Salty Light

February 8, 2026 Matthew 5:13-20 Salty Light Fifth Sunday of Epiphany Year A Prelude Greeting Call to Worship (Isaiah 58) One: Welcome to worship! Here we seek to let our light break forth like the dawn. Many: Here we come to call, trusting the Lord will answer. One: Here we’re welcome to cry for help, believing the Lord will respond “Here I am!” Many: We’re gathered, eager to gain courage to do as God directs: to share our bread with the hungry, One: to bring the homeless poor into our homes, Many: to provide clothing for those who are uncovered. ALL: As God’s own beloved children, let us worship God in this time, and in our actions toward “the least” of our sisters and brothers, siblings all. (Disciples of Christ Center for Faith and Giving) Opening Prayer God of Community, we rejoice in this time to worship you in this holy place, and through the wonder of technology, which gathers us from many places. Help us reach beyond the walls of this building, eager to see LIGHT emerging as we share bread and clothes, and welcome others to safe spaces. Inspire us always to open our hands, our hearts, our minds, that we might truly be followers of Jesus, the Christ, who shows us “The Way.” AMEN (Disciples of Christ Center for Faith and Giving) Song A Sermon for all Ages Have you ever been in a grocery store when, as you did your shopping, they offered samples of different food items to try? They do this to entice you to buy those items. If the samples didn't taste good, you probably wouldn't buy any, would you? This morning we are going to do a taste test. You will taste two different samples of a food item, and you will tell which one you liked the best. The first taste test is crackers. We have two saucers with one cracker on each saucer. Johnny, taste a cracker from each saucer and tell me which one you liked best. (Hopefully, Johnny will pick the salted cracker!) The cracker that Johnny liked best is actually called a saltine. Why do you think it is called a saltine? You are right, it is because it has salt sprinkled on top. The other cracker doesn't have salt. Do you know what else it doesn't have? Taste! The cracker really needs the salt to give it a good flavor. The second taste test we are going to do is popcorn. We have two small bowls of popcorn. The popcorn in one bowl has been salted and the other has not. Mary, come and taste the popcorn from each bowl and tell me which one you like best. (After she tastes it, ask Mary which one she liked best.) As you might guess, Mary liked the salted popcorn better than the unsalted. I agree with Mary. In my opinion, popcorn without salt is about as tasty as those Styrofoam peanuts they use to pack items when they ship them in a box. I'm sure you all knew that many foods taste much better with a little salt. It doesn't take much. In fact, when you are cooking, a recipe often calls for "a pinch of salt." Not much, just a pinch, but that little pinch of salt makes a big difference in the flavor. In our Bible lesson today, Jesus said to his disciples, "You are the salt of the earth." What do you think that means? I think Jesus means that he wants us to improve the quality of life of those we meet each day. How can we do that? We can do that by introducing them to Jesus and by showing them that having Jesus in our life is like having salt on our food. Everything is better when we have Jesus in our life. There is a lot of hatred and bitterness in our world today. If you and I will show the love of Jesus in all that we do, we can be the salt of the earth like Jesus called us to be. Just a pinch of salt can do much to reduce bitterness and bring peace to our world. Heavenly Father, our prayer is that we may be the salt of the earth by showing the love of Jesus in all that we do. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. (sermons4kids.com) Affirmation of faith (from The Confession of 1967) We believe: The life, death, resurrection, and promised coming of Jesus Christ has set the pattern for the church’s mission. His human life involves the church in the common life of all people. His service to men and women commits the church to work for every form of human well-being. His suffering makes the church sensitive to all human suffering so that it sees the face of Christ in the faces of persons in every kind of need. His crucifixion discloses to the church God’s judgment on the inhumanity that marks human relations, and the awful consequences of the church’s own complicity in injustice. In the power of the risen Christ and the hope of his coming, the church sees the promise of God’s renewal of human life in society and of God’s victory over all wrong. The church follows this pattern in the form of its life and in the method of its action. So to live and serve is to confess Christ as Lord. Amen. (Presbyterian Outlook, Owen Gray) Prayer for Illumination Gracious God, the words we read are ancient and true. On this day, may we hear them anew. Grant us hearts to discern your Spirit within them, and grant us courage to follow them in our lives this day. Amen. (Presbyterian Outlook, Owen Gray) Scripture Matthew 5:13-20 Sermon Salty Light Once upon a time, (which means this is a fairy tale, a made up story from long ago, containing great truth) – Once upon a time, there lived a rich man who had three daughters. He was a little insecure and needed some reassurance one day so he called each of his daughters into his counting house (where he counted all of his money, of course,) and asked each one of them, “Dearest daughter, how much do you love me.” The first to visit his counting chamber was his oldest daughter and she replied, “O Father, I love you more than all the gold in the world.” The father knew that there was a great deal of gold in the world so he was happy with this answer and he gave her some gold coins to spend as she wished. The second daughter came in and was asked the same question. She replied, “O dearest most loving and special Father, the best father ever, I love you more than all of the silver in the world.” And the father was pleased with this answer. He gave her some silver coins so she could order some new dresses which she had been wanting. The third daughter came in and when she was asked the question she paused and then replied, “Father, I love you more than fresh meat loves salt.” The father exploded in a rage and ordered that the daughter be thrown out of the great house and not allowed to return. The servants threw her out of the house with nothing but the clothes on her back and she was left to wander in the woods. She decided to disguise herself so she made clothing out of the rushes she found in the nearby swamp. She knocked on the back door or a large mansion, owned by one of her father’s friends, and asked the servant who answered the door for a job so that she could eat. She would not tell them her name so they called her “Cap O’Rushes” because of her clothing. She was given a job washing the pots and pans and keeping the house clean. She worked very hard and everyone liked her work, but she seldom spoke. One day the servants were all abuzz because a great party was to be given. There was food to prepare, room to clean, silver to polish and lots of other things to do. Cap O’Rushes discovered that her own father was invited. She convinced the cook to let her prepare the meal for her own father, though of course they did not know he was her father. She prepared all of his favourite dishes, but did not use any salt at all. (Remember, this was back when people used a lot of salt and well before blood pressure had been invented.) When the food was brought to him and he began to eat he was most unhappy with the meal and the host ordered the cook be brought to apologize to his guest. The cook brought Cap O’Rushes and explained that she had cooked the meal for this particular guest. “What is the meaning of this”, he demanded. “You have embarrassed me. He says his food is bland and tasteless. Why have you done this to me and to him?” She turned to her father and said simply, “I love you as much as fresh meat loves salt”. He father recognized her and wept in sorrow as he asked for her forgiveness. His other daughters had been nothing but a trial to him and were always wanting more and more fine clothes and jewellery and he realized that this daughter had really loved him a great deal. I think that story is a good demonstration summary of the entire gospel of Jesus Christ. The heart of the gospel is God’s love for us. God loves us more than fresh meat loves salt. The challenge for us in our loves is always how we demonstrate our love for God. Our scripture is the second half of Matthew 5- In the first half Jesus is preaching to the people helping them to understand what it means to be blessed by God. Our lesson for today is intertwined – to be blessed by God is to be loved by God, but it is also to give God’s love to others. Jesus is stressing to us how important it is for us to make a difference in the world, without our strength and determination the world would be a very different place. • Not Enough Salt Contributed by David Ward on Sep 12, 2019 (message contributor) Dennis Kinlaw, former Asbury Seminary professor and Asbury College president, tells a story about growing up in rural Lumberton, North Carolina, during the depression. It was Dennis’ job, as a young boy, to rub salt into the meat his father brought home from hunting. He would rub salt into the meat until his young muscles were sore. Finally, when it was thoroughly salted, he would hang it up in the storehouse. One day company arrived, so Dennis’ mother asked him to get some pork out of the storehouse. Dennis ran out, got a big piece of pork off of a hook, and brought it into the kitchen. He laid it on his mother‘s cutting board and left. He was just about out the front door when heard his mother yell, “Dennis!” Young Dennis knew from experience that whenever his mother screamed his name like that he was in trouble, so he slunk his way to the kitchen and stood in the doorway, afraid to go in. Looking up at his mother from the doorway, he noticed she was not glaring at him but rather staring down at the meat. Dennis looked and noticed something unusual. He would say that it was the first time in his life he ever saw meat move. Stepping closer, he noticed maggots pouring out of the slice his mother had made into the pork. Dennis thought for sure he was going to get it. But all Mom said was, “Not enough salt, Dennis. Not enough salt.” Now it's easy to want to blame Hollywood, or TV, or liberal schooling, or the government for the decay of our culture. But maybe, just maybe, the real problem is “not enough salt.” If we feel the world is decaying around us, the problem may very well be “not enough salt.” Salt had as many uses in Jesus’ day as it does now and we who are on this side of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount have ventured all kinds of guesses as to what Jesus had in mind concerning comparing salt to those who were listening to him that day. Probably, more mysterious, did Jesus intend for us, in our day, to make some kind of personal connection with salt? For example, salt is used as a preservative. Could it be that the presence of Jesus’ followers in this world slows down the decay and disease of a sin-infested world? Salt is used as a disinfectant. Maybe Jesus’ followers are to be bring health and healing to the wounds of this world and its people. Salt is used as a seasoning, making food taste better. Maybe Jesus is saying that Christianity is to be to life as salt is to food, lending flavor to life. Salt is valuable or at least it was. The Greeks called salt divine. The Romans had a jingle of sorts that said, “There is nothing more useful than sun and salt.” Salt was used to pay the wages of the Roman soldiers. The word “salary” comes from the word “salt.” We use the phrase “salt of the earth” as one of the greatest compliments we can make of an individual, stressing their worth and usefulness. Jesus could be stressing the value of his followers contributing to the goodness and integrity of the world. Salt is used as a de-icing agent. Here’s a stretch. Maybe one of the tasks of Jesus’ followers is to melt the hard hearts of men and women who have turned away from God and their fellow human beings. Salt was connected with purity. The Romans said that salt was the purest of all things because of its connection to the sun and the sea. So then, if the Christian is to be the salt of the earth he or she must be an example of purity. The Christian sets the standard for the world instead of the world setting the standard for the Christian individual. Salt was an important part of the sacrificial system of the Old Testament. Reference is made in the book of Numbers to the “salt of the covenant.” Many of the offerings given to the Lord were to be sprinkled with salt as a sign of the covenant between God and the people. Is it possible that Jesus was saying his followers must be a living sign to this world of the loving relationship of God to its people? Just before preaching this sermon the first time I was taking a respite at my seminary in Kentucky. I was doing research in the library when I discovered another use for salt I had not heard of before. In Jesus’ time, and since, salt has been used as a fertilizer. In fact, British farmers did just that during the Second World War when other fertilizers were in short supply. That makes a lot of sense, especially as Jesus used it in the phrase “salt of the earth.” Jesus may have been saying that his followers are to be the fertilizer that nurtures and furthers the growth of God’s kingdom in this world. Did you know that back in the Bible times and I’m sure at other times as well when one group of people conquered another group of people they would sow salt into the soil of the conquered people so that nothing would grow - thereby punishing them through starvation? Jesus never intended for his followers to use their salt as a weapon. And yet, too often throughout church history … even today … maybe even us … we stand back judging, criticizing, maybe even punishing, those whom with whom we disagree or we deem as sinners, instead enhancing and encouraging and nurturing. In the gospel lesson for today – Matthew 5 – Jesus has just went up on the mountain to talk with all of the people below who are following him and listening them. This is a mixed crowd, some are his committed disciples, some are his fair weather disciples, and some are just interested parties. But the point that Jesus us trying to make to all is what it means to be a righteous person. He is telling what it means and the gifts that God will give to those who are faithful. In verses 13-20 which we read for today he is continuing that conversation, and speaking more about the character of a Christian. It was said that in WWII that in some cities, people were asked to make black curtains to put on their windows, so that when the enemy planes flew overhead, they would not be able to distinguish towns and cities to drop bombs on them. Washington DC was of course very vulnerable to attack, so workers got to work making black curtains for the white house. One of the workers commented however, that it did not make sense to try and camouflage the white house. The white house was such an icon for America, it was so clear to everyone in the world where the white house was, it was such a distinctive house, and was so well advertised, that if someone was looking for it, they would have no problem finding it. There was just no way to hide its identity. In the Isaiah, Jerusalem is called to be the city on a hill. Jerusalem is built on Mount Zion, there is one road up and one road down. it is the city which all people would flock to in order to learn the ways of peace. God calls the church to be the city on the hill, the place where people look for light in a very dark world. Light transforms the situation. Light changes the situation. Light illumines. Light doesn’t hide, but is present. Jesus has the same message for us as Christians. Christianity should be so much a part of who we are, following God should be so much a part of our character, that there was no mistaking who we are. You are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the world. Salt, light, water, fire, are all key ingrediants for our lives. Today, we are told that we are to cut down on our salt intake, but salt is still an important part of our lives. What are some uses of salt ?........ (Doug Diehl, DugDeal’s Wordshop) Sodium is an extremely active element found naturally only in combined form; it always links itself to another element. Chlorine, on the other hand, is the poisonous gas that gives bleach its offensive odor. When sodium and chlorine are combined, the result is sodium chloride--common table salt--the substance we use to preserve meat and bring out its flavor. Love and truth can be like sodium and chlorine. Love without truth is flighty, sometimes blind, willing to combine with various doctrines. On the other hand, truth by itself can be offensive, sometimes even poisonous. Spoken without love, it can turn people away from the gospel. When truth and love are combined in an individual or a church, however, then we have what Jesus called "the salt of the earth," and we're able to preserve and bring out the beauty of our faith. David H. Johnson. In our scripture, Jesus combines salt with the power of light. We are to be salty and bright. We can shine our lights in so many ways. When you go to Menards, there is always a section of the store that is sectioned off at the front of the store that contains all kinds of lights. Each light has a different purpose, each light shines from a different source, each is a different color. Who knew that there could be so many different shades of a white light bulb. But when they shine- they make the lighting section the brightest place in the store. Each of us is called to shine with what we have, where we are – to reflect the light of Christ in our lives. Today we live in a world where the church seems irrelevant to people and people do not see the need of being close to God. It is more important that ever that we be the salt of the earth. Excerpt Emily Potter got a call from her sister, and it made her heart sink. “It’s cancer,” said her sister, talking about the report that their mother had just received. “Not my mom,” thought Emily. “Please not my mom.” Cancer had already devastated their family once before, and they had lost friends to it as well. The only way that Emily knew how to express herself was to create something. So, she made a sweatshirt that contained the word “salty.” She showed up to her mother’s first round of chemotherapy wearing the sweatshirt. And why did she choose that particular word? Emily says that being salty “means that I am extremely bitter, angry and resentful towards her cancer.” But it also sends the message that her mom is “tough and aggressive.” According to Emily, people with cancer are some of the toughest and most courageous people on earth. She wears her “salty” sweatshirt as a kind of armor, one that strengthens and preserves her bond with her mother. When she puts it on, she is saying, “I love you. I’m here for you. Let’s be salty. Together.” Sometime salt has to combine with anger, frustration, concern, even compassion, Summary Christians are salty when they work for the justice and inclusion for all. They are bright when they behave in ways that are good and right and true. (Proclaimsermons.com) Whatever we combine our salt with – sassiness, determination. We are called to season our lives with our devotion to God. Finally – there is a saying that children will become whatever we name them. If we name them trouble makers, they will make trouble, if we name them smart – they will become smart. Conclusion: This Is Our Calling Jesus doesn’t say, “Try to be salt.” He says, “You are.” He doesn’t say, “Create your own light.” He says, “Let it shine.” This is the calling of disciples: To live so faithfully, love so clearly, and serve so consistently that our community experiences the presence of God through us. May we be salt that makes a difference right where we are planted. May we be light that cannot be hidden. And may everything we do—here, at home—give glory to God. Amen. (Chat GPT 5.2) Song Pastoral Prayer Lord of bright and abiding Light, you have shown us, in the person of Jesus your Son, a new way to live. You have poured your light into the world and have asked us to live in the light rather than run and hide in the darkness of doubt and despair. You promise to be our light all of our days and ask us to place our trust in you. The journey in this light is risky. It means that we will have to be very serious about our service to you, giving you our best and offering hope and light to others. In this new year, we bring to you the names and situations of others for whom light seems to be a stranger. They struggle with ill health, economic hardship, broken and damaged relationships, loss of loved ones, and anxiety. We place them in your care. Let your light shine on them, bringing healing and hope. Help us to be bearers of that light in all that we do; for we ask this in Jesus’ Name. Amen. (written by Nancy C. Townley from Worship Connection): Lord’s Prayer Stewardship Moment In a world in which we can so easily turn on a light, it may be challenging to remember Jesus was speaking to his disciples out on the mountain side, with no electric lights, no lighted pathways, no flashlights. When the sun went down, everyone knew it would be DARK! So describing the disciples “light of the world” would have had a deep significance. What about for you? If you can, imagine how YOU are “the light of the world.” How do you let your light shine? What good works can be seen when you’re around? What happens because of you that allows others to give glory to God? Each week, we provide an opportunity for each one of us to shine some light as we share our financial offerings. With our gifts, this congregation is better equipped to _________________________ (Provide food for the food bank? Bring children and youth into community through youth groups? Help people claim their identity as followers of Jesus?) Imagine how bright the light shines when we all provide resources! Let your light so shine so we are not hidden or under a bushel basket, but so others from all around can see and rejoice in the Light! Prayer of Thanksgiving Illuminating God, thank you for the ways you encourage us to let our light shine. Please accept these gifts, multiply them, and make possible the vision for us to use them wisely, that we might let our good works be seen and celebrated, day by day. AMEN (Disciples of Christ Center for Faith and Giving) Song Announcements Closing Prayer for YouTube Go, dear friends, to love and serve the Lord. Go shine light into darkness. Go be salt of the earth. Go enjoy the wonders of our world, which God has made. Go stand beside those on the margins. Go form faith. Go have your faith formed. And go to share God’s love, knowing that you are uniquely beloved. Amen (Presbyterian Outlook, Owen Gray) Community Time – Joys and Concerns Benediction To those huddled in the shadows of fear and worry, God sends us to be light. To those whose lives and hopes have lost all flavor, Jesus sends us to be salt. To a society where love is tossed aside as easily as a food wrapper, Spirit sends us to be faithful carers of everyone we meet. (c) Thom M. Shuman Additional Illustrations Consider our lesson for today. Jesus says to his followers, "You are the light of the world. . . ." Can you imagine that? Here was a motley crew of farmers and fishermen and tax collectors and housewives in a tiny and remote village in an obscure part of the world and Jesus was saying to them, "You are the light of the world." Talk about a statement of faith! Let's go farther than that. Talk about a crazy idea! Light of the world? That bunch? It must have sounded absurd at the time even to them. Only Jesus could have seen that through this motley crew God would indeed change the world forever. At the time, however, it probably sounded like so much idle chatter. "You are the light of the world," he said and so they were. Now do you want to hear something really absurd? So are we. Jesus says to us this morning that WE are the light of the world. Think about that for a moment. Sink your teeth into it savor it. You and I are the light of the world. What does it mean? Well, let me suggest some possibilities. The Temptation We Face Everyday "One night at the end of a special Saturday night worship service," writes Warren Hudson of Ontario, Canada, "a thunderstorm unleashed a bolt of lightning that plunged the church into darkness." With the congregation seated in total darkness, the pastor felt his way to the kitchen to find some candles. The pastor handed out the candles to everyone present. Persons lit their candles in much the same way as many churches do on Christmas Eve, each person lighting the candle of the person next to them. The worshipers then made their way through the church's winding hallways to the front door. "Peering out, we could see the rain coming down in sheets," Warren remembers. With traffic snarled, people were running for the nearest shelter. Looking around they realized that the entire city was in darkness. "There in the darkness we stood," Warren writes, "a little band of Christians, each clutching a light, not sure whether to venture out into the storm or stay inside the church in hopes that the storm would soon blow over." There in the darkness the light of truth struck him. In this most dramatic way he realized what it means to be the "light of the world." He writes, "It occurred to me then that this is the temptation I face every day. It is easy to play it safe and be a good Christian in church. It is a lot harder to venture out in faith into the storms of the world." Warren Hudson, adapted by King Duncan, Collected Sermons,www.Sermons.com Changing the World It was during the early days of television. A workman was placing television transmitters at the very top of the Empire State building in New York City. Seeing him at work up there, so far off the ground, a reporter thought this would make a fascinating human interest story. So, when the workman had completed his task and had returned to the ground, the reporter approached him and asked, “Aren’t you frightened to work under conditions like that that? Isn’t it dangerous to work so high off the ground?” The workman replied, “Yes sir, it is dangerous.” Then he added, “But then, how many people can say that they have changed the skyline of a city like New York!” God offers us the privilege of changing the skyline not of a city, but of the world. We can help make this world healthier, more humane, more harmonious, and more blessed. God made a good world. Now He wants us to help Him make it good again. We can do that. By God’s grace, we really can do that. If we can, surely we must. James McCormick, Selected Sermons, www.Sermons.com What’s your favorite color? Is it more 450? Or do you tend towards 600? Maybe even 700? In case those numbers don’t immediately mean anything to you, on the visible spectrum scale for light 450 nanometers means “blue,” 600 is yellow, and at 700 nanometers you are seeing red. But we don’t “see” numbers, do we? We see the beautiful, variable, illuminating colors that light takes on as it is refracted and reflected before our eyes. We don’t experience nanometers. We bask under a blue sky? Or we bath in wonder at the beauty of a sunset that melts from orange to red to crimson and purple. Whether we catalogue light as 550 nanometers or perceive it as “green” is all a matter of perspective. Are we dissecting the idea of “light” into its most basic components (measured nanometers)? Or are we responding to the expression of that light as we experience it in the world (colors)? In Matthew’s account of the “Sermon on the Mount,” immediately after Jesus lays out his “blessed be” Beatitudes, he lifts up two metaphors of how disciples of the kingdom will be known to this world. They will be the “salt of the earth,” they will be the “light of the world,” a light that will “shine before others.” Salt sharpens flavors. Light sharpens both sight and insight. Jesus is calling would-be followers of the kingdom to sharpen lives by living on the sharp, the cutting edges, the places where new perspectives, new tastes, and new visions are embraced. Light does not just banish darkness and illuminate corners and crevices. Light also works to provide a new perspective… A Light in the Darkness Let me tell you a story about one of the most remarkable young men who ever lived. This young man had been left blind in both eyes by a childhood accident. In nineteenth-century France, when this young man lived, blind children had little help and few hopes. But then a kindly priest, Father Jacques Palluy, took an interest in the lad. He was amazed at the boy's intelligence and eagerness to learn. With his parents' permission, Father Palluy enrolled the boy in the Royal Institute of Blind Youth in Paris. Thrust into a new and frightening environment, the boy was lonely and depressed. In time, however, he found friendship and encouragement. Unfortunately he was frustrated by the institute's lack of books in raised print. He also found the symbols in raised print confusing. So he set out, at twelve years of age, to invent his own system. After three years he perfected the method, but he encountered indifference and hostility when he tried to convince the world that his system was better. Even with the support of the institute's director, he was told again and again that he was too young to have created a workable alphabet for the blind. Years passed. This young man grew older, was made a teacher at the institute, and became a fine organist, always hoping that his method would find acceptance. But his health was frail. It was not until he lay in bed, dying of tuberculosis, that he heard that the first steps were being taken to popularize his system. Though he did not live to witness it, Louis Braille's alphabet became the universal method of reading for the blind. His courage and hunger for knowledge enabled him to triumph over disability and disease and open new worlds to future generations. He found a way to become light for those who lived in darkness. King Duncan, Collected Sermons, www.Sermons.com Salt has the properties of flavor, of preserving, of healing, of preventing germs, of cleansing, and many other things. In Jesus’ day salt was also used in cooking. Every house or neighborhood would have had a stove in front of it. The fuel for these stoves would have been animal manure. In order for the manure to burn, they would add salt to it and make it into patties. Once all of the salt burned from the patties, they were no good. The Hebrew word for earth is the same word for an earthen stove. We are the salt used to burn the manure of life. In other words, we have a mission and a purpose as the people of god. As the church we are the body of Christ for the world. Our challenge is to not just be Christ, but to be Christ crucified and resurrected. this is the last sentence of Matthew and it will be my last point. The scribes were professionals, usually priest who had been given the task of putting God’s word into writing. The Pharisee were committed lay people, who committed every part of their lives to God and doing what God said was right. Jesus was saying that they were pretty good people, they were faithful and righteous. Jesus set the bar pretty high for us. They were the best of the best, and we are being called to be even better. They were extraordinary, but we are called to be even more. As Christians we are to give the world an unheard of amount of generosity, love, and understanding. Such as the world has never seen. Your are the salt of the earth, the light of the world. The good news is that we don’t have to do anything or know anything. All we have to do is to love God. From Basement to Craft Fairs Doris was most comfortable when she was busy at work in her secluded spot in the basement of her parents' home. She had been born with a deformed left arm which wasn't of much use to her; hence, she had chosen not to participate in sports nor in the school band. But she had studied art and in that she excelled. Her quiet personality stemmed partly from her physical impairment and partly because she hadn't received much encouragement to excel in anything. But she did have her little workshop in the basement, where she spent a good deal of her time. She cherished the hours spent there because she was doing the one thing she felt confident she could do well -- painting. Yet even her parents weren't much aware of -- nor appreciative of -- her growing artistic ability. During her last two years in high school and the two years following graduation, she devoted increasing time to oil and acrylic still life paintings. As she looked out of the basement half windows at the familiar Wisconsin countryside, she captured ever more vividly the seasonal changes and the varieties that nature offered. The completed unframed canvasses were standing in ever thickening rows beyond her little nook in the basement. Doris' secret talent was clouded by only one fact -- she was the only person who knew about it. That is, until her favorite cousin Denise came to visit. Denise was quite the opposite of Doris -- a bubbly personality, outgoing and adventurous. She hadn't seen Doris since her high school graduation and now Denise had come to spend a week with her. Doris would not have shown her cousin all those canvasses stacked in the basement, but Denise's inquisitive nature soon led her to the dozens of paintings that stood facing the walls. "Doris, where did these paintings come from?" Denise asked, remembering that Doris had taken a few art classes in high school. "Did you do this wonderful work?" Denise asked with her hands on her hips. "They're nothing special," Doris tried to apologize. "Wrong! They're marvelous!" Denise argued. She spent the next half hour quickly going through one stack after another, while Doris stood by a bit embarrassed. "Doris, you need to get these paintings out where people can see them and buy them," Denise pleaded. "People will buy good paintings like these." Doris demurred, offering timid apologies for the paintings and her talent. But Denise would have none of it. "There's arts and crafts shows everywhere during these summer months, and I'm going to help you get these paintings out where people can see them," Denise challenged. And for the next few weeks there was no stopping Denise. She extended her visit beyond her original plans. "I don't have a job yet anyway for the summer," she rationalized. "I want you to sign your name to every one of these paintings," she instructed Doris. After four weekend arts and crafts shows, more than two dozen of Doris' paintings had been sold. As she and Denise headed back to Doris' home on a Sunday evening, Doris reflected the warmth of her feelings as she admitted, "I guess people do like my stuff." "Well, like I said, you have to get it out where people can see it," Denise commented as she gave her cousin a hug. Merle G. Franke, Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit, Cycle A Ann Landers printed a story a few years ago from a lady who had attempted suicide. She lay unconscious for three days before the police found her and took her to the hospital. But they went above and beyond the call of duty by calling her every day and once she returned home they would visit her and bring her cards and flowers on a regular basis. They went out of their way to show kindness and love. We are not all called to be police, or nurses, or firemen. We are not all called to have to faith of the scribes or Pharisees. But Jesus point is that whomever we are, and whatever we are doing, we are called to show compassion and to go out of our way to express it. That is what being a Christian is all about. God loves you, how to you show the love of God in your life? Let us pray….. Weekly Sermon Illustration: The Salt of the Earth Monday February 03, 2014 "You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything, but is thrown out and trampled under foot. You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid." The following is an excerpt from Buechner's sermon "The Church" (originally published in The Clown in the Belfry and later in Secrets in the Dark). Jesus calls us to show this truth forth, live this truth forth. Be the light of the world, he says. Where there are dark places, be the light especially there. Be the salt of the earth. Bring out the true flavor of what it is to be alive truly. Be truly alive. Be life-givers to others. That is what Jesus tells the disciples to be. That is what Jesus tells his church, tells us, to be and do. Love each other. Heal the sick, he says. Raise the dead. Cleanse lepers. Cast out demons. That is what loving each other means. If the church is doing things like that, then it is being what Jesus told it to be. If it is not doing things like that-no matter how many other good and useful things it may be doing instead-then it is not being what Jesus told it to be. It is as simple as that.

Is Christ the King?

Rev. Harriette Cross First United Methodist Church of Wilmington Christ the King Sunday November 21, 2021 Year B Opening Song Welcome – Christ the King Sunday Invocation/Opening Prayer We come this day, rejoicing, in the presence of the King of Kings, Jesus Christ. At his birth the angels proclaimed his name to be Emmanuel, God with us. Today in this place, in this time of worship, may we truly feel the power and presence of Jesus Christ in our lives. May our hearts and spirits be warmed and challenged to proclaim with our lives, "Christ is Lord!". AMEN. Stewardship Moment Moment for Stewardship (adapted from John 18) Living in the United States, many eagerly proclaim our independence. We are not officially designated into higher and lower class (or caste). We drink in the stories of those who started with little or nothing, used their ingenuity, luck, and being in the “right place at the right time”, to make it to the top: Army recruit who became a General, ragamuffin who now owns the profitable company, Hollywood waitstaff now in top demand as an actor. Yet today, we’re hearing about Jesus as Ruler. This one? Is this the same one born to parents not yet married, beginning life in a cave (or stable), turned refugee and then growing up to wander the countryside as a preacher/teacher/healer, with a curious band of disciples. A RULER? Perhaps it’s just this identity which calls us to Jesus. This Jesus is the one we want to rule in our hearts, link us to the Creator, and challenge us to take our place as followers. Jesus is the one who teaches his followers to be stewards of God’s many gifts; care-takers of what doesn’t actually belong to us. We’re faced with Jesus’ challenges to “love your neighbor”, “feed the hungry, clothe the naked, visit those in prison”. Today, we have opportunity to bear witness to our own identity not as independent operators, but as followers of Jesus. One way to do that is to share abundantly with others. You may offer your gifts to support this congregation, to strengthen our connection to ____________, to provide care for _____________. It’s your move. What will you do with this one opportunity to claim Jesus as Lord in your life? Prayer of Thanksgiving Bountiful God, As we move toward Thanksgiving, many of us eagerly anticipating time with family and friends, we take this moment to offer our thanks to you for all you have provided. Please receive our gifts today, knowing they come in return, as signs and symbols of our daily lives. Help us use these gifts to share Good News with those who struggle. AMEN Scripture 2 Samuel 23:1-7 Common English Bible David’s last words 23 These are David’s last words: This is the declaration of Jesse’s son David, the declaration of a man raised high, a man anointed by the God of Jacob, a man favored by the strong one of Israel.[a] 2 The LORD’s spirit speaks through me; his word is on my tongue. 3 Israel’s God has spoken, Israel’s rock said to me: “Whoever rules rightly over people, whoever rules in the fear of God, 4 is like the light of sunrise on a morning with no clouds, like the bright gleam after the rain that brings grass from the ground.” 5 Yes, my house is this way with God![b] He has made an eternal covenant with me, laid out and secure in every detail. Yes, he provides every one of my victories and brings my every desire to pass. 6 But despicable people are like thorns, all of them good for nothing, because they can’t be carried by hand. 7 No one can touch them, except with iron bar or the shaft of a spear. They must be burned up with fire right on the spot! Sermon – Is Christ the King? I want to start out today by sharing some famous last words of people. The world has always delighted in recording the last words of famous people. O’Henry died saying, "Turn up the lights, I don’t want to go home in the dark." Ballerina Anna Pavlova died crying out, "Get my swan costume ready." Legend has it that an expiring Oscar Wilde complained, "Either that wallpaper goes, or I do." Rock musician Terry Kath, playing Russian roulette with a loaded pistol, remarked, "Don’t worry, it isn’t loaded." My grandmother told me that, in her day, when folks usually died at home, the family often gathered around the deathbed to hear a loved one’s final words. Today you may remember the last words spoken to you by someone you loved. In this chapter we hear the last words of one of our great fathers of faith. David’s strong booming voice rings down the ages as he rang down the curtain on one of the greatest lives ever lived. Joseph Heller in his satirical new novel about David, begins his fiction with David saying, "I have the best story in the Bible." • After Steve’s death, The New York Times published a eulogy delivered by Mona Simpson, Steve’s sister. In her eulogy, Mona described Steve Jobs’ last words on his deathbed as, “OH WOW. OH WOW. OH WOW.” Four years later, in 2015, an essay that purported to be Steve Jobs’ last speech began circulating. Jesus last words were recorded to be Make Disciples of all nations, I will be with you until the end of the age. Our sermon today are known as the last words of David. In reality, David lived a lot longer that these words. There is one more chapter in the book of Samuel. And David’s actual last words are recorded much later, when he crowns his son Solomon as king and tells him to make sure that he kills all of the rest of his brothers in order to stay on the throne. But these words in 2 Samuel 23 have a much more important message for us today. Our narrative today, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, is often called "the last words of David." Whether he or some later writer composed these words doesn’t really matter. They sum up some of what he brought to the world and they point the way forward. They give a glimpse for the people of Israel of what leadership and the kingdom can achieve. This legacy suggests the perpetuity of the house (dynasty) of David. They are words of assurance that God will dwell with his people. These are truly "famous last words." In them there are at least three themes: (1) David’s words were good words because the Spirit of the Lord spoke through him (2 Samuel 23:2); (2) a glimpse of perfect leadership (2 Samuel 23:3-4); and (3) an everlasting relationship/covenant (2 Samuel 23:5). 2 Samuel 23:3 says whoever rules rightly over people, whoever rules in the fear of God, is like the light of sunshine on a morning without clouds, like the bright gleam after the rain. When we live a life of righteousness we are the light of sunshine for a cloudy world. When we follow the model of leadership of David we are the bright gleam. David words are wonderful, he was known for us poetry, for his leadership, for the promise that God made to him that he would always have a descendent on the throne for his kingdom. Unfortunately the biblical history shows that not to be true. David’s grandson only two generations later was the king to lose half of the kingdom when Judah and Israel split. And 500 years later the whole kingdom disappeared all together. And yet the book of Matthew is determined to prove that Jesus comes from David’s lineage. So David’s promise can continue and be taught to a whole new generation. A grandmother wanted her granddaughter to attend Sunday school. So she arranged to pick her up and take her. She took her to her class and introduced her to her teacher. Following the class the grandmother picked her up and drove her home. The grandmother was anxious to hear about her granddaughter's experience. She noticed that her granddaughter was in a rather pensive mood as she silently stared out of the car window. Finally, the grandmother could not stand the suspense any longer and asked her granddaughter, "Well, what did you think of Sunday school?" Thoughtfully, she replied, "Grandma, what's so great about Jesus?" The Wizard of Id comic strip characterizes a feisty little fellow as the despotic ruler of the Land of Id. In one strip, the king opens his mail and reads aloud, "This is to notify you that you have been chosen to be presiding king at the kings' conference this year." The king begins to jump up and down, excitedly proclaiming, "Hallelujah! I'm the king of kings! I'm the king of kings!" In the next frame a fiery bolt of lightning descends from on high. In the final frame, a charred and frizzled little king hears a mighty voice booming from the dark cloud above, "In your dreams, buster!"1 It is Jesus who has the title of King of Kings What Kind of a Kingdom has Jesus? What kind of a Kingdom has Jesus? No castle nor palace has he. No congress nor parliament sitting, deciding what laws there will be. Perhaps he has need of but two laws: Love God and your neighbor as well. To obey them is all that is needed, as all of the saintly can tell. He has neither army nor navy, no air force to guard the frontiers to keep out the strangers unwanted and maintain the enemy’s fears. Immigration he seems to encourage, of some quite disreputable, like fishermen, publicans, sinners. To such he is hospitable. It seems there’s no revenue service or taxes we must calculate. He surely cannot run a kingdom on what we put into the plate! No 1040 form comes in April to fill out before the fifteenth, with penalties charged for nonpayment, beginning upon the sixteenth. No currency’s here with his picture, no coinage engraved with his name. And where are the posters and slogans proclaiming his power and fame? And I see no trappings of kingship, no robes made of velvet and fur, no crown made of gold set with diamonds, to befit our supreme arbiter. Jesus said that his kingdom was really not what Pilate had thought it had been. It was not of this world. And its glory was not of the kind to be seen. For those of us here in his kingdom, there is one other thing we have known: of the kingdoms around in his lifetime, it’s the only one left with a throne. Andrew Daughters, The Kingdom of Jesus, CSS Publishing. Today Jesus kingdom lies in the heart of the church and those who choose to follow him. His kingdom is not about approval ratings but it is in what we do in the world. It is about power and control. The way that we use power and control in our lives. Is it for our personal gain, or for the wellbeing of all people. When we follow Jesus we are all called to be leaders and to live according to the qualities of the king. David’s promise applies to us all. There is a story of a little boy who was in a hospital in England in the days of King George V. George V was king of Great Britain from 1910 until his death in 1936. This was when marriage was used as a political tool among the royal houses of Europe. So George was a grandson of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the first cousin of both Tsar Nicholas II of Russia and Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany. And yet George was far less pretentious than many of history’s monarchs. The patients in this particular hospital where the little boy in our story was being treated were told that the king was going to pay them a visit that day. So everybody put on their best clothes as they were lying in their bed, waiting for the king to come. This little boy was eager to see the king. All day long there were a number of visitors, because it was visitor’s day. And along about 4 o’clock in the afternoon, a man came in with a number of other men with him. He spoke to some of the boys and girls. He even spoke to this young boy who was waiting so eagerly to see the king. He patted him on the head. He spoke very nicely to the boy and left. That night, as he was being made ready for bed, the little boy spoke to the nurse. “Nurse,” he complained, “the king didn’t come!” And she said, “Oh, the king did come. Don’t you remember that nice elderly man that came over to you and patted you on the head? And spoke so sweetly to you?” David W. Miller, Reign of Truth And he said, “Yes, I do.” She said, “Well, that was the king.” The boy protested, “But nurse, he didn’t have on his crown!” This is what most disappointed the people who came to see Jesus. He wore no crown… What makes people great? By the standards of our society, greatness appears to be based on four possible foundations: wealth, honors, fame, or power. The power may be physical, as in the agility and stamina of an athlete. The power may also be financial or political. In contrast to these sources of greatness, the author of the Second Book of Samuel traces greatness to God. In speaking about King David, the author wrote: "David son of Jesse was the man whom God made great, whom the God of Jacob chose to be king, and who was the composer of beautiful songs for Israel" (2 Samuel 23:1-2, TEV). The same God who inspired greatness in his servant David is the God who inspires greatness in you. "I am sure," wrote Saint Paul, "that God who began the good work within you will keep right on helping you grow in his grace until his task within you is finally finished on that day when Jesus Christ returns" (Philippians 1:6, LB). There are four qualities to this divinely inspired greatness: humility, helpfulness, hopefulness, heroism. First, a person is made great by being humble, Secondly, a person is made great by being helpfulThirdly, a person is made great by being hopeful, Fourthly, a person is made great by being heroic, David’s heroism inspired heroism in his soldiers. They seem to fulfill the statement of Thomas Carlyle, "We cannot look, however imperfectly, upon a great man without gaining something from him." The scriptures say, "These are the names of David’s heroes" (2 Samuel 23:8, NEB). and then lists more than thirty heroic soldiers. Heroes affect us in four ways. First, a hero captures our attention. One of those heroes was a man named Benaiah "who went down into a pit and killed a lion on a snowy day" (2 Samuel 23:20, NEB). Because we face problems that stalk us like lions, we admire Benaiah, whose action captures our attention. Secondly, a hero crystallizes our intention. The lion that Benaiah faced strayed up from the area near the Jordan River and was stranded in a snowstorm. The presence of that lion was not under Benaiah’s control. However, what Benaiah could control and what we can control is our reaction to the problems we face. That type of self-control is a personal goal worth developing. Benaiah’s example helps us to crystallize just such an intention. Thirdly, a hero cultivates our retention. Although it was a snowy day and the lion was in a pit, Benaiah did not run away; he held his ground before the lion. Benaiah’s courage in the face of unfavorable circumstances encourages our retention, our holding on when the going gets tough. As a Norwegian proverb says, "A hero is one who knows how to hold on one minute longer." Fourthly, a hero catalyzes our extension. Just as a certain substance can spark a chemical reaction, so a heroic figure causes us to enlarge our outlook and to expand our efforts toward our goals. The Last Word Have you ever been in a heated argument with someone and couldn't let the matter drop? You just had to continue making your point. Why? Because you had to have the last word. If you have ever been in a classroom discussion, you have discovered the importance of that class reaching some sort of resolution and conclusion to the discussion. Students will often look to the teacher to settle the matter. The teacher has the last word. If you ever watched Ted Koppel on the late night television show Nightline, you saw him struggle with trying to be fair in dealing with two or more opposing points of view. It is also obvious how important it is to have the last word on that show. The last one to speak always seems to have the most lasting impact. To have the last word is to be the final authority. To have the last word is to have the most power. To have the last word means that you are in control, that you are the boss. Ask any coach, teacher, manager, CEO, or parent and they will tell you that having the last word is what they are all about. However we might think that a king is an old-fashioned and irrelevant image for an authority figure for the late twentieth century (and that is probably accurate!), nevertheless, before we throw this day out of our liturgical calendar, we ought to get behind the historical cobwebs of a king and look instead at what the tradition of the church is really trying to communicate with this day of Christ the King. Perhaps "King" isn't a helpful way to talk about Jesus in this day and age, but if we think of a king as someone who has the last word, who is the final authority and power in life, then celebrating Christ as King might begin to make more sense. Steven E. Albertin, Against the Grain -- Words for a Politically Incorrect Church, CSS Publishing, Lima Christ the king Sunday is the last word of the Christian year. It is intended for us to remember that the last word in our faith is Jesus Christ is Lord and King of our lives. We leave one Christian year and enter into another. We are ending year b – next week we begin year C – we follow the book of Luke. We prepare our hearts for Christ to come into our hearts in a whole new way. Thanksgiving ends and we start the first Sunday of advent. We did not look at psalm 132 – but it is a praise written by King David. In it, As God settles down and chooses to live among his people in a temple – the words of the psalm welcome God home to a heart fit for a king. As we prepare our hearts this year for the coming of the king – may we too live in the promises of God – may we remember that christ is indeed King of our hearts and everything that we do. Amen. Litany P: I am an independent person. I need no one. I am my own person. No one owns me! L: Come , bow down before your Lord, your King. P: Excuse me! I have no king. I don't need a king. L: The Lord Jesus Christ, he is the King of Kings. P: Where is his kingdom? L: In your heart and spirit. P: You've got to be kidding!? L: No, the Lord seeks to reign in your heart, to establish his kingdom in your life. P: Nobody's setting up shop in my head! L: It's difficult to understand. The Lord Jesus Christ is seeking you out, as friend, and witness. P: Witness to what? L: To God's absolute love for you and for all creation. P: All I see is war and violence; viciousness and hatred. L: Open your eyes. There is more to see than that. You yourself have been a blessing to someone recently. P: Me? I don't think so. What do you mean? L: You recently offered your help to a person in need, didn't you? P: Well, yes. But..... L: You supported people who were in ministries of caring and compassion. P: Well, of course. That's what you should do. L: Why? P: Because they needed help and even though I couldn't provide it directly, I could help cover the expenses of those who could be right at hand. L: Why did you do it? P: Because it was needed. Someone has to help, right? L: It's nice that you are part of that "someone". Christ's love is reigning in you. P: I never thought of it that way. L: Whenever you have reached out to others in love and compassion, you have reached out to Christ. You have become part of the Kingdom team. P: But I don't feel controlled, ruled over. L: You're not. Christ is working with you to bring about God's kingdom. P: So, I'm actually doing what God wants? How about that! L: Keep on working. There is much to be done, and God is with you through it all. AMEN. Lord’s Prayer Song All Hail the Power of Jesus Name UMH 155 Announcements Closing Prayer for Facebook Jesus Christ, our Sovereign and Savior, you pour out your power for the powerless and your salvation for the lost. Remember us in your new creation, so that we may live in peace with you in the presence of the Holy One, to whom be all honor and glory, through you, in the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Luke 23:33-43 / Year C Community Time Benediction (Revelation 1, John 18) God calls us into the world to embody a realm that is not of this world. Go forth now in the name of the one who is, and was, and is to come. May God’s grace and peace be with you. Amen. Children’s Sermon One of the things I enjoyed most in school was a special day called "Hat Day." All of the students and teachers wore a hat to school on that day. You would see all kinds of hats -- big hats, small hats, cloth hats, and straw hats. Some were very funny. You know, you can tell a lot about a person by the kind of hat he wears. Sometimes, you can even tell what a person does for a living by the kind of hat he or she wears. I have a bag full of hats to show you. As I take a hat out of my bag, raise your hand if you think you know who would wear that kind of hat. Who knows who would wear a hat like this? (Fire Fighter's Hat) Right! A fire fighter. That was easy, wasn't it? How about this one? (Hard Hat) Oh, you are right again. Someone who works in construction would wear a hat like this. It is sometimes called a hard hat. People who build buildings, highways, bridges, and things like that. Have you ever seen anyone wearing a hat like this? (Cowboy Hat) Who would wear a hat like this? Yahoo! You got that right, it is worn by a cowboy or cowgirl. Now, this next one is a little different. Let's see if you can get this one. (Crown) I wonder who would wear something like this? Can you guess? I can't fool you, a crown is worn by a king or queen, isn't it? Today's lesson is about a King who was born many years ago. This king was different from most. What made this king different? Well, for one thing, he didn't live in a palace. He didn't wear a beautiful robe or a jeweled crown. He had no servants to wait on him -- and and no soldiers to fight his battles. He didn't even have a country over which to rule and there were no coins engraved with his face or his name. I imagine that most of you have probably guessed who this king is. The King is Jesus. He is not just any king, he is the King of Kings. His kingdom is not on earth, his kingdom is in heaven. That is why many people never chose to make him their king. When Jesus was on earth, the people were looking for a king who would set up a kingdom on earth. A kingdom where they would share the wealth and power. Jesus did finally wear a crown, but it wasn't a crown of gold with jewels, it was a crown of thorns. A cross became his throne and above his head was a sign that read, "This is the King of the Jews." Roman soldiers stood beneath his cross and mocked him. "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" they cried. Crucified 0n each side of Jesus were two criminals. One of them mocked him saying, "If you are the Messiah, prove it. Save yourself—and us, too, while you're at it!" But the other criminal said, "We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he turned to Jesus and said, "Remember me when you come into your Kingdom." Jesus replied, "Today you will be with me in paradise." Some people still refuse to recognize Jesus as King. But all around the world today the Word is spoken, "Jesus Christ is still the King of Kings." Jesus, today we crown you King and make you Lord of our life. Amen. Additional Illustrations History of Christ the King Sunday This is actually a pretty new festival in the church year. Its roots go back only to the late 1800's, when the world's great empires--British, American, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Japanese--were all at war or about to go to war somewhere. The man who was the pope of the Roman Catholic Church at the time wrote a letter in which he dedicated the world to Christ the King. In the letter, he reminded the empires that God is present with the whole human race, even with those who do not know God. After World War I, another pope designated the last Sunday in October as Christ the King Sunday, a day to remember that Christ received power and honor from God and was thereby made ruler of the universe. Eventually, Catholics moved Christ the King Sunday to the last Sunday of the church year, when they were already accustomed to reflecting on Christ's return at the end of time to rule over all creation, a theme which echoes throughout Revelation, the last book of the Bible. David W. Miller, Reign of Truth History of Christ the King Sunday This is actually a pretty new festival in the church year. Its roots go back only to the late 1800's, when the world's great empires--British, American, Spanish, French, German, Russian, Japanese--were all at war or about to go to war somewhere. The man who was the pope of the Roman Catholic Church at the time wrote a letter in which he dedicated the world to Christ the King. In the letter, he reminded the empires that God is present with the whole human race, even with those who do not know God. After World War I, another pope designated the last Sunday in October as Christ the King Sunday, a day to remember that Christ received power and honor from God and was thereby made ruler of the universe. Eventually, Catholics moved Christ the King Sunday to the last Sunday of the church year, when they were already accustomed to reflecting on Christ's return at the end of time to rule over all creation, a theme which echoes throughout Revelation, the last book of the Bible. Are you the king of the Jews? We are familiar with that question, which is asked of Jesus in the passion story. Everyone in those days knew what a king was! We are not talking here about best sport, or Miss Congeniality — we are talking kings! When Alexander the Great was the greatest king of the then-known world, he decided to conquer all of Asia Minor. Darius, the King of Persia, the only other ruler that could claim super-power status, sued for peace, saying to Alexander: "Let's you and me just divide up Asia together." To which Alexander replied, "Just as the earth can stand only one sun, so the world can have only one ruler!" Alexander promptly crushed Darius. If the church is to make a difference in the world, every one of its members must begin to act and think like leaders. Leadership is not for the few and the special, the exception rather than the expected. Whether this mysterious thing called "leadership" comes naturally or is an acquired talent, every Christian must come to terms with it. A biblical style of leadership and language of leadership must become endemic in the church Our narrative today, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, is often called "the last words of David." Whether he or some later writer composed these words doesn’t really matter. They sum up some of what he brought to the world and they point the way forward. They give a glimpse for the people of Israel of what leadership and the kingdom can achieve. This legacy suggests the perpetuity of the house (dynasty) of David. They are words of assurance that God will dwell with his people. These are truly "famous last words." In them there are at least three themes: (1) David’s words were good words because the Spirit of the Lord spoke through him (2 Samuel 23:2); (2) a glimpse of perfect leadership (2 Samuel 23:3-4); and (3) an everlasting relationship/covenant (2 Samuel 23:5). 1. Good words Language specialists claim that the five sweetest phrases in the English language are: "I love you." "Dinner is served." "All is forgiven." "Sleep ‘til noon." "Keep the change." And there are those who choose to add: "You’ve lost weight!" In a book titled Irrepressible Churchill, Kay Halle told the story of a little boy who lived near Chartwell, England. It was at Chartwell Manor that Winston Churchill lived after his retirement as prime minister in 1955. This little boy was taken to Chartwell by the woman who cared for him each day. She told the little boy that he was going to see "the greatest man in the whole, wide world." When this woman and the boy in her charge arrived at Chartwell Manor, they learned that Sir Winston had retired for his afternoon nap. While the woman was having tea, the little boy slipped away from the adults, climbed the stairs, and started to explore the house. He pushed open the door to one of the bedrooms and saw Winston Churchill curled up in bed, ready for one of his famous naps. The little boy crept to the bed and asked, "Are you the greatest man in the whole wide world?" Sir Winston fixed his eye on him for a moment, then replied, "Of course, I’m the greatest man in the whole wide world. Now buzz off." once heard the story of a dilapidated little shop whose owner was about to go out of business. The floor was unswept, the windows unwashed, the goods in disorder, and the proprietor careless and untidy. One day the king came by, saw the wretched condition of the place, and said to the shopkeeper, "If you will do as I say, I will let you put over the door 'approved by the king.' " The proprietor gladly consented. Everything was changed; the floor was swept, the windows washed, the goods in order, and the keeper himself cleaned up. Soon customers began to come and money rang in the cash register because of the approval of the king. Hallelujah! Have you ever let the king take over your life? Have we ever said: "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus. Come in today. Come in to stay. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus." A grandmother wanted her granddaughter to attend Sunday school. So she arranged to pick her up and take her. She took her to her class and introduced her to her teacher. Following the class the grandmother picked her up and drove her home. The grandmother was anxious to hear about her granddaughter's experience. She noticed that her granddaughter was in a rather pensive mood as she silently stared out of the car window. Finally, the grandmother could not stand the suspense any longer and asked her granddaughter, "Well, what did you think of Sunday school?" Thoughtfully, she replied, "Grandma, what's so great about Jesus?" once heard the story of a dilapidated little shop whose owner was about to go out of business. The floor was unswept, the windows unwashed, the goods in disorder, and the proprietor careless and untidy. One day the king came by, saw the wretched condition of the place, and said to the shopkeeper, "If you will do as I say, I will let you put over the door 'approved by the king.' " The proprietor gladly consented. Everything was changed; the floor was swept, the windows washed, the goods in order, and the keeper himself cleaned up. Soon customers began to come and money rang in the cash register because of the approval of the king. Hallelujah! Have you ever let the king take over your life? Have we ever said: "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus. Come in today. Come in to stay. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus." once heard the story of a dilapidated little shop whose owner was about to go out of business. The floor was unswept, the windows unwashed, the goods in disorder, and the proprietor careless and untidy. One day the king came by, saw the wretched condition of the place, and said to the shopkeeper, "If you will do as I say, I will let you put over the door 'approved by the king.' " The proprietor gladly consented. Everything was changed; the floor was swept, the windows washed, the goods in order, and the keeper himself cleaned up. Soon customers began to come and money rang in the cash register because of the approval of the king. Hallelujah! Have you ever let the king take over your life? Have we ever said: "Into my heart, into my heart, come into my heart, Lord Jesus. Come in today. Come in to stay. Come into my heart, Lord Jesus."

God of our Past, God of our Future

March 8, 2020 Romans 4:1-17 2nd Sunday of Lent Year A Children’s Sermon Object: a "get out of jail free" card from a Monopoly game. Good morning, boys and girls. Have any of you ever played Monopoly? It can be a lot of fun building a lot of houses and hotels on your property and collecting a lot of money, can't it! But something terrible can happen to you while you're playing Monopoly. Can anybody think of what it is? (Let them tell you.) Right. You can end up going to jail. And if you are in jail, you can't buy and sell any more property or houses or hotels. You can't move around the board and collect money at the "Go" square. And you can't have any fun just sitting there, watching everybody else keep moving around the board. How do you get out of jail? (Let them tell you.) Exactly right. You can use one of these. (Hold up the "get out of jail free" card.) How do you get a card like this? Right. You can pick it up if you are lucky. Or you can buy it from somebody else, if you have enough money. If you get a "get out of jail free" card and you don't need it right away, you can always save it. Or you can sell it to somebody else. Sometimes it feels as though you and I need a "get out of jail free" card when we live our lives. We get into lots of trouble doing the wrong things. We know God is not happy with us. We wonder if God will punish us. We even worry sometimes that God might stop loving us if we are bad. But God has good news for us. God has given us a "get out of jail free" card. When Jesus came to live in our world he promised us that God would love us even when we were so bad that we should go to jail. He promised that God would rescue us from all the trouble we get into, if we will let him do it. Jesus showed us how much love God has for us by dying on the cross. That was a very powerful thing for Jesus to do. Jesus is stronger than all the evil that we do. So when he died he took all the power out of our sins and gave us a chance to "get out of jail free." Whenever we look at a picture of the cross, or when we see a cross in church, we can thing of how God loves us and frees us from our sins. CSS Publishing Co., , by CSS Stewardship Moment At a recent pastor’s meeting we talked about the difference between a transactional faith and a transformational faith. In a transactional faith, we come to church expecting a service, expecting an answer, expecting something to happen and we get what we want, we give our money, and we go on about our lives, nothing really changes. We give and we get in return. A transformational faith is a faith where we actually have a relationship with God, we give not because of what we are expecting, we give because we love God. But we are changed by what we give, our relationship changes, and we witness the miracles of life all around us. Our giving is not a transaction, it is a response to love. We are changed, but we also have to power to change our church, our community and our world – by giving in love. Scripture Romans 4:1-17 Common English Bible (CEB) Abraham’s faith was credited as righteousness 4 So what are we going to say? Are we going to find that Abraham is our ancestor on the basis of genealogy? 2 Because if Abraham was made righteous because of his actions, he would have had a reason to brag, but not in front of God. 3 What does the scripture say? Abraham had faith in God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.[a] 4 Workers’ salaries aren’t credited to them on the basis of an employer’s grace but rather on the basis of what they deserve. 5 But faith is credited as righteousness to those who don’t work, because they have faith in God who makes the ungodly righteous. 6 In the same way, David also pronounces a blessing on the person to whom God credits righteousness apart from actions: 7 Happy are those whose actions outside the Law are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8 Happy are those whose sin isn’t counted against them by the Lord.[b] 9 Is this state of happiness only for the circumcised or is it also for those who aren’t circumcised? We say, “Faith was credited to Abraham as righteousness.” 10 So how was it credited? When he was circumcised, or when he wasn’t circumcised? In fact, it was credited while he still wasn’t circumcised, not after he was circumcised. 11 He received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that comes from the faith he had while he still wasn’t circumcised. It happened this way so that Abraham could be the ancestor of all those people who aren’t circumcised, who have faith in God, and so are counted as righteous. 12 He could also be the ancestor of those circumcised people, who aren’t only circumcised but who also walk in the path of faith, like our ancestor Abraham did while he wasn’t circumcised. Abraham’s promise is received through faith 13 The promise to Abraham and to his descendants, that he would inherit the world, didn’t come through the Law but through the righteousness that comes from faith. 14 If they inherit because of the Law, then faith has no effect and the promise has been canceled. 15 The Law brings about wrath. But when there isn’t any law, there isn’t any violation of the law. 16 That’s why the inheritance comes through faith, so that it will be on the basis of God’s grace. In that way, the promise is secure for all of Abraham’s descendants, not just for those who are related by Law but also for those who are related by the faith of Abraham, who is the father of all of us. 17 As it is written: I have appointed you to be the father of many nations.[c] So Abraham is our father in the eyes of God in whom he had faith, the God who gives life to the dead and calls things that don’t exist into existence. Footnotes: a. Romans 4:3 Gen 15:6 b. Romans 4:8 Ps 32:1-2 c. Romans 4:17 Gen 17:5 Common English Bible (CEB) Copyright © 2011 by Common English Bible Sermon So what is the difference between a Christian and any other random good person? We struggled with that question this week at the Lenten study – the walk. Everyone was given a key chain – on the back it gives us the five key practices that differentiate the Christians and just any good person – worship, study, giving, serving and ……. Last week we talked about worship – both public and personal – we come together to say thank you, but we also pray personally to develop out working relationship with God. What is the difference between a Christian and any random good person. Martin Luther says that there are three things that tell the difference. Hearing God’s call, listening, and trusting. According to Dr. Martin Luther there are three steps to saving faith. They are like the three rungs of a child’s ladder. The first two will not save, but the third will. However, you cannot take the third step until you have taken the first two. I. Hear: The first step he designates by the simple word "hear." "Faith comes by hearing ..." "How shall they believe except they hear?" (Romans 10) A knowledge of God’s salvation is necessary before it is possible to believe. That is why we send missionaries to Africa and Asia. Non-Christians must first hear before they can believe. But I am sure that I need not dwell on this first step now. I am quite certain that everyone present has again and again heard the message of God’s salvation in church and Sunday school. Therefore, you have already taken the first step. You have heard. II. Believe: I designate the second step by using the simple word "Believe." Now what is the meaning of "believe"? The dictionary says, "to consent with the mind." When you, therefore, have given "intellectual assent to the truth," you have believed. You have taken the second step. But you are not saved. In this sense you can believe all you want to believe about Jesus Christ, and still not be saved. You can believe everything about the Bible, and yet perish eternally. This is the fate of demons. James 2:19 states: "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe and tremble." Satan and his hosts were among the first to acclaim Jesus as the Son of God, but they did not submit to him. They believe as much or more than you do about Christ. They do not for a moment doubt his deity, but their faith is purely intellectual. It does not change their lives, and their doom is certain; therefore, they tremble. The second step will save no one, and yet that is where multitudes stop. They take the second step, but not the third. Hence they are not yet saved. III. Trust: The third step and the only step that saves, Luther designated by the simple word "trust." The correct and most explicit translation of Acts 16:31 - the response to the Philippian jailer who asks, "What must I do to be saved?" - is in the New English Bible: "Put your trust in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved." Again and again, instead of the King James Version "believe," it is more accurately stated in the newer translation, "Put your faith in." "Put your trust in the Lord Jesus." Now what is the meaning of the word "trust"? All of us hear, all of us believe, but when we hear, believe and trust that makes all of the difference. In Romans 4, Paul retells the story of Abraham – or Abram who was just that random good person who was walking down the street one day minding his business. There was nothing that would have stood out about him. He was happy with his life, he was happy with his family, like most of us – he didn’t have everything that he wanted in life, but he also couldn’t find a good reason to complain. So why would God choose him? Why would he hear God say walk away from your good life and just follow me, don’t ask where we are going, or why, just come on. Okay and he does that, he goes into the desert with his wife and family, but God keeps meddling. He has lived a good life, no complaints, but God tells his that he is going to have a baby – after 100 years. And he does, with his servant, but God keeps meddling and says he will have a baby with his 90 year old wife, and once the baby is born – God says you will be father to many nations. If he wanted to be a father, he would have worried about that way before 100. And yet with God all things are possible. I can see why this story would captivate Paul – Abraham was not only the father of his ancestors, but Paul says he is the father of faith. – he was just a random good person walking down the street – but he heard God, he believed God, he trusted God. Now he is the father of many nations, and as Christians we are children of Abraham. Not by birth but by grace. What is the difference between a Christian and a random good person? In Gods eyes – nothing – they are both worthy of God’s grace. God loves them the same, God treats them the same, God even blesses them the same. If that were not true, then we would have no relation to Abraham. Abraham is our father through the grace of God. So what is the difference between the Christian and the random good person? The difference is not in God grace, the difference is in how we respond. As people of faith, we not only hear God, and believe God, and even learn to trust God, we obey God. We choose to live the life that God speaks for us. Every time I read scripture something new occurs to me. This time as I was reading this scripture the last part spoke to me. God speaks life to the dead and calls into existence that which does not exist. Hmm what does that mean. In the Abraham story – God took a man who had lived a full and complete life without being a father, and just told him that he would be a father – and he became a father many times over , just because God spoke it into existence. What is the difference between a Christian and a random good person? – God spoke and the random good person listened and obeyed – and became a Christian – one who follows God many times over. Each of us have a Christian story – on some levels I was born into a Christian family and inherited the faith, but along my faith journey – God’s grace has changed my life and my soul. I was that random good person, until God said things would be different. My life went from being transactional – a give and a take, to transformational – living into the life God spoke for me. What is the difference between a Christian and a random good person – the random good person expects to get what they deserve – the Christian – gets so much more – a life they never dreamed of – and life eternal. This season – let us all hear God’s voice, believe God’s word, trust God’s leading – and respond to God’s grace. Let us pray…. Additional Illustrations It's like old Abraham. Remember him? According to the book of Genesis, he was an amazing man. When Abraham was 75 years old, God said, "Go!" Abraham didn't ask where; he just went. You might think that God loved him because he was obedient to God. The truth is, for some reason, God said, "Abraham, I'm going to make you somebody special," before Abraham could even respond. When Abraham was 99 years old, God sneaked up on him and said, "Abraham, I'm going to make you the father of a huge multitude. I'm going to change your name to mean 'Grand Exalted Father of an Exceedingly Large Family,' or in short, I'm going to call you 'Big Daddy.' " And Abraham laughed, and said, "O God, get serious." And God said, "I am serious; in fact, I'm so serious, I want you to get circumcised at the age of 99, after which you're going to become a father." Abraham did as he was told, even though it felt like his body was as good as dead. Maybe you might think God loved him because he did what God wanted him to do. The truth is, God had already said, "I'm going to make you the father of a huge multitude." Then came that day, that very dark day, when God sneaked up on him one more time, "Abraham! Take your son, your only son Isaac, the son whom you love, and offer him on the mountain as a burnt offering." Abraham didn't say a word. He saddled the donkey, stacked the wood, and took his son up the mountain. He built the altar, put Isaac upon it, and raised the stone knife. There was a great silence, and God said, "Stop! Now I know that you fear me." You might think, "What a test that was!" Abraham passed the test, and therefore that's why God loved him. But all these events came long after the moment when God had already reckoned him righteous. That happened late one night, many years before. God said, "Abraham! Go out and count the stars. That's how many children you're going to have." I picture the old man squinting toward the sky, and beginning to count: "One, two, three, four, five, ten, twenty, thirty, one hundred, two hundred, ten thousand and one, ten thousand and two...." As he counted, for some miraculous, inexplicable reason, he believed the promise of the Lord. That is all it took. Abraham believed that God was going to keep the promise. For the first time in all the Bible, God said, "Here is a child who is made right with me." Abraham believed, and said, "Yes," to God. That's all it took.

Watch, Turn, See, Dream

November 26, 2016 Romans First Sunday of Advent Advent is upon us once again, it always seems to hide right behind Thanksgiving, so as soon as I cook my turkey, and put up my fall decorations, I have to rush to take them down and put up the winter decorations. I was determined that I would be prepared this year. So on my porch right now are some mums that are dead and need to be thrown out, and evergreens and wreaths that are waiting in the corner. I think that it is important for us to remember advent. Advent is like entering into God’s time. The Board of Discipleship set these themes for the four Sunday’s of advent this year are watch, turn, see, dream and on Christmas eve have peace. Today our instructions are to watch. Watch what is going on in the world, watch what is happening in our spiritual life, watchhow we treat one another, more important watch what God will do in the world. SERMON ILLUSTRATION Coach Bear Bryant Urges His Players to Stay Alert Paul "Bear" Bryant is widely considered to be one of the greatest college football coaches of all time. Bryant's record in 38 years at Maryland, Kentucky, Texas A&M, and Alabama included 323 wins. He also took 29 teams to bowl games and led 15 of his teams to conference championships. In the 1960s and 1970s, no school won more games than Alabama (193-32-5). As one of his colleagues said, "He wasn't just a coach; he was the coach." John Croyle, an All-American defensive end on the 1973 national championship team, played for the Bear, and was deeply impacted by the man. John recently told me about one of Coach Bryant's pregame speeches. Coach Bryant paced in front of his assembled team as the band played for the capacity crowd waiting outside in the stadium. He made eye contact with each player as he spoke the following words: In this game, there are going to be four or five plays that will determine the outcome of this contest. Four or five plays that will swing the momentum toward us, or away from us. I don't know which plays these will be. You don't know which plays these will be. All you can do is go out there and give all that you have on each and every play. If you are doing that on one of those crucial plays, and you catch your opponent giving less, that play will swing things in our direction. And if we rise to the occasion like that, on those four or five plays, we are gonna leave here today a winner. Possible Preaching Angle: Prayer, Attentiveness, Obedience—Our life is made up of a series of moments. A few of those moments will be absolutely transformative—they will change our life and the lives of others forever. But since we usually don't know which moments will be the "game-changers," the Bible repeatedly urges us to "stay awake," "walk in the light," and "redeem the time." Dave Bolin, Gadsden, Alabama The first sentence of our scripture in Romans 13 – As you do all this, you knowwhat time it is. The hour has already come for you to wake up from your sleep. In order for you to be able to watch what God is going to do in your life, you have to wake up. How much of our life is spent on automatic pilot, where we do things without thinking. Or really paying attention to what we are doing. We know that we have to wake up in the morning, we get ready for work or school, we memorize our schedule, look at the clock to see how long before lunch, eat, return to what we are doing, get ready for dinner, watch tv, go to bed, and start all over again the next day. As long as we know our schedule, we don’t have to think about it. How many of us talk with people and already anticipate in ourheads what theyare going to say. We don’t listen to them, because we have already had theconversation in our heads. Paul is telling us that we are about to enter into God time, and that we have to change our ways. Live life a new way, be prepared to do a new thing. But before God can come into our lives, we have to wake up and watch what is happening. The word that Paul uses for time is Kairos. Which literally means God’s time. Chronos is the time on the clock, Kairos is the spiritual time, the timing of life, when we just know it is time for things to occur. After thanksgiving dinner is over, you just know that it is time to put up the Christmas tree. Before thanksgiving, no one wants to hear Christmas music, or see Christmas decorations, because it is not time yet. Yet as soon as dinner is over – you know it is time. That is Kairos time. The apostle Paul asks us if we know what time it is. Our response is that today and every day is God’s time — it is the time for us to get our act together, living in the light, transcending the darkness all around us to celebrate a Savior who can and does change lives. Amen. But advent is time for something much deeper. Leonard Sweet says that there are three advents that we have to prepare for. First we prepare for the coming of Christ as Christmas as baby Jesus, second we prepare for Christ to come again, and third we prepare to live our lives in Christ as faithful Christians. You celebrate the first coming, you pray for the second coming, but you live in the second coming. Romans encourages us in our third task- living as faithful Christians. Paul says that oursalvation is closer than we think it is. The night is almost over andthat day is about to arrive. So Paul says that if wearefollowersofChrist,then we should stop acting like it is still night time. He says that there are certainbehaviors that people only do at night. (Paul didn’t live in Chicago, where people sin in broad day light). But he says that when we live in Christ. We should always live as if it is daylight, and other people can seewho we are and what we are doing. We have to make sure that we are always being the light on Christ in any situation. In order for us to do that. Paul says that dress yourself with Christ. When you go outside and it is cold, what do you do? You put on a coat in order to keep warm. When you go out into theworld, and you seepeople who are comfortablewith sin and wrongdoing, what should you do? Put on Christ Jesus. On Sundays, I make sure that I get dressed for church. But when I get ready togo into the pulpit. I put on a robe. To be clothed in Christ for the task ahead. As we enter into Advent 2016, there seem to be a lot of uncertainties ahead. There are a lot of things going on in our world that have never happen before, and we don’t know what the outcome of these changes will be. But we know who holds the future. We will have to watch, turn to God, see God’s miracles, and live God’s dream for the world, and pass the peace of Christ to all that we know and do. In Western Colorado there is a road called the Million Dollar Highway. My guess is that both tourists and even most of the people who live on the western slope don't know how this road got its name. They probably assume it got its name because it was expensive to build. That's not correct—although it probably was expensive to build because it runs through very difficult terrain and at a high altitude. The real reason it's called the Million Dollar Highway is because waste material from the ore in gold mines was used as the bed for that highway, and not all the gold dust and nuggets were removed by the mining processes available at the time. As a result, there is a partial roadbed of gold that is probably worth a lot more than a million dollars. It isn't the cost that gave it its name, but rather what is inside it. The same is true for the royal law of love ("Love your neighbor as yourself"). Sure it's costly, but what gives it the name is what it is made of: it is made up of God, the God who is love." Leith Anderson, in the sermon How to Treat People, PreachingToday.com Loving God in every situation, that is whyChrist came to this earth, that is what weare waiting and watching for. That ishow we must live in the advent season. You are about to enter into God’s time – What blessings will God bring to you this year? You will just have to watch, turn, see, dream and have peace. Amen. Children’s sermon……. Scripture: Romans 15:7 Concept: People should be able to expect the church to be a place that is warm, kind, accepting, and fair. Preparation: None. Lesson: How many of you love to go to school? Raise your hands. Suppose you loved to go school. You loved to read and write, do math problems and science experiments. School was your all-time favorite place to be. Let's suppose summer was about to end and it was time to go back to school. You couldn't wait to do all those neat "school" things that you enjoyed doing. But when you got to school you found there would be no reading and writing, no math and no science. Instead you were simply going to sit at your desk all day and listen to music. That would be a letdown. That's not what school was meant to be and it would not be what you had expected. Suppose you wanted to be on the football team. You liked wearing the uniform and tackling other people. You liked running and throwing and catching the ball. But when you got to football practice, the coach said there would be no uniforms or running or catching or tackling. You were not actually going to play football. Instead you were going to listen to other people tell you about playing football for the whole season! That would be disappointing, wouldn't it? It would not be what you had expected. Imagine you went to the toy store and only found books. Don't we have the right to expect a toy store to have toys? If it says it's a toy store, shouldn't it be like a toy store? How about a church? People who have never been to church do not always know what to expect. Most of them expect that if they come to a church, the church people will be nice, friendly, and accepting. They expect that they can come to worship God even if they do not look like everyone else or dress like everyone else. They should be able to expect these things. You would be disappointed if you went to school and it was not what you expected school to be, or if you went to football practice and there was something else in its place, or if you went to the toy store and there were no toys. People coming to church hoping to find God's loving, kind, and fair people will be terribly disappointed if they get to church and find people who are unkind and cruel. Let's make sure that people looking to find God and God's people always find exactly what they are looking for at our church. God bless you. CSS Publishing Company, A TIME TO PLANT, by Teresa L. Major Extra illustrations……… SERMON ILLUSTRATION Many Cultures Still Don't Have a Word for Boredom Science writer Winifred Gallagher argues that what we call boredom (which she defines as "the unpleasant sense that there is nothing that interests you"), is largely a recent problem that still doesn't exist in many places around the globe. She writes: Situations that would strike us as unbearably dull, say, waiting for hours or even days for a bus, are considered just the way life is in many developing countries. Anthropologist Henry Harpending has done extensive fieldwork in the back country of [Africa], where in most ways, he says, "folks are just like you and me. But one thing that the Westerners that go there just can't understand and are open-mouthed about is the people's tolerance for tedium. They can just sit all day under the trees …." [Harpending] is fluent in Bushman and he has tried for twenty years to elicit a word for boredom, but the closest he has gotten is the unsatisfactory [word for] tired. Gallagher also adds, "[In the English language] boredom has no derivation: That is, it doesn't come from any other word but was specially created. Moreover, the word didn't appear in English until the later eighteenth century." Winifred Gallagher, New: Understanding Our Need for Novelty and Change (Penguin, 2011), p. 126. Bible scholar N.T. Wright uses the analogy of waking up in the morning for how some people come to Christ through a dramatic, instant conversion and others come to Christ through a gradual conversion: Waking up offers one of the most basic pictures of what can happen when God takes a hand in someone's life. There are classic alarm-clock stories, Saul of Tarsus on the road to Damascus, blinded by a sudden light, stunned and speechless, discovered that the God he had worshipped had revealed himself in the crucified and risen Jesus of Nazareth. John Wesley found his heart becoming strangely warm and he never looked back. They and a few others are the famous ones, but there are millions more. And there are many stories, thought they don't hit the headlines in the same way, of the half-awake and half-asleep variety. Some people take months, years, maybe even decades, during which they aren't sure whether they're on the outside of Christian faith looking in, or on the inside looking around to see if it's real. As with ordinary waking up, there are many people who are somewhere in between. But the point is that there's such a thing as being asleep, and there's such a thing as being awake. And it's important to tell the difference, and to be sure you're awake by the time you have to be up and ready for action, whatever that action may be. N.T Wright, Simply Christian (HarperOne, 2010), page 205 [ read less ]

Run the Race that You are in

October 23, 2016 2 Timothy 4:6-8 Luke 18:9-14 There is a story about a world-class woman runner who was invited to compete in a road race in Connecticut. On the morning of the race, she drove from New York City, following the directions--or so she thought--given her over the telephone. She got lost, stopped at a gas station, and asked for help. She knew that the race started in the parking lot of a shopping mall. The station attendant also knew of such a race scheduled just up the road and directed her there. When she arrived she was relieved to see in the parking lot a modest number of runners preparing to compete. Not as many as she'd anticipated; an easier race than she'd been led to expect. She hurried to the registration desk, announced herself, and was surprised by the race officials' excitement at having so renowned an athlete show up for their race. No, they had no record of her entry, but if she'd hurry and put on this number, she could just make it before the gun goes off. She ran and, naturally, she won easily, some four minutes ahead of the first male runner in second place. Only after the race--when there was no envelope containing her sizable prize and performance money--did she confirm that the event she'd run was not the race to which she'd been invited. That race was being held several miles farther up the road in another town. She'd gone to the wrong starting line, run the wrong course, and missed her chance to win a valuable prize. (7) I wonder if that's not the story of many people. They are chasing after prizes that are piddling or illusionary. Meanwhile they are missing out on the most important race of all. I wonder if that is not the story of many people that we know, who are winning the wrong race in life. They are running the life in the world, and forgetting to get right with God. All of us are running a race. But how many of us are getting aprize. The Englewood 5K is today, and people from all over Chicago will be there. Unfortunately, they don’t have a lot of interest in church people attending. Most races start at 8am, so that I can race, and get back to church just as it is getting started. This race is in my neighborhood, but it does not start until 10 am, which means that there is no guarantee that I will be done and back in church even by the time my sermon is supposed to start. But Paul’s scripture in Timothy is about running another race. The race of life. The kool thing about Paul’s race is that it is only for the righteous – for church folk. And we can run it, even if we have not trained for the Englewood 5K. Paul is talking to his student Timothy. He says that he is about to finish this race. He has been working hard to make disciples for Jesus Christ. Presently he is in jail, and he realizes that the end of the race is coming to an end. He realizes that he will die soon. Those who are trying to stop him, are gonna win, and they are going to kill him. So he tells Timothy to keep running the race, but to run in order to get the crown. The Greek word for “crown”--stephanos--refers to a wreath that was usually woven like a garland and placed on the winner’s head at the end of the race. But, in St. Paul’s case this is not just any crown. It is the crown of righteousness. We need to talk about this for a moment. Paul was not receiving the crown because he had been righteous, that is, because he kept all the rules and didn’t offend anyone. Some of us hear the word righteousness and we are turned off by it. In the New Testament, a righteous person is one who lives in a right relationship with God and his or her neighbor. It does not mean we are perfect. As long as we are clothed in flesh we will be imperfect. But we know that Christ died for us. We know that God is the Lord of our lives and that all God’s children are our brothers and sisters. And we know that at the end of our lives all imperfection will be removed from us and we will live forever in perfect harmony with God and with all God’s creatures. This we call heaven. This is what happens when we receive the crown of righteousness. It is not something we merit. It is the culmination of everything God has done in Jesus Christ to make us His own. We are all encouraged to finish the race. To win the game. What is involved in this admonition to "finish the race?" What does it mean for a Christian or a congregation to take this text seriously and train for a race where one runs for the duration? What does it take to complete the course? During broadcasts of various world series, super bowls and playoffs, four words, representing important sports concepts keep cropping up: Groove, Ambition, Momentum and Enthusiasm. They are easy to remember, for they shamelessly form the acronym GAME. You will notice that Paul did not say that we have to win the race, but we all have to run the race. Winning the race is up to God. Our job is tobefaithful, do whatweare supposed to do andto wait forGodto give theincrease, and to make the difference. The gospel lesson talks about us coming before God in prayer. One person was able to admit his faults and came before God as a sinner and asked for God’s help. A Pharisee came before God and bragged about who he was and thanked God for being better than the others. It is sort like a famous author who went to a restaurant and had to wait awhile for service. His companion told him to tell the waiter who he was so that he could get better service. The author said, if I have to tell him who I really am, I must not be that important. That is how it is with our relationship with God. If God does not already know that you are good, and you have to tell God who you are, you might not be that person. No matter how much we do here on earth- we are still sinners in God’s eyes. We give God the glory because all that we have and all that we are isa gift from God. The good news is that we don’t have to be great- we just have to be faithful. Some of those who have accomplished the least, have done the most in God’s eyes. Some clever person has written a fictitious letter from a pastor to a church search committee. The letter reads as follows: "I understand your church is looking for a pastor. I should like to submit my application. I am generally considered to be a good preacher. I have been a leader in most of the places I have served. I have also found time to do some writing on the side. I am over fifty years of age (no children), and while my health is not the best, I still manage to get enough work done to please my congregation. As for a reference, I am somewhat handicapped. I have never served in any place more than three years, and the churches where I have preached have generally been pretty small, even though they were located in rather large cities. Some places I had to leave because my ministry caused riots and disturbances. When I stayed, I did not get along too well with other religious leaders in town, which may influence the kind of references these places will send you. I have also been threatened several times and been physically attacked. I have gone to jail three or four times for expressing my thoughts. You will need to know that there are some men who follow me around undermining my work. Still, I feel sure I can bring vitality to your church. If you can use me, I should be pleased to be considered." The committee was dismayed that anyone would think that their church could use such a man. A trouble making, absent-minded, ex-jailbird could not possible be an effective pastor let alone be accepted by the community. "What was his name?" they asked. The chairman of the committee said, I do not know. The letter is simply signed, 'Paul'. Most leadership of the early church wouldn’t make it through the church interview process today. Theirs was a rough and dangerous world, turmoil on every side, both in the Jewish nation and the Roman. Think of the pictures we have seen from Afghanistan these past few weeks and you get an idea of the kind of hardships the Apostle Paul faced as he traveled for 20 years and thousands of miles all over the Roman world. There is power in purpose. In one of his novels, George Moore tells of Irish peasants at the period of the Great Depression. In order to meet the starvation crisis, the government put them to work building roads. For a time, the men worked well, sang their Irish songs, happy to be at work; but little by little they discovered that the roads they were building went nowhere. There was no real destination. They ran out into the dreary bogs and stopped. As the truth gradually dawned on them, that they had been put to work by the government simply as an excuse for feeding them, the men grew listless and stopped singing. And the author made this perceptive comment, the roads to nowhere are difficult to build. For a man to work well and sing, there must be an end in view. We know that, don’t we? Life hangs heavy on our hands. Our days drag drearily on if some purpose doesn’t pervade our lives. We have to be reminded that the crown is given to those who are righteous. Who live their lives according to what they know about the bible. Who order our steps according to doing what Jesus would want us to do in every situation. We want God to acknowledge our actions not man. In man’s race, there are always winners and losers. If you win, somebody else has got to lose. If you get the prize, there is not enough for others to get the same prize. When we are committed to righteousness, we understand that our winning does not preclude others from winning also. In God’s economy there is enough for everyone to get a prize, and God is not going to close the shop once so many people win. As a matter of fact, God is prolonging the race, he does not want just the first ten to get in to win, he wants everyone to win. And He will wait at the finish line until all of his children come home and achieve righteousness. That is just how Good God is. The Race We Are In Several years ago, I told you a story about one of my all-time favorite people. Not that I know her, or have even met her. But I admire her. Because one day, at age 42, in beautiful downtown Cleveland, she ran a marathon by accident (all 26 miles, 385 yards of it). Her name was Georgene Johnson. Still is. As you will recall, she lined up with the wrong group at the starting line. Not the 10K group, where she belonged. But the 26 mile group, where she didn't. It wasn't until the four mile mark that she realized her mistake. So she just kept going, finishing the race in four hours and four minutes. But it's what she said later (by way of explanation) that has stayed with me since. Said Georgene: "This isn't the race I trained for. This isn't the race I entered. But, for better or worse, this is the race I'm in." Which is true more often than you might think. Relatively few of us are exactly where we figured we'd be....doing exactly what we figured we'd be doing. But we are where we are, and (for better or worse) we're keeping our feet moving. William A. Ritter, Collected Sermons,www.Sermons.com I want to share with you one more story, It is not so much about running the race, but it is about Paul’s reason for writing the story. Paul knew that it was time to encourage others to step up to the plate and let others run the race of faith. How Is John Quincy Adams? On his eightieth birthday, John Quincy Adams was walking slowly along a Boston street. A friend asked him "How is John Quincy Adams today?" The former president replied graciously, "Thank you, John Quincy Adams is well, sir, quite well, I thank you. But the house in which he lives at present is becoming dilapidated. It is tottering upon the foundations. Time and the seasons have nearly destroyed it. Its roof is pretty well worn out, its walls are shattered, and it trembles with every wind. The old tenement is becoming almost uninhabitable, and I think John Quincy Adams will have to move out of it soon; but he himself is quite well, sir, quite well." In other words, John Quincy Adams was telling others, that his body was not doing so well, he was struggling with a lot of physical ailments that slowed him down. But in the midst of it all, his spirit was well. It was well with his soul. That is the attitude we need to cultivate so that when the call home comes we may say with Paul: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith Unknown Amen. Additional illustrations…… The famous actor Gregory Peck was once standing in line with a friend, waiting for a table in a crowded Los Angeles restaurant. They had been waiting for some time, the diners seemed to be taking their time eating and new tables weren't opening up very fast. They weren't even that close to the front of the line. Peck's friend became impatient, and he said to Gregory Peck, "Why don't you tell the maitre d' who you are?" Gregory Peck responded with great wisdom. "No," he said, "if you have to tell them who you are, then you aren't." Watching Life Pass By A little boy was asked what his father did by an older man. The boy answered, "He watches." "You mean he is a night watchman?" "Oh no", the little boy exclaimed, "He just watches." "Well, what does he watch?" "I don't know if I can tell you everything, but I can name a few things." "Well, tell me," the curious man replied. "He watches TV, he watches Mom do the housework, he watches for the mail man, he watches the weather, he watches the computer, and I think he watches girls, too" he said with an impish grin on his face. "He watches the stock market, football games. He watches Mom spank us, and he watches us do our homework. He watches us leave to go to Church and PTA and shopping. He watches Mom write letters and me play with my dog. He watches Mom pay the bills. But mainly, he just watches." There are many who idly sit and watch life pass them by. They live lives for which there is no meaning, no significance. If this is characteristic of your life, the Apostle Paul offers a challenge to fight the good fight, to finish the race, to keep the faith. Brett Blair, www.Sermons.com. Adapted from Williams, H. Page: Do Yourself a Favor: Love Your Wife. Children’s Sermon…… Lesson: I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Object: A crown, a vase of flowers, a gold cup, a pile of money, candy, and a small prize for each child (lollypop, balloon, tootsie roll, etc.) Good morning, boys and girls. Look at all of these good things I have with me today. A crown, money, flowers, candy -- what do you suppose all of these things are for? (Let them answer.) Well, these are all prizes. What is a prize? Can anyone tell me? (Let them answer.) Yes. A prize is something you win. Can you think of anyone who would ever win a crown for a prize? (Let them answer.) That's right. The young lady who wins the title of "Miss America" receives a crown for her head. That means that she was the best person of all the women who tried out. She could sing or dance better, talk better, and she probably looked very pretty, too. Who would win all this money? (Let them guess.) A person who had the fastest horse or car in a race would probably get a lot of money like this. I wonder what kind of a person would get flowers for a prize? (Let them guess.) Sometimes a person -- especially a woman -- who sings very well in a big concert or stage show will get flowers when she comes out to take her bow. A gold cup is given to the best tennis player, and if you won a spelling contest at school, you might get this candy. Did any of you ever win a prize? (Let them answer.) That's very good! How many people usually win a prize in a race? (Let them answer.) That's right. Usually only one person wins the prize in a contest or a race. But you know what, boys and girls? Paul tells us today that when it comes to being a Christian, everyone wins the prize! There isn't just one person who gets the flowers or money or gold cup; all of us who have believed in Jesus will win the prize. Do you all know what the prize is, boys and girls? (Let them answer.) Right. The prize is heaven. We will all share it with one another. Isn't that a better prize than money or flowers or crowns, boys and girls? (Let them answer.) It sure is! Today I want to give you this small prize to help you remember the big prize of heaven. (Pass out small prizes.) Amen.