We are sometimes quick to close off relationships with others because of their family connections or family history. Kind David’s invitation reminds us to treat each person as an individual – and not allow previous experiences to be a reason to withhold God’s grace. This is the fourth week in our Lenten series, “A Place […]
We don’t always understand everything about faith in Jesus, and we need others to help us grow closer to God. Many times it’s the person who is seeking faith and whose experience is very different than our own who reminds us how to reclaim our passion for the Gospel. This is the third week in […]
From the beginning of sacred history, God identifies with the outcast in the lonely, the orphan, the widow, the prisoner, and the foreigner. Jesus sees those who are not in the circle. Jesus sees the unseen and invited us to make a place at the table for them. The is the second week in our […]
When we experience God’s glory and holiness, we see ourselves more clearly and see our need for God’ forgiveness. And God continues to call us to service in God’s Kingdom. This is the first week in our Lenten series, “A Place at the Table.” Pastor Mary’s message is based on Isaiah 6: 1-8. To read […]
Our desire to box people in or separate ourselves from others on the basis of gender, race, and other categories is sin and denies us the opportunity to see God’s grace in others and God’s love for the whole world. God calls us to form a beloved community where social distinctions do not stand within […]
Runners and their coaches say to keep on looking forward because looking back only slows us down. When we have a relationship with Jesus, the past can inform us, but it doesn’t define us. God’s love transforms us and reminds us that we are beloved children of God. Pastor Mary’s message is based on Ephesians […]
Our witness to God’s grace requires constant attention to our relationship with God and to the world around us. God calls us to forgive as we’ve been forgiven and to Seek reconciliation when possible – always leading us back to the truth of God’s love for us and showing us glimpses of God’s grace. Pastor […]
“Be with me!” These words are a prayer for God’s presence. Even though we’re assured that God is with us always, repeating this prayer reminds us to seek God’s guidance, direction, and vision no matter what we face. Pastor Mary’s message is based on Ephesians 6: 10-18 and “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise […]
Lent & Easter 2020 Worship Brainstorming Season of Lent and Easter “A Place at the Table” Monday, February 3, 2020 We spend a lot of our time around tables – eating, talking, working, and even playing games. The table is a place of connection and community when we’re accepted and included. But so often, people […]
Jesus’ first words are “repent” (turn around and go a new way) and “follow me.” He promises transformation for those who follow him – taking the daily, dirty work of their lives and using their gifts to “catch” others in relationship with him. And they go – without hesitation. What happens when we live by […]