Jesus’ crucifixion isn’t the end of the story, and his saving work doesn’t end at the cross. We don’t just sit in awe at resurrection either. The joy of salvation is lived out when we go and tell (and show) others about it. The reality of resurrection isn’t something to keep to ourselves, but something […]
Jesus embodies the love he asks us to share in sharing the Last Supper and washing his disciples’ feet. Even as we know what’s ahead, how do we hear him and follow his way? This Holy Thursday message is the seventh in the series, “Shadow Savior: Not the Savior You Want, but the Savior You […]
Jesus’ triumphal entry wasn’t very “triumphant” at all, except for the fact that he was fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah. Coming into Jerusalem on a donkey rather than a horse was a sign of who he was and how he would rule as King. Jesus continues to surprise us as “the man who would be […]
Most of us may remember being told “stop doing that” as children. As we seek to be faithful to Jesus, we may be the ones hearing “stop it!” in order for the Good News of God’s love to be clearer to the world into which Jesus calls us. What do we need to stop doing […]
Jesus knows our humanity well and knows the reality of betrayal. He knows the depths of our hearts and our propensity for self-preservation. How do we open our hearts to God and seek forgiveness for turning away from Jesus in our midst? This is the fifth message in the series, “Shadow Savior: Not the Savior […]
The humanity of Jesus can scare us. Jesus, God Incarnate, experienced separation from God. This the the fourth message in the series, “Shadow Savior: Not the Savior You Want, but the Savior You Need.” It is based on Matthew 27: 46-49,” The Death of Jesus” and Psalm 22: 1-7, 23-24. To read Rev.Susan Hagan’s message, […]
Not everyone liked Jesus or thought he was doing what the promised Messiah should do. Judas and others expected a mighty warrior who would how power against the Romans, not someone who would suffer and die at their hand. Perhaps we still struggle to accept Jesus as he is – not as we want him […]
Jesus wasn’t a “quiet” presence among the people. He disrupted the status quo when it didn’t honor God and people and considers our motives when it comes to worship and faith. This is Pastor Mary’s second message in the series, “Shadow Savior: Not the Savior You Want, but the Savior You Need.” It is based […]
We want living our faith to be easy, but following Jesus isn’t easy, especially as we encounter competing allegiances. This is Pastor Mary’s first message in the Lenten series, “Shadow Savior: Not the Savior You Want, but the Savior You Need.” This message is based on Matthew 22: 15-22, “Paying Taxes to Caesar.” Today’s reading […]
God is in the business of reconciliation – bringing people together and leading us back to the truth of God’s love for us. We bank on hope – that God can and will work through the toughest situations we face and even provide us glimpses of God Grace in our struggles. Pastor Mary’s message is […]