding By Bill Scheidler (Two Part Message, Part 1) Introduction What kind of a Christian do you want to be? Personally, here is my answer to this and your list may be similar: 1. I want
More informationWhy Parables? Matthew 13:10-17 August 28, 2016
Matthew 13:10-17 August 28, 2016 Why Parables? As many of you heard this past week, we are beginning a new series studying the parables. Last week, we learned that a key purpose of a parable was to give
More informationDSC_0178.JPG Potential FC central image
DSC_0168.JPG Image is blurry DSC_0171.JPG I prefere the next as she is looking away from the camera. DSC_0172.JPG I think this make a good DPS DSC_0173.JPG DSC_0174.JPG DSC_0175.JPG DSC_0177.JPG DSC_0178.JPG
More informationSeeing The Ordinary As Extraordinary
Seeing The Ordinary As Extraordinary by dewitt jones Techniques for unlocking your creative potential. Creativity. It s not surprising it s the latest business buzzword. Our world is altering at an everquickening
More informationI ve spent my life as a photographer. Traveled the world for National Geographic. And I ended up here, on the island of Molokai.
1 of 5 Celebrate! Change Your Lens, Change Your Life Transcript I ve spent my life as a photographer. Traveled the world for National Geographic. And I ended up here, on the island of Molokai. More time
More informationThe Hope of Easter Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church It is great to see you all here at Brewster
4.12.09 The Hope of Easter Matthew 28:1-10, Acts 10:34-43 Douglas Scalise, Brewster Baptist Church It is great to see you all here at Brewster Baptist Church for Easter Sunday. I have been reading about
More information10 Then the disciples came and said to him, Why do you speak to them in parables?
Matthew 13, Kingdom Parables, Part 1 1 of 5 Faithfulness to the King There was a recent article about Southwest developing a new plane. And the interesting thing was this plane only had one wing. To everyone
More informationWaiting on God Ruth 3:10-18 November 23, 2014 INTRODUCTION:
Waiting on God Ruth 3:10-18 November 23, 2014 INTRODUCTION: We left the story last time at a point of dramatic tension. Ruth has just proposed marriage to Boaz, more as a command than a request. Spread
More information15 th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Roman)
15 th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Roman)... so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; my word shall not return to me void, but shall do my will, achieving the end for which I sent it. This is why
More informationMarch 10, 2014 Description of Images
Description of Images Leftmost Image: Altogether, to symbolize elements of the slavish man/morality. - Background: Worms, referenced in Essay 1, Section 10. A [strong man] shakes from him, with one shrug,
More informationName. This is my letter to the world. This is my letter to the world. 1. What three adjectives might best describe the tone/mood?
Name This is my letter to the world This is my letter to the World, That never wrote to Me The simple news that Nature told With tender majesty Her Message is committed To Hands I cannot see For love of
More informationA CONTEMPLATIVE PATH FOR ALL
A CONTEMPLATIVE PATH FOR ALL T HERE ARE MANY pathways to God. Among them is the contemplative path, which has attracted men and women from the earliest Christian times. In the popular mind it tends to
More informationQuotable. SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES Find the Nourishment Your Soul Needs Tasting a Sample: Learning Where We Fit in the Story
SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES Find the Nourishment Your Soul Needs Tasting a Sample: LET S BEGIN HERE The famous eighteenth-century poet Emily Dickinson mused: Tell all the truth but tell it slant. In her poem
More informationCommissioned. Isaiah 6
Commissioned Isaiah 6 Commissioned Introduction Commissioned Introduction We are at a stressful time in the history of Israel and Judah. King Uzziah has died after a long a prosperous reign. His son Jotham
More informationThe spiritual writer and former vicar of the Holy Island of. Lindisfarne, David Adam encourages us to practise the Presence. In
Sermon Sunday 7 May 2017 Lessons Acts 2: 42 47 1 Peter 2: 19 23 St John 10: 1-10 Prayer of Illumination Let us pray. Guide us our thoughts, O God. Lead us to a place of peace, a moment of sacred rest,
More informationKaren Liebenguth: Mindfulness in nature
Karen Liebenguth: Mindfulness in nature Active Pause November 2016 Karen is a qualified coach, a Focusing practitioner and an accredited mindfulness teacher. She works with individuals and organisations
More informationPRAYING IN THE SPIRIT SERIES DEVELOPING STRENGTH FOR INTERCESSION THROUGH WAITING UPON THE LORD
petertan.net PRAYING IN THE SPIRIT SERIES DEVELOPING STRENGTH FOR INTERCESSION THROUGH WAITING UPON THE LORD The bible talks about waiting on the Lord in Isa.40: 31 But those who wait on the Lord shall
More information"Peninsula Snow Sculpture" Hank Erdmann Peninsula State Park, Door County, Wisconsin
"Peninsula Snow Sculpture" Hank Erdmann Peninsula State Park, Door County, Wisconsin Blog #4, February 13, 2014 "Which Lens Should I Bring" Food for Thought: "I'm Aging Like Fine Wine... I'm Getting Complex
More informationTHE PARABLE OF THE WASTEFUL FARMER July 13, 2014 Rev. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee, Florida
1 THE PARABLE OF THE WASTEFUL FARMER July 13, 2014 Rev. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee, Florida Matthew 13:1-9 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2 Such
More informationA FEW IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR BIBLE STUDY
A BRIEF INTRODUCTION Study relates to knowledge gaining wisdom, perspective, understanding & direction. We study the Bible to ensure that we understand the meaning, the message and the context of the scriptures.
More informationGOD S BIG STORY Week 2: Fall The World is Now Broken 1. LEADER PREPARATION
This includes: 1. Leader Preparation 2. Lesson Guide GOD S BIG STORY Week 2: Fall The World is Now Broken 1. LEADER PREPARATION LESSON OVERVIEW This lesson moves into the second part of God s Big Story,
More informationRev. Sara Bayles. Fort Smith First United Methodist Church. November 29, Advent:Hope
Rev. Sara Bayles Fort Smith First United Methodist Church November 29, 2015 Advent:Hope Romans 5:1 5 (NRSV) Therefore, since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
More informationWalk Worthy Page: 977 Ephesians 4:1-6; March 22, 2015
Walk Worthy Page: 977 Ephesians 4:1-6; March 22, 2015 Intro: Boston has a number of nicknames, many due to historical contexts: City on a Hill, The Hub, The Athens of America, The Cradle of Liberty, Beantown,
More informationTo my father, the greatest of them all. To everyone who makes a wish. Facing the Wishes
To my father, the greatest of them all. To everyone who makes a wish. Facing the Wishes E l y a s a f K o w n e r Facing the Wishes Elyasaf Kowner This book is part of Karov project, Municipality of Tel
More informationThe First Reason: The Believer Receives Spiritual Understanding (vv.10-11)
Introduction The chapter began with the setting of the parables and now Jesus gives us the reasons for the parables. In the parable of the soils and the sower Jesus reveals that the condition of the human
More informationPHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION W E E K 1 1 D A Y 2 : R E L I G I O U S L A N G U A G E
PHILOSOPHY OF RELIGION W E E K 1 1 D A Y 2 : R E L I G I O U S L A N G U A G E REVIEW: FINAL EXAM 12/10 Tuesday: 1:45-3:45pm 3 Short Answer Questions 1 Long Form Question 10 multiple choice questions from
More informationThe Last Judgment in Cyberspace
The Last Judgment in Cyberspace By Miao Xiaochun Mars 18, 2006 Translated by Peggy Wang (1) Substitution and Transformation A sculpture can be looked at from multiple sides, whereas a painting can only
More informationHow to Hear God s Voice: A 10-day bible study looking at different ways God speaks and how to discern God s voice today. By Alison Millikan
How to Hear God s Voice: A 10-day bible study looking at different ways God speaks and how to discern God s voice today By Alison Millikan Copyright reserved by Alison Millikan@2016 For more information
More informationGeneral Approaches to Classroom Prayer
General Approaches to Classroom Prayer For Secondary Schools 1. USE THE LITURGICAL SEASONS OF THE CHURCH Decorate rooms in liturgical colours of each season, building into ritual when possible. You can
More informationthere; or backward, I cannot perceive him; 9 on the left he
Faith Questions: Why have you forsaken me? By the Rev. Dr. Eric O. Ledermann RCL Year B Job 23.1-9, 16-17 (NRSV) 1Then Job answered: 2 Today also my complaint is bitter; his hand is heavy despite my groaning.
More informationWorship Service: HOPE. Please pray with me as we open our time together.
Worship Service: HOPE Welcome: Welcome! It s so good to be together to celebrate faith and community today. My name is and I ll be leading our worship time today. Our theme for today is hope. The Bible
More informationTHE CCDG PRAYER PATH
Prayer Path Name THE CCDG PRAYER PATH Worship Map Key Notes: Benches (Each numbered to a corresponding page in the guidebook) As you walk the path to each bench, walk slowly. Take in what you see, hear,
More informationThe Gospel of Mark. Walking with the Servant Savior. Lesson 5 Mark 4:1-25. Teaching with Parables
The Gospel of Mark Walking with the Servant Savior Lesson 5 Mark 4:1-25 Day One: Teaching with Parables The action sequences so visible in the first three chapters of Mark now give way to a closer look
More informationBEGINNING TO PRAY. When we respond to God by loving life as a precious gift and looking beyond ourselves to those in need, we are beginning to pray.
BEGINNING TO PRAY When we respond to God by loving life as a precious gift and looking beyond ourselves to those in need, we are beginning to pray. Anglican Fellowship of Prayer, Canada Booklet P2 (2017)
More informationFifteen years ago, a friend of mine Jen bought her husband Mike a first
Love In Bloom: On Shovels and the Rose of Sharon Song of Solomon 2:1-15 Matthew 22:37-39 June 12, 2016 I HATE THIS GIFT! Fifteen years ago, a friend of mine Jen bought her husband Mike a first anniversary
More informationThe Kingdom of God is Like (A June Sermon Series on the Parables of Jesus) Matthew 13:1-3, June 3, 2012
The Kingdom of God is Like (A June Sermon Series on the Parables of Jesus) Matthew 13:1-3, 10-17 June 3, 2012 For the month of June, I am going to preach, and we are going to play in the sandbox of the
More informationIntroduction. Jesus Parable of The Tares. Introduction. Introduction. Why Did Jesus Speak In Parables? Jesus Parable of The Tares
Introduction Jesus Parable of The Tares On the day of judgment Jesus will perfectly separate the unrighteous who claim to be in His kingdom from the righteous A parable is an earthly story designed to
More informationParable is a compound Greek word. Para: Alongside Bole: To cast, or throw
Parable is a compound Greek word. Para: Alongside Bole: To cast, or throw Analogies: Cleaning the house while your kids are still home is like shoveling snow in the middle of a snow storm. Analogies: Women
More informationNoah Builds an Ark Lesson Aim: To know God will provide.
Teacher s Guide: Ages 2-3 God of Wonders Part 2: Genesis through Joshua Unit 6, Lesson 29 Noah Builds an Ark Lesson Aim: To know God will provide. THE WORSHIP Who God is: The God Who Provides THE WORD
More informationFinding the Locations in Sabino Canyon #1 Seeing Brother Branham s photos
Finding the Locations in Sabino Canyon #1 Seeing Brother Branham s photos On Thursday morning, March 10, 1966, Brother Billy Paul called me and told me he was going to spend the day in Sabino. Later on
More informationWORSHIP RESOURCES. Gathered together by the Holy Spirit, let us pray for the church, the world and all in any need.
DAY OF SERVICE WORSHIP RESOURCES TEXTS Isaiah 35:4-7a, James 2:1-17 and Mark 7:24-37 COMPONENTS: Prayers of Intercession Sermon notes Affirmation of Baptismal Vocation Blessing and Sending Annotated hymn
More informationHow to Teach the Bible
How to Teach the Bible HR202 LESSON 01 of 04 Sid Buzzell, PhD Experience: Academic Dean, Christian University GlobalNet We Teach the Bible Because God Uses Its Teachings to Guide Us. The Bible is filled
More informationIsraeI: IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT
As the land of milk and honey marks its sixtieth birthday, an alumnus and photographer celebrates ten years of channeling his adopted land s seductive beauty. IsraeI: IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT S ometimes I
More informationFr. Landry, Enrolling in the School of the Saints Page 3 4. These could be young people who think that the words and work of the Lord aren t for them
Fr. Roger J. Landry Retreat at Casa Maria of the Sister Servants of the Eternal Word Birmingham, AL July 18-20, 2008 Enrolling in the School of the Saints First Homily First Reading (Revelations 3:1-22)
More informationMatthew 13:24-43 Part 3 Bible Study Transcript
Today we're continuing in Matthew 13:24-43. Last week, we finished with verses 34 and 35. We are going to go back to those two verses in our introduction this morning. Matthew chapter 13 is The Parables
More informationKingdom of God Part 5 Steve Berger May 1, 2016
Kingdom of God Part 5 Steve Berger May 1, 2016 The Kingdom of God The Kingdom of God is the Rule and Reign of God The Kingdom of God is a future realm where the fullness of Kingdom glory happens. (heaven)
More informationSIN AND SEPARATION 1. LEADER PREPARATION
SIN AND SEPARATION Lesson 3: Dark and Confused This includes: 1. Leader Preparation 2. Lesson Guide 1. LEADER PREPARATION LESSON OVERVIEW Sin always separates us from God. Before we become Christ-followers,
More informationNorthStar Church Summer Series: Pearls. INTRODUCTION As your group time begins, use this section to introduce the topic of discussion.
NorthStar Church Summer Series: Pearls Birth Marks of a True Believer JAMES 1:19-27 June 19, 2016 MAIN POINT God s Word calls for a change in attitude and action. We can find our Identity as a follower
More informationCHAPTER TWO CHAPTER ONE. Seeking of. Are You Ready for a Truly Awesome Experience?
Goodness Seeking of God God The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech
More informationEmbodied Lives is a collection of writings by thirty practitioners of Amerta Movement, a rich body of movement and awareness practices developed by
Embodied Lives is a collection of writings by thirty practitioners of Amerta Movement, a rich body of movement and awareness practices developed by Suprapto (Prapto) Suryodarmo of Java, Indonesia, over
More informationKeep Calm and Carry On Finishing Well 2 Timothy 4:1-8
1 Keep Calm and Carry On Finishing Well 2 Timothy 4:1-8 Reality SB Ryan Hillner 2.28.16 We are in the Final Chapter of the book of 2 Timothy. This is our 2 nd to last week This chapter contains some of
More informationTable of Contents. Introduction. Love - The Essence of God. Love - God s Eternal Nature. The Temporal Manifestation of
Table of Contents Introduction Chapter I. Agape - The God-Love Chapter II. Love - The Essence of God Chapter III. Love - God s Eternal Nature Chapter IV. The Temporal Manifestation of Eternal Love Chapter
More informationAsk to Be Healed. He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.
Ask to Be Healed He said to her, Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease. Mark 5:34 How many of us live in dis-ease, a state of feeling uneasy, uncomfortable,
More informationThe glory of God is the human person fully alive.
The glory of God is the human person fully alive. Today we are invited to a life with God that opens us to all that is alive. It makes us celebrate life; it enables us to see the beauty of all that is
More information40 Ways. To Spend 5 Minutes With God
40 Ways To Spend 5 Minutes With God 40 Ways To Spend 5 Minutes With God Revision E October 2018 If you have found this prayer guide helpful, visit The Invitation Podcast invitationpodcast.org where you
More informationgreat multitudes gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat down, and the whole multitude was standing on the beach.
I. The King is revealed (1-3) II. The Kingdom is revealed (4-10) III. The Opposition to the King (11-13) A. The Antagonism of the Jews (11-12) Narrative Matthew 13 B. The Parables of Jesus (13) Teaching
More informationWhen the Beginning Comes at the End
DISCIPLES WOMEN GENERAL PROGRAM Date: 2014 Easter Program ~ Authored By: Rev. Lisa Caldwell-Reiss Co-Pastor First Christian Church Fort Thompson, Kentucky When the Beginning Comes at the End Page 2 Leader
More informationEnjoying God Part 2. Dave Buehring, March 4, 2018
Enjoying God Part 2 Dave Buehring, March 4, 2018 Opening prayer: We might be surrounded, but You are surrounding us! Strengthen us Lord, and help us to know you better! Lord, Your timing is perfect. You
More informationOn The Way with Jesus
On The Way with Jesus And immediately they left their nets and followed him. Mark 1:18 Praying the Gospel of Mark ON THE WAY WITH JESUS Praying the Gospel of Mark Lectio Divina Sacred Reading INTRODUCTION
More informationAND SO INSTEAD OF THE DISCIPLES TELLING JESUS ALL THAT THEY HAD DONE, MAYBE IT SHOULD READ THAT THEY TOLD JESUS ALL WHAT HE
Jesus: Our Shepherd Mark 6:30-44 LBC. 21 Feb 2016 INTRODUCTION: VERSE 30 SAYS THE APOSTLES RETURNED TO JESUS AND TOLD HIM ALL THAT THEY HAD DONE AND TAUGHT. A SUMMARY VERSE TO END OFF THEIR FIRST PREACHING
More informationacting. Infinitive- implies potential or possibly.
Will You Be Disqualified? Part 14 http://biblos.com/ Redemption & Salvation 2 Peter 3: 15 And count the patience of our Lord as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to
More informationSamuel and Saul Lesson Aim: To know God has a plan for our lives.
Teacher s Guide: Ages 10-12 Kings & Kingdoms Part 2: Judges through Esther Unit 8, Lesson 38 Samuel and Saul Lesson Aim: To know God has a plan for our lives. THE WORSHIP Who God is: The King Who Knows
More informationSovereign Servant: The Hometown Reject Mark 6:1-6 Vision Church Pastor Jerome Gay Jr.
Fulfilling God s vision of making disciple-making disciples Sovereign Servant: The Hometown Reject Mark 6:1-6 Vision Church Pastor Jerome Gay Jr. Parallel Passages: Matthew 13:54-58 Luke 4:16-22 When it
More informationUnderstanding Bible Study
Understanding Bible Study A Systematic Approach to Studying the Whole Counsel of God Dr. Marshall Dean Whitaker 2 0 1 2 M A R S H A L L D E A N W H I T A K E R Table of Contents About the Author 3 Leader
More informationThe Culture of the Kingdom The Four Imperatives of Kingdom Culture Part 2. Studio Session 139 Sam Soleyn
The Culture of the Kingdom The Four Imperatives of Kingdom Culture Part 2 Studio Session 139 Sam Soleyn 05/07/2008 In the Scriptures, on two levels, there exists on the level of the natural and on the
More informationEven upon my slaves, both men and women, in those days I will pour out my Spirit; and they shall prophesy.
2 When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were
More informationPray More Lenten Retreat - Transcript. Listening to and for God s Voice Sr. Faustina
Listening to and for God s Voice Sr. Faustina Hello. My name is Sister Faustina with the Sisters of Life, here to talk to you about listening to God s voice. And let s fittingly start with a prayer. In
More informationAs you prepare for the session, you will find information you need to lead the discussion questions in this Leader s Guide.
LEADER S GUIDE Course Lecturer: D. A. Horton If you have not already done so, it is important that you first review our Leader s Packet for specifics on how to open, facilitate, and close your group sessions.
More informationReiki Inspired Art. THOUSANDS OF YEARS before art for art s sake became
Reiki Inspired Art B Y E L Y N N E R O S E N F E L D A L L E N S O N THOUSANDS OF YEARS before art for art s sake became accepted in the Western World, the primary purpose of visual art was to document
More informationBUILDER LEVY. The veteran photojournalist still believes in the power of protest to effect social change.
BUILDER LEVY words HOLLY FRASER all images and copyright courtesy of BUILDER LEVY 308 The veteran photojournalist still believes in the power of protest to effect social change. Turn on the TV, open a
More informationGod s Love Revolutionizes Message by DD Adams Providence Kemptown UMC 7 th Sunday of Easter May 13, 2018 / Mother s Day
God s Love Revolutionizes Message by DD Adams Providence Kemptown UMC 7 th Sunday of Easter May 13, 2018 / Mother s Day The gospel lesson is from John, chapter 17, verses 20 through 26. This passage takes
More informationNeville THE STATE OF VISION
Neville 02-26-1968 THE STATE OF VISION "We have only to raise Imagination to the state of Vision and the thing is done." (William Blake) Just imagine it! That is all you and I are required to do. No matter
More informationDiscipleship Self-Evaluation Assessment!
Discipleship Self-Evaluation Assessment! This task is a self-test to see where you are now as a follower of Jesus. There is no right or wrong answer to these questions. Your answer to each question is
More informationThe Special Reason for John s Book
1 Easy Lesson Easy Reading English 1 Edition The Special *December Reason March for 27 January John s 26 April Book 12 SABBATH DECEMBER 27 READ FOR THIS WEEK S STUDY: Luke 1:1-4; John 15:1-8; John 17:20;
More informationCan! Can Not!! Part 2
Can! Can Not!! Part 2 Introduction Two weeks ago we started on the topic of how to observe the Sabbath. There was just too much stuff for us to try to squeeze it into one sermon. If you would like to read
More informationIn our busy, activity filled, pleasure seeking, self-absorbed culture the words, Be still and know that I am God have no meaning or interest.
GROWING IN KNOWING GOD. Rev. Robert T. Woodyard First Christian Reformed Church, Lynden, WA June 7, 2015, 10:30AM Text for the Sermon: Jeremiah 9:23-24; John 17:1-3; Colossians 1:9-11 Introduction. In
More informationbirth on Sunday and waking up pregnant on Monday. I took preaching at the American Baptist
Sermon: Into Deep Waters (A Life That Really Matters) August 25, 2013 Once when Jesus was standing on the shore of Lake Gennesaret, the crowd was pushing in on Him to better hear the Word of God. He noticed
More informationA Passion For Place SANDY LONG 86 CAPTURES NATURE WITH LENS AND PEN
A Passion For Place SANDY LONG 86 CAPTURES NATURE WITH LENS AND PEN By Kelly Clisham MFA 16 10 Browsing the work of photographer Sandy Long 86 is like taking a nature walk with the best possible tour guide,
More informationAuras: The Human Energy Body - The Aura
Auras: The Human Energy Body - The Aura By Shelly Johnson Everyone is surrounded by an electromagnetic field, and this field is called an aura. The aura has been depicted throughout history in literature
More informationPre-Project Devotions
Pre-Project Devotions We are thrilled to embark on this journey of preparation for your mission trip at Impact! Thank you so much for your willingness to respond to God s call and your willingness to serve
More informationIntroduction: The story behind this book and why I chose to write it
Introduction: The story behind this book and why I chose to write it When I was a young girl, everything in the world was just the right size, or just a tinge too small. We d have to stand in line to buy
More informationI Thessalonians 4:2 Psalm 19: 7 & 8 Hebrews 9:15 Luke 1:1 4 Deuteronomy 29:29
Scripture Memory: Matthew 13:10-11 10 And the disciples came and said to Him, "Why do You speak to them in parables?" 11 And He answered and said to them, "To you it has been granted to know the mysteries
More informationSpiritual Gifts Test
Spiritual Gifts Test God has blessed each believer with Spiritual Gifts. Do you know what Spiritual Gifts God has given you? This Spiritual Gifts Test will help you determine what Spiritual Gift(s) and/or
More informationExploring the Image of God with Sacred Art
Exploring the Image of God with Sacred Art UNIT 5, LESSON 1 Learning Goals God calls each of us to love as He loves, and this call is written in our bodies. We are made in God s image and likeness and
More informationTerms Defined Spirituality. Spiritual Formation. Spiritual Practice
The Spirit of the Lord is Upon Me: Spiritual Formation The basic blueprint spiritual formation, community, compassionate ministry and action is true to the vision of Christ. Steve Veazey, A Time to Act!
More informationMATTHEW Chapter 13. On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea. He sat in a boat, they stood on the shore
MATTHEW Chapter 13 Note: The number of the question is the actual verse number 1a When were great multitudes gathered to Jesus? On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea 2 When Jesus
More informationPrayers for. Husbandsand wives. to pray with and for each other
P R A Y E R G U I D E Prayers for Husbandsand wives to pray with and for each other Prayer Guide for Husbands and Wives Copyright 2011, PrayerPower, Dallas, Texas prayer guide Prayers for Husbandsand wives
More informationJUST LIKE JESUS 1. LEADER PREPARATION
JUST LIKE JESUS Week 2: Representing Jesus Every Day This includes: 1. Leader Preparation 2. Lesson Guide 1. LEADER PREPARATION LESSON OVERVIEW If you see someone sporting a jersey, a giant foam finger,
More informationDay 1 // January 16 He s Present // Robert Morris
WEEK ONE DEVOTIONAL 1 Day 1 // January 16 He s Present // Robert Morris And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever the Spirit of truth, whom the
More informationLiving Messages of the Books of The Bible
Living Messages of the Books of The Bible GENESIS TO MALACHI G. Campbell Morgan, D. D. Copyright 1912 CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX THE MESSAGE OF HAGGAI A. THE PERMANENT VALUES B. THE LIVING MESSAGE I. A Revelation
More informationThis light enlightens everyone and has come into the world through holy mystery. The Sun by Mary Oliver
Reconnecting with Light I Peter 2.1-9, Psalm 27, Matthew 10.24-27 June 25, 2017 Pentecost +3A Rev. Elizabeth Mangham Lott St. Charles Ave. Baptist Church Our scripture declares today: You have been called
More informationAccording to Matthew 13:1, when Jesus came out of the house where did He go?
According to Matthew 13:1, where did Jesus come out of to sit by the sea? According to Matthew 13:1, when Jesus came out of the house where did He go? According to Matthew 13:2, who came to Jesus as He
More information