Sermons

The Farmer Who Lost His Soul

Luke 12:16-21

November 23, 2008

Every parable Jesus spoke relates in some way to His Kingdom. He did not come to teach the golden rule, nor did He come to “bring peace on earth,” as Christmas cards often teach. He did say, “Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.” (Matthew 10:34) This sword of Christ is sharper than any razor, and cuts to the deepest parts of our hearts. Todays word is the sharp word of truth, cutting to the heart of what it means to be a Christian.

The Coming All American Council

Galatians 2:16-20; Luke 8:41-56

November 9, 2008

Our Church has been wounded. Some have left us because of that wound. Some have said that this wound is unto death, that the bleeding has gone on too long. Perhaps such despairing thought occur because the wounds were administered at the highest levels. It is (it seems to me) providential that these two readings come just before we elect a new Metropolitan.

Election Day is Coming!

Election Day Coming

November 2, 2008

Are you tired of listening to political ads? Every election reminds me of the first presidential election I have any memory of: the 1956 race between Dwight Eisenhower and Adlai Stevenson. I was seven at the time, and while I was walking home from school I was accosted by a small gang of older kids who cornered me with a question: are you for Eisenhower or Stevenson? I blurted out what must have been the right answer, for they left me alone to run home.

Finding Strength in the Lord

2 Corinthians 11:31-12:9

October 26, 2008

This reading is famous because St. Paul mentions his “thorn in the flesh.” Some people translate this “thorn” as “stake.” A stake in the flesh would cause incessant pain, wouldn’t it? What was this thorn or stake in the flesh for the Apostle? It was from all the persecutions he suffered. Even people in the Church conspired to oppose his leadership. This thorn never went away.

The Parable of the Sower and Spiritual Warfare

Luke 8:5-15

October 19, 2008

It is possible to understand this parable as a metaphor concerning spiritual warfare, and that’s how we will look at it today. In this spiritual battle, we have to be aware of the dangers presented by the enemy. We have to know how to battle with diligence. We also have to have some sense of blessing for those who manage to overcome. Let’s look at this beautiful parable.