Sermons (Page 123)
Palm/Passion Sunday
Today is arguably the most confusing liturgical day. We start with joy shouting hosanna and processing around the neighborhood. Within moments, our direction changes to Jesus’ suffering and death. It’s important to remember that Jesus’ procession was not a first-century version of a World Series Championship parade. This entry was a statement – a political and religious statement. It signified that Jesus was the returning king and the Messiah. Those laying cloaks and branches expected Jesus to overthrow the Romans and to change the religious order. This simple journey was an act of defiance, and it informs us why Jesus was killed. Jesus’ transportation indicated future. Instead of riding on a horse like a war-raging king, Jesus arrived on a donkey, which symbolized peace. ..
Fifth Sunday In Lent
This year I was encouraged to go through a retirement planning program. At first, I felt old. Retirement planning, really? I’m not that old, am I? Then, I felt worried when I realized I need to save that much for retirement! Finally, I was confused. I was confused by the terminology and basics of financial planning. I can only imagine that those who aren’t theologically-trained feel the same way when I start talking about the bible and theology without any explanation. Since most pastors have no concept of personal finances, they tried to make this program incredibly easy. To do so, one page had a number line, scaled 1-5, and asked me to pick my “risk tolerance” – whatever that means. After reading the page over and over again I began to understand. A 1 was a lower risk and lower return, while a 5 was higher risk and higher possible return. The program suggested that if you’re nearing retirement, go for a 1 – low risk with a low, but more certain, return. Yet, if you have a longer time-horizon before retirement, go with the big 5! Sure, it is a higher risk, however there is a potential for a higher reward…
Fourth Sunday in Lent
Fire – it’s complex, it’s mysterious, and it’s destructive. In the United States, we’ve seen an alarming level of wildfires this year. Over 2 million acres have been scorched, which is 10 times higher than average.[1] Some people are not the same after these raging fires. We look with pain at their burnt bodies, and we tremble with fear gazing at their simmering homes. In the Bible, stories of God’s fiery wrath are used to motivate or control. Even the inquisition used flames to compel heretics to recant. However, fire is also life-giving. In fact, some species of trees need fire for their seeds to be released from the cones.[2] Fire invites community when we cuddle-up in front of the fireplace or tell stories around a campfire. Fire illuminates. Fire warms. Fire provides life…