God, we pray today for impossible situations–places where it seemsimpossible to bring peace,impossible to find joy,impossible to move forward in any waythat does not wrench the heart of the world. In every impossible situation,Let us meet violence with peace,Let us offer love,Let us do good work even if it feels futile.Let us not be afraid…
Call to Worship from Matthew 25:1-13 In our wisdom and foolishness,We gather for worship.Though some of us are more prepared than others,We are all here.With bright lights and dim,We wait together for the expected One.Look! Come out! Keep awake!For God is here. Prayer from Joshua 24:1-3, 14-25 God of wisdom and power,Bring out those caught in systems…
*You can read the full text of the sermon here. The general principles of how we live together–principles of peace, of justice, of love–come from God. The specific laws and rules about how to live according to Godly principles are human creations–our best efforts to discern what specific actions will lead us to live out the peace…
Call to Worship inspired by 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 In worship we share the Good News of JesusAnd we share ourselves with each other.In this place we receive the tender care of GodAnd we care tenderly for each other.We gather today with hope and with courageTo give and receive love in the holy name of Christ. Prayer from…
As you may recall, Jesus previously put the chief priests and elders in a rather precarious position by asking them a question in front of a mixed crowd (Matthew 21:23-27). The religious leaders knew that one answer would upset one group while a different answer would upset a different group—so they said, “We don’t know.”…
Call to Worship from 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 Grace and peace to you.And also to you.Let us receive the message of God’s good news this morning with powerAnd in the Holy Spirit.Let us receive the word with joy,And let us proclaim the word with conviction.Let us receive all who have gathered with whole-hearted welcomeAs we worship a…
The violence in this parable is startling. We can understand why people might decline an invitation, but to beat and murder the servants who extend the banquet invitation seems inexplicable. Likewise, we can understand the king being disappointed that those invited refused to come and angry about the mistreatment of his slaves—but to send his…
Call to Worship from Philippians 4:4-7 Dear friends,rejoicein God always. Let’s say it again:rejoice.May our gentleness be known,for God is near.Let us not worry about anything,for God is near.We will ask for what we needin prayer,and offer thanks to Godin prayer.We rejoice and give thanks thatthe peace of Godwill guard our hearts;the peace of Godwill…
Reflection on Exodus 20:1-17 How then shall we live? That’s a question that the ancient Israelites surely had as they wandered around in the wilderness after being freed from slavery in Egypt. How then shall we live? If you are feeling disoriented lately, confused and exhausted and unsure of where to plant your feet—just imagine…
Spacious Faith 