"If you don't put your two cents in, how can you get change?
|
|
- Joella Susan Atkinson
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 English Mark 12:38-44 Prep for worship: on ppt On the whole, I do not find Christians, outside of the catacombs, sufficiently sensible of conditions. Does anyone have the foggiest idea what sort of power we so blithely invoke? Or, as I suspect, does no one believe a word of it? The churches are children playing on the floor with their chemistry sets, making up a batch of TNT to kill a Sunday morning. It is madness to wear ladies straw hats and velvet hats to church; we should all be wearing crash helmets. Ushers should issue life preservers and signal flares; they should lash us to our pews. For the sleeping god may wake someday and take offence, or the waking god may draw us out to where we can never return. ~Annie Dillard, from Teaching a Stone to Talk 38As he taught, he said, Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39 and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! 40 They devour widows houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation. 41 He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 Then he called his disciples and said to them, Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on. "If you don't put your two cents in, how can you get change? It seems strangely quiet when I turn on the news after months of a constant election rhetoric and posturing its over. I need to confess, a few months ago, I began tuning it all out it seems like the tone of the debates and conversations became emotionally polemic. Both sides contributed to this dynamic. My Grandfather is 98 and he told me that he just kept his hearing aids turned off. Its disrespectful to all of us to have people make so many false accusations and claims. Even as I prepared myself to vote just getting through the propositions felt like navigating a minefield. They were so tricky the way they were worded saying one thing and meaning the opposite. By now, just about all fo the races have been counted and called so we know the results, and more importantly we see the work that lies ahead of us building bridges of peace and truth within our communities. As I prepared for todays sermon it seems that today s Gospel lectionary text is exactly what we are needing God s word to us today. This passage in the 12th chapter of Mark s Gospel is part of Jesus speaking the truth with some tough love for the Scribes. This would be a pretty radical point of view. The scribes were part of the religious upper class. They were educated in the Torah and its 1
2 interpretations. They loved God, regularly attended Temple, went to the good schools, lived in good neighborhoods, were members in Rotary. Its edgy what Jesus is saying We need to note that he doesn t condemn them as a whole group of people. (earlier in the chapter, in fact, Jesus applauds the insight and faithfulness of a particular scribe). However in this slice of the text, the Scribes do not get a good review. Jesus is telling it like it is...look out when a scribe drives up to the valet in their Beemer, all good looking in their Gucci suits, getting the prime table at Spago s, paparazzi snapping photos look out! says Jesus. Because they are not what they seem. Those scribes They walk away back wards as Kierkegaard would say oh, its very clear when a person turns their back to us and walks away, its so easy to tell what is happening. But what is trickier to detect is when a person discovers that they can keep their face toward us as they slowly back away from us all the will giving us assurances of their support and compassion towards us I m here for you! They ll say, but all the while they are inching away they are rich in good intentions, but poor in action. Look Out! Says Jesus, those scribes are walking backwards away from the widows all the while stealing from them, and devouring their houses Widows, in Jesus day, had no social or economic standing women weren t allowed to inherit property, so when their husband died, the scribes where often the logical choice to be the ones to manage the business affairs for the widows. The scribes had these respectable reputations, but in fact, it was commonly rumored that they were prone to skim off income from the properties that they managed devouring widow s houses. This embezzlement was particularly unjust because it was the scribes who were charged with the task of protecting the widows and orphans in Jewish society. They were supposed to be protecting and providing for the widows and in fact it was common practice for the scribes to be financially abusing them. So the scribes continued to grow richer and widows grew poorer and had no recourse, because, really who would believe them? But listen to what Jesus is saying, in the Temple, Look out for the Scribes says Jesus they give a good press release, but they are corrupt! So Jesus settles in at the Temple Treasury to watch the donations this was something of an open air event people would come into the Treasury, wait for their turn to approach the collection plate, and then place their offering in the plate. IT was counted and recorded right there on the spot and everyone s gift was broadcast to those in the vicinity. The line was long that day, many of the well to do had come to make their offerings. The announcer calls out the totals, each one more generous that the last. A widow gets in line, she stands out, her rough shawl contrasting with the Prada suits. Its finally her turn, She comes, poor as poor can be, with her two small coins. She hadn t always been poor she might have well been a woman of means maybe she recognized some of the people who had been in the line ahead of her, maybe they used to play in the Tuesday morning tennis 2
3 league at the club. But now, she was in a different situation, We don t know if the others in the room met her gaze, or just turned away and fiddled with their iphones. She puts in her two small coins On the Temple balance sheet, they d be worth next to nothing. They were the smallest coins minted in Palestine called the lepton (Pumpkin Cottage Ministry Resources) Worth about an 1/8 th of a cent. But, the folks tallying the offerings dutifully announce the quantity of her gift. Its shocking really, how little it is two little coins clinking in, but from the look of her, everyone there could tell that its likely that s all that she had to put in the plate. Stepping back, we wonder what was she thinking?! If she is really living that close to the edge, if this widow is being swindled out of house and home why would she give what little she has to the very institution that is aiding and abeting her swindlers? The contrast between her and the previous givers was shocking Jesus calls the disciples over maybe they were trying to make conversation with the heavy hitters Jesus wants to tell them about the value of her gift. Again, I wonder if the disciples thought Jesus was crazy here s a lady who has put next to nothing in the offering plate and he s all excited and there s the deep-pocket folks over there, the people who could fund a serious ministry, people of means and influence and reputation and Jesus isn t even giving them the time of day. But remember what kind of guy Jesus is Jesus is a mustard seed of faith, candle lit in the darkness, yeast leavening the dough, salt of the earth kind of guy. Jesus understands the possibility of something very small to leverage a very big change. He sees the 2 coins, and he knows that they are a donation that on paper amounts to next of nothing, but he also sees the giver. He sees how she is engaging the very system that is the source of her oppression. I don t think that she came into the Temple, all meek and timid, keeping her hoodie pulled down so that no one could get a good look at her face. I imagine that she stood tall as she approached the offering plate, looking into the eyes of those announcing her gift to God s work at the Temple. Her gift bearing witness to their injustice. Her presence an uncomfortable reminder of the rampant corruption. My experience with the good people of Calvary Faith Church reminded me a bit of this dynamic. Last Sunday, Calvary Faith, the Korean American church that worships here at Immanuel graciously invited me to participate in the ordination of their new Senior Pastor. It was an honor and privilege for me to share in that special moment in the life of their church. As an immigrant community they have struggled and worked hard to grow a church to the glory of God they have sought to care for the penniless widows and wealthy businessmen. We are grateful for their presence on our church campus and for their witness of God s love to the community. So I came to the evening service, imagining I d sit to the side and take it all in. An elder came up and greeted me and invited to take my seat in the row of chairs up on the platform, 3
4 along side the head of Western region of their presbytery KPC, the former Senior Pastor, the other preachers etc. Clearly, it was a seat of honor. Funny thing about the KPC denomination they only ordain men into church leadership. So it was me and the boys up there in the whole of the service, no other woman was at the pulpit. At first I felt very out of place (it was all taking place in Korean and it was a very formal service) and I wondered what I would say, I wondered about how to respond to the oppression of half the people in their congregation.and then, when I was invited to speak, I realized all I needed to do was offer God s blessing to them on this joyous day. My presence, my little cross necklace in this sea of coats and ties was witness enough to God s call to women and men into leadership. So it is with the widow in today s text. Her generous gift to God illustrated the best of what the foundation of the Temple was built on. As the two coins clinked into the plate they sounded a call for reform. A call for change. With her head held high, she was inviting her community to see her oppression for what it was, an abuse of God s law. No matter that 2 cents wouldn t buy half a second of campaign advertising on the local tv station. Jesus recognized that her giving of what little she had ignited the transformation. Jesus taught that if we have Faith as little as a mustard seed we can tell this mountain to get up and move over there. Its not that a seed is going to really do that but a seed planted in the ground will grow! And the mustard seed was like the kudzu of the ancient world it was an invasive shrub that took over one small seed transformed into a huge tree that birds would come and nest in. The impact of that tiny seed was exponentially larger than what it looked like at first glance. Or the grains of yeast that leaven the dough and cause a whole batch of bread to rise Or the fragile light of the candle that dispels the darkness Or the specks of salt that flavor the whole dish of food. Jesus is clear that the kingdom of God is at hand its not something far off or abstract the kingdom of God is not for later its not harp music in the golden clouds and rosy cheeked cherubs fluttering by in Mark, Jesus is concrete in his description that the Kingdom of God breaking into the here and now his very presence as the perfect expression of God s love, in the flesh! The kingdom of God is made present through transformation from the inside just like the widow giving her two coins to the very institution that was the source of her oppression and poverty, we too are called to stay engaged in the transformation of the world. Its fair game, in my opinion, that we take a look at the institutional church, our own PCUSA a friend of mine pastors a congregation in Oregon. A few months ago in Sunday morning worship in their suburban sanctuary, he opened it up for questions about Jesus. A 10 year old girl, seated in the pew with her family raised her hand. She made a sweeping gesture that included the congregation, the pipe organ, the choir and the pastor in the pulpit - do you think this was what Jesus had in mind? Well, probably not stained glass, soaring architecture, slate roof, mahogany pulpit not exactly how Jesus rolled in first century Palestine But, in terms of the heart of the church, I would say yes, I do believe this is what Jesus had in mind 4
5 as the church, we hold a sacred space where we come face to face with God and face to face with each other. Its through our church that we learn to we live into (and up to) God s call on our life Its our connection with the church that supports us as we serve God the rest of the week at our work and in our homes. Are there troubling aspects to the institution of the church? Well yes there are! Are there things that give us great concern within the institution of the PCUSA? Again, yes. AND how do we stay engaged and be a part of the transformation to which Jesus calls us? Reverse offering today. The ushers are going to be passing the plate, but instead of putting your offering in, go ahead and take out two coins. The invitation is that these coins will remind you of the ways in which God is calling you to be part of the transformation of the world. Maybe your work environment is relationally toxic maybe people are cruel and backstabbing is a common practice how can you your actions, your words, your presence be the change that God is calling for? Maybe you ve noticed, as Thanksgiving draws near, that there is a knot in your stomach when you think about the family getting together for the holidays? Maybe there are some nasty conflicts between people? Maybe you were the one that starting things maybe you ve been the victim maybe you are being recruited to join one side or the other How can you through your actions, your words, your presence how can you be the change that God is hoping for? Maybe your heart is broken by the election results maybe it seems like our state and our country are headed down a very dark path. Instead of moving out to the countryside, investing in razor wire and a stockpile of firearms how can you with your action, your words, your presence be a witness for the transformation of our world? Maybe you ve been oppressed or swindled or betrayed maybe by the very institution that you ve given the best years of your life to feel those 2 coins in your hand and know that God walks with you. And like the widow, breath in God s truth and see how it is that God invites you to be a part of the transformation of the kingdom of God Who can say what it is that God is calling each of us to do? But one thing that is certain is that God calls us to stay engaged. Closing our selves up in a remote compound, waiting for the end of this age and Jesus to roll into town on a white horse that s not going to work. The kingdom of God comes near in the love of God made flesh in person of Jesus. Remember that nick name for the church the body of Christ yes, dear church, we are the hands and feet, the eyes and ears of Jesus on this earth. Our response to God s call requires that we stay engaged, stay in conversation, stay in relationship. 5
6 Our very presence can initiate the transforming of our world. So take these coins and carry them this week - let them remind you of today s Gospel, let them speak to you of God s invitation to act, let them leaven your heart with God s transforming love. Carry them with you and be the change that God visions for the world. AMen 6
All Bets Are Off Mark 16: 1-8, by Marshall Zieman, preached Easter Sunday 2018 at PCOC
All Bets Are Off Mark 16: 1-8, by Marshall Zieman, preached Easter Sunday 2018 at PCOC All the hopes and expectations of Christians are realized in the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, making
More informationSERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 32 November 8, 2009
SERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 32 November 8, 2009 1 Kings 17:8-16 Psalm 146 Hebrews 9:24-28 Mark 12:38-44 Brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God the Father, and from our
More informationStewardship Sunday. Contemporary Worship at Calvary Lutheran Church. November 8, Mark 12:38-44
Stewardship Sunday Contemporary Worship at Calvary Lutheran Church November 8, 2015 Mark 12:38-44 38 As Jesus taught, he said, Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted
More informationSunday, May 25, 2014 Easter 6A John 14:15-21 In Spirit and In Truth Elizabeth Mangham Lott St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church
Sunday, May 25, 2014 Easter 6A John 14:15-21 In Spirit and In Truth Elizabeth Mangham Lott St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church ENCOUNTERING THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH We re entering the part of the church year
More informationIT S NOT ABOUT US A CALL TO PASSIONATE WORSHIP Text: Psalm 22: March 8, 2009 (Second Sunday in Lent) Faith J. Conklin
IT S NOT ABOUT US A CALL TO PASSIONATE WORSHIP Text: Psalm 22: 23-31 March 8, 2009 (Second Sunday in Lent) Faith J. Conklin Annie Dillard in her book, Teaching a Stone to Talk, writes On the whole, I do
More informationSeason after Pentecost Psalms of Praise: 113 June 7, 2015 Haven Lutheran Church Readings: Luke 15: 8-10;Psalm 113
Season after Pentecost Psalms of Praise: 113 June 7, 2015 Haven Lutheran Church Readings: Luke 15: 8-10;Psalm 113 Grace to you and peace from our Triune God Father, Son, Holy Spirit. Amen The preacher
More informationBROADWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH COLUMBIA, MISSOURI THE WORSHIP OF GOD NOVEMBER 11, 2018
BROADWAY CHRISTIAN CHURCH COLUMBIA, MISSOURI THE WORSHIP OF GOD NOVEMBER 11, 2018 The Psalm Litany Based on Psalm 127 Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord
More information1 How do you picture the Holy Spirit? Throughout the Bible we hear the spirit described as the breath of God, as wind, as a dove, and this morning as tongues of fire. The Rev. Nadia Bolz Weber tells a
More informationSacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry
Sacred Space: A Resource for Small-group Ministry Year B Focus: Ordinary Time Scripture: Mark 12:38 44 NRSV Gathering Welcome Prayer for Peace Ring a bell or chime three times slowly. Light the peace candle.
More informationSermon for the 24 th Sunday after Pentecost Remembrance Day Mark 12:38-44 by Intern- Pastor Olivier Ravelojaona
Sermon for the 24 th Sunday after Pentecost Remembrance Day Mark 12:38-44 by Intern- Pastor Olivier Ravelojaona Dear people of God, For this Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost, which is also Remembrance
More information4:9-12; 5:1-7 DON T GO IT ALONE
Eccl 4:9-12; 5:1-7 DON T GO IT ALONE 1/21/18 Introduction: A. Illus.: I remember reading about one of those very old pithy epitaphs that someone found on a weathered grave in a Scottish graveyard. It said,
More informationTO CHEER OR WEEP? Mark 12:38-44
TO CHEER OR WEEP? Mark 12:38-44 Pastor Brad November 8, 2015 1 To weep or cheer? The widow s mite is a classic gospel story. A go-to story for churches ever since we started this thing called church stewardship.
More informationYEAR B, PROPER 27 RCL GC, SUNDAY CLOSEST TO 9 NOVEMBER 2009 MASS: 1 KINGS 17:8-16; PSALM 146; HEBREWS 9:24-28; MARK 12:38-44
The First Lesson. The Reader begins A Reading from the First Book of the Kings Then the word of the LORD came to Elijah, 9 Arise, go to Zar'ephath, which belongs to Sidon, and dwell there. Behold, I have
More informationDate: November 11, 2012 Title: Penny Wise Text: Mark 12:38-44 Hymns: 464 Joyful, Joyful 414 As Those of Old 428 We Give Thee But Thine Own
Date: November 11, 2012 Title: Penny Wise Text: Mark 12:38-44 Hymns: 464 Joyful, Joyful 414 As Those of Old 428 We Give Thee But Thine Own How would you like to be given a gift only to discover its value
More informationYour Money or Your Life
Mark 12:38-44 Matt Mardis-LeCroy Des Moines, IA November 8, 2015 Your Money or Your Life I. Ministers are not supposed to swear. (At least, that is what my mother keeps telling me). But I swear to you:
More informationMark 12: th Sunday after Pentecost November 10, 1991
Mark 12:38-44 25th Sunday after Pentecost November 10, 1991 38As he taught, he said, Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39and
More informationThe Beginning and the End LVII. Holy, Holy, Holy Revelation 4:1-11, Psalm 29
November 11, 2018 The Beginning and the End LVII. Holy, Holy, Holy Revelation 4:1-11, Psalm 29 Dr. William P. Seel Easley Presbyterian Church Easley, South Carolina Celtic Christianity speaks of thin places
More informationSermon for Pentecost XXIV Year B 2015 All In When Less is More
Sermon for Pentecost XXIV Year B 2015 All In When Less is More The other day I heard about something amazing. It happened at Maplewood High School in Nashville, Tennessee. Anybody know what happened there?
More informationHeaven Came Down 7/27/14 Rev. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee, Florida. Matthew 13:31-33, 44-51
1 Heaven Came Down 7/27/14 Rev. Frank Allen First Presbyterian Church, Kissimmee, Florida Matthew 13:31-33, 44-51 31 He put before them another parable: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that
More informationFaith Lutheran Church. Faithfully Growing, Welcoming, and Caring through Christ 25th Sunday after Pentecost Sunday, November 11, 2018
Faith Lutheran Church Faithfully Growing, Welcoming, and Caring through Christ 25th Sunday after Pentecost Sunday, November 11, 2018 PRELUDE WELCOME ANNOUNCEMENTS HAPPY VETERANS DAY Our Annual Meeting
More informationPassionate Worship Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, Part 2. Romans 12:1-2
1 Passionate Worship Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, Part 2 Romans 12:1-2 [A sermon preached by the Rev. Stan Gockel at the First Presbyterian Church of Portland, Indiana on October 9, 2016]
More informationWelcome. to Trinity Lutheran Church Sill St, La Crosse, WI. Love God, Love Our Neighbors, Serve the World. Prelude. Welcome
Welcome to Trinity Lutheran Church 1010 Sill St, La Crosse, WI Sunday, November 11, 2018 8:30 am ~ 25th Sunday after Pentecost Love God, Love Our Neighbors, Serve the World *Please stand if able Prelude
More informationTRUST IN GOD ABOVE ALL MARK 12: TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST SUN NOV 8, 15
TRUST IN GOD ABOVE ALL MARK 12:38-44 24TH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST SUN NOV 8, 15 38 In his teaching [Jesus] said, Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplaces
More informationMirror, Mirror Psalm 146; Mark 12:38-44 The Reverend Joanna M. Adams Morningside Presbyterian Church Atlanta, GA November 19, 2006
Mirror, Mirror Psalm 146; Mark 12:38-44 The Reverend Joanna M. Adams Morningside Presbyterian Church Atlanta, GA November 19, 2006 She is hard to spot in that crowd, the unnamed woman who slipped into
More informationOrder of Worship Mooroolbark Uniting Church - 11 /11 /2018. Worship Leader Lay Preacher: Mr Anthony Lemmon Call to worship. Hymn TIS. 155.
Order of Worship Mooroolbark Uniting Church - / /08. Worship Leader Lay Preacher: Mr Anthony Lemmon Call to worship. Hymn TIS. 55. O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, Consider all the works thy hand
More informationAn Oasis of Christian Worship, Thought and Action. Position Vacant Mark Quarmby Dr David Hood Benjamin McKenzie November am
! ST STEPHEN S UNITING CHURCH 197 Macquarie St, Sydney An Oasis of Christian Worship, Thought and Action Minister: Director of Music:... Choral Conductor: Organ Scholar:......... Position Vacant Mark Quarmby
More informationTheology Notes Class Four Notes The Incommunicable Attributes of God, Part 1. Read Grudem pp Jot down any important truths that you learn.
Theology Notes Class Four Notes The Incommunicable Attributes of God, Part 1 Read Grudem pp 156-160. Jot down any important truths that you learn. Ways to know God His Appellation Names of God First, the
More informationDUKE UNIVERSITY CHAPEL
DUKE UNIVERSITY CHAPEL William H. Willimon, Dean of the Chapel and Professor of Christian Ministry I "The Dangers of Going to Church." January 19, 1997 Second Sunday after the Epiphany 1 Samuel 3:1-10
More informationAnd he told them many things in parables...
Sermon: Story Time Text: Matthew 13 selected verses Date: November 25, 2018 Context: WWPCCC Thanksgiving Service and Harvest Celebration By: Rev. Dr. Steve Runholt And he told them many things in parables...
More informationWelcome to St. Luke s Lutheran Church (Obelisk) 3206 Big Road Zieglerville, PA stlukeslutheran.church
Welcome to St. Luke s Lutheran Church (Obelisk) 3206 Big Road Zieglerville, PA 19492 610-754-7762 stlukeslutheran.church office@stlukeslutheran.church P- Pastor, C-Congregation * All who are able please
More informationThe Parable of the Mustard Seed Mark 4:30-34 As Christians it is easy to look around and grow frustrated with the current state of affairs both in
The Parable of the Mustard Seed Mark 4:30-34 As Christians it is easy to look around and grow frustrated with the current state of affairs both in the church and in the world. Every night the news is filled
More informationHALF EMPTY OR HALF FULL? THANKSGIVING AND STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY (11/20/16) Scripture Lesson: Mark 12:41-44
Scripture Lesson: Mark 12:41-44 HALF EMPTY OR HALF FULL? THANKSGIVING AND STEWARDSHIP SUNDAY (11/20/16) It was the best of times; it was the worst of times. It was the age of wisdom; it was the age of
More informationTwenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Gospel, Year B
Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost, Gospel, Year B THE WIDOW, THE ORPHAN, AND THE RESCUED PREACHER Mark 12:38-44 Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Analysis by Jerome Burce 38 As he taught, he said,
More informationWatching and Seeing Twenty-Fifth Sunday After Pentecost Stewardship Sunday November 11, 2018 Gordon Wiersma. Text: Mark 12
Watching and Seeing Twenty-Fifth Sunday After Pentecost Stewardship Sunday November 11, 2018 Gordon Wiersma Text: Mark 12 I suppose that people-watching must be one of the oldest spectator sports of all
More informationWas Jesus happy when the widow gave to the temple. treasury? A few interpreters think maybe not. They point out that
Was Jesus happy when the widow gave to the temple treasury? A few interpreters think maybe not. They point out that Jesus criticized the temple system and even predicted the temple s destruction a few
More informationTwo Small Copper Coins Mark 12: 38-44
Two Small Copper Coins Mark 12: 38-44 The irony of this being the lectionary text this Sunday is not missed by me. After the recent election, after the shooting which happened in California, the irony
More informationDear Brothers and Sisters of the Coastal Plains Area:
Vol. 11, Issue 2 Newsletter of The Coastal Plains Area Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the Southwest cpa@cpadisciples.org 11750 Memorial Drive Houston, Texas 77024 713.789.8822 CPA EXECUTIVEE
More informationNovember 11, :00 am & 10:30 am
L u t h e r a n C h u r c h o f t h e G o o d S h e p h e r d 1 0 7 S. 1 7 t h A v e n u e C o a t e s v i l l e, P A 1 9 3 2 0 6 1 0-3 8 4-2 0 3 5 w w w. l u t h g o o d s h e p. o r g November 11, 2018
More informationSo you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.
Sunday December 27, 2015 1 Matthew 23:2-12(NIV) 2 The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses seat. 3 So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they
More informationFrom Rev. Dr. William Barber II s speech at the 2016 Democratic Convention. He is the North Carolina
WHAT WOULD AMOS SAY? August 7, 2016, The Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost Amos 8:1-12 Rebekah McLeod Hutto, The Brick Presbyterian Church in the City of New York God of ancient truths, your Word comes to
More informationInternational Bible Lessons Commentary Matthew 23:2-12 & Mark 12:38-44
International Bible Lessons Commentary Matthew 23:2-12 & Mark 12:38-44 English Standard Version International Bible Lessons Sunday, December 27, 2015 L.G. Parkhurst, Jr. The International Bible Lesson
More informationThe Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year B)
The Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year B) First Reading 1 Kings 17:10-16 Response Praise the Lord, my soul! Psalm Psalm 146:7, 8-9, 9-10 Second Reading Hebrews 9:24-28 Gospel Acclamation Blessed
More informationValley Bible Church Sermon Notes for November 12, Mark 12:38-44 Oppressed by the Corrupt
Valley Bible Church Sermon Notes for November 12, 2017 Mark 12:38-44 Oppressed by the Corrupt I. Corruption condemned (12:38-40) A. The corrupt people (12:38) And in his teaching he said, Beware of the
More informationThe Holy Eucharist the twenty-fifth sunday after pentecost
Saint Mark s episcopal cathedral The Holy Eucharist the twenty-fifth sunday after pentecost November 11, 2018 8:00 am Newcomers and visitors, the community of Saint Mark s welcomes you. We hope that you
More informationWhat We Live On Rev. Katherine C. Kerr Mark 12:38-44
What We Live On Rev. Katherine C. Kerr Mark 12:38-44 Have you ever read a book or article, or listened to a speaker, and thought, that is just what I think, only I ve never been able to articulate it like
More informationStudy Guide for the Central Church of Christ What was it about the widow s offering that was so exemplary?
Study Guide for the Central Church of Christ 3-12-17 March 12 we will study Mark 12:41-44 Discussion ideas are: 1. What is the significance of animal sacrifices needing to be an aroma pleasing to God?
More informationSincerity Wears No Mask
Copyright 2016 by Elizabeth L. Hamilton All Rights Reserved. Sincerity Lesson 4 of 4 Sincerity Wears No Mask (Sincerity is totally transparent, never hiding behind a mask or facade. What you see is what
More informationThe Church Herald Stony Brook Community Church (United Methodist), Stony Brook, New York
The Church Herald Stony Brook Community Church (United Methodist), Stony Brook, New York A Highway for Our God 1 In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, 2 Repent,
More information25th Sunday after Pentecost
J J 25th Sunday after Pentecost November 11, 2018 J J J Area Churches Together ACT Parish DeGraff/Murdock Area Pennock Area Sunburg Area Bethesda Lutheran Mamrelund Lutheran Hope Lutheran Buffalo Lake
More informationThey were stepping over one another
Luke 12A 1 Luke 12A Two weeks ago we ended Chap 11 with Jesus declaring woe on the Pharisees and lawyers o Woe is an expression of eternal judgment, which we understood meant that Jesus was condemning
More informationOrdinary Time INTRODUCTION
Ordinary Time INTRODUCTION T he second period of Ordinary Time immediately follows Pentecost. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon the disciples while they prayed in the upper room. For the disciples, Pentecost
More informationECONOMIC JUSTICE SUNDAY
Sunday, April 19, 2009 ECONOMIC JUSTICE SUNDAY LECTIONARY COMMENTARY Forrest Elliott Harris, Sr., Guest Lectionary Commentator President, American Baptist College, Director, Kelly Miller Smith Institute
More informationCatholic Social Teaching. Scripture Guide
In t r o d u c t i o n Catholic social teaching has been called the Church s best kept secret. Yet, from the beginning of time, God s call to justice has been clear. The Law and the Prophets both preserve
More informationThis would be a good way to involve children in the worship service.
Mission and Service Fund Worship Service This resource may be used for a worship service in which the congregation s Mission and Service Fund goal is being dedicated. It may also be used anytime for an
More informationFOR YOUR INFORMATION. 24th Sunday after Pentecost Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015
20 24th Sunday after Pentecost Sunday, Nov. 8, 2015 16548 Ferris Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95032 *Indicates those who are able, may stand. P = Pastor speaking; AM = Assisting Minister speaks; C = Congregation
More informationSermon by the Rev. Bollin M. Millner, Jr. September 30, 2018 Pentecost XIX. Grace and Holy Trinity Church. Richmond, Virginia.
Sermon by the Rev. Bollin M. Millner, Jr. September 30, 2018 Pentecost XIX Grace and Holy Trinity Church Richmond, Virginia Mark 9:38-50 John said to Jesus, Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in
More informationTwo Coins Sermon for First Christian Church of Decatur, Georgia Season of Pentecost, Sunday, November 17, 2013 James L. Brewer-Calvert, Senior Pastor
Sermon for First Christian Church of Decatur, Georgia Season of Pentecost, Sunday, November 17, 2013 James L. Brewer-Calvert, Senior Pastor Holy Scriptures: Luke 21:1-4 The Widow s Offering [Jesus] looked
More information32 nd Sunday OT (Year B) November 11, KGS 17:10-16; PS 146:7, 8-9, 9-10; HEB 9:24-28; MK 12:38-44
32 nd Sunday OT (Year B) November 11, 2018 1 KGS 17:10-16; PS 146:7, 8-9, 9-10; HEB 9:24-28; MK 12:38-44 In the Fall of 2016, Bishop Olmsted invited the priests of the Diocese of Phoenix to a gathering
More informationSUNDAY MORNINGS January 28, 2018, Week 4 Grade: 3-4
Pennies from Heaven Bible: Pennies from Heaven (The Widow s Offering) Mark 12:41-44 Bottom Line: Practice living for God. Memory Verse: For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for
More informationSt. John Evangelical Lutheran Church Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost November 8, 2015
43 Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. 44 For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put
More informationSERMON. My Baptism Is Better Than Yours Making It Clear At The Outset. January 10, Rev. George Anastos
SERMON My Baptism Is Better Than Yours Making It Clear At The Outset January 10, 2016 Rev. George Anastos SERMON PART I My Baptism Is Better Than Yours Before I was ever baptized myself, I performed a
More informationJesus cares about people who are poor.
A Widow Gives All She Has to God Lesson 6 Bible Point Jesus cares about people who are poor. Bible Verse Give as freely as you have received! (Matthew 10:8b). Growing Closer to Jesus Children will n learn
More informationThe Spiritually-Gifted Giver
The Spiritually-Gifted Giver - 1 - Sunday, August 27, 2017 The Spiritually-Gifted Giver (A Sermon for the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost Text: Romans 12:1-8 Lectionary Texts: Exodus 1:8-2:10; Psalm 124;
More informationIsaiah 58:1-9 Agents of Restoration R.P.C. Matthew 5:`3-20 January 19, 2014 Daniel D. Robinson, Pastor
1 Isaiah 58:1-9 Agents of Restoration R.P.C. Matthew 5:`3-20 January 19, 2014 Daniel D. Robinson, Pastor I remember reading some time ago about research being conducted on our consumption of salt good
More informationI m So Sorry to Ask You... What s Your Name Again? The room was quiet as I walked in, despite the fact that it was filled with people.
I m So Sorry to Ask You... What s Your Name Again? The room was quiet as I walked in, despite the fact that it was filled with people. No one looked up from their phones, the dull bluish hue illuminating
More informationOppressed by the Corrupt Mark 12:38-44
Sermon Transcript Oppressed by the Corrupt Mark 12:38-44 Well, this morning as we finish up Mark chapter 12, I got to be honest with you and begin by issuing some type of warning. I think, as we get into
More information1 The Widow s Mites Mark 12:41-44 Luke 21:1-4
http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 1 The Widow s Mites Mark 12:41-44 Luke 21:1-4 http://www.biblestudyworkshop.org 2 Texts: Mark 12:41-44, The Widow s Mites 41. And Jesus sat over against the treasury,
More informationSermon by the Rev. Bollin M. Millner, Jr. Grace and Holy Trinity Church. Richmond, Virginia. Pentecost IV, June 17, Samuel 15:34-16:13
Sermon by the Rev. Bollin M. Millner, Jr Grace and Holy Trinity Church Richmond, Virginia Pentecost IV, June 17, 2018 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 Samuel went to Ramah; and Saul went up to his house in Gibeah
More informationSt. David s Evangelical Lutheran Church Liturgy of Word and Sacrament November 11, :00 AM & 10:30 AM Now the Feast and Celebration 25th Sunday
St. David s Evangelical Lutheran Church Liturgy of Word and Sacrament November 11, 2018 8:00 AM & 10:30 AM Now the Feast and Celebration 25th Sunday after Pentecost Interims: The Reverend Larry Hoover
More informationChristians Ethics. Poverty and Wealth
Christians Ethics Poverty and Wealth INTRODUCTION AND REVIEW Welcome back to week three of our class on Christian ethics. This morning we re going to talk about wealth and poverty. There is a national
More informationSERMON FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2012 REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY/COMMUNION The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawai i (UCC)
SERMON FOR NOVEMBER 4, 2012 REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY/COMMUNION The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawai i (UCC) 7:45 & 10:30 Worship Services Scripture: Mark 12:28-34 (Focus) Message: Love God with all Heart,
More informationUnitarian Universalist Fellowship of Bennington. Outlandish Love
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Bennington February 25, 2018 Outlandish Love Rev. Kathy Duhon Outlandish Love Annie Dillard wrote this outlandish comment on how worship should be: It is madness to
More informationCitizens of the Kingdom 9/25/16 Sermon Transcription
Citizens of the Kingdom 9/25/16 Sermon Transcription Last week, we started this two week series called Jesus For President and we said that every four years in America, billions of dollars are spent trying
More informationTHE TRIVIALIZATION OF GOD. A Sermon by Paul R. Powell St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church, New Orleans Sunday, January 22, 2012
THE TRIVIALIZATION OF GOD A Sermon by Paul R. Powell St. Charles Avenue Baptist Church, New Orleans Sunday, January 22, 2012 Donald McCullough, then President of San Francisco Theological Seminary, wrote
More informationA Good Stain Randal Stephens
A Good Stain Randal Stephens I am an usher at my church, have been for a while. I suppose its one of those jobs you sort of fall into at first and end up with by default. Someone can t be there one Sunday
More informationculture shock in being in such an unfamiliar surrounding. That first day in Guatemala City, a city of nearly 3 million people, and, at
All Who Thirst Rev. John Allen The first time I ever visited another country was when I went to Guatemala in High School. And I still remember viscerally the overwhelming sense of culture shock in being
More informationMORGAN is one of the oldest names in Cymric land. It means one who lives near the sea. Every day, for centuries past, tens of thousands of Welsh
The Golden Harp 1 MORGAN is one of the oldest names in Cymric land. It means one who lives near the sea. Every day, for centuries past, tens of thousands of Welsh folks have looked out on the great blue
More informationSermon Lent 3b 2015: God Calls Us Back from Our Drifting Introduction: Drifting Away
Sermon Lent 3b 2015: God Calls Us Back from Our Drifting Introduction: Drifting Away Part of the purpose of the season of Lent is to take on a way of living; That helps open the way for God to make us
More informationA Wheat Street Bible Study Faith, Planting and Growing: The Keys to a Faithful Life Mark 4:26-34
A Wheat Street Bible Study Faith, Planting and Growing: The Keys to a Faithful Life Mark 4:26-34 Teacher: Rev. Ralph Basui Watkins, DMin, PhD Interim Pastor How is your faith? What is the condition of
More informationThe. Teachings. Jesus Christ
The Teachings of Jesus Christ The Teachings of Jesus Christ Truly, truly, I tell you, unless a man is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God Unless a man is born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot
More informationWorship at St. Paul s
Items in our Chapel Gospel Book Worship at St. Paul s Burse and Veil that covers the chalice and paten. The pulpit in the chapel where the readings are proclaimed. This book is designed to help you follow
More informationDes Moines March 8, Fear of the Lord
Psalm 19 LeAnn Stubbs Des Moines March 8, 2015 Fear of the Lord It is with much fear and trembling that I have approached the challenge of writing a sermon on the word, the fear of the Lord. This Lenten
More informationThe Rich Young Ruler Matthew 19:16-30
2 The Rich Young Ruler Matthew 19:16-30 Kids will understand: The story of the rich young man who came to Jesus. That Jesus pointed out the difficult. That each person has to make sure they are keeping
More informationA Refresher Course in Basic Math: The Unstoppable Power of Multiplication By Neil Cole (an excerpt from Search & Rescue)
A Refresher Course in Basic Math: The Unstoppable Power of Multiplication By Neil Cole (an excerpt from Search & Rescue) Paul wrote Second Timothy at the end of his life. His primary concern was that the
More informationHarvest time is amazing, isn t it? The fields and trees and hedgerows are full of
These three talks could be combined into one longer talk, or be used as part of a Harvest Festival with a structure like the one below: Welcome All Things Bright and Beautiful Talk 1 Our God Is A Great
More informationLESSON 1 JESUS HEALS THE MAN AT THE POOL OF BETHESDA
Review New Testament 5 LESSON 13 SUNDAY MORNING New Testament 5 Part 2: Jesus Last Week POINTS TO EMPHASIZE: 1. Review N.T.5 Bible Fact Cards (provided under N.T.5 Bible Facts on curriculum Web site) 2.
More information25 th Sunday after Pentecost 11 November 2018
25 th Sunday after Pentecost 11 November 2018 ST. MARK S LUTHERAN CHURCH 1900 ST. PAUL STREET BALTIMORE, MD 21218 Phone: 410.752.5804 On the web at: stmarksbaltimore.org Follow us on Facebook A Reconciling
More informationSERMON THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS LIKE Rev. Dr. Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church
SERMON THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS LIKE Rev. Dr. Kim Engelmann West Valley Presbyterian Church Date: 2015-04-12 We had a great Holy Week and Easter celebration, didn t we? We had record attendance at our
More informationThe Mustard Seed and the Tree Matthew 13:31-33 February 15, 2015 INTRODUCTION:
The Mustard Seed and the Tree Matthew 13:31-33 February 15, 2015 INTRODUCTION: As we prepare for our missions conference that begins this Friday, I want to direct our attention to these two short parables
More informationNews & Announcements. 25h Sunday after Pentecost November 11, 2018 UPCOMING EVENTS. At Messiah, we are powered by God s Grace!
News & Announcements UPCOMING EVENTS HAYRACK RIDE AT SHERMAN RANCH: The Hospitality Committee is hosting a fun afternoon with a hayrack ride near the Platte River at Sherman Ranch! Join us on Sunday, November
More informationSt. John s United Church Sunday Service October 16th, 2016 Scripture: Psalm 146 Reader: Lynn Erskine Reflection: Rev.
St. John s United Church Sunday Service October 16th, 2016 Scripture: Psalm 146 Reader: Lynn Erskine Reflection: Rev. Karen Verveda SCRIPTURE READING: Psalm 146 1 Praise the LORD! Praise the LORD, O my
More informationChrist Presbyterian Church Edina, Minnesota March 3 & 4, 2012 John Crosby Spiritual Disciplines: Worship Hebrews 10:19-25
Christ Presbyterian Church Edina, Minnesota March 3 & 4, 2012 John Crosby Spiritual Disciplines: Worship Hebrews 10:19-25 Last week we said that one of the keys to becoming like Jesus is not trying harder.
More informationIntro Slide THE AWESOME POWER OF A MUSTARD SEED Mark 4:26-34
Intro Slide THE AWESOME POWER OF A MUSTARD SEED Mark 4:26-34 Slide #2 Welcome on this Father s Day 2012. A man was out on the golf course. He spotted another man who seemingly had four caddies. Why so
More informationFirst Parish Church, Congregational On the Village Green Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts
First Parish Church, Congregational On the Village Green Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts Rev. Dr. Marlayna Schmidt, Interim Pastor Donald R. Dunn, Director of Music-Organist Jessica Skidmore, Christian
More informationSUNDAY WORSHIP WITH COMMUNION
Cross Talk November 2018 76 Seaboard Street, Hiram GA 30141 Note from Pastor SUNDAY WORSHIP WITH COMMUNION 9:30 AM ANNUAL MEETING OCTOBER 21 I got up this morning, wondering what is going on in the world.
More informationSERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 17 July 24, 2011
1 Kings 3:5-12 Psalm 119:129-136 Romans 8:26-39 Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 SERMON Time after Pentecost Lectionary 17 July 24, 2011 Brothers and sisters in Christ, grace to you and peace from God the Father,
More informationSt. Margaret s Uniting Church Mooroolbark. Celebrating 50 years of ordination Rev. Franklyn Parrent. Welcome
St. Margaret s Uniting Church Mooroolbark Sunday 7 th October, 2018 20 th Sunday after Pentecost Holy Communion Celebrating 50 years of ordination Rev. Franklyn Parrent Welcome All are invited to share
More informationThe Power of a Penny
St. Paul Lutheran Church In Jesus name, Do justice, Love kindness, Walk humbly with God. St. Paul is an open, affirming, and inclusive church, welcoming all who seek God. 515 S Wheaton Avenue Wheaton,
More informationLife for Show or Service
Life for Show or Service Mark 12:38-44 READ 38 In His teaching He was saying: "Beware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes, and like respectful greetings in the market places, 39 and chief
More informationa moment to prepare to hear God s Word...
a moment to prepare to hear God s Word... 1 Old City from west The Evaluation of God s Lamb arrives at Bethany Messianic Monday Tumultuous Tuesday Wondrous Wednesday Passover *Jo 12.1 *Jo 12.12 Nissan
More information