Lectionary Readings
Rev. Ruth Hanusa, Guest Pastor
Gospel Text: Mark 6:1-13
Gospel Notes: It’s difficult to see and hear God in those closest to us. Those in Jesus’ hometown didn’t recognize God coming to them in someone they knew well. Let us seek to find God everywhere.
Rev. Scott Trevithick, Parish Associate Preaching
Gospel Lesson Mark 5:21-43
Lesson Notes: As Jesus goes about teaching and healing, he encounters people from all social classes who have overcome their fear to approach him in faith. They are both rewarded. “Do not fear, only believe!” Jesus speaks these words to us over and over again.
Sermon Text: Mark 4:35-41
Sermon Title: “Wake Up!”
Sermon Notes: Sudden storms in our lives may rock our faith, but with a word, Jesus can bring peace to our hearts. When trials and challenges emerge in our lives, we are tempted to feel like the disciples tossed in their boat while Jesus napped. We are tempted to accuse Jesus of not caring about our troubles - of not taking care of us properly. Jesus reminds us that it is our faith that ultimately brings peace to life’s storms.
Sermon Text: Mark 4:26-34
Sermon Title: “Will Work for God”
Sermon Notes: No matter the size of our faith, we are valuable workers in God’s kingdom. We all have something to contribute. We are all part of the coming harvest. When it comes to bringing about God’s kingdom on earth, Jesus calls us to be active participants and not passive bystanders. No matter how large or small our faith may be at this moment, we increase our faith and God’s kingdom when we act as co-creators with God. If we truly want to realize God’s kingdom, we must be dedicated to working with God and not sitting back expecting God to do all the planting and growing of the kingdom.
Sermon Text: John 3:1-17
Sermon Title: “Birth”
Sermon Notes: In this scripture Jesus teaches a secret evening visitor about the kingdom of God. Nicodemus decides to go to see who this Rabbi Jesus is. Nick goes at night so his friends won’t know. While there Jesus challenges him to be born again from above. It isn’t until Jesus’ death and resurrection that Nick begins to understand for himself and for the whole world what it means to be born again from above by the power of the water and the Holy Spirit and how that new birth changes your life forever.
