tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1471713105721967292023-11-15T23:56:02.752-08:00"Like a Kid Loves Candy and Fresh Snow."~Dave Matthews BandRev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-65495684602945258732020-02-09T15:15:00.000-08:002020-02-09T15:15:44.719-08:00You are Salt and Light - Sermon on Matthew 5:13-20<div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on February 09, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Listen to the Sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6/december-8-2019-gospel-and-sermon-pastor-daniel-locke" style="background-color: white; color: #771000; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: white;">: </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Matthew 5:13-20 </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">13 "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.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 14 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">"You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 15 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 16 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 17 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">"Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 18 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 19 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> 20 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. </span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">SERMON</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">On the North shore of the Sea of Galilee, as the small hills climb right out of the water there is a small town called Capernaum. The small town on the North East edge of Galilee became well-tread territory within the public ministry of Jesus. It’s near these shores that Jesus called his first disciples, ate fish for breakfast with Peter, calmed the storm, and fed the crowds. This is holy ground to be sure. And today, from the sea of Galilee, as you climb the hill side full of banana trees, there is a Roman Catholic Church known as the Church of the Beatitudes. It is a beautiful church with an incredible view. And it is there that Christian history remembers the beatitudes and Jesus’ profound moment of teaching known as the Sermon on the Mount. Research says that the natural curve of the landscape would have made for great acoustics for Jesus to teach and the shade from large trees would make it appealing for listeners to sit and learn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This is one of the many sites we’ll visit when we take our trip to the Holy Land in October. It’s the site from which our gospel text comes this morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And as we dive in, I want to say a quick word about where we are and why the Sermon on the Mount is so important. I mentioned last week that we’ve been following the life of Jesus in a chronological sense. From the Advent of his conception, through the birth narrative and baptism, through calling his first disciples and beginning his earthly teaching ministry. Today we continue that chronology as we Jesus gathers on the Galilean hillside to teach, and it marks a significant shift within Jesus’ ministry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">You see, in chapter four of Matthew’s gospel, once Jesus has been baptized and called his first disciples, the text tells us that he Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Then it says, “His fame spread throughout all Syria, and they brought to him all the sick, those who were afflicted with various diseases and pains, demoniacs, epileptics, and paralytics, and he cured them. 25 And great crowds followed him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">In today’s understanding, we might say that Jesus has traveled from town to town playing all the local coffee shops and small venues. His name and reputation is spreading. And now, after much proclamation and teaching, rather than going town to town to meet the people, the people have come to him. His proclamation of hope, demeanor of love and acceptance and his power to heal have drawn the interest and desperation of the crowds. They now follow and press upon him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And in the 5th chapter of Matthew, it tells us that when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak and taught them. With the crowds growing in overwhelming numbers, the time had come for the disciples to understand and accept the responsibility of their discipleship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The implication within Matthew’s text is that he is teaching the disciples. But certainly, we can presume the crowds are close enough that they can hear him also. And through the teaching moment, Jesus is educating and equipping his disciples for the full weight of the ministry to which they’ve been called. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Telling them not who they should become, ought to become, might think about becoming, or here try this...but rather telling them who they are now. Discipleship without action is not discipleship. Disciple as a noun is good and well, but to be a disciple of Jesus is to embrace the verb, to go about the work of being a disciple. Discipling. And Jesus calls the disciples, indeed us, to so much more. By the nature of being a disciple, they carry a great privilege and responsibility within the ministry of God’s kingdom. Called with reason. Claimed for a purpose.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And this section of passage is incredibly significant. For one, it is the longest continuous teaching by Jesus in all of scripture. Three chapters in fact of Jesus teaching on an array of subjects. And because of that, this is one of the most well-known and highly quoted portions of scripture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Jesus’ sermon on the mount is powerful discourse, not only about the glory of the kingdom of God and God’s grace-filled redemption God’s people, but it is also a lengthy discourse on the role, the identity, and the responsibility of being disciple. What it means to be disciples. These chapters are an impactful commentary on what discipleship in action looks like and the responsibility of the call. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">So, Jesus says, YOU! You are salt of the earth. You are the light of the world. You are. Not you should be. You could be. Or, you ought to be. But, you ARE the light of the world. You are salt of the earth. And salt that has lost its taste cannot be restored. It is thrown out and trampled upon. And light shines to give vision. Clarity. And Direction. No one lights a lamp and then immediately covers it. A light by purpose is lit to shine and reveal. You are light. You are salt. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">What does Jesus mean?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Salt, in Jesus’ day was an incredibly important commodity. It was necessary to their daily life, and not something to be taken for granted. They would harvest salt by pouring water from the dead sea into big pits or cistern to let it evaporate, leaving only salt. Salt, as it does today, had a wealth of purposes. Salt was used not simply to season food but to preserve it as well. When rubbed on food it preserves the meat and stops slows the process of decay. It prevents corruption. Salt was used to treat wounds. The law of Leviticus instructs the use of Salt in religious sacrifice. Scripture talks about the use of salt in making covenants and establishing relationships. Salt is a valuable product of trade. Even newborn babies were said to have been washed in salt. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Light was also a necessity. Obviously, without light, you couldn’t see. Light enabled and empowered the necessary functions of daily living. Light creates vision. Clarity. Direction. Light unveils the darkness and reveals the hidden. Light guides and makes clear the path ahead. Light was essential. And as the natural light of the sun set, it was necessary to spark new light. And Jesus makes the point to say, no one, no one having lit a lamp immediately covers it up with a bushel. That’s ridiculous. Why light it in the first place. Rather, a light is lit for the purpose of shining. That’s what light does, and to inhibit a light’s ability to shine is to intentionally hinder the light’s ability to be effective. To dismiss its power all together. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Salt has a purpose. In fact, it has many purposes. Light has a purpose. And you, Jesus says, YOU are light of the world. YOU ARE salt of the earth. You have a purpose. And to be a disciple, to be a salt and light, as one <a href="https://www.workingpreacher.org/preaching.aspx?commentary_id=1901">commentator noted</a> is to "be tasty and lit." Salt on a shelf is a waste of good salt. Light hidden is a misuse of light. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Given the busy nature of our callings, Sarah and I don’t always have the chance to sit down of dinner together. Even more rare are the chances to cook a home cooked meal together. So, we’ve been quite fond of a company called Hellofresh? Anybody familiar with Hellofresh? Or Blue Apron? There are other companies, but they’re all essentially the same. These companies allow you to pick any number of meals from their menu and then they send you all of the pre portioned ingredients and recipes in order to make the meal. These have been life savers for us as a family. And I really like them because it’s affordable and it pushes us to try new things. They provide everything you need for the meal except three things: Oil, Pepper, and Salt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Now, I would guess that over the years I’ve cooked at least 60 or so HelloFresh meals. And in my brief but vast experience, I have learned that you can always count on two things: First, 90% of meals will use an entire onion. And Secondly, the recipe instructs you to Salt and Pepper everything at every step of the process. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">I cooked a meal the other night - roasted poblano pepper and pork tacos. And, as expected, it called for the use of an entire red onion. And of the 3 steps in the cooking process, each and every one said, add Salt and Pepper to taste in bold. It’s becoming a running joke for us to question the recipe when a step doesn’t tell you to add salt. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">When Jesus tells the disciples that they are salt of the earth and the light of the world, he is using very real and understandable metaphors to explain their discipleship. He is giving them a clear and direct mission to, as the commentator said, be tasty and be lit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">So, what does it mean to be salt and light for the world? It means to act and live in such a manner that your Christian witness is seen with clarity and understanding. It means removing the bushels of the world that we put in place to squelch the light. It means shining light in the face of injustice and revealing peace and hope. It means denouncing the bushels of hatred, envy, greed, oppression, exploitation, abuse, and shame...denouncing, as we do in baptism, the forces that defy God...so that light may be seen and reflected. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">To be salt is to season the world with flavor. To spice up the despair of life. It means preserving the natural goodness of God’s creation. It means stopping the world and our neighbors from the decay of sin. It means acting in the waters of baptism and promise of salvation to work for justice and peace. It means seasoning grief and despair with hope, flavoring loss with accompaniment, oppression with freedom, and injustice and justice. It means rubbing the powerful systems of injustice with the healing power of God’s kingdom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Salt is such a powerful metaphor. I was visiting someone in the hospital the other day, and it dawned on me…when you’re admitted to the hospital, what is one of the first things they always do no matter your symptoms or illness. They start and IV. And what is an IV? It’s a saline solution. Essentially, saltwater because salt is important to your body’s natural healing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And if salt has lost its saltiness it is worthless and thrown out to be trampled on. It’s said that untrustworthy vendors would sell salt diluted with white sand, rendering the salt useless and saltiness-less. Therefore thrown out to be trampled under foot. Salt was essential to life. And if salt lost its flavor or saltiness, then it was worthless. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Think about it, we don’t take things and add them to salt to dilute salt and make it better do we? No. In the same way that we don’t cover a freshly lit lamp. Rather, a lamp is lit to shine, and salt is applied to preserve, season, nourish, and heal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And I think for Jesus, he is teaching the disciples that as disciples they must denounce the bushels of the world. They must reject the sins that dilute their calling. Rather than be impressed by the world around them, they’re called as disciples to form and reform the world and their neighbors. Called to usher in the kingdom of God. To shine and season. To be light and to be salt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">My friends, YOU, You are salt and you are light. In the waters of baptism, God removes the bushels of sin, and through confession and forgiveness, God calls us to season the world with God’s grace. And like the recipe calls for...Salt everything, every step of the way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And being salt and light looks like the ordinary acts of Christian witness in everyday life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It’s serving at the food pantry or habitat build, working with volunteers in medicine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It’s being guardian ad litem, giving rides to the elderly to the Dr. and grocery store. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It’s taking altar flowers to shut-ins, tutoring at our local school, and making chili to raise almost $400. It’s a red wagon overflowing with food week-in and week-out. It’s empowering a preschool that nurtures 120 kids and families. It’s adopting children, caring for grandkids, and teaching Sunday school. It’s baking a meal or sleeping on a couch so that homeless families may have a safe place to rest. It’s singing the promise of God, leading the community of faith in worship, taking communion to our sisters and brothers. It’s praying by name for anyone who asks. Salt is powerful and it doesn’t take a lot to be effective. Light is powerful and once lit it stands for all to see. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">So, my dear disciples, You! You are salt of the earth. You are light of the world. And as you were charged in baptism: Let your light so shine before others so they may see your good works and glorify your father in heaven. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Amen. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">©</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on February 9, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jacksonville</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, FL</span></span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-46574289896553325362020-02-02T16:26:00.000-08:002020-02-09T15:18:59.566-08:00Presentation of Our Lord - Sermon on Luke 2:22-40<div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on February 2, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;">Listen to the Sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6/december-8-2019-gospel-and-sermon-pastor-daniel-locke" style="background-color: white; color: #771000; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: white;">: </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Luke 2:22-40<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">22 When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord<sup> 23 </sup>(as it is written in the law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male shall be designated as holy to the Lord"),<sup> 24 </sup>and they offered a sacrifice according to what is stated in the law of the Lord, "a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons."<sup>25 </sup>Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him.<sup> 26 </sup>It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah.<sup> 27 </sup>Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law,<sup>28 </sup>Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying,<sup> 29 </sup>"Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;<sup> 30 </sup>for my eyes have seen your salvation,<sup> 31 </sup>which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,<sup> 32 </sup>a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."<sup> 33 </sup>And the child's father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.<sup> 34 </sup>Then Simeon blessed them and said to his mother Mary, "This child is destined for the falling and the rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be opposed<sup> 35 </sup>so that the inner thoughts of many will be revealed—and a sword will pierce your own soul too."<sup>36 </sup>There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage,<sup> 37 </sup>then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day.<sup> 38 </sup>At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem.<sup> 39 </sup>When they had finished everything required by the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth.<sup> 40 </sup>The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favor of God was upon him.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>SERMON</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">For those of you who have been following along rather closely, we’ve been moving chronologically through the life of Jesus, starting back in Advent. From the annunciation by the angel Gabriel, through Mary’s Magnificat. From the journey of an ordinary couple to Bethlehem, to the birth of Jesus in an unusual and less-than-ideal circumstance. From Joseph and his family fleeing to Egypt at the threat of Herod’s infant massacre, to the arrival of the wiseman and the celebration of the Epiphany. Over the last few weeks, we heard John the Baptist announce the arrival of one who is greater. Jesus was baptized in the River and was driven into the wilderness. Last week, Christ called his first disciples. As you might expect, we’ve had some forward chronological momentum as we work our way towards Lent, Holy Week, and Easter. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">But, to keep you on your toes, we embrace the two steps forward, one step backwards dance of our lectionary. Today we cycle back to Jesus infancy, just weeks, days even, after he was born. And we open the word of God to the moment Jesus was presented in the temple. Chronologically, we’re jumping several years. Next week we’ll return to Jesus teaching and his sermon on the mount, but for today, we step back.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And there are two reasons for us to do so. First, we do not know much about Jesus’ childhood, and we have very few texts that reference him as a baby or young child. Even less are the Sundays in which our texts talk about Jesus as a child. So, when the opportunity presents itself, it is good for us to take a moment and dwell within the Word of God as an infant, indeed a baby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Second, we jump back in lectionary time because today, Feb. 2, just so happens to be the Feast of the Presentation of Jesus Christ. And it doesn’t happen often that th Feb. 2 falls on a Sunday, so we today we have to opportunity to celebrate this Feast Day - The Presentation of Jesus Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">In many traditions, this is a significant day on the liturgical calendar, and admittedly, Lutherans are the most impassioned celebrators of the day. In many cultures, this day is marked with major celebrations and town festivals. There are cultural traditions, with song, dance, and special food. In fact, the Feast Day of the Presentation of Our Lord is one of the oldest known traditions in the Christian church. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Another name for this Feb. 2 feast day is Candlemas. Within many religious traditions, it is common for families to bring candles from their homes to have them blessed on this day. Since light is a significant symbol within the Christian church, the blessing of the candles used in the home and church serves as a reminder that each time the candle is lit, Christ is present. The light of the world shines in the darkness and the darkness does not overcome it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Every year, on Feb. 2, whether we gather for worship or not, the Christian calendar celebrates the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord, and we read this passage from the gospel of Luke. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Now I know the liturgical calendar can be confusing, but if you’re a liturgical purist or nerd like some of us, this question is for you. Why Feb. 2? Why is Feb. 2 the Feast Day for the Presentation of Our Lord? We know Christmas is celebrated for 12 days, starting on Dec. 25. We know that Epiphany falls on Jan. 6 every year. So why Feb. 2 for this feast day?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">For that, we turn to Jewish law. Within the laws of Leviticus, it says, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">If a woman conceives and bears a male child, she shall be ceremonially unclean seven days; 3On the eighth day the flesh of his foreskin shall be circumcised. 4 Her time of blood purification shall be thirty-three days; she shall not touch any holy thing, or come into the sanctuary, until the days of her purification are completed. 6 When the days of her purification are completed, she shall bring to the priest at the entrance of the tent of meeting a lamb in its first year for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. 7 He shall offer it before the Lord, and make atonement on her behalf; then she shall be clean from her flow of blood. This is the law for her who bears a child, male or female. 8 If she cannot afford a sheep, she shall take two turtledoves or two pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering; and the priest shall make atonement on her behalf, and she shall be clean.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">On Feb. 2, 40 days after the celebration of Christ’s birth and according to the law of Leviticus, Mary, the mother of Jesus, would present her sacrifice to the priest - a lamb in its first year for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a dove for a sin offering. The priest would make atonements on her behalf and she would be made clean. This is why Feb. 2 is the Feast day of the Presentation of Our Lord, because on the 40th day, Mary and Joseph would have taken Jesus and their offering to the temple so that she may be made clean. And in this moment, as Mary and Joseph adhere to the laws of their faith, Luke introduces us to a man named Simeon and the prophet Anna.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">These are brief moments in the overall narrative of Jesus, but they’re important to recognize. This story is another reminder to us that Jesus was Jewish, born into a humble, well-meaning and devout Jewish household. Mary and Joseph were obedient and caring, diligent in their practice of the law of Moses. And Jesus, well Jesus was there son. Flesh of flesh. He was a very real baby with all the quirks, joys, frustrations, and sleepless nights of any other baby. And according to Jewish law, on the eighth day of Jesus’ infancy, he would have been circumcised and named. According to Numbers 18, on the 31st day of his life, Jesus would have been brought to the Temple to be redeemed. The law states, </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">the first issue of the womb of all creatures, human and animal, which is offered to the Lord, shall be yours; but the firstborn of human beings you shall redeem, and the firstborn of unclean animals you shall redeem. 16 Their redemption price, reckoned from one month of age, you shall fix at five shekels of silver.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And on the 40th day of birth, the mother would appear to the priest in the Temple to offer her sacrifice and to be cleansed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">So, why is this is significant? Why does this Feast day matter? Well, I think there are two important things for us to glean from this text and this feast day. The first, is that Jesus was a human being. God took on human flesh, became truly human. God came among us in the very plain, ordinary walk of life. To a very ordinary, some-what poor, devout family - God was born. Jesus was born in a Jewish household, to Jewish parents, and was raised in Jewish tradition and law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">I think sometimes we tend to hold the incarnation of God at arm’s length. As a divine moment that is almost inconceivable or relatable. But we must not forget the confession of our faith in which Christ was born fully human, fully divine. It’s one of the great doctrines and mysteries of our faith. And it’s an important understanding, because it reminds us that God has acted and continues to act in the ordinary of life. God knows the daily realities of our lives. God knows the weight of human joy and pain. God knows the agony of defeat and the despair of loss. God entered the ordinary walk of life to offer a new way of life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Much like through the ordinary elements of bread and wine, of water and word, God uses these ordinary means to offer grace, forgiveness, and eternal life. Go uses the plain and ordinary, like you and me, to bring about the kingdom of God. And the promise of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, is that God will continue to bless us in this extraordinary and unbelievable ways. So I think this moment is significant in our understanding of God’s incarnation - God’s beloved promise to abide within our lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The second important truth that our text teaches us, is that this 40-day old, ordinary baby, Jesus Christ, is God’s son. Jesus is God incarnate, the salvation for the people, the revelation for the Gentiles. This ordinary tiny human, is the savior of the nations. The Messiah. The one called for. While Mary and Joseph fulfill the laws and traditions of their faith, God fulfills the promise proclaimed by the prophets and the Angel Gabriel, that this tiny human, God fulfills God’s promise to redeem the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">There’s this beautiful, but almost haunting moment in today’s text. It’s the Song of Simeon, the Nunc Dimittis. There was a man named Simeon who was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested on him.<sup> 26 </sup>It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Messiah. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">To be sure, this is a man who is ready to die. Following a full, righteous and devout life, he is near death. But the Spirit of the Lord rests on him and reveals that he will not die until he has seen the Lord’s Messiah. And so, he waits. Day after day at the Temple he waits. He waits for the Lord. Until the 40th day of Jesus’ life, when Simeon beholds the Lord’s Messiah, takes him into his arms and says, <sup> </sup></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word;<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span>for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span>a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Having held and beheld God, Simeon’s lifetime of waiting is fulfilled. And it’s a bit haunting because he sings a song about death. But for Simeon, it’s not simply that he may die, but that he may now die in peace. Trusting in the fulfillment of God’s promise to redeem Israel. Simeon’s song is an affirmation of the Lord’s peace, gifted to the world, a gift of peace for the people Israel. Indeed, a light of revelation. The long-awaited Messiah has come to restore God’s people and bring forth the reign of God. Simply beholding the son of God was the assurance of God’s promise fulfilled, which allowed Simeon to now depart in peace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Simeon’s song known as the Nunc Dimittis is one of the Christian church’s oldest songs. It is often sung during evening prayer, vespers, or compline. In fact, every time we gather for worship on a Saturday evening, we sing it within our liturgy. Do you know when? As communion comes to close, once all have had the opportunity to taste and see that the Lord is good, we sing Simeon’s Song, and the timing is not coincidence. Once all have held and beheld the grace of God, we sing, “Now Lord, you let your servant go in peace: your word has been fulfilled. My own eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of every people; a light to reveal you to the nations, and the glory of your people Israel. Now Lord, you let your servant go in peace.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Simeon was told by the Spirit that he will not depart until he saw the Lord’s Messiah. And so Simeon spends his days, weeks, months, who knows how long waiting. Waiting in his old age. With his physical ailments. With any infirmities. Waiting for this moment. And when he finally beholds the Messiah, he sings a somber yet hope-filled song - and what is beautiful is that he doesn't sing it for his own sake, but rather for the sake of the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">That the world around him will now behold the Lord’s Messiah. The his eyes have seen God’s salvation,<sup> </sup>which God has prepared in the presence of all peoples,<sup> </sup>a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” And with the world now safely enfolded into the care of God’s promise, Simeon can rest in peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Few and far between are the liturgical moments to reflect on the infancy of Jesus. God, in God’s infinite and unconditional love, comes to us in this tiny human, in the ordinary customs and traditions of life, and offers and extraordinary gift for all people - a gift of redemption and freedom, marked with justice and peace. God is present. Very, really present. And God’s presence is good news for all people, in all times, in all places.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And on this, the 40th day of Jesus’ life, we celebrate the presence of God as the firstborn of Israel, the new lamb, offered as a sacrifice for the redemption of the world. God’s promise fulfilled. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">©</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on February 2, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jacksonville</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, FL</span></span></div>
Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-32983307514450983532020-01-26T16:31:00.000-08:002020-01-26T16:31:33.500-08:00Going Fishing - Sermon on Matthew 4:12-23<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on January 26, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">Listen to the Sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6/december-8-2019-gospel-and-sermon-pastor-daniel-locke" style="background-color: white; color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman", serif; text-decoration: none;">here</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>Matthew 4:12-23</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">12 Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 13 </span></sup>He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali,<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 14 </span></sup>so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 15 </span></sup>"Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles—<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 16 </span></sup>the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned."<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 17 </span></sup>From that time Jesus began to proclaim, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 18 </span></sup>As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 19 </span></sup>And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people."<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 20 </span></sup>Immediately they left their nets and followed him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 21 </span></sup>As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 22 </span></sup>Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 23 </span></sup>Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><b>SERMON</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Let me preface today’s sermon by saying I am not a fisherman. In fact, I have only been fishing a handful of times and I’ve learned that I am most successful if the rod is plastic, the line has a magnet on the end, and I’m trying to catch plastic magnetic fish in a kiddie pool. I classify fishing as NMG - not my gift.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">That being said, I can recall a few impactful experiences that taught me about the art of fishing. As a boy scout, we once camped out around someone’s pond. One of the reasons for our weekend camping trip was for some folks to work on their fishing merit badge. So, that evening, our scout master asked who wanted to go fishing in the morning. He offered to wake us up in the morning, and since I had never really gone fishing before, I thought, sure, why not. When 4 am came, I immediately regretted my decision. Apparently, most fish are active at dusk and dawn. I guess early worm gets the fish, as they say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">My second lesson was that going fishing was not equivalent to going to catch fish. That same camping trip I learned that you can sit for hours, doing nothing, and get no result. Fishing takes patience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">In high school I was invited to go fishing off the pier at a friend’s lake house. I’d say that this experience was a bit more successful, but it was also the time I learned that fishing requires attentiveness. Turns out, you can’t cast the line, lean the pole against the rail and trust the fish would bite and politely wait to be reeled in. Apparently, fish like to eat on the go. I lost my friends fishing pole. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Growing up, my dad got me a small tackle box. Through scouts I had collected two or three bobbers, a few weights, some fun little lures and a variety of hooks. I felt cool. That is until I was invited to go fishing with a group of folks from scouts. I took my cute little tackle box with more cubbies and compartments than things to put in them. I really liked that when I opened the lid, the top compartment raised on its own, revealing the secret hidden compartment beneath. Anyways, we arrived and got settled. I sat my box on the bench and opened up slowly so others could take notice. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Meanwhile, I noticed the leader open what I can only describe as one of those giant metal rolling tool cabinets. Cabinets lined with hooks and lures. Endless drawers full or artificial bait, bobbers, weights, sinkers, and... well that’s the extent of my fishing accessory knowledge. He strapped on his sleeveless fishing vest. I was intimidated and overwhelmed. That was the day I learned that there are 1000s of species of fish, and every one of them is different and everyone requires a different approach to successfully catching them. Fishing takes preparation, careful planning, and creativity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Fishing, from my limited experience and observation is a profound hobby and sport. And to be successful, it requires immense patience, perseverance, and experience. It requires that you know the fish that you’re trying to catch and that you have the precise tools necessary. Successful fishing requires hope and endurance. It even means failing. And, perhaps the most profound lesson I’ve learned is that you absolutely cannot catch a fish if you don’t go fishing in some way or another. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 19 </span></sup>And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people."<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 20 </span></sup>Immediately they left their nets and followed him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 21 </span></sup>As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 22 </span></sup>Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Almost every time I read this text or its parallel in Mark or Luke, I get hung up on the immediacy of the disciples’ following. How is it that at Jesus’ call and invitation, they drop everything to follow this minority voice of hope. They leave it all behind to be in the footsteps of something new - to take part in the reign of God’s kingdom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">But, for some reason this week, I was hooked by the prospect of fishing for people. Pun- intended. The notion that as Christians we are called by Christ to become people who fish for people. To exhaust the metaphor, we are called to cast to the proclamation of Jesus, to shed light on the dark and dreary world, to offer a message of love, grace, forgiveness, peace and hope that is so lure-ing, that others’ can’t help but bite. Right, and in Jesus’ day, it was more about casting a wide net in hopes that you might catch a few from the many.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And I’ve found myself so deep in prayer lately about Christ’s invitation to fish for people, mostly because I’m a terrible fisherman. Fishing takes patience and endurance. It takes perseverance. Fishing takes pride and knowledge of the fish you want to catch. And to optimize success it takes the proper use of gifts and tools.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Now look, I don’t mean to suggest that our call as Christians is to bait and lure, or even deceive people into knowing Christ. I don’t want to overplay the metaphor. Rather, I think that to be successful in our call to discipleship, to fully honor the privilege and responsibility of proclaiming the grace-filled reign of God, it might take some practice. Some patience. Some perseverance. If we understand our call from Jesus through the shores of the baptismal font to go forth in the name of Christ to make disciples then at some point we have to at least go fishing, trusting in God to guide us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Our gospel text today marks the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Following Jesus’ birth, he fled to Egypt for safety with his parents, he was baptized by John in the river. The spirit descended upon him like a dove and drove him to the wilderness where he was tempted by the devil, and now he withdraws to Galilee and the area of Capernaum. And it’s here that he begins his public ministry within the gospel according to Matthew. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And our gospel text opens with a stark reminder of the hostile and tumultuous time that Jesus emerges. Again, Matthew writes, “Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee.” John the Baptist, the one who came crying in the wilderness, “prepare the way of the Lord.” The one who pointed to the Messiah and the one who is greater. John, who baptized Jesus in the river and pointed his followers to Christ, has been arrested by Herod. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Now we won’t hear the story of John’s beheading this year, but within the other gospel narratives we can recall that John the Baptist was beheaded at the request of Herod’s stepdaughter Salome, influenced by her mother, Herodias. Ultimately, it is a testament to Herod’s rage and violent temperament, sparked by John convicting Herod for divorcing his wife to take his brother’s wife. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Jesus continues to live and move in the territory of a violent, tyrannous rulers. In Jesus day, the region around Galilee was ruled by Herod Antipas. He was the son of Herod the Great, the one who tried to manipulate the wisemen into telling him where Jesus was. Who, ultimately tried to have the baby Jesus murdered. Herod Antipas was known for his brutal nature and his utter intolerance for anyone who may threaten his power. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Furthermore, the region of Galilee was under Roman Imperial Rule. The roman rule was an oppressive force that affected a large portion of the population. Most common citizens relied on brutal, physical, labor-intensive work to support their way of life. But excessive, unjust taxes suppressed the fruits of their labor. Therefore, many also lived in poverty - void of basic life-sustaining needs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The kingdom in which they lived was not necessarily one of hope or joy. It is riddled with intimidation from authority, submission to the Roman Imperial rule, and a longing for the fulfillment of their ancestral promise. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This is the power of the day that Jesus initiates God’s reign. While there is a need to be diligent and careful in his ministry, God through Jesus has come to proclaim the presence of a new kingdom, a kingdom ruled by grace, forgiveness, justice, and love. Jesus is the light of hope, freedom, and justice that is to shine as a light in the darkness of oppressive rule.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This is the time and place to which Jesus as a light to the darkness, proclaiming the promise of the Kingdom of God, a reign of hope, justice, mercy, and grace. God, through Jesus, has come to offer salvation to God’s people. To raise up the lowly and cast down the mighty. To heal the sick, clothe the naked, feed the hungry, make the blind to see and the mute to speak. To bring good news to the poor, release to the captives, and to set the oppressed free. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And one of Jesus’ first actions is to invite others to follow, to risk it all and experience a new way of life. Inviting them to come and see. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 19 </span></sup>And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people."<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 20 </span></sup>Immediately they left their nets and followed him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> 21 </span></sup><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">When Jesus invites the disciples to come and follow, our translation says, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.” This translation can make it sound as though fishing for people were a task to be completed. And if you’re like me, that’s terrifying, because as you recall, fishing is not my gift.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">But thanks be to God, Jesus’ invitation is a richer than our translation might seem In fact, a better understanding of the invitation might be to say, “Follow me, and I will make you to become fishers for people.” In this translation fishing for people is no longer a task, but rather becoming fishers of people is a new identity. Jesus invites us to come and see, to participate and learn about the work for the kingdom. Christ promises to equip the ones who will be doing the fishing. It is to become their new identity. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">They are to become fishers of people. In a world desperate for the hope of something better, Christ calls and invites these disciples to use their gifts and abilities for the furtherment of the kingdom of God. This is the kind of discipleship that you and I are called to as well</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Despite our anxieties or doubts or fears, Christ confidently calls us to be disciples. To become fishers or people, casting the good news of the light of Christ to all people, all times, and in all places. And the good news, especially for someone who is not keen on fishing, it is not about us. It’s not about what you or I do. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It’s about what God does through us. Using our God given, gifts, abilities, experiences, to cast the story of faith, to fan the spark of hope to a world deeply in need of healing. And successful fishing, to be sure, successful discipleship is not measured in the number of fish you catch, but rather the passion and commitment to the craft. True discipleship takes time, patience, endurance, knowledge, experience, trust, and hope. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #010000; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">J</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">esus entered the world at a tumultuous time. God, the Emmanuel, came forth so that the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned. It was true then and it is true today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">And, as I understand it, most fishermen and women don’t just go fishing in order to catch something, but rather they often go fishing, because they’re people who fish, and fishing is what fishermen and women do. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">©</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on January 26, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jacksonville</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, FL</span></span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-10026615763935496662020-01-13T07:57:00.001-08:002020-01-13T07:58:56.433-08:00Identity and Promise - Sermon on Baptism of Our Lord Sunday - Matt. 3:13-17<span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on January 12, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, FL</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Listen to the Sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6/december-8-2019-gospel-and-sermon-pastor-daniel-locke" style="background-color: white; color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman", serif;">here</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">: </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: 700; white-space: pre-wrap;">Matthew 3:13-17</span></div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-a5646b9e-7fff-15e7-cdcd-f89dffb60067"><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him.</span><span style="color: #222222; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="vertical-align: super;"> 14 </span></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?"</span><span style="color: #222222; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="vertical-align: super;"> 15 </span></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But Jesus answered him, "Let it be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness." Then he consented.</span><span style="color: #222222; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="vertical-align: super;"> 16 </span></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.</span><span style="color: #222222; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="vertical-align: super;">17 </span></span><span style="vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased." </span></span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">SERMON</span></b><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">As pastors, I think we’re
discouraged from picking favorites. I know it’s not the right thing to
do, and it’s not fair to give preference to one over another. But I need
to be honest and tell you that I think Baptism is my favorite sacrament of the
Lutheran sacraments. At least, for right now. </span></div>
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To be fair, both
sacraments, Baptism and Holy communion are abundant expressions of God’s
grace. In both, the graciousness of God’s mercy and the promise of
abundant life are freely given. Both are gifts to God’s people in
which God again affirms the promise that all might have life and have it
abundant. Both are affirmations of God’s forgiveness of
sins. Both are important and both are foundation to the life of
the community of faith. But, I have to say, there is something about
Baptism that warms for soul and affirms my faith. Something about the
water that draws me into the arms of our maker, healer, and redeemer.</div>
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Baptism gives us
identity. Identity in Christ.
Identity as children of God. And forever and ever, there isn’t a
thing that can diminish, remove, or compromise that identity. The font is
where the labels of the world wash away.
The font stands as the foundation of our inheritance to life and life
eternal. God created. God claims. God names.
In the waters of salvation, all doubts of who we are are washed
away. In the sacrament of the water, God
names us beloved. And everything else about our lives ripples out from
the fundamental, grace-filled truth.</div>
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On one of my first Sunday here 2.5 years ago, I was standing in the back by the font before worship and
in came Pastor Bernie Jorn. We had only met once before at the
Oktoberfest meet and greet before I was called, and we had had a brief
conversation on the phone about supplying at St. Mark’s. But other than
that, we didn’t really know much about each other. And as I stood there waiting to start the
announcements at 9:30, he came through the door and he said, “Good
morning.” Good morning, I said.
Then he looked at the me, then the font, then me, and he said “Hey,
would you mind splashing me.”</div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It caught me off guard
because while I safely assumed he meant, will you touch the water with your
thumb and make the sign of the cross on my forehead...it took everything in me
not to take a handful of water and pour it on his head and say, “Pastor Bernie
Jorn, remember that you are named and claimed in the waters of life, sweet
child of God, and nothing will ever change that.”</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Since then, every single
time Pastor Bernie passes the font he invites me or someone else to splash
water on him. And there are lot of us who do the same.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we pass from the Narthex to the Nave, or
we leave worship and process into the world we dip our fingers in the water,
cross our forehead and remember our baptism. </span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And if you don’t do it, or
haven’t thought about it, I invite you to try it today. Anytime you pass
that font, feel free to at least touch the water and remember who and whose you
are. </span></div>
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That moment with Pastor
Jorn several years ago was so powerfully to me, not only because it’s a
privilege and honor to remind someone of their baptism and the love of God that
has claimed them…but to enter and leave worship through the water of the font
is a statement to the world that no other name, label, identifier, club,
organization, political affiliation, stereotype, or otherwise can come close to
redefining your identity in Christ. </div>
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Remembering your baptism at
the start of worship is to reclaim the gift of grace extended to you and
me. To remember that all things will fade away. All the hats we wear can be removed and set
aside. All the labels and qualifiers of
the world are human made and exist to separate us from one another and
ourselves. But that water, that holy sacrament is a proclamation to the
world that when all is stripped away, I am claimed by God. I am God’s child. I am beloved.
And the water unites us with Christ and with one another. </div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To splash in the water is
to tell the world that I belong to God. God chooses me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God chooses us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And try as hard as we might to label and
define one another, nothing holds a candle to the one and only who saves
us. The one and only who grants us life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The one and only who claims us as children, as beloved. </span></div>
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I want to pose a question
for your reflection. Ignite some self-curiosity if you will. Plant a seed of self-assessment and
discernment. And if you were with us a few months ago, I put forth a
similar question and actually invited you to write your answers down. If
you recall, I gave you the prompt “I am..” and invited you to fill in the
blank. Similarly, today, I want us to
consider what it is that defines us. What labels do we model,
or better yet what brands us? When you meet a stranger, who knows nothing
about you, what might their impression be. </div>
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Our world and our culture are
proud on labeling and categorizing people, aren’t we? It’s amazing that
even the seemingly innocent things we do that can cause us to be defined,
labeled, and prejudged. Especially when you start thinking about the choices,
we make in life that begin to define us to others. The clothes we wear or the jersey we put
on. The car we drive or the bumper stickers we slap on the back. Our political affiliations and ambitious, the
groups we belong to and the organizations we support. There are so many
labels the world has created to define us. </div>
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So, what is that defines
you? I often think about NASCAR cars. Personally, I’m not a NASCAR fan, but we can
all picture NASCAR cars, right? They’re
covered in labels and stickers and images and sponsorship. And as the car goes around and round for 4
hours, you can’t help but see the relationships and organizations they support.
But, if you peel all of those labels
back, and strip the car down, it’s only a car.
And if we think about our lives in a similar way, what labels and brands
describe us, and when they’re all peeled back, who are we? When
someone meets you for the first or hundredth time, what labels has the world
impressed upon you?</div>
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In the gospel according to
Matthew, Matthew is working hard to leave no doubt within the world as to who
Jesus is. From his exhaustive lineage in chapter 1, to the multiple
references to prophecy through chapter 2, to Jesus’ baptism, the descending
dove, and the voice from heaven proclaiming Jesus as God’s son, in whom God is
well pleased. </div>
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Matthew wants there to be
no doubt among his audience that this guy, Jesus, is the one called for.
He is the one longed for. He is the
Messiah, the great king of kings and lord of lords. He is the wonderful, counselor, Mighty God,
and prince of peace. He is God’s son.
Emmanuel - God has come near to us.
And he shall be the savior of the people. All of God’s people. Matthew
wants to ensure that there is no question about his identity.</div>
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And I think that deep down,
when I splish and splash in the waters of life back there. </div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When I touch the water to
my forehead and recall my baptism, I think deep down I first lament and confess
that the world may have doubts about who and whose I am. </span>And I desperately long for
the world to have no doubt about my identity as a Christian. As God’s
child. God’s beloved. As Christians, washed in the waters of new
life, should we too be about the word of God so that there is absolutely NO
doubt as to who we are. More importantly, whose we are. </div>
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In the waters of baptism,
God claims us as God’s children. Marked with the cross of Christ, Sealed
by the holy spirit. The heavens torn apart;
the Spirit descends. God makes us heirs of God’s promised salvation. God’s victory over death. God folds us into
the story of compassion, love, grace, peace, and forgiveness. God clothes
us in mercy. And NOTHING, absolutely
nothing, thank God, can change the life we have in God. Our identity, in the most holistic sense is
inextricably connected to God.</div>
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And out of the waters, our
new identity ought to define the world - not the other way around.
Everything else in our lives ought to be an expression of that grace. A testament to that gift. A
ripple. </div>
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On Nov. 11, 1943, Martin
Luther was baptized in Eisleben Germany at the church of St. Peter and St.
Paul. The church was refurbished several years ago, and when they
renovated the inside of the church, they did one of the coolest things.
One of the most powerful images of baptism I have ever seen. In the front and center of the church, they
placed a baptismal font in the floor. It’s a big, deep font in which
someone could easily be submerged. And
in the concrete floors of the church they etched concentric circles all
rippling out from the font. So that, no matter where you sat or stood in
the church, you were within the ripples of the font. It’s incredibly beautiful and I put in on a
slide for you to see in Hart Hall. </div>
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This is such a powerful
image of Baptism, because try as hard as we might, we absolutely cannot escape
the waters of our identity. We are God’s children, grafted into gracious
gift of eternal life, wading in the ripple of salvation. In the waters God washes away the divisions
of world. Race, ethnicity, sex, gender. All the marks of human-made
division fail in the grace of God to offer salvation in this holy sacrament.</div>
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We are called to be a
member of the body, working for justice and peace in all the world. We
are called to proclaim who is greater, to point to the great I am, to tell of a
love so deep and rich. Called to extend compassion for the less
fortunate, advocacy for the lost, and respite for the wandering. God’s grace-filled claim on God’s people
never, never fades away. Never expires. No label of the world can supersede
“Beloved child of God.”</div>
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And here is the beautiful
thing, when we lose sight of who and whose we are...when the world would work
to convince us otherwise, we remember that in the waters of the life also come
the promise of the community. We are not alone. As members of the body of Christ, we are
inextricably connected to one another always called to reflect Christ to
others. And I think it’s so important
for us to remember that. And if ever
there were a day to be reminded, it’s today. </div>
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Do me a favor, pull out
your cranberry ELW and turn to page 228. Page numbers at the bottom. Hymn numbers at the top. </div>
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<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">*<i>At
this point I left the pulpit and my sermon to read through the promises of
baptism and the communal renunciations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
sermon closed at the baptismal font where I challenged everyone with two actions:<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">1)
Contact someone in your life you fulfilled the baptismal promises for you<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt;">2)
Fulfill the promises of baptism for someone else in your life. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">©</span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sermon preached by Pastor Daniel Locke on January 12, 2020 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church in </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jacksonville</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, FL</span></span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-27070373481425209142019-12-17T11:14:00.000-08:002020-01-13T07:59:23.924-08:00The Prelude and its Promise - Sermon on Matthew 3:1-12<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Listen to the Sermon <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6/december-8-2019-gospel-and-sermon-pastor-daniel-locke">here</a>: </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Matthew 3:1-12<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">1 In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming,<sup> 2 </sup>"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."<sup> 3 </sup>This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' "<sup> 4 </sup>Now John wore clothing of camel's hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.<sup> 5 </sup>Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan,<sup> 6 </sup>and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.<sup> 7 </sup>But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?<sup> 8 </sup>Bear fruit worthy of repentance.<sup> 9 </sup>Do not presume to say to yourselves, "We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.<sup> 10 </sup>Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.<sup> 11 </sup>"I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.<sup> 12 </sup>His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."</span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">SERMON</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">When Sarah and I first met, we quickly discovered our mutual affection for all things Broadway. We both spent some time working in our local school or community theaters growing up, and musical theater was an important part of our life. So, when we first started dating, we started a Sunday night tradition, where Sarah would come over to the apartment to watch a Broadway musical on DVD. And we didn’t just watch the DVD, we would belt out each tune to the top of our lungs, singing along with the musical. Sarah was always partial to Little Shop of Horrors because she played Audrey in high school. That’s the musical about Seymour, a bumbling, geeky florist who discovers a talking venus fly trap. The plant thrives off human blood and begins to grow. Ya know what, that’s irrelevant to the point of this sermon. If you want to discuss Broadway musicals in more detail, see me after worship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">A few weeks into our tradition, it became a running joke for our friends from upstairs to text us and guess which musical we’re watching based on our singing. Then they would ask us to stop singing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Actually, one of our first dates was to the local community theater in Columbia, SC to see Les Misérables. So good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Our affection for broadway musicals is deep, and so naturally we feel a responsibility to pass on the joy and beauty of musicals to Bennet. I don’t sit down at the piano at home as often as I’d like, but when I do, I try and play a lot of show tunes. Bennet requests them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">About three weeks ago, Sarah and I started our vacation by going to the Times Union center to see Wicked. Anyone seen Wicked? An incredible musical written by Stephen Schwartz. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">It’s the story of Elpheba, the Wicked Witch of the West, and it’s told in parallel to the classic story the Wizard of Oz. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">So, in preparation for the musical that night, as we typically do, we were listening to the soundtrack as we cooked dinner. Bennet and I were at the table. I was working. He was eating. And when the overture started, I found myself teaching Bennet about the musical. “Bennet,” I said, “This is the beginning of the show. It’s sort of like a prelude, but in theater we call it an overture.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">For most folks, it’s a signal that the show has started and soon actors will appear on stage. It may not seem all that important, but the overture is one of the most important moments of the show.” Bennet took another bite and nodded along. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">I explained to Bennet that the overture is significant because it establishes the themes and moods of the show. And a really good musical overture plants a seed in your ear, so that when you hear the same tunes or riffs later in the show, the music draws a red thread through the narrative. The overture sets the mood. It presents the themes. It essentially makes you a promise about what is to come. And, if it’s a musical by Andrew Lloyd Weber, then you’ll essentially the entire show in the overture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And as we listened to the overture for Wicked, Bennet and I discussed the various musical themes. The riff for “No One Mourns the Wicked.” The teaser for “Unlimited” the transition between minor and major chords and the resolutions that symbolize and preface the overarching narrative. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Certain to say that Bennet was enamored by the conversation of overtures and preludes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The use of preludes and overtures goes well beyond Broadway musicals, doesn’t it? Think about some of your favorite move trilogies or sagas. The opening of Star Wars? Indiana Jones. Jurassic Park? Home Alone. Harry Potter… Well, I guess anything by John Williams. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">In literature, we often think of the foreword and preface as a sort of prelude to the Author’s work. They often introduce themes, moods, or motivations behind the narrative that follows. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Certainly, one of our most common encounters with the power of preludes is in worship. Each and every time we gather for worship, we begin with a musical offering. We commonly refer to it as a prelude. And the final piece as a postlude. But within worship, especially here at St. Mark’s, it is so much more than that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">We are truly blessed to have a cantor that is incredibly talented and gifted, not only with his abilities, but with musical knowledge, insight, history, and diversity as well. Each and every time we gather for worship, we begin with an Opening Voluntary, or prelude. And I don’t mean to speak for Tony, but I’m confident to say that Tony does not pick a prelude or opening voluntary for prelude’s sake. He doesn’t choose a piece of music haphazardly or flippantly. Each piece is selected with discernment and care because the opening voluntary, the prelude of our worship, establishes a mood. It sets a tone. It often previews musical and theological themes. It makes a promise, and that promise becomes fulfilled throughout the course of worship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">More often than not, Tony selects an opening voluntary that is arranged around a particular hymn we sing later in worship. Or the text of the voluntary is rooted in the texts of the day. And to be sure, Tony takes special care to account for the melody, the tone, the tempo, the setting, the arrangement, etc, so that the opening piece is a precursor to the rest of worship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Even today, our St. Mark’s ringers played “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus,” and the arrangement used two different tunes for the well-known hymn. That piece set the tone for our worship, establishing themes of longing, anticipation, movement, hope, and in the end a tension between the two settings, both conveying the same text, but with different, inter-laying melodies that ring balance to the difficult now and not yet of our Christian faith. Celebrating the coming of the Emmanuel - God with us, while dancing with eagerness, waiting for the second coming of Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Preludes are important, intentional contributions to the overall work or narrative. In fact, by definition, a prelude serves as an introduction preceding and preparing for the principal or a more important matter. It is essential to the overarching event and it demands our careful and reflective attention. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Now I say all of that because I think it is the perfect lens by which we should approach the season of Advent and our text for today. Of all the seasons of the church year, Advent is consistently one of the shortest. It’s the first season, and it comes and goes with the blink of an eye. The world we live in and the consumerist culture does not favor a slow, intentional, and meaningful seasons of anticipation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Sometimes Advent feels like the opening of our favorite TV show. We know it. We’ve heard and seen it. So, we play on our need for instant gratification, use our technology and jump ahead 10, 15, even 30 seconds to get to the good stuff. Fast forward through the opening credits.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Advent then becomes a steppingstone to a larger, more robust and drawn out story that we breeze right past it or snooze our way through it. And if we’re not careful or intentional, we miss the power of these texts. We’ll miss the emphasis of their proclamation. The themes they establish. The mood and tone of their delivery. If we’re not attentive to the season of prelude and precursor then we sacrifice our experience of the whole narrative. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Matthew’s gospel account opens with an exhaustive and complete genealogy, laying out 28 generations from Abraham, to David, the Messiah. Then the birth of Jesus is announced, and the wise men make their journey. Joseph and his family flee to Egypt and Herod sought out and killed all of the children in and around Bethlehem. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And today, John the Baptist appears in the wilderness, fulfilling the words of the prophet Isaiah, proclaiming the arrival of the kingdom of God. John the Baptist is our prelude to the Messiah. The voice of the one crying out in the wilderness. JTB is our overture to the coming of the Kingdom of God. John the Baptist sets the tone. Establishes the mood. Presents the themes of the overarching narrative, and there is a reason for his place in the story. There’s a purpose for his overture. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">I think we would do very well to lend a careful and attentive ear in preparation for the whole of the gospel narrative. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">"Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near…Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.' John’s appearance and proclamation establishes some very important themes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">First, the kingdom of God has come near. God’s reign is ever present. God’s love for God’s people becomes incarnated in the Emmanuel - the Christ child. God has come down, to live among God’s people, vulnerable to the depths and fears of human emotion. God loves the people so much that God chooses to be among them and accompany them through the extremes of life, even death. The kingdom has come near, and we do well to keep watch. To see the presence of God at hand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Second, John proclaims that God’s kingdom will be far reaching, diverse, and more inclusive than they imagined. Do not presume to say to yourselves, "We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">God’s good kingdom is not and will not be exclusive to the descendants of Abraham, but rather there is a place for all people all nations. The Kingdom of heaven is expansive and diverse. We do well to keep watch for the breadth and depth of God’s kingdom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Third, repentance is central to the coming of God’s kingdom and the reign of the Emmanuel. John cries out, “repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">This prelude is immediately realized a chapter later when Jesus begins his earthly ministry with the exact same phrase, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">John presents an important and powerful theme that will play out again and again as Jesus encounters people throughout his ministry. Repentance is more than an apology or an admission of wrongdoing. It’s not about dwelling our mistakes and confession of sin. Repentance is a complete turning around. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Repentance means to turn away from poor values, unjust practices, and sinful behavior. To deny false idols and self-righteousness. Repentance is a turn towards. A returning to God and the values of God’s good kingdom at hand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Repentance is an intentional first step in a new direction. A new and different path. It’s to charter a new course, veer in a new way, set forth a new destination. We would do well to keep watch for the power of repentance and forgiveness as we go forward. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">This is the power and conviction of John the Baptist’s proclamation. It is the power of Advent as a prelude to the rest of the liturgical year and the gospel narrative. In Advent we set a new path, re-recognize the themes of our identity. We set the tone and establish the mood. Advent is the gift and opportunity to reclaim the gift of repentance and turn towards God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Looks friends, Advent is such an important season in the year of the church. It presents a valuable and essential foundation to the truths of faith we share. In this season, we wait for the Lord. Not only for the Emmanuel born at Christmas, but we remember again our desperate longing to the coming again of God’s only son to reconcile all people, all nations, all times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">And we do well this brief but powerful Advent season to relish in the motifs of our faith. To embrace the salvific themes of God’s goodness. To be attentive, intentional, and careful as we embark on the narrative of our faith and the fulfillment of God’s promise to the world once again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The season of Advent...season of anticipation and longing...of waiting and eagerness, plays out like the brilliant overture. This season makes us a promise...a promise of God that the kingdom is at hand. It is expansive, diverse, and inclusive. A promise the God’s kingdom will be like none-other and will not be ruled as the world expects. The promise of Advent is God’s abiding and grace-filled presence in the Christ-child, Emmanuel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Let the overture play. Let our hearts be attuned. Let our souls be filled. Let our Spirit yearn for the story to be told. Be present in this moment, for God’s promise will be fulfilled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached by Sunday Dec. 8, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran JAX, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-74759983424829939722019-10-01T18:46:00.001-07:002019-10-01T18:46:20.058-07:00Bring the Demons to Submission - Sermon on Revelation 12:7-12<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Revelation 12:7-12</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">7 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. The dragon and his angels fought back, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">8 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">but they were defeated, and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">9 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">10 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Then I heard a loud voice in heaven, proclaiming,“Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Messiah, for the accuser of our comrades has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">11 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they did not cling to life even in the face of death. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">12 </span><span style="background-color: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rejoice then, you heavens and those who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you with great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!”</span></blockquote>
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<b>Luke 10:17-20 </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>17 </b>The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!” <b>18 </b>He said to them, “I watched Satan fall from heaven like a flash of lightning. <b>19 </b>See, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing will hurt you. <b>20 </b>Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”</blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white;">So, today we celebrate Michael and All Angels day! We honor the witness and fervor of angels as they act on behalf of God, delivering messages of God’s good word. In our text from the book of Daniel, Daniel learns of a chief prince named Michael who assists in the fight against the Prince of Persia and the Prince of Greece. Prince in this instance implies not a human in royal leadership but rather a sort of super human, celestial being that represents the interests of particular people. So the Angel Michael is introduced to Daniel as the protector of his people.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In our text from Revelation, John records vision of a great red dragon, with seven heads, ten horns, and seven diadems on his heads. His tail sweeps down a third of the stars of heaven, throwing them to the earth. The dragon stands ready to devour the child of a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. The child, who is to rule all the nations is born and snatched away, taken to God. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">So, a war breaks out in heaven, and Michael and all his angels fight the great dragon. And despite the dragon and his angel’s best efforts, they are defeated. The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world - he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And so, we celebrate today the festival of Michael and All Angels. Angels thwarting dragons. That matches our cultural experience and portrayal of angels doesn’t? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In a few weeks you’ll set up the annual Christmas tree and you’ll grab your box of ornaments from the attack, and you’ll hand your family heirlooms, and your favorite meaningful ornaments. You may have some eloquent globes or figurines. Maybe a hallmark ornament. And then of course you’ll pull out the classic celestial figure slamming a giant 7-head dragon, the deceiver of the whole world, throwing him down to earth. yah? Everyone has one of those, right? You don't?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">No, certainly our society has an affinity towards angels. The conversation and portrayal of angels is so abundantly present that we almost become desensitized to them, right?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about Clarence Obdoby, Angel 2nd Class, who answers the prayers of family and friends on Christmas eve to save George Bailey, And if successful, will earn his wings. This movie of course, it’s a wonderful life. And in the end, the bell on the tree rings, and the young girl zuzu says, “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets its wings.” </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about the mid 90s and TV. I can still hear the opening tune to the show…”I’ll will walk with you, til the sun don’t even shine...I’ll walk with you..every time..I tell ya I’ll walk with you.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Anybody? Touched by an angel? I remember my parents watching it. And again, the story of an angel, named Monica, who has climbed the angel promotion ladder from choir to annunciations, and now promoted from the search and rescue division to work individual cases. Along with her supervisor, Tess, Monica meets people on the walk of life, to help manage their cases, for a positive outcome. This portrays angels as guardians. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Speaking of guardians, there was a story out of Germany a few months ago. A man was driving his car and caught speeding by a traffic camera. As the car passed the camera, the camera took a snapshot in order to issue the ticket. Well at the exact moment the picture was taken, a dove flew in front of the car with its wings spread, hiding the man’s face. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The police reported jokingly that a “thanks to a feathered guardian angel..” and the intervention of the “Holy Spirit” they will choose mercy over justice and not issue a ticket.” They said, “we have understood this to be a sign to leave the driver at peace.” We portray angels as helping us avoid tickets.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">If you haven’t heard, I was in a car accident this past week. Everyone is ok. Just a bruised ego and a very bruised car. But I was reminded of 2005, when I was in my first car wreck. I totalled my jeep. It wasn’t my fault. Lol. Anyways, when I got my new, used car, someone gave me a little metal guardian angel to clip on my sun visor and it said, “Never drive faster than your guardian angel flies.”<br /></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Right, these are the ways we perceive and portray angels in our everyday lives. I can’t tell you the number of stories I’ve heard from people who were in an accident, or in the hospital, or a precarious situation and they talk about an angel rescuing them or aiding them. They can’t always recall the details of who or how, but they know so strongly that there was some sort of presence felt. As though an angel was watching over them or intervening on their behalf. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">We portray angels as statues in our gardens, figurines on our mantles. We have plumb little babies with wings and halos, or delicate, fragile silver or diamond angelic beings dangling on chains around our neck...or charms on bracelets. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">One of my favorite movies growing up...angels in the outfield. Young Joseph Gordon Levitt plays Rodger. And Roger’s dad promises that if the Angels win the pennant, his dad will come home. So Roger prays, and for the rest of the season angels show up to assist the team and help them win. Rubbing pitcher’s shoulders. Elevating outfielders to make crazy catches. At one point the whole stadium flaps their wings because they believe in something bigger.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The symbolism of Angels is everywhere. The language of angels is so present. How often do you or someone you know talk about someone being angelic, or acting like an angel? Or, an angel brought us together? An angel must have been watching over me? An angel made me do it! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">It’s such a common place. Even in our worship, we talk about angels. In communion I say, and so with angels and archangels, cherubim and seraphim we praise your name and join their unending hymn. Notice our hymns today… </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I think we’ve come to appreciate and perceive the presence of angels, but they truly remain somewhat of a great mystery, right? What does an angel look like? How do they act? Can humans be angels? Do they really level up from choir to case management? Are they guardians, controlling our acceleration pedal and monitoring our life choices? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Are they tangible, real beings, or hidden celestial beings. Is this the power of our confession when we proclaim a belief in God, the maker of heaven and earth, all things seen and unseen? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">What, we fairly ask, is the deal with angels? Perhaps scripture is a great place to start. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about Abraham. In Genesis 18 it tells us that Abraham was visited by the Lord as he sat by the entrance of his tent. But the story goes on to say that three men approached the tent. Abraham welcomed them and fed them. They proclaimed to Abraham and Sarah that Sarah shall bear a son. The Lord appeared to Abrhama as these three men. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about Luke 1, as the Angel Gabriel is sent by God and appears to Mary. Gabriel says Greetings, favored one! The Lord is with you. He then proclaims to her that she will bear God’s son. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about Acts 12, when Peter is bound in prison. While the guards sleep and angel of the Lord appears, taps him on the shoulder, and helps his escape prison. It says Peter didn’t realize what was happening was real. He thought it was a vision. Once the angel leaves him, peter is certain that an angel rescued him. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In Mark 16, The women enter then empty tomb and find a man, dressed in a white robe. He says “Do not be alarmed and proclaims that Christ is risen”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Revelation 14, Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on earth - to every nation, tribe, and language. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Psalm 91 - for he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Hebrews - Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Of course, Revelation 5, as John hears the voice of thousands of angels - tens of thousands - circled around the throne singing “worthy is the lamp, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And of course there is today’s text...The great prince or angel Michael and his angels defeating the great dragon. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">When we take another look through scripture and the presence of angels, it becomes apparent that an angel is one who delivers good news, proclaims good news. Brings forth the testament of God and God’s power. To be sure, the word Angel, when translated literally means “messenger.” An angel is one who delivers a message. We tend to associate angels with God as heavenly beings. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">But the reality of the translation is that an angel is simply a messenger. One that is empowered by God, intrusted with good news, and sent to deliver the good news. More specifically, an angel is equipped with the word of God. The logos. God’s word alone.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">If we look at today’s text from revelation, it is Michael and all angels that defeat the great dragon. But to be precise, verse 11 tells us that “they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” The gift and power of the witness of angels is the deliverance of testimony. A message of God’s grace and love. And for the sake of scripture, testimony that is God’s word. Good news in God’s name. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The church has a long held a belief in angels and their witness to the power of God’s word to bring good news into a dark world. In fact, Luther insisted that this day, Michael and All Angels always remain a festival day so that we as a Christian people might hear again the story of the angels, and the power of the word of God to strike down the forces that defy God. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Think about the 3rd verse in Luther’s A Mighty Fortress. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Though hordes of devils fill the land</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> all threat'ning to devour us,</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> we tremble not, unmoved we stand;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> they cannot overpow'r us.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> Let this world's tyrant rage;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> in battle we'll engage!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">His might is doomed to fail;</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"> God's judgment must prevail!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">One little word subdues him.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In our gospel lesson today from the 10th chapter of Luke, the 70 return with joy saying, “Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!” Recall that Jesus sent the 70 out two by two, to carry no purse, no bag, no sandals. To greet no one on the road. To offer peace to the household and remain in that house eating and drinking what the host provides. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">So the 70, equipped with nothing but the word of God and the accompaniment of sibling, go forth in the name of God to share the peace of the Lord. To deliver to every town and place a message of God’s good peace and the promise of God's favor. And what they experience, what they encounter, what they witness, is the power of God’s word to bring demons to submission. To bring light to the darkness. To bring hope to the despair. To proclaim favor, justice, mercy, peace, and love. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And so in the celebration Michael and All Angels, rejoicing with the return of the 70, we might remember and reclaim the power of our witness in the world. That we too, have been called by God, claimed in the waters, equipped with every good gift, sent forth into the world to deliver a message. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">That is a message of eternal hope, of grace and glory, of promise and forgiveness. It is a message that frees the captives, redeems the oppressed, lifts the lowly, and casts down the mighty. It is a message that restores kingdoms, and tears down divisions. It is a message that always, always, always acts on love and delivers good news. And friends, with the word of God on our lips, hearts, and in our actions, the demons of this world submit. They fall down. Amen.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Sept. 29, 2019 @ St. Mark's JAX </span></span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-13410252529620203392019-09-16T06:14:00.000-07:002019-09-16T06:15:20.767-07:00God's Until, As Far As Mission - Sermon on Luke 15:1-10<b style="color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the sermon <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; text-decoration-line: none;">here.</a></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Luke 15:1-10</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">1 Now all the tax collectors and sinners were
coming near to listen to him.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 2 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And the Pharisees and
the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and
eats with them."</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
3 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">So he told them this
parable:</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 4 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">"Which one of you, having a hundred sheep
and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go
after the one that is lost until he finds it?</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 5 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 6 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and
neighbors, saying to them, "Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep
that was lost.'</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 7 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in
heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who
need no repentance.</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 8 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">"Or what woman having ten silver coins, if
she loses one of them, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search
carefully until she finds it?</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 9 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">When she has found it,
she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, "Rejoice with me,
for I have found the coin that I had lost.'</span><sup><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 10 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Just so, I tell you,
there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who
repents." </span></blockquote>
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<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">SERMON</span></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">We have heard part of this
story before. Many weeks ago, on the fourth Sunday of Lent, our gospel
text began with the first three verses and then skipped to the parable of the
prodigal son. Today we circle back with an opportunity to read and
reflect on the first two parables in this section. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">For Luke’s gospel, these
three parables about the lost being found lie at the heart of not only Jesus
ministry, but his journey to Jerusalem as well. Several chapters ago
Jesus set his eyes towards Jerusalem, where the son of man will suffer, be
killed, and on the third day rise again.
We are well into the journey, and he has had multiple encounters with
not only the sick and broke, the tax collectors and sinners, but the pharisees,
scribes, and religious leaders as well. He has had both good and not so
good encounters. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">There have been moments
with Pharisees have warned him that Herod is hunting for him, that he should go
and hide. And there have been moments like two weeks ago where Jesus is
invited to a dinner banquet on the Sabbath and the offers a stern lesson about
humility and inclusion. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Jesus has had a wide
range of encounters with the religious leaders, and it’s important to remember
that any time the Bible mentions “the Pharisees” it isn’t necessarily talking
about the same handful of people again and again. Jesus meets and
challenges a variety of religious leaders, and their impression and reaction to
Jesus is just as varied and diverse.
Some are openly appalled and offended by Jesus. And some are warming up to his way of life
and teachings. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And so today, at the
heart of his journey to Jerusalem, Jesus once again encounters a group of
religious leaders. Jesus hears their grumbles and responds with three
parables about the lost being found.
About God’s unexpected relentless pursuit of the lost. About each
and every one of God’s children being sought after. It’s about the joy of community when it is
made whole.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">In chapter 15, Luke sets
the scene for us by letting just know that “all the tax collectors and sinners
were coming near to listen to him. And the Pharisees and the scribes were
grumbling and saying, “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.”</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">“This fellow welcomes
sinners and eats with them.” I really like this line of scripture,
because as much as the Pharisees intend it to be a line of accusation and
condemnation, I read and hear it as a proclamation. Right? “This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with
them.” The fellow welcomes sinners and
eats with them!” </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I always like to hear it
as though the Pharisees are proclaiming a wonderful truth to the
community. Let it be proudly and widely known in all the land that THIS
Messiah is one who favors the sinners and graciously breaks bread with
him. All should know that all are welcome at his table. Then, of course, everyone raises and clinks
their glasses, all cheers and toast to the faithful work and witness of Jesus.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I love this line,
because the Pharisees accuse and condemn Jesus’ behavior, “THIS
Fellow...welcomes and eats with sinners.” and I imagine a snarky Jesus looking
around and saying, “Yah, So?”</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">For Jesus, it is a
proclamation of truth. This is what Jesus does regularly. On so many occasions he calls to the
sinners, fellowships with the broken and ill, dines with the tax collectors and
despised members of society. That’s what Jesus has always done. And it has caused him a following. A following of sinners, tax collections.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Pharisees simply
won’t stand for this sort of behavior. Tax collectors were considered
traitors and enemies as the poached on the members of society and
representatives of Roman authority. The sinners weren’t so much an issue
for being a sinner but because their sin was typically in opposition to Jewish
law, tradition, or cultural cleanliness. Their sin made them unclean, and
therefore a Rabbi, even Jesus, shouldn’t dare break bread with them.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, Jesus confronts the
grumbles by teaching in three parables. One about a shepherd in search of
a lost sheep. One about a woman
fervently searching for a coin. And one about the prodigal son. All are in some way about the lost being
found and the joy of the community when they are welcomed home and made
whole </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">In the first parable,
Jesus invites the Pharisees, and all gathered to imagine themselves as a
shepherd who has a flock of sheep and unfortunately one is lost. Jesus
then celebrates the shepherd’s commitment to go after the lost sheep until it
was found. This seems like a simple,
eloquent image of God as a shepherd committed to finding the lost at all
costs. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And I think it’s
important to recognize that shepherds and their flock did not always graze on
nice flat green pastures. These are hilly lands with some rocky and
dangerous terrain, with predators both human and animal lying in wait. Not only was leaving the 99 a risk but
chasing after the one lost was a bold and risky endeavor. So much so that
the Pharisee might be left wondering would it be worth it. Why would the shepherd not risk more than he
might gain?</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">In the second parable,
Jesus invites the Pharisees, and all gathered to imagine a woman having lost
one of her 10 silver coins. And in today’s world it seems such little
effort to flip on the light and sweep the house in search of the coin. But I think it’s important to recognize that
this woman would have to spend her own resources to oil and light a lamp, and
then diligently and carefully scour the home for what is lost. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Again, the pharisees,
who sit in positions of power may wonder, why would anyone go to such lengths
in search of a single coin. Why would this woman search tirelessly,
expending more resources and time then she might gain through finding the coin?</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Both parables start with
something being lost. But the emphasis is not on the lost item or
animal. The emphasis is not repentance
or the turning around of the thing that is lost. After all, a coin is not
alive, and I suspect the message is not that a sheep can confess and
repent. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">More importantly, these
parables are about the one searching and their commitment to the search.
A Shepherd who risks his own life in passionate pursuit of the lost member of
the flock. A woman who brings light to
darkness in order to diligently and carefully sweep the house. And both
the shepherd and the woman search until the lost is found. It’s not simply that they search with haste
and passion, hoping the lost will be found, but they do not rest or relent
UNTIL it is found. The word until is only one of the translations permitted
by the original Greek. It can also be
understood by the phrase “as far as.” So,
they search UNTIL it is found, or we could say, “that they search as far as
necessary to find the lost.” </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">As Jesus says, “Which
one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the
ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost <b>until</b> he
finds it? Or what woman having ten silver coins, if she loses one of them, does
not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully <b>until</b> she finds
it?” </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Friends, this is our
God. This is God’s mission to search Until the lost are found, willing to go as
far as necessary to save God’s people and make us whole again. Our God is
faithful and relentless. Our God is slow
to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
Our God pursues the lost, as far as necessary, even unto death, until
all are made whole in the kingdom of God. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And here’s the truth my
friends, just because we may be baptized, just because we attend worship
regularly or participate in church activities...just because we do our daily
devotions and pray regularly doesn’t mean we’re exempt from becoming
lost. Of course, in the waters of baptism, God finds us. Claims us.
Dusts us off, names us, and welcomes us into community. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">But the truth is, it
doesn’t mean we’re exempt from every wandering, straying, or lingering into
temptation. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have no doubt that we
have friends right now, in these pews who feel lost. We can go through
the motions of our faith and still feel lost.
You can belong to the body of Christ, but still feel alone. Just
because we’re Christians doesn’t mean we aren’t sinners in desperate need of
God’s unending redemption. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And this is what I love
about our faith. We believe that we are simultaneously sinner and
saint. God has made us alive and free in the death and resurrection of
Christ, but we are still susceptible to sin. We can be both found by God
and feel lost all at the same time.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And the good news is
that God is infinitely better at pursuing and finding then we are at running,
hiding, and wandering off. God is relentless in loving pursuit. Sometimes that means that God seeks us out in
the most bizarre or unsuspecting ways, scoops us up, and brings us back to
community without us ever realizing we were lost in the first place. It’s
that feeling when you walk into the most secure, safest, warmest place you
know...and when you cross the threshold of the entrance you know you’re home. You’re found.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My siblings, each and
every week we gather in this place. The Spirit calls us and gathers us
for worship. God finds us in the muck of
the world and brings us together as a community to rejoice the power of God’s
relentless love. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">This is one of the
reasons why we start with confession and forgiveness. God has found us
and brought us to community and together we confess the ways in which we might
have become lost in the first place. And God says I forgive you. And wherever you go, I’ll be with you. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">And what I find
incredibly powerful about these parables is not just God’s relentlessness, but
the one’s searching are a shepherd and a woman. If the Pharisees weren’t
grumbling before, then the notion that God would act as a shepherd or even a
woman...can you imagine? </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">These are not the
religious and cultural norms of God’s portrayal. And I find this so
powerful because it suggests to me that God works through anyone at any time,
in any way to find the lost. Even you and me. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">God’s work of seeking
and finding the lost is community work. In this place we experience again
and again the power of God’s love and we’re filled with bread and wine, grace
and forgiveness, love and hope to face the world ahead and remember that God will
never relent or rest Until all are found. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My dear siblings, All -
all, sinners, tax collectors, pharisees, and scribes. All, you and me,
the least, last and lost - all are in need of God’s Until, as far as
mission. More importantly, all are worthy of God’s until, as far as
mission. Thanks be to God that through
the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, no matter how lost we may become,
God can, and will, always welcome us and invite us to dine.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Amen</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: xx-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, Preached on Sept. 15, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran JAX, FL</span><br />
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-69252496234438172072019-09-08T15:54:00.003-07:002019-09-08T15:54:38.817-07:00What Does It Cost You? - Sermon on Luke 14:25-33<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the sermon <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; text-decoration: none;">here. </a></b></div>
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<b>Luke 14:25-33<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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25 Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to them,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">26 </span></sup>"Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">27 </span></sup>Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">28 </span></sup>For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it?<sup><span style="color: #222222;">29 </span></sup>Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">30 </span></sup>saying, "This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">31</span></sup>Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand?<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">33 </span></sup>So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.</blockquote>
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<b>SERMON</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">“When Christ calls a human, he bids him come and die.” These are no doubt powerful words. Anybody familiar with that quote? Do you know who wrote it? “When Christ calls a human, he bids him come and die.” When put into context, these words are all the more powerful.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In 1937, at the height of the Nazi Regime, Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote a well known book called “The Cost of Discipleship.” Bonhoeffer was German pastor and theologian, and perhaps most well know for his resistance and opposition to the Nazi party. From the beginning, Bonhoeffer publically and passionately opposed the Nazi party. Even more so, he was deeply troubled by the misuse of the gospel message and power of Christianity to justify mass genocide. He was worried that the secularization of faith and grace was a cause for complacency and indifference - that the cost of our salvation was taken for granted, that forgiveness was an endless gift, and therefore and failure or shortcoming as disciples of Christ was shrugged away under the gift of grace. He called this cheap grace. Grace that is abused and taken for granted. Grace that abounds despite our own sinfulness, our indifference, our hatred, and inability to act.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">So, Bonhoeffer spoke adamantly of costly grace. Grace that convicts us to live into the crucifixion of Jesus and rise again to work towards the kingdom of God, despite the costs.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In his book, he wrote. “Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a man must knock. Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;"> It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: 'Ye were bought at a price', and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.” </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In the mid 1930s, despite being a vocal and public opposition to the work and belief of the Nazis, Bonhoeffer returned to Germany. For several years to risk his life traveling from town to town, educating and training clergy and church leaders in underground seminaries. By 1940, he was shut down by the Gestapo. Banned from Berlin. He was silenced.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">He accepted a job at Union Theological Seminary in the US, where he would be safe from persecution. But within a few short years he said, “</span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #222222;">I have come to the conclusion that I made a mistake in coming to America. I must live through this difficult period in our national history with the people of Germany. I will have no right to participate in the reconstruction of Christian life in Germany after the war if I do not share the trials of this time with my people ... .I must choose but I cannot make that choice from security.” </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #222222;">By his convictions as a Christian, and at a cost, he returned to Germany to proclaim the gospel and the grace of Christ. He was silenced. Harassed. Arrested. Imprisoned in concentration camps. And eventually he was hanged. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">“When Christ calls a human, he bids him come and die.” </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">I suppose today’s reading calls to question, what is the cost of being a disciple. What does it cost to be a Christian. To be a follower of Christ. And I mean that seriously, myself included, what does it cost us to be disciples and followers of Christ?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">You don’t have to answer out loud if for no other reason than I don’t know what my own answer would be. And to be clear, I’m not talking about an hour in worship and a few hours a week of service. I’m not talking about your 10% tithe or charitable giving. It’s so much more. And it’s what Jesus talks about in front of a large crowd today, what does it cost to be a follower. A disciple.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">And I would venture to guess, that once most of us had a chance to think about it, the answer would frankly be “nothing.” It doesn't really cost us anything. Being a Christian, being a disciple is not in and of itself a risky endeavor. On a day-to-day basis, it cost most of us nothing to be a part of the body of Christ. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">Since baptism, God claimed us and named us, grafted us into the body of Christ. Into the one mission we share. We were called to be God’s children. And from that day forward, we’re Christians, followers of Jesus, free to invest as much or as little of ourselves, our time, and our possessions as we choose. And we can be as Christian as we want without it costing us a thing.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">But, given today’s text, shouldn’t it cost us something to follow Christ? Should there be some sense of risk involved? Why doesn’t our discipleship stir up a bit of trepidation or hesitation? Is following Christ really that...easy?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">The word “follow” has taken on such a different meaning in the context of today’s world. Our cultural and social media dominate life has almost redefined what it means to follow. With the click of a button you can follow almost anyone you want. And just as easy you can broadcast all of your life for anyone in the world to follow you. Status is gained by having a higher number of followers. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">When we think about Instagram, Facebook, twitter...whatever it is, we are invited to follow the lives of whomever we want. Famous movie stars, and athletes. Musicians, friends, hobbyists...whomever. With one click we become a follower. A subscriber. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">More importantly, we follow at a distance. We can watch their every move, read and hear what they have to say, we can like or ignore whatever we do or don’t support. We follow at a convenient distance. We become subscribers of content. </span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818;">And the larger the following the more powerful the person we follow. But this sense of following is actually simply observation, empty and vain. And it cost us nothing. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In today’s Gospel text Jesus continues his journey to Jerusalem. Word has spread about the things he has done and said. People continue to gather around him and the crowds follow. Now we don’t know how big the crowd was, but it was big enough for the gospel writer to make mention of it. Jesus turns to them all and offers some very blunt words about what is at stake if they desire to be his follower. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">After all, Jesus has his eyes on Jerusalem, where he’ll be arrested, beaten, tried, and crucified. This journey is not for simple onlookers, marginal observers, and curious inquires. No, Jesus is ushering in a new reign of God, a kingdom that will rattle the foundations of the known world, unsettle the bedrock of the cultural, societal, and political norms. And if, IF you desire to continue to follow Jesus, you must be honest about what lies ahead, and that it might cost you your very life. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">“When Christ calls a human, he bids him come and die.”</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In Jesus’ day, it really was a costly decision to follow Christ. I think we too often make light of it because in the beginning of the gospel Christ calls and the disciples drop everything and follow. No big deal. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">But the reality was,</span> following Jesus often meant encountering conflict...with family, friends, coworkers. It meant forsaking or changing your life-long beliefs about the Messiah and what to expect. It meant denouncing the ways of a sinful world, challenging powerful systems, venturing to hostile territories, dining with sinners, accompanying the unclean, caring for the oppressed, loving the last and least, finding the lost, and healing the broken. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Following Jesus truly and literally meant following in his footsteps. It meant, as the definition goes, paying close attention to Jesus, acting according to his example, conforming to his ways, and striving for his witness. Following Jesus meant you were bid to come and die. Die to the old ways of life, be transformed by his radical witness of love and justice, and live in proclamation of God’s kingdom. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">So when we ask ourselves what does it cost us to be a disciple and follower of Christ and our answer is nothing, then I think we must re-encounter the gospel message, reassess Christ’s call to come and follow, reevaluate our identity as Christians. I suspect that when Jesus laid out the cost of being a disciple to the crowd, several people turned around and said never mind. I bet they went on home where life felt safer, easier, and more content. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">Friends, being a Christian, a disciple, a follower of Christ is not something we should take lightly or for granted. Because the truth is, the call to discipleship has in fact cost us our lives. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #181818;">In the waters of baptism we drown to the old way of living and rise again, claimed and named into a new way of life. And baptism isn’t simply a Rite of initiation. We don’t haphazardly click subscribe to be a Christians and follow safely from a distance. Leaning in when convenient or beneficial. Stepping back when too risky. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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No, we’re in the thick of it. IN the footsteps of our radical, counter-cultural Messiah, we’re on a journey to Jerusalem, where our very lives are stake. Believing in the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus changes the way we see the world. Being washed in the waters of costly grace and fed at the holy banquet table, where we receive a foretaste of the feast to come transforms the way we live out our life. Our calling. Our discipleship. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And in part, that’s exactly what God’s Work. Our Hands day is about. It’s not just a time of church wide service. It’s not simply about giving our time and resources to intentional serve our neighbor. God’s Work. Our Hands. Is intended to be a public affirmation...a re-affirmation really that we are called, claimed, named, and appointed disciples of Christ. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As followers of Christ we don’t just choose to get our hands and feet dirty in the muck of the world, we absolutely cannot help but engage with the brokenness of the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As followers of Christ we cannot help but forsake the lifelong teachings of sinful world, Can’t help but denounce sin, death, devil, and all the forces that defy God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We cannot help but challenge unjust systems of power, venture into hostile territory, break bread with sinners, accompany the unclean, care for the oppressed, and love the last and least. We cannot help but heal the broken and care for creation.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the truth is, this calling may cost us everything. Following Christ, being a disciple may cost us everything. And for many of the apostles and early church leaders, it did. It cost them their lives. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My siblings in Christ, our world is bent, broken, oppressed, and in desperate need of healing. And as the church, the incarnation of God’s costly grace, we absolutely must engage. We must pick of the cross, take the risk, and harken Christ’s bid to come and die. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Because through death is the promise of resurrection. And at the cost of following Christ, God promises hope. God promises forgiveness. God promises grace. God promises everlasting life. And thanks be to God, it is freely given. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: x-small;"> © Pastor Daniel Locke, Preached on Sept. 8, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran JAX, FL</span></o:p></div>
Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-53539000027349014262019-05-19T12:00:00.000-07:002019-05-19T12:00:02.764-07:00That's the Power of Love - Sermon on Luke 13:31-35<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b>Listen to the sermon <a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6">here. </a></b></div>
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<b>John 13:31-35<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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31 When he had gone out, Jesus said, "Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God has been glorified in him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>If God has been glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">33 </span></sup>Little children, I am with you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, "Where I am going, you cannot come.'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">34 </span></sup>I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">35 </span></sup>By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." </blockquote>
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<b>SEMRON </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Love one another. Amen? Easy enough. Amen! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Did you know that the longest sermon ever preached is 53 hours and 11 minutes. Yes, you heard me, 53 hours 18 minutes. 3 days of preaching. Now I couldn’t verify it as a certified Guinness World Record, but that’s the claim. In fact, several reputable news outlets reported the even. 53 hours. <o:p></o:p></div>
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These are the kind of things you find when Google sucks you in and your mind wanders. And so I kid you not, it was widely reported that in November of 2014, a 31 year old pastor named Zach, preached a sermon...never stopping for more than 30 seconds...to a rotating crowd of people in, get this, Mount Dora, FL. Practically in our backyard.<o:p></o:p></div>
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53 hours and 18 minutes. Now, to be fair, in an interview, Zach clarifies that his motivation was not only to proclaim the word of God, but it was to raise awareness and money for a local organization. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So my friends, sit back, and relax, order some pizza, I think today is a good day to chase the record. 53 hours and 19 minutes. Joking, sort of. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So, like you, I found myself wondering, “What does someone even talk about for 53 hours?” Thankfully the interviewer asked this question. Pastor Zach said, “I chose to speak on the Bible and kind of cover the entirety of the story from Genesis to Revelation. My goal of the whole sermon was to talk about God's ridiculous commitment to God’s people, even though we give up on God that God never gave up on us.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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53 hours on the theme of God’s ridiculous commitment to God’s people despite our failure. Now I didn’t read the transcript, but if I interpret the theme correctly and paraphrase just a bit, it seems to me that the entire preaching event was about God’s love for God’s people. It was about the love of God. A love we are desperate for. A love we are not worthy of. And a love we would do well to learn, receive, and imitate. Love!<o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s the classic tale of a preacher giving the shorte sermon on record. Obviously, there is no exact record holder, but I’m sure you’ve heard the tale. Preacher steps into the pulpit. Looks intently across the congregation. Takes a breath and says one word. Love. Then sits down.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The world’s longest sermon and the world’s shortest. And when you parse it all out, it seems the theme is the same. Love. I mean no disrespect to my brother preacher, but you gotta wonder, why in the world use 53 hours of words when one will do? On average, a person speaks 125 words a minute. That’s 400,000 words, amplifying a theme of love. And here’s the crazy thing, neither had a more powerful message than the other. Neither was more right. Neither is more theologically brilliant or insightful. Love is love is love. Be loved. Now love one another. Love. Amen?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beyond raising money for a good organization, why the exhaustive lesson on God’s love? The more I thought about it, the more I came to realize, because there are times in our lives when we need to hear again and again, and I mean, 400,000 times, how loved we are. How loved you are. How powerful love can be. Love of a God for God’s people. A passionate, dedicated, ridiculously committed God...who would even take on death...gruesome, humiliating, painful, and tragic death...for the sake of those whom God loves. You and me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And sometimes we are so broken. So beaten. So jaded, torn, distraught, misguided, abused, and neglected. That it takes some repeating. Maybe even 400,000 reminders that you are loved. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“I give you a new commandment, Jesus says, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anybody hear the old Nat King Cole classic from 1948? Nature Boy. It’s been covered so many times, but in the final line, Nat so smoothly sings, “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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This new commandment to love one another happens on Christ’s final night with his disciples. Our small excerpt occurs within a larger story, a story we typically hear on Maundy Thursday. Christ gathers for a meal with his closest friends. He removes his outer robe, takes on the role of a servant and washes their feet. Then he dines with them. He offers bread and wine, as body and blood of a new covenant. He even shares the cup with Judas who will soon betray him. And just as Judas leaves, we hear today's text. “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Here’s an honest, vulnerable question. Is there anyone among us who would argue with Christ’s command to love? Anyone stand in opposition to Christ’s command, that perhaps love...love for each other and our neighbor is not the way of Christ and the root of our Christian calling? Any objections?<o:p></o:p></div>
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No of course not. And why would there be. Why oppose love? I believe each and everyone of us understand that our call as Christians, as people of God, as believers and witnesses is to love. As Christ loved us, we should love one another. That makes sense, doesn’t it? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Seems like an easy and common sense concept right? Seems like a quality characteristic we might aspire too. Surely we want to be known and remembered for our love. After all, if God is love, and we are created in God’s image...if Christ teaches and commands us to love...if love is the foundation of our faith and the theme of our Christian narrative...<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then why is it so gosh darn hard for us to love one another as Christ loved us? Now hear me out. I am not suggesting that anyone among us is void of love. Or lacks the ability to love. Each and everyone of us is loving, and I’m sure we each have a list of people to attest to that fact. But, let’s be honest….we all at times, whether we mean to or not, show partiality in our love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think we’re all guilty of cherry picking who we love. Choosing to go against our being and Christ’s command by withholding love when it comes to loving as Christ loved us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And to be clear, we’re not talking about familial love or brother love. Love between friends, neighbors, colleagues, and families. There are specific words for that type of love in the original greek. The love that Jesus commands is agape love. Selfless, sacrificial love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Agape is to have love for someone, based on sincere appreciation and high regard...it’s not a love rooted in emotion or feeling. It’s a love rooted in the preservation and dignity of life. A willingness to humble yourself to lift up another. An intentional and imbedded sacrifice for the sake of the other. To empty yourself, pouring out for another, with absolutely no reason, motivation, or incentive other than that is who you are created to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We might say that such a level of love. Agape love, seems to be the exception in our society and culture. Selfless, sacrificial, non-incentivized love is the exception. And Christ calls us to not only receive such love, but to reflect back to the world as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So why is it so hard? Why do we struggle? What within us causes us to put conditions or incentives on love? It’s easy for me to say that I love everyone, but the truth is it is just as easy for me to justify and convince myself into withholding love. And the true confession, friends, is that love seems easiest when the other person either looks just like me, or I know that I have something to gain from offering love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Why is it so hard to love as Christ loves us and as Christ commands. Are we afraid to be vulnerable? Are we scared we won’t be loved in return. Maybe we prefer not to be so selfless? Maybe we fear there isn’t enough love to go around. How can I be so selfless to so many?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think it ultimately comes down to power, and a fear of giving up our power. You see, to love as Christ loved is to relinquish power. To humble yourself in order to raise up another. To remove any power you may hold. Because when we withhold agape love, we deem someone unworthy or unfit of love. That’s a power move. An abuse of power, even. To have something to give or offer, and to say, I’d rather not offer it for you is a power play. And God knows, it’s hard to give up power.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is what makes Christ example of love so radical. Christ never withheld love. In fact, on the night of our text, Christ removed his outer robe, put on a towel and took on the role of a servant. Humbled himself before his followers and friends, even those whom we may argue you were unworthy. And Christ washed their feet. He had nothing to gain. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This what makes Christ’s sacrifice on the cross so radical. He gave up everything, including his own life, with nothing to gain, for the sake of the world. Even in his final breaths, Christ prayed for forgiveness for those whom we may argue were unworthy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is Christ’s example of agape love, and holy smokes, we’re called to do the same? It’s no wonder we struggle with such love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There is no weakness if relinquishing power. In fact, there is power is weakness. Power in vulnerability. Power in sacrificial, unconditional, Christ-commanded love.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There is power in such love, because loving one another as Christ love us means restoring, preserving, and celebrating the life and dignity of all God’s children. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means equality and equity are the norm, not the exception. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means acts of generosity and mercy are the norm not the exception. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means that siblings take precedent. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means we are no longer motivated by fear of the unknown or the other. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means health, wholeness, and justice upstage profit and self-interest. It means empowering the hungry, homeless, last, least, and lost, challenging the systems of oppressive power and preferential love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It means washing the foot of unworthy, affirming the unfit, forgiving the unforgivable, and becoming one of the least of these.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the power of such love, everyone will know that we are Christ’s disciples. In the power of such love the first heaven and the first earth pass away, as John reveals, and God will dwell among us in the kingdom of God. Every tear will be wiped away. Death will be no more. Mourning and crying and pain will ease. All things will be made new. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So, it may seem fair to ask, how do we love as Christ loved? <o:p></o:p></div>
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First, you dip your fingers in the water of the font, you taste the bread and wine, and you remember that you are loved. And even more so, you are worthy of Christ’s love. Now and Always. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Second, we confess that we have not loved with our whole hearts and not loved our neighbors as ourselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Third, you hear the words of forgiveness and acknowledge that you do not have to love perfectly in order to love powerfully. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Lastly, remember and affirm that love and the power of love are gifts from our grace-filled God. There is no and will never be any shortage of love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As much as you pour our love, God fills you again and again. And so you love, love, and love some more until the Kingdom of God is fully at hand and Christ’s glorious name is proclaimed by all.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached May 19, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-40084735402436435832019-03-31T17:00:00.000-07:002019-03-31T17:00:45.634-07:00We Know This Story, Don't We? - Sermon on Luke 15:1-3; 11-32b<div class="MsoNormal" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; margin: 0.25in 0in 4pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">2 </span></sup>And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">3 </span></sup>So he told them this parable:<sup><span style="color: #222222;">11 </span></sup>"There was a man who had two sons.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">12 </span></sup>The younger of them said to his father, "Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.' So he divided his property between them.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">13 </span></sup>A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant country, and there he squandered his property in dissolute living.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">14 </span></sup>When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that country, and he began to be in need.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">15 </span></sup>So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">16 </span></sup>He would gladly have filled himself with the pods that the pigs were eating; and no one gave him anything.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">17 </span></sup>But when he came to himself he said, "How many of my father's hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger!<sup><span style="color: #222222;">18 </span></sup>I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">19 </span></sup>I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">20 </span></sup>So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">21 </span></sup>Then the son said to him, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">22 </span></sup>But the father said to his slaves, "Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">23 </span></sup>And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">24 </span></sup>for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!' And they began to celebrate.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">25 </span></sup>"Now his elder son was in the field; and when he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">26 </span></sup>He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">27 </span></sup>He replied, "Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has got him back safe and sound.'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">28 </span></sup>Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">29 </span></sup>But he answered his father, "Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command; yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">30 </span></sup>But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your property with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">31 </span></sup>Then the father said to him, "Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.' " </blockquote>
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Stop me if you’ve heard this one before...There was a man who had two sons...The younger of them said to his father, "Father, give me the share of the property that will belong to me.' So the Father does. The son leaves his family and squanders his fortune. With nothing left..not even his pride...he returns home. And the whole way home he’s rehearsing his apology speech. And as he arrives the Father welcomes him with open arms as though he were lost and is now found. And that bugs us...and the older brother, because this kid shamed his family, blew his fortune, and dragged himself home to grovel...and he’s welcomed with a party of all things.</div>
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That’s a familiar story isn’t? Second to The Good Samaritan, this is probably Jesus’ most popular, or at least well known parable. And any time I start to read this parable publically, like I did a moment ago, I get nervous right around the first line. I worry that as soon as I say “There was a father who had two sons…”, most people check out. Oh I know that story...the prodigal kid and the loving father. I know that story. We’re the kid and the father is Jesus. Got it, preacher. I’ll meet you at the end when you tell us we can sit down.</div>
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Now I’m being a bit facetious, but that’s my worry primarily because that is also my typical reaction. It’s a problem. I’ll admit that. But how often do we hear the old familiar stories of our faith...whether prodigal son, good samaritan, Jesus being born, The passion narrative… how often do we hear them thinking, “oh I know that story” and then check-out because the story hasn’t changed in several thousand years, doubt it’ll change this time. </div>
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Well that’s the beauty of faith and the power of scripture as the living word of God. It’s always moving and breathing. The words may not change,...it may all sound the same...but when the Spirit is afoot, we may interpret it differently every single time we read or hear the story. The stories of our faith speak differently to every person in every context. Scripture is alive. The Word of God is speaking and breathing. It’s prying and pushing, nagging and convicting, affirming and rewarding. Scripture always speaks. </div>
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That’s why we embody the seasons of the church year. From Advent through Christmas and Epiphany...From Lent through Holy Week, Easter and Pentecost. We enter into the seasons of the church and follow the accompanying passages of scripture not because it’s redundant and known. We don’t journey through the texts of Lent and the narrative of Holy week because we know them. If we checked-out of church and worship because we know the old stories of our faith then we deny the power of the Spirit. </div>
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We engage in the texts of our faith again and again because the Spirit is always swirling. We read and hear well beyond the parts we know best, always listening to what the Spirit might be telling us, here and now. It’s why we commit to extra services on Wednesday night during Lent. And if you haven’t come yet, it’s not too late to join us. We are using worship stations, and while that may sound intimidating, I promise it’s not. You and the Spirit worship at your own pace, picking and choosing where to spend your time. </div>
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It’s why we have extra services during Holy Week. Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil. We don’t have worship those evenings just because that’s what we’ve always done. We gather those nights for worship, not just to learn the stories of our faith because most of us know them like the back of our hand. Those services are important because they are they honor, remember, and celebrate the foundation of our faith. That Christ became incarnate, died on the cross, and rose again so that all may have life and life abundant. We <i>know</i>the story of Jesus’ passion and Holy week. We <i>know </i>the stories of wandering in the wilderness and the temptation. We<i>know</i>the parable of the prodigal son and the good samaritan. But we never stop telling them. And we never stop hearing them. Because the Spirit never stops speaking to us.</div>
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And today is no different. There was a man who had two sons. Now the younger son was arguably selfish and naive, and he makes a bold choice to ask his father for his share of the property. This decision ultimately brings shame upon the family because it’s the same as wishing his father dead. Nevertheless, the father agrees and the son abandons his family, turning away from all that he has and has known to explore the lures of the world.</div>
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The son made some poor choices and squandered his property away. He soon found himself broke and unemployed, with a great need. He lucks upon a minimum wage job slopping for the pigs and sinks to rock bottom. At this low point, he has a revelation, actually it’s more of a memory or realization that back home, even his Father’s hired hands lived better than him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, he swallows his pride, and makes the journey home. The whole way home he’s practicing his apology speech, seeking the exact words necessary for his father to forgive him and welcome him home. Can you imagine how guilty and ashamed...how scared and vulnerable he must have felt walking up to his home.</div>
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And what does the Father do? He does what Jesus always does, he embraces the son with open arms. Adorns him with robe, sandals, and ring. Calls for the fatted calf to be cooked for a great celebration, because what was lost has been found. The son has come home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This parable sits so well within the season of Lent, doesn’t it? The themes of the parable seem so relevant and appropriate. </div>
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The younger son betrays his family. Claims inheritance, turns his back, and abuses the gift. He squanders the goodness he was given. Almost as though he didn’t even know or appreciate what he really had.</div>
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He wanders the world, literally to another country, and journeys through his own personal wilderness. A wilderness wrought with the lures of the world. A wilderness that eats his material possession, leaving him for dead and despair.</div>
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He experiences a sense of revelation or remembrance. A moment of self-discernment and assessment. It’s such a moment that he turns around to head home...a home with an uncertain welcome.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The younger son arrives home, ready to confess and repent, but before he even has a chance to say he’s sorry, the father is already rejoicing. The sin isn’t given power in the story...rather forgiveness takes top billing. </div>
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And how about the father. It was not the custom of the day for older men to run. But this father, whom I imagine had waited weeks or more for his son to return. Despite the shame upon his family and the judgement of neighbors...once he glimpse the dust of his son’s feet on the horizon, he grasps the edge of his robe and runs. Runs to his son. Embraces him with love and forgiveness and showers him with grace. The father doesn’t even give the son a chance to confess...not because confession isn’t important, but because forgiveness is so much powerful. Grace prevails.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We know the story like the back of our hand don’t we? Its characters and parallels? <o:p></o:p></div>
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So often the story bates us into relating to the younger son.. Perhaps we too have been short-sighted, naive, and lost? ...wandering on our own, squandering the gracious gifts we have been given to pursue the lure of worldly temptations? Most of all the parable then reminds us of a Father so loving and forgiving, that grace is freely and abundantly given. Without condition? That maybe confession isn’t a prerequisite for God’s grace, but rather an expression of it?</div>
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The story then calls us to our own experience of self-assessment and discernment. Have you wandered and squandered? Are you ripe for repentance? Scared to return to the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, body, and mind? It’s an easy and honest parallel for us to make. Us as the younger son.</div>
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But I think it does us well to remember why Jesus told us this parable in the first place. In verse 1, he says, Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">2 </span></sup>And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, "This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them.” They were grumbling that Jesus welcomes all to the banquet table. Not only welcomes, but seeks out. Pulls up the edge of his robe and runs after. Welcoming them home with an embrace of forgiveness before that have a chance to fully confess their sin. They were appalled and disgusted that Jesus would conduct himself in such a way.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Remember now, there was a man who had two sons. And the older son offers a more convicting reality for us. Perhaps we find ourselves with the older son? Hard-working, patient, and obedient. Going the extra mile in our faith. Taking the extra steps to ensure that the gifts promised to us are rightly accepted? Maybe you relate to the older son, annoyed by God’s ability to forgive again and again, people who you may think don’t deserve it. Angry at the father’s unconditional forgiveness? Frustrated at how delighted God can be to find the squandering sinners and welcome them home? Are you ever weary that perhaps the repentant sinner isn’t worthy of celebration just yet? Good for them for repenting, but are they really worthy of such an extravagant party?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Both sons have something to teach us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The father leaves his house for both sons. Pursues them both. Invites them both to the banquet. And most of all, ensures them both that his love is endless and abounding, steadfast and abundant. It never wavers. And it never judges.n<o:p></o:p></div>
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We know this story, don’t we? The story of a God who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. A God who waits in the most abiding way as we wander restlessly in our faith? A God who pours out the most abundant and gracious gifts of grace and forgiveness...again and again despite our squandering. A God so loving and caring. A God that dines with sinners and offers the most outlandish celebration for each and every sinner. A God who always, always, always welcomes us home. And it’s not so much THAT God welcomes us home again and again, but the way God welcomes us home. With open arms and persistent forgiveness. Running to us. Again and Again. Pursuing us with love and mercy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We know this story, don’t we? <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is why we participate in the season of Lent and the Great Three days of Holy Week. Not simply to hear again the stories we know...but to know that we are apart of God’s story. To experience the radical love of a Father for his son. For his children. </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached 03.31.2019 at St. Mark's JAX</span></div>
Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-83752926149972312072019-03-25T08:54:00.001-07:002019-03-25T08:54:55.488-07:00Repent or Perish - Sermon on Luke 13:1-9 <div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0.25in 0in 4pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #771000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 13:1-9<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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At that very time there were some present who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">2 </span></sup>He asked them, "Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans?<sup><span style="color: #222222;">3 </span></sup>No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">4 </span></sup>Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem?<sup><span style="color: #222222;">5 </span></sup>No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">6 </span></sup>Then he told this parable: "A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">7 </span></sup>So he said to the gardener, "See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">8 </span></sup>He replied, "Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig around it and put manure on it.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">9 </span></sup>If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.' "</blockquote>
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It seems no matter how often I read this text, I get caught up on Jesus saying, “but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” Perhaps it’s because he says it twice...or maybe it’s because it’s a bit of a terrifying, out-of-the-ordinary statement from Jesus. Repent or Perish. And to drive his point home he uses the image of a perfectly innocent fig tree, which has a rather fruitless history. And because there is no fruit, which is a metaphor for repentance and a life in God’s will, the master is prepared to cut it down. But the gardner intercedes and advocates for patience. Give it just one more year. Allow the tree to be tended and cultivated..to be properly nourished and nurtured. Surely then we will see fruit. And if it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.'” So the Master yields. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Repent or perish. These are powerful words with dangerous implications. There are whole ideologies in our world, especially in this country who take these words out of the context of the gospel and use them not only to condemn anyone they consider to be unworthy of God’s grace, but they also celebrate tragedies as signs of God’s divine judgment upon sinners. These folks, whom I refuse to give any power to their name, they prey upon victims of serious natural or national tragedies. And I don’t mean prayer as conversation with God. I mean they prey upon them like a lion in the wild, ready to pounce on people’s pain and suffering to amplify their misconstrued theology that bad things happen to you because you are sinful. Repent or perish is there motto. It’s a powerful and scary interpretation of Jesus’ words this day. It’s a dangerous destructive theology. And it’s all the more reason to give these words the time and attention they deserve. </div>
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In today’s text Jesus is still en route to Jerusalem. He knowingly continues to the city that will be less than welcoming. In fact they will be hostile and abusive. And all throughout his journey to Jerusalem he never relinquishes from teaching and healing. He never tires in his work for the Kingdom. </div>
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Today he encounters some folks who share a tragic story and then ask a very understandable and difficult theological question. They tell Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.” And the question that arises is if these Galileans were sinners, and even more so, were they murdered for their sins. Why did these people die? Jesus references another tragic event, in which some 18 people were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them. Again the question is raised, why did these people die? Were they sinful? Did they die as a result of their sinfulness. Is God issuing some form of divine judgment? And if so, should we be nervous? <o:p></o:p></div>
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These are common ponderings aren’t they? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why do earthquakes debilitate 3rd world countries for a generation? Why do hurricanes regularly level coastlines and why do wildfires continue to decimate communities? Why do our children continue to die at gunpoint? Why do soldiers face the destruction of war? Why do buildings fall and bridges break? Why do accidents happen to innocent people? Why are women and children sexually assaulted, and whole populations of people abused and neglected for their uniqueness. Why is cancer so ravenous and destructive? Why do bad things happen to good people? What did they do to deserve this? How did God allow this to happen? </div>
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These are the vulnerable pleas of our faith. And today that crowd approaches Jesus on our behalf and raises the question of divine judgment or worse, punishment. </div>
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And honestly, these are all truly unfortunate occurrences. The Galileans killed by Pilate and the 18 killed by the tower of Siloam falling. They are sad. But the truth is they are completely independent of anyone’s sin or innocence. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Natural disaster and national tragedies are awful. Truly unfortunate. Things break. Bridges fail. Towers collapse. The earth shakes and the mountains tremble. Oceans rage and fires spread. All terribly sad. But I refuse to believe that any of these tragedies are the result of a victims’ own sins or sinfulness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Certainly such acts or disaster or tragedy are the result of a sinful person making a sinful decision. We see this all the time, especially with gun violence now-a-days. Pilate killed the Galileans...a sinful act resulting in unfortunate tragedy. But I refuse to believe that God is casting divine judgement as punishment for a victim’s individual or corporate sin. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Being the victim of a tragedy is not punishment for one’s own sin. Nor is it an indication for sinfulness. Despite what the picketers may say. And thank God for that, because if it were so, then we would live our lives in constant fear of divine judgment. We’d constantly be looking over our shoulder. Such tragedies do not teach us about God’s divine judgment or God’s grace. If anything, such tragedies...like Pilate murdering the Galileans or the tower falling on 18 inno<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">cent bystanders..the teach us of the frailty of life. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And tragedies make life short. Eighteen people died when a tower fell on them. These folks were no worse than anyone else. It was a random occurrence, and honestly any of us can be in the wrong place at the wrong time, and become the victim of an accident or tragedy. T</span>his is the kind of fear the crowds laid before Jesus in this morning’s text.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So what do we make of Jesus saying “but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did.” </div>
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At first glance, it seems that Jesus is placing repentance at odds with perishing as divine judgement. Suggesting that these are your only two choices, and we must decide now. And to not repent means perishing for sinful behaviour. So choose wisely. No, I suspect Jesus is being a bit more rich than that, in light of the crowds concern with recent tragedy and accident. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Perapas, rather than interpret Jesus as offering an ultimatum, Jesus is acknowledging that life is short. Tragedy and accidents can make life short. Too short and too unpredictable in fact, to live an unrepentant life. And for us to think that human suffering is a result of divine punishment for sinfulness...that’s too easy. Too simple. So, Repent, Jesus says, because life is too short, and it’d be truly unfortunate to die or perish unrepentant. Seems like a relevant message for the season of Lent, doesn’t it?</div>
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This is why we begin Lent with Ash Wed….a humble and vulnerable proclamation that life can be short. That we will all die one day. And from dust and dust, we proclaim and worship a God who is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. God is patient and persistent. Like a patient, passionate gardner...abiding to the fig tree as long as needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the good news is that repentance is less about finding ourselves or working to become a better person as it is about being found by God. Acknowledging God’s gift of a life and grace. Accepting God’s relentless pursuit of God’s children...regardless of sin or innocence. Repentance isn’t a measure of human ability or achievement. Repentance is a the full acceptance of God’s abundance. God’s patient and love-filled pursuit. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And the truth is, we run. We love to run and resist the abundant love of a patient and passionate God. And so repentance is to be found. To be found by a persistent God who never relinquished love. To be found and loved. To be forgiven by grace. Repentance is to acknowledge God finding us, and turn around...with our whole hearts in worship and praise.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is the power of a more abundant theology. Repent or perish isn’t an explanation for tragedy or accident as divine judgement or punishment. Rather, repent or perish is to acknowledge that frailty of life….A life rich with God’s love, and to perish is to deny, ignore, abandon, dismiss, or take for granted that love. To perish is to live in absence or ignorance of God’s love. And Jesus deeply desires and longs that no one perish.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This brings us back to Lent. A season dedicated to self assessment and discernment. For a mere 40 days we identify, name, and turn away from the parts of our life that cause us to perish...to disrupt, dismiss, or destroy our relationship of God. Our time in Lent is an intentional commitment to being found. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And when are found, again and again, God, who is slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, offers us nourishment and nutrient. God empowers us with love, and waters us with grace. So that we may grow to bear good fruit. Fruit of a God’s gracious love. Fruit of repentance. Fruit that boasts to the world of a God who creates, nourishes, and nurtures...not punishes and destroys. A God who is compassionate and forgiving, not vengeful and vindictive. A who God who is empowering and affirming. Abiding and abundant. A God who allows no one to perish. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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© Pastor Daniel Locke, Preached March 24, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran, Jacksonville, FL</div>
Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-51576886887058172132019-03-19T18:33:00.000-07:002019-03-19T18:33:44.866-07:00The Warm Embrace of the Kingdom - Sermon on Luke 13:31-35<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #771000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 13:31-35<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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31 At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, "Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, "Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">33 </span></sup>Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.'<sup><span style="color: #222222;">34 </span></sup>Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing!<sup><span style="color: #222222;">35 </span></sup>See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.' " <span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></blockquote>
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Well friends, We’re 10 days into the season of Lent now, and since I asked last week, I figure I’ll ask again, How is your Lenten experience going thus far? Have you encountered, resisted, or given in to any temptations? Have you confronted any demons or experienced any release in your self-assessment and discernment?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lent is such a unique gift for us as Christians. We intentionally enter into a 40 day journey of exploring our faith with the grace to weed out all the noise and false hope in our lives. I was talking with a friend the other day who has Lutheran tradition in her past, but now attends a non-denominational church. And she was lamenting that while deep in her liturgical soul she knew it was lent, but she was now in a community of faith that didn’t recognize or celebrate the liturgical calendar.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And my heart was heavy for her because even though she could certainly take on the season of Lent on her own, I could tell that she was deeply longing for a community to journey with. A community that was willing to be vulnerable with her and intentionally take on a season of penitence and reflection. Introspection and contemplation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s what Lent is, and the beauty of it all is that it is something we choose to do. It’s an opportunity we take on, Perhaps begrudgingly at times, but as a community of faith, rooted in our liturgical tradition, we spend a mere 40 days looking within ourselves and our lives to discern the aspects that disrupt our relationship with God. And we do so among our siblings in Christ. A community committed to the humble and vulnerable practice of Lent, which helps us to be mutually accountable. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ya know, God is fully invested in us. God abundantly and endlessly pours out grace upon grace, naming and claiming us as children of God, brining is in to the one body of Christ. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And so it is together, as a community, as a whole that we spend time confessing and repenting that we have fallen short. Naming the temptations that fester, disturb, and destroy our God-given relationships. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is why we Lent. Starting with Ash Wednesday- a service of extended confession and an imposition of ashes. Reminding one another that we were created by God from dust and to dust we shall return. And God does remarkable things even with dust. And on our dusty foreheads we bear the overwhelming yet freeing witness that we are utterly and wholly dependent upon God. Everything else fades away, but God and God alone creates, empowers, sustains, and saves. This is why take on Lent. This is why we journey through Lent together.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, as I asked last week and will likely ask again, how is your Lenten journey going? 10 days, are you weary or even renewed? <o:p></o:p></div>
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In our gospel text today we meet Jesus already in the midst of his own journey. Last week we read about Jesus’ own battle with temptation in the wilderness, as the crafty and luring devil makes several valiant attempts to lead Jesus into false power and false hope. Since then Jesus’ has been busy with the work of the kingdom, teaching and healing, restoring lives, extending grace, and ushering in hope. </div>
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In chapter nine, there is a definitive moment when Jesus turns and set his sights on Jerusalem. He gathered his disciples and said, “<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #222222;">We are going up to </span><span style="color: #222222;">Jerusalem<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law.” </span></span>And so in the 13th chapter of Luke today, Jesus is working his way to the great threes days. He’s journeying to a final destination, a city that will reject, ignore, beat, and ultimately kill him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our text today begins with a word of warning from the Pharisees. They advise Jesus that if he stay on his current trajectory, Herod lays in wait. And even the Pharisees, for whatever reason, advise Jesus to turn around. To go the other way, lest he risk being killed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Last weekend I had the privilege of meeting with a 7 year old girl and her family to talk about baptism. And during our conversation of talking about Jesus, I mentioned that they killed him. And she looked at me stunned and said why? Why would they want to kill Jesus? All he wanted to do was love people and be nice. Why would they kill him. And all I could think to say was, “That’s a brilliant question.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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But that’s what we do with prophets. Those who speak with prophetic voices...Whether a message that convicts or confronts our comfortable way of life, or a message that rocks our core because deep down we know it to be true, but don’t want to face the weight of truth. We like to rejected because the message they carry is not one we want to hear. Or at the very least ignore. Maybes it’s simply fear or ignorance, but we, and I mean our history of saints as well, tend to have an aversion to prophets and those who speak prophetically. So Jerusalem, and us still today, like to suppress the prophet. In Jesus’ case they kill him.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But Jesus is not provoked nor is he deterred. His journey to Jerusalem and ultimately his death is unwavered because Jesus knows something that we have yet to full learn. That is the work of the Kingdom of God...the work of healing and justice, of releasing demons and ushering hope...the kingdom work is not conditioned or dictated by Worldly structures, political leaders, or human influence. The work of God in Jesus Christ and the work of the Kingdom will continue and it will come to fullness on God’s time. On the third day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So rather than turn around, Jesus looks ahead to this broken city and laments. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! Jesus uses such powerful imagery. How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Beautiful. Jesus has such a gift for using incredible imagery to help the disciples and others understand what he is teaching. This is one of the things that makes him such a great teacher. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Just prior to today’s story, Jesus taught the disciples about the kingdom of God using images like a mustard seeds, yeast in dough, and a narrow door. Later, in chapter 14, he describes the persistence nature of God with parables sheep, coins, and children. <i> </i>Jesus has such an eloquent way of using the aspects of common day life to teach about God’s abundant grace and love and the impending kingdom of God. And Jesus always spoke this way to help people understand what he was teaching. So as he laments over Jerusalem this morning, he does it again….How often have I desired to gather the children of Jerusalem together as a hen gathers her chicks beneath her wing. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The image of Jesus as a mother hen is such a beautiful image. It’s delicate, much like the image of Jesus as a lamb, but it carries a sense of strength, authority, and protection, like the image of Jesus as a shepherd. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We know that feeling don’t we? If not, I’m sure we long for it. Who among us hasn’t experienced or desired a longing to be brooded like a chick to a hen? Maybe you recall a time when we were younger, more innocent. Perhaps it came from our own mothers or fathers or a family friend? An experience with someone so loving that they offer both sense of authority and security while also offering an embrace of warmth and comfort? <o:p></o:p></div>
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I remember so fondly as a kid, I would climb on my dad’s bed and provoke him into a wrestling match that I knew I would lose. He would bear hug me...I would struggle to break free. After only a few min, I would be so tired and body would go limp...and I would lie in the protection and comfort of my dad’s arms. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps you know that feeling? Or have experienced that embrace?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Story about losing my passport in Germany. Listen to audio above.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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This image of a hen is so powerful. Jesus wants an intimate connection with the people of Jerusalem. Like a hen with her chicks - and if you’ve ever seen a picture of this or actually seen a hen covering her chicks with her wings, it’s something very special. The hen puffs out her feathers and ushers them all in and the chicks almost disappear completely beneath her wings. The chicks are so absorbed in the hen that it’s hard to see where the hen ends and the chicks begin. So what Jesus is saying with this image is that he wants the children of Jerusalem to come and be protected and intimately connected to him - absorbed into him and his ministry. He wants to offer them protection through salvation. He wants them to see and encounter the kingdom of God that he is proclaiming. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And maybe it would seem a bit ironic that this is how he wants the people of Jerusalem to feel. Ironic that Jesus wants to gather <i>these </i>people up and protect them. Jerusalem, this supposed holy city, that continues to turn against God and against the prophets and messengers that God sends to them - this city that Jesus grieves over.<i> </i> Jerusalem is the city that will, in just a few weeks, turn Jesus over to the authorities and cry out for his crucifixion<i>. </i> This is the city that, even after Jesus’ death, refuses to turn toward God and follow Jesus’ disciples. </div>
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Jerusalem, the city that is unwelcoming and unkind to prophets, the very city that will reject, deny, punish, and kill Jesus...these are the people Jesus longingly desires to pull in, comfort, protect, and envelop in his love<i>.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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And maybe that’s not simply ironic...But rather the epitome of the gospel. God’s unwavering and unconditioned love for the world. The the gospel in one image.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This kind of unity, this kind of brooding is what Jesus calls us to when he calls us under his wings. He desires for Jerusalem to come under his wings and participate in his work with him, going along as he goes, healing as he heals. Jesus wants to pull people into himself so intimately that they are a part of him, participating in the work that God has called him to do. He longs for all people to be brought into the kingdom of God. As we say now, becoming the body of Christ. </div>
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Jesus wants us - you and me - to be caught up in this kind of work too. Like a mother hen endless offering embrace, Jesus is constantly coming after us. Relentless pursuing us for participation with the kingdom work he is doing in the world. Like the children of Jerusalem, Jesus longs for us to witness and participate in the kingdom of God today. It is in our baptism that we are first called into the body of Christ and every time we eat the bread and drink the wine, we are renewed and sustained in the body of Christ. It is these two practices that keep us in synch, that keep us nestled under the protective wings of Christ. </div>
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<br /><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">In this season of Lent, when we are called to examine ourselves and examine our lives, we hear something calming, reassuring, warm - as if we are being nestled under the wings of our savior. </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">We hear of Jesus’ relentless love. We hear of a God so loving that God would send God’s son to heal the sick, bind up the broken, give sight to the blind, and raise the dead to new life. We hear of a savior that wishes to save and comfort the very people who have denied him and so many prophets before him. We hear of a savior so heartbroken for his children that even as they put him on the cross, he asks his father in heaven to forgive them. We hear of Christ’s relentless love that never fails, even when it is crucified.</span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">So despite all of our fears and failures...despite how your lenten journey may or may not be going...despite that we too often deny the voice of the prophet, just like Jerusalem, Jesus still desires to gather us in, like chicks under his motherly wings, so that we might come to know, to taste, and see the power of relentless love. So that we might participate and join others to nestle within the kingdom of God. </span><span style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Amen.</span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached March 17, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran, Jacksonville, FL.</span></span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-19886402378426317622019-03-11T04:38:00.002-07:002019-03-11T04:38:52.298-07:00Confronting Temptation - Sermon on Luke 4:1-16<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0.25in 0in 4pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #771000; font-family: times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14.85px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 4:1-13<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness,<sup>2 </sup>where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished.<sup>3 </sup>The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread."<sup>4 </sup>Jesus answered him, "It is written, "One does not live by bread alone.' "<sup>5 </sup>Then the devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world.<sup>6 </sup>And the devil said to him, "To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please.<sup>7 </sup>If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours."<sup>8 </sup>Jesus answered him, "It is written, "Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.' "<sup>9 </sup>Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here,<sup>10 </sup>for it is written, "He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,'<sup>11 </sup>and "On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.' "<sup>12 </sup>Jesus answered him, "It is said, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' "<sup>13 </sup>When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. </blockquote>
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Welcome, everyone, again to the season of Lent. If this is your first time experiencing Lent within the context of the Christian or even the protestant church, welcome. We’re glad you’re joining us. I deeply enjoy the season of Lent, and I often envy folks who get to experience it all for the first time. From Ash Wednesday, through the next 40 days. Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil. Oh man, I don’t recall my first ever experience with Lent, outside of giving up soda as a kid….but could you imagine if you were new to Christianity and experiencing the Protestant season of Lent for the first time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, if that’s you, welcome. I pray that the next forty days of Lent is meaningful, pleasantly penintial, contemplative, enlightening, and above all full of personal and spiritual growth. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think too often we take not just Lent, but the whole Christian liturgical calendar for granted. For those of us who have been in the Protestant or Lutheran church for our entire lives, we know it’s coming. We know what to expect...and we know the routine. I think that is both good...and unfortunate. Good because we embody the seasons. Our lives ...hearts, bodies, minds, and souls sync to an internal liturgical pattern that empowers and sustains. A Liturgical pattern that never disappoints. It’s stable and reliable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But it’s a bit unfortunate because embodying the ebbs and flows of the liturgical calendar shares a fine boundary with complacency and apathy. We risk taking it for granted. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our lectionary calendar technically has six seasons - Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost. These season have a natural flow to them - 1st, a season of reflection and contemplation, then a day or season of celebration, and then a season of Growth. So, in the winter we have Advent, Christmas, and Epipany. A pattern of Waiting and reflection, a season of celebration at Christmas, and then a season of growth - Epiphany. This is why the color of the Epiphany season is green.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Today we start the pattern over again. Reflection and contemplation, celebration, and growth. Lent, Easter, and the time after Pentecost, which is also green.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Lent is a season of penitence and reflection. Introspect and contemplation. For 40 days we look within ourselves and our lives discern the aspects that disrupt our relationship with God. God is fully invested in us. God named and claimed us. God abundantly and endlessly pours out grace upon grace. And for these short 40 days we acknowledge and confess that we have fallen short of God’s gift for us. We identify all the temptations of our life that fester, disturb, and destroy God’s relationship with us. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is why we start Lent with Ash Wednesday. A service of extended confession and an imposition of ashes. Reminding one another that we were created by God from dust and to dust we shall return. And God does incredible things through the dust. Ash Wednesday ushers us into the season of Lent with a humble and powerful reminder that we are utterly dependent upon God. Everything else fades away, but God and God alone creates, empowers, sustains, and saves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We’re 4 days into Lent now, and I’m curious, how is your Lenten experience going thus far? I suspect for some of us, we might be thinking...Oh shoot, did I miss ash wed. I completely forgot it was even Lent. I forgot to give something up...or take something on...oh well too late. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Let me say, not true! Lent is not like new years. You know...how you promise yourself that you’ll join a gym on Jan 1 and before you know it it’s March and you think...eh, next year. No, Lent is an intentional 40 day journey, with each and everyday to self-assess, confront the temptations in your life, repent, and try again. If you completely missed the Lent train, jump on today.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Plus, you’re likely in good company. How many of us have every “given something up for lent or promised ourselves we’d commit to some new spiritual practice or exercise of self care..and then once we miss or forget a day we say, oh well?!?! I promised myself I would read 30 min everyday for Lent. May I confess, I haven’t made it past the title. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But for those of you who did make a personal decision to improve, correct, or challenge yourself for 40 days….we’re on day 4, and this is probably about the moment you’re starting to get jittery. Jonesing for that chocolate bar or adult beverage. Craving that diet coke or cigarette. Maybe you're tired of passing up your fiction vampire novel for the Bible. This is probably about the moment that you’re famished and starting to gasp for air. Reaching for a way out or an excuse to have a cheat day. You’re about ready to say oh well, next year. Anybody reach that point?! <o:p></o:p></div>
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You’re fighting temptation. And every time we fight temptation we grow. It’s like committing to running on the treadmill for 20 min only to look up and see that you’re 2 min away from the next mile marker. Gasping for air you could be done and walk away. Or you could you push forward, finish that mile and know you had every reason to quit but didn’t.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Life is an endless cycle of fighting temptations. Temptations that lure you into believing you’re not capable or powerful. Taunting you to believe that you’re important, strong, smart, or beautiful. Temptation mocks, laughs, teases, taunts, and destroys our sense of self-worth and self value. Of who and whose we are. Temptation promises to fill and fulfill us in all sorts of empty ways. And Lent...Lent is 40 days of intentionally acknowledging and fighting the temptations. Even if it is a mountain dew or Milkshake...red meat or netflix. For forty days we choose to acknowledge and fight the lure of temptation itself, to confront our own personal temptations, and they’re different for each of us….but we fight them and we grow...and as we grow we are reminded that we are not dependent upon the things...the stuff...the power or status...the false ideals and temptations…we are reminded that we are only truly and wholly dependent upon God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And when we’re committed to the season of lent and the beauty of repentance, we can hear the voice of our tempters...dismiss them...and turn to God. Lent can be a rough but rewarding 40 days of spiritual growth. And admittedly, it’s not something that we would typically bring upon ourselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It seems appropriate then that our Lenten journey today starts not only within scripture, but with the familiar story of Jesus own experience of temptation in the wilderness. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In today’s story, Jesus who is full of the Spirit and likely still dripping wet from his baptism is led into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. <span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And it’s then, famished, tired, and alone that the devil mocks Jesus and makes three final attempts at temptation.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">First, the devil asks Jesus, “</span>If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.” It should be noted that the devil isn’t question if Jesus is the son of God. In the original language the answer is implied within the question. So, the devil says, if you really are the son of God, and I know that you are….command this stone to become bread.” The devil preys on Jesus being famished and tempts Jesus to convert stone into food. But Jesus fires back without hesitation that One does not live by alone. That is to say that while bread would be delicious for a famished stomach...it would only provide simple, temporary satisfaction. Rather it is trust in God and God alone that nourishes and sustains life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Next the devil tempts Jesus with power and authority over all the kingdoms of the world if he but worship the devil. But again, Jesus is quick to quote scripture and say, “It is written, "Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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The devil offers Jesus the power to impose his control and dominion over all people, and while that sort of power may be tempting, God has a greater kingdom in mind. A kingdom that reaches far beyond the earthly, political realm. The kingdom of God is one that is equitable and fair...one that empowers its people rather than reward status.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally, the devil tries a new tactic by quoting scripture himself. He says, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here,<sup>10 </sup>for it is written, "He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,'<sup>11 </sup>and "On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone.” But Jesus, truly knowing scripture as opposed to memorizing it says, "It is said, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus faces significant temptation. Temptation that looks nice. Sounds wonderful. Even tastes good. But these temptations, while shiny and luring, are empty promises. Promises that only leave the fleeting feeling of power, satisfaction, or fullness. But Jesus, famished, tired, and alone denies the devil’s lure...and resists with an utter and complete dependence upon God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Now to be clear, it is not my intention to suggest that our own experience with temptation is anything close to Jesus’. After all, Jesus definitively resist all temptation, whereas we fall short endlessly. I think Jesus is a model and witness by which we all strive to match, but continuously fail to achieve. This is what sets Jesus apart, and he’ll ultimately go so far as to defeat the devil through the cross in the resurrection.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">In fact, it’s the resurrection of Christ that even empowers us to choose the discipline of Lent in the first place. It’s the power of Christ and the promise of God to abide beyond sin death and the devil, the we approach lent with penitence and intentional self-reflection. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I think today’s story of Jesus being tempted in the wilderness, which is perfectly placed at the start of Lent is not simply a lesson or tutorial for fending off satan’s lure, but I think Jesus’ experience in the wilderness is a lesson about just how tempting the devil can be. And it’s different for each of us. Everyone experiences and confronts their own breadth of temptations. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">And Lent invites us, if only for 40 days to recognize and acknowledge temptation. Knowing full and well that we will not always be faithful or successful in dismissing the lure. And that’s what we call a wilderness journey. A time of wandering and wondering. Of self-assessment and discernment. Of mirage and false hope. These 40 days are a voluntary trip into the wilderness to face the devils in our life, the very things that destroy or disrupt our relationship with God. And and as we journey, we grow. We confront the all the things that cannot save us, losing our appetite for fleeting power, false wealth, and temporary worth. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">And most of all, we grown in our faith, learning and re-learning to trust the Holy Spirit. Trusting that it is God and God alone who saves. Because at the end of our 40 days, at the end of our introspection and repentance, Christ rises from the dead. Amen. </span>Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-85025440185426764742019-01-13T09:23:00.000-08:002019-02-07T13:43:18.442-08:00Claimed by God and Nothing Can Change That - Sermon on Luke 3:15-22 - 01.13.2019<div style="border: medium; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.85px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-size: 14.85px; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></span></span></div>
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<b>Luke 3:15-17, 21-22<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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15 As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">16 </span></sup>John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">17 </span></sup>His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">21 </span></sup>Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heaven was opened,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">22 </span></sup>and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, "You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased."</blockquote>
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A little show and tell for you this morning. “This certifies that Daniel Brady Locke, son of John and Susan Locke was received into the Holy Christian Church through The Sacrament of Holy Baptism in the name of the Father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit in St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Claremont, NC on July 19, 1987. Signed by Pastor Stanely L. Stiver.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is my Certificate of Baptism. My show and tell for the day. I also have, believe it or not, a bulletin, a picture, and the baptismal cloth used to dry my head. I can never remember what hymn we sang that morning, so it’s nice to look back and see we sang “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me.” <i> </i><o:p></o:p></div>
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July 19, 1987. That’s the day God washed over me, cleansed me, made me whole, and made me an heir to the promise of eternal life. That is the day that God named and claimed me as God’s child. And from that moment on, there was NOTHING, is nothing that I could/can do, thank God, to change that. Daniel Brady Locke, child of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now, believe it or not, I don’t remember much of anything about that day. And to be completely honest, I didn’t know many of the specifics of my baptism until my seminary application directly asked questions about my baptism.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But pictures from that day tell me that I was surrounded by my parents and grandmothers, my 5 year old brother, aunts and uncles, and of course a entire congregation of people I didn’t yet know. <o:p></o:p></div>
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At 6 weeks old, I was introduced to the sacrament of Holy Baptism. Water was poured over my head. I was cleansed. I was washed clean from the power of sin, death, and the devil. God intimately and inextricably claimed me forever. <o:p></o:p></div>
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How many of you can recall your baptism? Certainly most of us have no actual memory of the event, but rather do you know what day you were baptized? Who were your sponsors? In what community of faith were you baptized. Do you recall the promises made by God? By your parents and/or sponsors? By the community of faith.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or if you haven’t been baptized, have you given any thought into being baptized? Do you desire to be apart of the body of christ, to die in a death like Christ, and rise into new life like Christ? <o:p></o:p></div>
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To be washed by the water and claimed by God as a child of God?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or best yet, how many times have you participate in a baptism? As a family member, sponsor, or simply a member of the congregation? How many times have you replied “We Will and we ask God to help and guide us” when the pastor asks, “Do you promise to support and pray for the newly baptised in their new life in Christ?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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I grew up in the church. The ELCA was born when I was a year old. The Lutheran church is all I’ve ever known. And even though as a kid I didn’t know much about my baptism or the significance of being baptised, I distinctly remember the font. It was made of wood and stood about 4.5 half feet off the ground. It was about a foot and a half wide and was in the shape of an octagon. It had pretty, decorative wood carvings around the edges. I have seen many like it since then.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But what I remember most is that it had a silver, metal bowl that sat in the top and there was a wooden lid with a cross on the top. And for my entire childhood, the font sat off to the side of the sanctuary, with no water, and the lid on top. It was only opened and filled when there was a baptism. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In retrospect, it seems so strange to me that we would keep something so central to our faith, a sacrament none-the-less, something so foundational to our identity, that we would keep it off to the side and out of mind unless needed. Why not bring it front and center. Prominent and overflowing. A constant visual reminder of the grace of God. A testament to who and whose we are?</div>
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Today we celebrate Baptism of Our Lord Sunday. Following Advent and Christmas, we continue to the season and Spirit of Epiphany...of Christ being made known, and we celebrate Christ being baptized in the river Jordan.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And Today, our gospel text brings baptism front and center. John the Baptist was busy preaching and teaching. He was on the scene out of the wilderness and he had developed quite the following. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Our text says that people were filled with expectation, eager with anticipation. They were questioning whether John might be the one. The messiah they had longed for. </div>
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Then John does what in my opinion is one of the most humblest things in all of scripture. Rather than play up the crowds and anticipation and soak in their affection and curiosity. John steps out of the way. He moves to the side. He points to Christ. John redirects their attention. He bows out and lifts up Christ. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And out of the crowds, out from among them, Jesus comes forth to be baptized. And what seems like just another baptism, this one has a different result. The heaves split open and the Holy Spirit descended upon Jesus in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Front and center, at the start of Jesus’ public ministry, God declares Jesus as God’s son, a beloved child, in whom God is well pleased. Jesus is the Messiah, the one hoped for. All of the crowds’ and the world's expectations fulfilled and assured in that moment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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About the time I was in late elementary school, Pastor Stanley Stiver retired from St. Mark’s, and we welcomed a wonderful man, named Jim Stephenson. Within his first week, he made two major changes to the worship space. <o:p></o:p></div>
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First, he pulled the altar away from the wall. I’ve since learned that they were called Walltars. Anyways, he moved it forward so that he could stand behind it during communion. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The second thing he moved was the font. He placed the baptismal font in the front of the sanctuary, just in front of the steps. He removed the lid and filled it with water. And every single sermon, after reading the gospel from the pulpit, he would make his way to the font and preach from the water. He had a small index card for his notes, and no matter what the topic of his sermon, no matter the text he would always always find some way to play in the water.</div>
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He was notorious for splashing around in the water, reminding us of our baptism. His affection for the font and the water gave deeper meaning and and appreciation for who and whose we are. He was known for dipping his hands in the water and saying, “in the name of the father, the name of the son and the name of Holy surprises.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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On his last day as our interim, after reading the gospel from the pulpit, he made his way to the font. Looked down and Smiled as three goldfish swam around in the font. He said, “I wondered how long it would take for this to happen.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Pastor Jim brought baptism front and center. I couldn’t tell you much detail about my baptism, but to this day I can tell you with confidence that Pastor Stephenson's commitment to keeping the sacrament front and center has stuck with me. I credit him for my love and affection for the sacrament. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus, God made flesh, born among us took on death and was victorious. Jesus conquered the grave and the abiding promise of God was fulfilled. God overpowered sin, death, and the devil, making way for new and life eternal.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And it is in the waters of baptism that God claims us as God’s children. Marked with the cross of Christ, Sealed by the holy spirit. The heavens torn a part, the Spirit descends. God makes us heirs of God’s promised salvation. God’s victory over death. <o:p></o:p></div>
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God folds us into the story of compassion, love, grace, peace, and forgiveness. God clothes us in mercy. And NOTHING, absolutely nothing, thank God, can change the life we have in God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Baptism is God’s action. God’s claiming of us. God’s choosing and naming. God welcomes us into the body of Christ and makes us heirs to the most incredible promise. God does this purely out of God’s own goodness. God’s love is that powerful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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On this second Sunday of Epiphany, we celebrate baptism, we bring it front and center intentionally, lest we ever forget who and whose we are. In the waters we die to our old selves, we are made new. We belong to God. Our identity, in the most holistic sense is inextricably connected to God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And out of the waters, everything else in our lives is to be a expression of that grace. A testament to that gift. That child of God and the body of Christ is our one and only true affiliation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the waters God washes away the divisions of world. Race, ethnicity, sex, gender..all the marks of human-made division fail in the grace of God to offer salvation in this holy sacrament.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Make no mistake that every group, organization, party, club, or other affiliation is a choice we make in our lives. Some may have dues or regulations, rules and commitments, but in the end, they’re all choices and they all have the ability to fade away. But baptism, God’s grace-filled claim on God’s people never, never fades away. Never expires. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This is why baptism and remembrance of baptism is so important. I love love love our font. I admit I wish it was deeper, but I’ll save that fight for another day. I love that we literally have to walk around it in order to enter and exit the worship space. And if it weren’t cemented in the back of the church, there’s a good chance I’d be splashing in the water right now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A few weeks ago, during the birthday for Christ service, I was standing in the back with Tracy Williams and her two daughters. Cassidy and I were looking at the font and whispering to one another about the font and what it means. So I dipped my fingers in the water and sprinkled a bit at her and said “remember your baptism.” Cassidy, without missing a beat took her hands in the water like you would in a pool and shoved a big ol wave back at me. Tracy turned around immediately and I confessed that I instigated.<br />
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Martin Luther said that we should rise every morning, splash water in our face, make the sign of the cross, and remember that we belong to God. </div>
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The waters are a foundational, integral part of who and whose we are. If you don’t already, I encourage you to acknowledge the gift of God’s grace each day. Make the sign of the cross when you wash your face. Open the ELW to page 228 and remember the promises made. Run your fingers through the water when enter and exit this space. And thank God, who is well pleased, that there is absolutely nothing in all of creation that can change that truth. </div>
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Amen<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Jan. 13, 2019 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Church, Jacksonville, Florida</span><br />
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-71963063340856464542019-01-07T08:22:00.001-08:002019-01-07T08:22:48.716-08:00Roadwork, Pathways, and Transformations<div dir="ltr" id="docs-internal-guid-32020f0c-7fff-c70b-f246-3dc7207e45e5" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The roadwork on Hendricks Avenue is endless. I was warned when I first arrived in Jacksonville that “they” like to “work” on Hendricks Avenue every other year or so. But ever since I arrived at St. Mark’s, “they” have been paving, stripping, repaving, and paving some more. Some days I feel like Bill Murray in “Groundhog Day,” stuck in repetition. Didn’t they pave this exact lane yesterday? </span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Last week, I was sitting in traffic on University Blvd, waiting to turn on to Hendricks Avenue, and I heard the words of the prophet Isaiah in my head as John the Baptist is introduced in Luke 3, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth;</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 700; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.’”</span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If Advent is a season of anticipation and preparation, anxious yet patient waiting-- a season calling us to prepare the way for the king of kings and to straighten and smooth pathways-- then it seemed oddly appropriate that I sit in traffic waiting for a giant truck to lay a new, shiny path for me to journey on. So I waited to turn right, said a prayer of thanksgiving that the return of Jesus was not dependent upon FL-DOT or Duval Asphalt, and then waited some more.</span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">By the time you read this, Advent has come and gone (here’s to hoping we can say the same for the work on Hendricks). We transitioned from Advent to Christmas, and now Christmas to Epiphany as the liturgical cycle continues. But I wonder, have our lives been changed by all the hard work of Advent-- the waiting, anticipation, and preparation? We spent a significant amount of emotional and spiritual energy preparing the way, making straight the paths, filling the valleys, and lowering the mountains. Are we at all changed by the labor of Advent? Or like Hendricks Avenue being “worked” on every other year, are we resigned to simply wait around for another time of waiting? Do we wait for waiting’s sake because that’s what “we” like to do?</span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">True, our waiting comes to somewhat of a culmination on Christmas Eve as we remember the birth of Christ but, deep down within our Christian identities, waiting is deeply rooted in the promised return of our Messiah. And with every season of waiting-- active waiting-- the path is formed, reformed, and transformed. Each cycle of waiting brings new light to the imperfections of our way. Once corrected, lowered, raised, or straightened, our new, shiny way yields a renewed sense of waiting-- active, proclamation-filled waiting. A re-reformed path should be easier to traverse, clearly marked with signs and direction. </span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Maybe I’m naive and hopeful because I’m still new to Jacksonville, but I think the work on Hendricks Avenue will come to an end (even if temporary). Then we will travel Hendricks again and again until such a time that it needs to be “worked” on once more. </span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" />
<div dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.2px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: &quot; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The same is true with us. Advent was a season of waiting and preparation, making straight the paths. Now that Advent has gone (and it will come again), how has your life in Christ been changed? Illumined? Reformed? Transformed? </span></div>
<br style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;" /><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, published 01.2019 in St. Mark's Lutheran January Messenger, Jax, FL.</span>Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-63101942944591478142019-01-07T08:20:00.000-08:002019-01-07T08:20:13.227-08:00A single flame - Sermon on Matthew 2:1-12 - 01.06.2019
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: &quot; font-size: 14.85px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: transparent; color: #771000; font-family: &quot; font-size: 14.85px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">here.</a></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Matthew 2:1-12</span></span></b><b><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></b></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">In the time of King Herod, after Jesu<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">s was born in Bethlehem of Judea, wise men from the East
came to Jerusalem,</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 2 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">asking, "Where is the child who has been born king of
the Jews? For we observed his star at its rising, and have come to pay him
homage."</span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 3 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">When King Herod heard this, he was fri<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ghtened, and all Jerusalem with him;</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 4 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">and
calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired
of them where the Messiah was to be born.</span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 5 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">They told
him, "In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it has been written by the prophet:</span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 6 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">"And
yo<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">u, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means
least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who is to
shepherd my people Israel.' "</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 7 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Then Herod
secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the
star ha<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">d appeared.</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 8 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Then he
sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child;
and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him
homage."</span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 9 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">When they had heard the king, they set out; and there,
ahead of them, wen<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">t the star that they had seen at
its rising, until it stopped over the place where the child was.</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 10 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">When they
saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy.</span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 11 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">On
entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure
chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 12 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">And having
been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country
by another road.</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Today is a significant day, not only because it’s Epiphany,
but because I, as a preacher and pastor have reached what I believe to be a
Rite of Passage in my preaching career. In fact, I think it’s a
significant moment in every pastor’s car<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">eer. It’s the
moment that I decide I really want to share a relevant story to start my sermon
today, but I can’t remember if and when I might have already told it.</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">So,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> let me preface by
saying, if you’ve already heard this story, I’m sorry to be repetitive.
And I hope, despite the repetition, that it might resonate with you
today. On this day of Epiphany. And to be certain, as I continue to grow
in wisdom and age h<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ere at St. Mark’s, this
undoubtedly won’t be the last time I repeat myself. </span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">In the mountains of Tennessee, near Chattanooga, there is a
place called Ruby Falls. Ruby Falls is the nation’s tallest and deepest
underground waterfall. In 2007, dad and I t<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ook a tour
a Ruby Falls. We entered the elevator and descended nearly 1200 feet
below Lookout Mountain. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">And as the doors <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">opened,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> we stepped into a large cavern, busy with tourists.
And just beyond the souvenir stands and food vendors was this
enormous<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> waterfall, Ruby Falls. It was backlit
with red flood lights, making it look like...well...Ruby. The falls were <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">named<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> after the discoverer’s
wife, Ruby.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Once in the cavern we joined our tour group. The tour would
take us deeper into the cave <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">system,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> so we could take in the stalagmite and stalactites and the
wonders of naturally made beauty. After walking a <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">way<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> we stepped
through a big metal door frame into what I would call a dead end… a nightmare
for anyone claustrophobic. <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Once we gathered in<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> the room, the big metal door slammed behind us. Our
tour guide said, “don’t panic...I’m going to turn off the lights.”</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">He turned off the lights and gave us a minute to adjust.
He then said, “you are now standing in completely darkness.” 100%
darkness<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">….” The room was completely deprived of
light. And he told us that no matter what we did or how hard we tried, we would
never be able to see even our hand in front of our face. And what’s even
more terrifying is that he said if we stayed down there long e<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">nough, eventually we would become temporarily blind because
we weren’t using our sense of sight. </span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Now here’s the fun part, and I had no idea this was a
thing. But he said that actually if you take your hands and rub them
together like this really fast, <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">eventually the static
friction between your hands would create a warm blue glow. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">After about a minute of everyone furiously rubbing
their palms <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">together,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> he
cracked and said, I’m just kidding. That’s not true. </span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Then he said, “Let me show you something<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> that is infinitely true. He said, “no matter how
dark it may be, even in 100%, complete darkness, the light of a single flame
can illumine an entire room. A single flame has the power to overcome and
dispel the darkness.” He struck a lighter, and instan<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">tly
we were able to once again see our own hand, our neighbor. And after
enough time, we could see across the room.”</span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">A single flame has the power to overcome and dispel the
darkness. Even in complete, oppressive darkness, a single flame gave us
vision,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> direction, and hope.</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">That is Epiphany. That is the manifestation of Christ
to the whole world. That’s the power of God incarnate, born to the world
to live, breath, reign, and rule as a king of kings, a lord of lords, and
wonderful counselor, and a migh<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ty prince of peace.
Christ as the Messiah, Emmanuel - God with us.</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">A single flame ignited in the dark to drive away the
darkness. To overcome sin, death, and the devil. To dispel the oppressive
darkness in the world.</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">The celebration of Epiphany is a <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">celebration that the light of Christ shines in the darkness
and the darkness does not, <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">cannot<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">, and will not ever overcome it. It is a celebration
that God has become incarnate and taken on life for the sake of the whole
world. All people. All nations. Al<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">l Races. From the
shepherds of the fields watching their sheep by night to wisemen in the East.
</span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Every year on Epiphany we hear this story from Matthew.
The story of wise men from the East, journeying to Bethlehem, guided only
by a star, to see the c<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">hild that has been born king
of the <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Jews<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Tradition has romanticized this story. We have grown
to appreciate the sentimentality of three wise men bringing three gifts worthy
of a king. Tradition has gone so far to name these three wise men and
predic<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">t their origin. Melchior, Caspar, and
Balthazar. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">T</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">he reality is, we don’t know
how many wise men there were or even exactly where they came from. <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">All we know is that they were born into a priestly lineage
within a religion that valued the reading of stars. They were
astrologists, reading the sky. And their place within scripture is recognized
on Epiphany to celebrate the reach and breadth of the me<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ssage of God with us in the birth of Christ. The story of the wise
men marks the overwhelming inclusiveness of God’s love and salvation through
Jesus. From the shepherds of the field to the wise men in the east. </span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Through Christmas and <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Epiphany,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> we celebr<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ate and remember that
God’s promised Messiah is for all people. God’s love incarnate in the
world to live, breathe, and save is for all peoples. All places. All nations.
All races. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">That the light of Christ has been born among us to
ignite the world wi<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">th a promise of everlasting love,
peace, grace, and above all, hope. The love of God shines in the
darkness, revealing the way for all people, restoring hope to all nations.</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">But I think there is another important story to be
told on this day of Epipha<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">ny. The text tells us
that “When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with
him;</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 4 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of
the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born…</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Then Herod secretly cal<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">led for
the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared.</span></span></span><sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: #222222; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> 8 </span></span></sup><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Then he
sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child;
and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him
homage.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">“So that I may also go and pay him homage.” Let’s be
clear that homage in this case does not mean public honor and respect.
King Herod’s motives are not out of admiration or mutual respect. Herod,
frightened and worried, wanted to find the new born king <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">of the <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Jews<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> because he was threatened. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">He knew good and well, not only of the prophecy of a
Messiah born from the lineage of David, but he knew that he was not that king.
He was not of the prophesied lineage and therefore not the king of kings.
And so<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">me day, if prophecies were fulfilled, his reign
as king might be usurped. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">And let’s remember that shortly after Jesus is born,
Joseph, Mary, and the new born king of the Jews flee to Egypt as refugees
because King Herod out of fear and terror orders al<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">l
children 2 and under to be killed in and around Bethlehem. <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">An entire generation of children<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
killed because Herod feared his power was at risk.</span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">On this day of <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Epiphany,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> we celebrate the light of Christ shining in the
darkness...giving way to vision,<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> direction, and hope.
Revealing the way for all people. Epiphany calls us to proclaim this
message of hope. To remind the world that even in the darkest situations, the
light of Christ, a single flame, has the power to overcome and dispel all darkness.</span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">But I think there is another power to this light. The
brighter the light shines, the more it is reflected, the stronger it burns and
the more it unveils. </span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">In our new house Sarah and I have hardwood floors
throughout the entire house. And many of yo<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">u
know that we have a dog. A husky. A very hairy husky. He sheds like it’s his
job and hobby.</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> </span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">And for the most part you don’t notice the dog hair all
over the floor. </span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">But when I pull out the vacuum, plug it in, and turn
it on...there is a small light on the front of the vacuum cleaner and it just
illuminates every single strand of dog hair. The way the light hits the
hardwood at such a low angle….1000s of hairs that we<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">re
previously unseen become ever so present.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">That’s the power of the light of Christ. The light of love,
truth, justice, grace, forgiveness, and peace. </span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">It burns to shed a light on the fractures and cracks
of society. Light to illumine darkness and unveil injustice. Light to
convict wrongdoing, and false witness.</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Light shines not only to the lowest, least, and last
among us, like shepherds in the field <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">watching their
flock by night, empowering a renewed sense of hope and promise. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">But the light also shines to reveal the brokenness of
creation...so the mighty and self-righteous might be cast from their thrones.
</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">If the light of a single flame can illu<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">minate a single room, giving way to vision and hope then
how much more powerful can the promise of <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">God in<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> the Emmanuel burn with each of us. Empowering the body of
Christ to burn as a beacon of hope, casting truth in the face of fear, hate,
and terror. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">That is Epiphany. God’s fulfilled promise to be among us.
As the Messiah. To clothe the <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">downtrodden<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">, faint of heart, discarded, and hopeless in the light of
love, truth, grace, and hope…</span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">To expose and convict the brokenness of the world.
Even to the poi<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">nt of death. </span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><br />
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Friends, there is no doubt that we continue to live
in a dark, broken world. The cracks run deep and there is so much
darkness….so much oppressiveness, sin, injustice, hate, fear, terror, and
brokenness that needs to be illuminated.</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">But <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">let me tell you something
that is infinitely true. The light of Christ still shines this day. In
all places. For all people. In all nations. For all races. And At all
times. The light of Christ shines and it <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">cannot<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">, and will not ever by extinguished. <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">Especially by darkness. There is nothing we can do about
that<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">…. except<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> perhaps fan
the flame, reflect the light, and proclaim the good news...until all the
brokenness of the world is unveiled, and brought forth to repent, believe, and
be made whole.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">
<span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">That <span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">is th</span></span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;">e</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; margin: 0px;"> invitation and power of
Epiphany. Amen.</span></span><span style="border-image: none; border: medium; color: black; margin: 0px;"></span></div>
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike>Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-30196150653082499552018-12-25T10:54:00.001-08:002018-12-25T10:54:15.243-08:00Attentiveness - Sermon on Luke 2:1-22 - Christmas Eve<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<b>Luke 2:1-14 [15-20]</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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1 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">2 </span></sup>This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">3 </span></sup>All went to their own towns to be registered.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">4 </span></sup>Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">5 </span></sup>He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">6 </span></sup>While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">7 </span></sup>And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">8 </span></sup>In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">9 </span></sup>Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">10 </span></sup>But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people:<sup><span style="color: #222222;">11 </span></sup>to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">12 </span></sup>This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">13 </span></sup>And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God and saying,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">14 </span></sup>"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!" [15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let us go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">16 </span></sup>So they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the child lying in the manger.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">17 </span></sup>When they saw this, they made known what had been told them about this child;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">18 </span></sup>and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds told them.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">19 </span></sup>But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">20 </span></sup>The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.]</blockquote>
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<b>Sermon</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s a profound sense of attentiveness this night. I wish you could see what I see. Ya know, every week I stand in the pulpit and read from the gospel. Typically, the majority of folks are reading along in their bulletin. A few are looking at me as a I read, but most are readinging along. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But on a night like tonight, there is a intriguing sense of awareness and attentiveness. Tonight when the gospel was read, a few eyes followed along in the bulletin, but an above average amount of people looked to me as I read. Or rather, looked to the gospel as it was proclaimed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There is a profound sense of attentiveness this night. Now whether that attentiveness comes from genuine intrigued, fascination, and wonder with what God is up to in this story...or if it is rooted in “yah, we know the story, hurry up and get to the good stuff so we can get back home to our presents and packages, our dinners and cookies...our family traditions ...or bed. Either way, tonight’s proclamation of the gospel beckons us into a renewed sense of wonder and attentiveness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That nativity story is one of great familiarity. Perhaps we can’t all recite it perfectly with its many details and nuances, but I suspect the majority of us gathered here can paraphrase it with confidence. It is the same gospel story proclaimed every single year on Christmas Eve, and even if this is your first time worshipping in a Lutheran church on Christmas Eve, I would venture to guess that we all know what to expect this night. The Spirit has brought us all together in this place, and I doubt there was much question as to what passage might be read from scripture.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s a familiar story, and we’re glad to hear. And I think the familiarity of the story makes us extra attentive and aware not because we’re eagerly waiting to hear something new, discover a new angle or detail, uncover some new nugget from within the story that will blow our minds… I think the heightened attentiveness and awareness is because we know the story so well and we rely on this night, we depend on this story because it is constant. It is certain. It is reliable. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So That no matter what is going on in our world...no matter the consternation, brokenness, or despair….the nativity story remains a light of hope. A beacon of love that proclaims a God who is abundantly up to good… A reminder that God defied all expectations and fulfilled a promise to intimately abide with the world through Jesus Christ - the Emmanuel.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In tonight’s story, a young, unwed, and unexpectedly now pregnant couple are required, mandated to return to their place of family origin to be counted in the census. The requirement comes as a decree from Emperor Augustus for all the world to be counted. So they journey to Bethlehem, not by choice but by obligation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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They traveled wearily for days only to be un-welcomed as though they are strangers in a foreign land. They didn’t feel welcome. There was no place for them to stay. No room. They were lost and alone in the city of Bethlehem. And even though they were filled with the promise of God in the form of a baby child...the bearer of God made flesh had no place to lay her head. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In tonight’s story the shepherds, minding their own business were keeping watch over their flocks by night. They were on high alert with intent listening in order to protect the flock. And all due respect to Shepherds, but in that day they did not hold a very high status on the vocational totem poll. They were filthy, dirty, overworked, and underpaid. They worked long hours and slept outside with animals. They were at the bottom of the first century socio-economic world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And in tonight’s story, the story we so dearly love, God acts in the most scandalous way. God becomes incarnate in the form of a baby boy, born to a lowly, unwelcomed and wandering family, born in a setting least suited for a king. Casting the mighty and powerful aside, the heavenly angels declare good news to the poor and lowly. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The angels go to the fields and seek out the discarded and underappreciated shepherd workers and says Today...we bring you good news of great joy for all the people, because a Today a baby is born and that baby is God’s son. And he is the Messiah. He will reign in such a way that the world could never expect. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And Honestly, at its surface, nothing about this story makes sense. Nothing about is deserving of a headline or media frenzy. Nothing about this unknown, unwelcomed couple having an illegitimate child in an unsavory location in the middle of the night is cause for any attention. There is no reason for the world to care. There is no reason for the world to listen to shepherds proclaiming all they’ve seen and heard.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And yet, here we are this Christmas eve to hear the familiar story. With eager anticipation and an attentive ear we lean into something faithful. Something reliable. Something genuine. Something true. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think we trust this story and its place within our lives because it is a proclamation of truth and hope in amidst a world ravaged by false testimony, unfaithful witness, insecurity,... a world that can be experienced as luring and deceptive, bearing false hope to those least, last, and lost. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We tune our ear, like shepherds in a field by night, to the glory of God’s victory. In this precious moment we remember that God took on flesh, for the sake of the whole world. God became incarnate to live and breath among us. To wander in wade in the experiences of life. To know true joy among family and friends and to dwell in the deepest moments of grief. God became incarnate to share in the breadth of human emotions and experiences, even to the point of death on a cross. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And I think we’re so attentive to this oh so familiar story because we know the ending. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We know the completeness of God’s work in the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We know that this Christ child, born of lowly parents in a place not worthy of being called a bed or home...we know this Christ child, the emmanuel, God with us changes the world. Changes the course of humanity by flipping the world’s expectations and proclaiming a message of hope, life, love, and peace to the whole world, especially those considered the lowest among us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We attend to the scandal of this night--God breaking forth to dwell among us, in the vulnerable moments of human existence because the proclamation is reliable. It’s truth. It’s promise. It’s hope. It’s for you and me, and for the whole world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And while the world might work desperately and tirelessly to oppose this message of hope...as the world bends, fractures, and breaks...dividing, distorting, and abusing relationships….as the world lures us to believe that wealth, power, status, and self indulgence is life giving or life saving….God humbles the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Through a virgin named Mary and a man named Joseph, God blesses us with divine presence. For no other reason than the fact that God loves us that much.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So dear friends, while we lean into God’s victory tonight...as we tune in attentively to the old, reliable, message of hope. May it be a reminder that God is still just as active among us today. Christ, the emmanuel, being born among us is but a turning point in a the greater narrative of God’s hope for the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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May this night, this O so holy night, be a reminder...No, an invitation to remain attentive. Attentive not only to the glory of God in the story of Jesus, but attentive and alert to the work of God here and now. The power of God among us today...casting the mighty down from their thrones and uplifting the lonely. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Like shepherds in the field, attentive to their flock and their lives...may we keep watch, be alert...heighten our awareness because <o:p></o:p></div>
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Dear siblings in Christ….Tonight we proclaim good news of great joy! For us and for our salvation, a child is born this day in the city of David. a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. Emmanuel<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Dec. 24, 2018 @ St. Mark's JAX</span></o:p></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-85247942910973078652018-12-16T17:33:00.001-08:002018-12-16T17:33:59.578-08:00Wait in the Present - Sermon on Luke 3:7-18<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 3:7-18<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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7 John said to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come?<sup><span style="color: #222222;">8 </span></sup>Bear fruits worthy of repentance. Do not begin to say to yourselves, "We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">9 </span></sup>Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">10 </span></sup>And the crowds asked him, "What then should we do?"<sup><span style="color: #222222;">11 </span></sup>In reply he said to them, "Whoever has two coats must share with anyone who has none; and whoever has food must do likewise."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">12 </span></sup>Even tax collectors came to be baptized, and they asked him, "Teacher, what should we do?"<sup><span style="color: #222222;">13 </span></sup>He said to them, "Collect no more than the amount prescribed for you."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">14 </span></sup>Soldiers also asked him, "And we, what should we do?" He said to them, "Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">15 </span></sup>As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Messiah,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">16 </span></sup>John answered all of them by saying, "I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">17 </span></sup>His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">18 </span></sup>So, with many other exhortations, he proclaimed the good news to the people.</blockquote>
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Again, I promise you, the well known and wonderful texts of Mary and Joseph, the babe lying in a manger, shepherds of the field, and the great tidings of joy….those texts are coming. Hang in there. In fact, join us for Christmas Eve worship next Monday because I have a good feeling you’ll hear them then. They’re coming.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But until then, we continue to wade in the season of Advent. The season of waiting. Of expectation. Of preparation. Of wandering and wondering. Reflecting and anticipating the return of Christ. We remember that our waiting goes well beyond the next 9 days when Christ is born and we celebrate the season of Christmas, but we wait anxiously for the return of Christ the newborn king. Of Christ and the fullness of the kingdom of God. We wait and wait and wait some more. And Advent is our friendly, 4 week reminder that our waiting, our anticipation...it is life long.<br />-<o:p></o:p></div>
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In those days, the people were unsettled with great expectation. Great anticipation. They were eager for a Messiah, as proclaimed by the prophets of old. They were pacing for a savior that reign over Israel and restore power over all nations. And so when a man named John, who resembles the prophet Elijah comes out of the wilderness proclaiming repentance for the forgiveness of sins because a savior is near….the crowds gather.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And I love this moment. Because it feels so unexpected. So out of place..<o:p></o:p></div>
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Recall last week’s text, when Luke paints the scene for the arrival of John the Baptist. Luke begins by saying, “In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+3&version=NRSV#fen-NRSV-25019a"><span style="color: #b34b2c;">a</span></a>] of Galilee...during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And here is a what I love...the word of God passes by all these powerful government and religious leaders, where people likely expected the prophecy of a Messiah to take place...and God’s word speaks to a simple man named John. John of Zechariah. A man of the wilderness...the dark, dingy, despairing wilderness. And out of the wilderness, John emerges with the word of God….and the crowds gather with great anticipation and excitement for the word of God...and the word speaks through John by saying, “You Brood of Vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come!!” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Love it! We might expect “Grace and peace to you friends…” Or “Behold, I bring great news because a savior is coming soon”....Nope… “You brood of Vipers!” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Oh man, what an entrance. And admittedly I admire his opening strong word of conviction. You brood of vipers! ...It’s such a bold and risky approach to proclaiming the word of God to eager crowds. I admire his confidence. </div>
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Sarah and I took a prophetic preaching class in seminary. And one of the biggest challenges to preaching prophetically is to speak truth in love. Knowing full and well that those truths might be unsettling and will likely be met with resistance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now I’ve been here over a year, and I feel like I’ve gotten to know a lot of your fairly well...but there is no amount of confidence that would empower me to begin as John the Baptist did.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He spoke to the crowd gathered, folks who had come to hear what he had to say and be baptized in preparation for the possible arrival of a messiah...and the first thing he does is scold them. Convict them. Speak hard truths.. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He tells them that just claiming Abraham as an ancestor is not enough. It’s empty and fruitless...for anyone can claim than ancestry. And for you who claim Abraham as your safety net but act in selfish and harmful ways...the ax is nearby...ready to cut down trees that bear bad or no fruit. To the tax collectors skimming off the top...the soldiers abusing their power….he speaks convicting truths.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the remarkable thing is that unlike the prophet’s before him… who spoke convicting truths in love...who used aggressive language and often received hostel responses from the crowds...the people gathered around John don’t revolt. Despite is strong, aggressive intro...They don’t raise up. They don’t walk away. They don’t stone him or rebuke him. <o:p></o:p></div>
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No, what do they do? They lean in...they push in closer...and what’s even more powerful is that they’re struck with curiosity. Three times they inquire, “What then should we do? What should WE do? What SHOULD we do?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s an honest question isn’t is? A raw, vulnerable question? The crowds whether full of fear for being axed due to bearing bad fruit or genuinely interested in becoming better people...they ask John, “What then should we do?” <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think deep down we all wrestle with this question. As Christians, we know we’re clothed and cleansed in the water of baptism, and we know that baptism is being claimed by God...washed in abundant grace….and absolutely nothing we do or don’t do can change that….<o:p></o:p></div>
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but I think deep down we all know that baptism alone doesn’t prevent or excuse us from bearing bad fruit. Just because we claim our ancestry...our identity in Christ the waters of baptism...we all wrestle with sin. We all struggle with abuse of power and relationships. Despite doing our best or trying our hardest we all wrestle with selfish ambition...pride...sinful behavior...and bad fruit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What then should we do?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve spoken before about a Spiritual retreat called Teens Encounter Christ. It’s much like Via De Cristo, but oriented towards youth and young adults. It’s a weekend of intentional spiritual renewal. I went when I was in high school, and I remember upon arrival they asked us to leave behind our watches, phones, alarm clocks or anything that told time. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The intention was to remove any and all distractions that would prevent us from being full present. And the mantra they taught us was “Don’t anticipate, participate.” That is don’t worry so much about the next thing...the next event or session. Don’t worry about how long or when...but rather worry about the present. Be present. Participate fully in the now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What should we do? I think John offers a remarkable answer. He doesn’t say Go to the synagogue or temple and repent and pray. He doesn’t say, go be with family or community...go confess sins or practice sacramental rituals. He doesn’t say go and obey the law and religious traditions..<o:p></o:p></div>
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No, John says, if you have two coats, share one. Share with anyone who has none. If you’re a tax collector then don’t cheat people…collect amount due and no more. If you’re a soldier, be a soldier, but extort money or abuse your position of power.<o:p></o:p></div>
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John says, be who are you are. Be you who you are called to be. Live out your vocation, and while doing so...be no more or less than you were called and created to be. Be present. Be respectful. Be welcoming. <o:p></o:p></div>
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If you’re a tax collector, be honest and trustworthy. Be dependable and genuine. If you’re a soldier, be a protector, defender, and advocate. Be equitable and fair. <o:p></o:p></div>
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John says, be who you are called to be. And for us dear friends, we are called by God, washed in the waters of baptism...claimed by God...to be who we are called to be. <o:p></o:p></div>
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What should we do? In Greek, the word “do” as in what should we “do” shares it’s root with bear as in “bear good fruit.” John exhorts the people to bear fruits worthy of repentance. And the people respond, what should we do? What should we bear?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Friends, in this season of Advent, this time of year, we’re really good at anticipating. Anxiously waiting for the Christmas season. Easy to look ahead to the next thing. To get wrapped up and consumed by the business of the season. To be distracted by upcoming plans, travel, or celebrations. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The same is true for life. Always looking ahead, caught up in the whirlwind of life… commitments to our jobs or friends or family. Obligations to committees and boards… Drowning in the business of life… the events, practices, meetings, ..all the places we have to be and when. Seem to always be looking ahead, in the distance, worried about what is to come. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But perhaps, the call of Advent, the season of preparation and waiting is a 4 week reminder...not just that God came to be among us in the Christ child. But a reminder to be present. To be present. To breathe in the now. To be who we are called to be here and now. To be children of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Caring for others. Sharing in resources. Giving our extra coats. Living out our vocations in the richest way possible, as a light to the world that Christ is present here and now. Faithful, diligent, patient, and humble acts of mercy in our everyday lives. Being no more or less than God has called us to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt;">That is what we should do. That is how we wait. All the while, bearing good fruit. Amen</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">preached</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> 12.16.2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran JAX, FL</span></span>Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-18112600840805352322018-12-11T15:14:00.000-08:002018-12-11T15:14:06.595-08:00Turning the World Upside Down - Sermon on Luke 3:1-6<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 3:1-6<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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1 In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius, when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea, and Herod was ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias ruler of Abilene,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">2 </span></sup>during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John son of Zechariah in the wilderness.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">3 </span></sup>He went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">4 </span></sup>as it is written in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: "Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">5 </span></sup>Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be made low, and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">6 </span></sup>and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.' "</blockquote>
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Well, we seem to be getting closer to the holiday texts we know and love. Last week we read from Luke 21, where Jesus sits on the temple mount and offers an apocalyptic discourse to the disciples. Today, we go back just a bit further in time to the time of John the Baptist. Today’s text in the third chapter of Luke actually occurs after Jesus has been born and raised. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I promise, if you hang in there, we’ll eventually get to the picture perfect holiday texts that we all know and love. The manger, shepherds, Mary and Joseph. All of the good stuff. I promise it’s coming.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But until then, it is important that we spend some time in Advent being reminded that we wait not only for the story of Christ being born, but also we wait for the second coming of Christ. We wait anxiously for the time in which God will make all things new. A time when God will turn the world upside down. Restore all of creation and make us whole.<o:p></o:p></div>
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We wait ever so patiently for the completion of God’s kingdom, praying daily for thy kingdom come and thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. For now, in the season of Advent, it is good for us to dwell with the gravity of what it is we’re actually waiting for.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Today’s text sets up the time of John the Baptist. We don’t actually hear from the John the Baptist until next week, when he comes out swinging from the wilderness and he shouts to the crowd, “You brood of vipers…”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But until then, today’s text only introduces the one crying out in the wild. We are introduced to his presence, and the stage is set for his arrival. The arrival of the one written about in the book of the words of the prophet Isaiah, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think it is interesting and worth noting in today’s text, that the text isn’t about Jesus. It’s actually not even about John the Baptist. In fact, today’s text opens with an unexpected litany of political, economic, and religious leaders and officials. Luke sets the stage for John’s entrance by rattling off the who’s-who of first century people in power. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius…when pontius Pilate was governor of Judea. When Herod was the ruler of Galilee, and his brother Philip ruler of the the region Ituraea and Trachonitis, and lysanias of Abilene, during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas…<o:p></o:p></div>
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Luke is setting the scene for the time of John and Jesus’ arrival. And between you and me, Luke is baiting his audience, the readers,...he’s baiting you and me to learn a valuable lesson about God and what God is up to. This text is about God and what God is up to.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The text isn’t actually about Jesus. And it isn’t really about John the baptist. Nor is it about the list of powerful leaders. This text is really a subtle proclamation about God and God’s intention for the world. It is a subversive message about God’s plan for salvation to a broken creation. It’s about God and what God is up to. <o:p></o:p></div>
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During my time at Lutheridge as a camp counselor, I learned a lot of songs. And one of the camp favorites was a song called One Name. The lyrics read, “One name under heaven, whereby we must be saved. Forgiven of our sins, baptized in the water, filled with the Holy Ghost, washed by the blood of the lamb. Free to be free my friends, freed by the blood of the lamb.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Then the 4th and final stanza of the song goes, “God’s goinna move this pla-a--ace, God’s goinna move this place...God’s goinna turn this whole world, upside down.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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God’s goinna turn this whole world upside down. That’s the subtle message of today’s text and I suspect it went right by most of us when we first read it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the fifteenth year of the reign of Emperor Tiberius...with Pontius Pilate governing Judea...with Herod and his brother ruling Galilee and beyond. With Annas and Caiphas ruling the high priesthood.. God is up to something. Something new. Something unexpected. Something that will turn the whole world upside down. Something that will shake the status quo to its core. <o:p></o:p></div>
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You see, in those days the world in desperate and eager for a Messiah, a savior. Someone to fill the centuries of prophecy that came before. Someone who would be raised up as a might ruler, a king of kings, a leader of nations, a great and powerful savior of the people. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And so with each powerful political and religious leader that Luke rattles off he challenges the expectations of the world. God’s up to something …but it won’t happen through the mighty Emperor Tiberius. God is up to something, but it won’t be through powerful Pontius Pilate, Governor of Judea. God is up to something, but it won’t be through the revered king Herod or his brother. God is up to something but it won’t be through the religious elites, Annas and Caiphas. <o:p></o:p></div>
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With each and every name Luke announces he not only establishes a timeline to set up the time of John and Jesus, but Luke announces the mighty and powerful leaders of their time and then sets them aside. And with the world’s greatest economic, social, and political leaders aside, Luke tells us that the word of God came to a man named John. Not an emperor, not a governor or king..not a religious leader. Just John, son of Zechariah...king of the wilderness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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God’s goinna turn this whole world upside down. God’s word...God’s word incarnate...comes in complete opposition to the world’s expectations. To a wild man in the wilderness...a lowly guy named John, the word of God comes forth as a voice in the wilderness, crying out, “prepare the way of the lord” proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Do you see what God does? And honestly, as people who know the complete story it should come as no surprise, but God is flipping the script. Turning the world upside down. Dismissing human expectations and understandings of power. <o:p></o:p></div>
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God breaks forth not in the mighty and their thrones, but in the lowest, smallest, most unexpected way. In fact, it is out of the wilderness, the very place that represents wandering, doubt, darkness, and uncertainty, that’s the place that the word of God shows up. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s where the word of God prevails. Not in the rich, mighty, and powerful. But in the damp, dark, dirty wilderness...God is up to something. God’s goinna turn this whole world upside down.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Luke makes it a point to tell us that God shows up in the most unexpected, counter-cultural way. The fact of the matter is that the systems of power in place in the world will crumble at the presence of God. God will humble everything that is proud and self-satisfied. God will cast the mighty down from their thrones and uplift the lowly. Out of the wilderness, God is up to something. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And whether we like it or not...whether we admit it or not...this upside down turning of the world is what we wait and long for in the season of Advent. It’s what we hope for. It’s what we pray for. It’s what the world is desperate for.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A savior who turns the world upside down. Who actively seeks out the outcast, poor, lost, lame, and last. A savior that proclaims good news to the oppressed and sets the captives free. A savior who challenges and opposes the systems and cycles of power still rampant today. A savior who confronts any and all abuse of power and restores justice. A savior who flips the script, restores right relationship, and calls forth all of creation to be made new. <o:p></o:p></div>
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As you most of you know, I have a 4 month old son, Bennet. And raising Bennet is a learning curve that I know many of you can attest to. Well, he recently learned a new trick. He has learned how to roll over onto his stomach. But...and I think this is the important part...he doesn’t know how to roll back over. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So while it may be cute and adorable at 3 in the afternoon to watch Bennet roll over on his play mat...it is less than cute at 3am ...and 4am..and 5am...when he rolls himself onto his stomach and then screams because he’s stuck. He finds such joy in his new ability, but it ultimately leaves him stuck, annoyed, and lost.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The world is just like Bennet. Infatuated with our abilities, our human-made structures and systems, enamored by power and status. Humankind is wading in sin, wandering in the darkness...stuck and lost from our ways. Screaming out for a savior.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Two nights ago, in the span of 8 hours...Sarah and I responded to Bennet’s screams for help 10 times. 10 times in 8 hours we awoke to him rolled over..stuck, annoyed, and lost. And each time, we crept into his bedroom, gently turned him over, reminded him that he is ok and he is loved, and then soothed him back to sleep...knowing good and well he’d do it again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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God’s goinna turn this whole world upside down. That’s how God is with us. In the time of John the Baptist and Jesus, the world had lost its way. Humankind was living for their own sake. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The emperor Tiberius, the Governor Herod...the religious and political leaders and officials… they lived for their own benefit. For their own wealth. They thrived on systems of power the abused relationships, discarded other human beings, neglected the sick, poor, oppressed, lost, last, and lonely. The world was stuck in sin. Screaming in the night for someone to come and save.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And God did just that. God became incarnate, took on human flesh to be among us. God’s word came out of the wilderness...the very place of wandering, doubt, despair, and darkness. And God’s word spoke. Calling all people into repentance for the forgiveness of sins. Sins that got us stuck in the first place. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Repentance, by its very definition is to turn around...to turn away from harmful, corrupting, and indulging sin...and turn to God. A complete 180.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And God, gracious and abounding in steadfast love responds every time to our cry. God’s gonna turn this whole world upside down..</div>
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The good news my friends is that God is still up to something. God is still active. God is still the one meeting us in the darkest wildernesses of our lives and proclaiming a word of hope. God is still moving among us. God is still calling us to repentance and forgiving our sins. God promises to always be present. And God promises to turn this world upside down….or perhaps...right side up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, I suppose the question is: Do you ever stop, pray, listen, and wonder...what is God up to? Where is God moving and stirring? Where in life do you find yourself in the wilderness? In the dark, desperate, and despairing places? Do you cry out to God? Is God responding? <o:p></o:p></div>
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And if so, is it making you uncomfortable? Unsettling your foundation? Is God moving in a way that challenges you to evaluate and reexamine your life? Is God turning your world upside down?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached 12.08.2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran JAX, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-55738161150643467082018-12-04T04:12:00.003-08:002018-12-04T04:12:43.665-08:00The Perfect Christmas Tree Tradition <div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LQxT1swEqQVAUWtAUv00SBsEz-XbqAkC52ikzFb03-BZ-TaGPnI35zqxKOUnlSD-wT6oj9ZWJejH0SlFday2V2L_FEfmc4r_w7x7t0SgdwmQ6VSFSF3c3sOefq5AOCUocu34Xrp7" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LQxT1swEqQVAUWtAUv00SBsEz-XbqAkC52ikzFb03-BZ-TaGPnI35zqxKOUnlSD-wT6oj9ZWJejH0SlFday2V2L_FEfmc4r_w7x7t0SgdwmQ6VSFSF3c3sOefq5AOCUocu34Xrp7" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Every year, on the Friday after Thanksgiving, my family and I would travel to the mountains of North Carolina to seek out and cut down the perfect Christmas tree. Once the tree was acquired, we would eat stuffed-crust pizza from Pizza Hut, and then we would return home to decorate the tree while watching National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Our yearly tradition was never without its hiccups and challenges, but that’s what made it wonderful. That is what made it ours.</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-868ee033-7fff-5b26-09a9-3a8f464fa3f2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; white-space: pre-wrap;">Our tradition became bit more challenging once my mom’s health and mobility declined due to her battle with cancer. But the tradition was important to all of us, and we were not going to let cancer slow us down. So, in 2005, we journeyed up the mountain for what would be mom’s final trip to the tree farm. And on this particular day, the snow was falling and the ground was icy. </span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The cancer, in addition to the winter conditions, made it nearly impossible for mom to climb the mountain. Although her mobility was limited, we searched high and low for the perfect tree as she would point off into the distance and say “what about that one?” After analyzing her selection, I would trek up the mountain, and shout back, “this one!?” “No? How about this one?!” The search went on and on. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After an extended and fruitless search, my mom turned around and gazed across to the mountain on the other side of the road. We had never ventured there before. Mom raised her finger and pointed off into the distance and said, “I think I see it. That one. Over there.” The road was icy and steep. It would not be a welcomed journey down one hillside and up another. But it was our tradition, and if cancer was not going to stop us, then neither was a steep, iced-over road to the perfect tree. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">My mom had a deep affection for the holidays, and if I had to guess, I think her love for Advent and Christmas was rooted in the many traditions of the holidays, of the church, and of our family. </span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Advent and Christmas, more than any other liturgical season, are rich with tradition. Some families decorate Christmas trees, bake cookies, and hang stockings. Some families travel to distant relatives, exchange gifts, go Christmas caroling, or volunteer. Some families traverse treacherous winter conditions in their Dodge Caravan to secure the “perfect tree,” eat pizza and watch their favorite holiday movie. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LNHyNru-GlpLMXiTmBnmS1UHm7hnpNigUx5a4nIKOHoGuvrjITnkQqIk2j6EcAyjzFyrcyBXnzIh_MlHhTMpKAtfgG4-UyO4sJoi6rUN4cPSWP4-EYIUPdOL4IR41iDeIljG5tvw" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LNHyNru-GlpLMXiTmBnmS1UHm7hnpNigUx5a4nIKOHoGuvrjITnkQqIk2j6EcAyjzFyrcyBXnzIh_MlHhTMpKAtfgG4-UyO4sJoi6rUN4cPSWP4-EYIUPdOL4IR41iDeIljG5tvw" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="150" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">What makes these traditions wonderful and special are the stories that accompany them. Traditions create experiences, and experiences make memories. These memories, good or bad become the stories we share with one another. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This is the power of the Advent and Christmas season. We tell the story of a virgin teenager receiving word from an angel that she will give birth to the son of God. We tell the story of shepherds in the field keeping watch over their sheep by night. We tell the story of Wise Men from the East. We tell the story of a scared, vulnerable, young couple trying to find a place to stay for the night. We tell the story of God shining a light in the darkest moments. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2VRKioWAMteiigYaGlM08EcsDmYjferyHasDV6KRazQy-FnoW-CHUp53YioGa4WYz2FlgiF9LnwB2hYiAJoQhcEkp5GPvTYs75A9FiTfhaBpq0DK8X_txJEfakadJUob0zD_xEjK" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2VRKioWAMteiigYaGlM08EcsDmYjferyHasDV6KRazQy-FnoW-CHUp53YioGa4WYz2FlgiF9LnwB2hYiAJoQhcEkp5GPvTYs75A9FiTfhaBpq0DK8X_txJEfakadJUob0zD_xEjK" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="240" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">After mom died, my dad, brother, and I journeyed back out to that mountain to find the biggest and healthiest tree we could justify fitting in our house. Although mom was no longer with us, the tradition continued and the story was told. It may seem trivial, but in the darkness of her cancer and death, our 12’ Christmas tree towered as a symbol of promise and hope. It was a full of life and growth. It was our story, our tradition, our tree, and I have no doubt that mom would have approved. </span></div>
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<a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/I3Y9fE0CO2TUnfGGBhtQfWj2ONlq_eNkiCQNV2PK2PBKykkVQfuMKhXr6UGFTx8XTiorLLmHczCn1oPjZskXHOeeyUbq9J2ZGirjYooPdq9INK2mdzEyaHwjz3tx3J8f0Y-RDYPn" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/I3Y9fE0CO2TUnfGGBhtQfWj2ONlq_eNkiCQNV2PK2PBKykkVQfuMKhXr6UGFTx8XTiorLLmHczCn1oPjZskXHOeeyUbq9J2ZGirjYooPdq9INK2mdzEyaHwjz3tx3J8f0Y-RDYPn" style="border: none; transform: rotate(0rad);" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">We tell these stories and share in the tradition because they are our story, gifted to us by God in a baby boy-- Emmanuel. We tell these stories, not just as distant memories, but as proclamations of hope. Proclamations of life. What’s your tradition? What’s your story? </span></div>
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© Originally published in St. Mark's Lutheran Church Jax, FL, Dec. MessengerRev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-37562269545044697382018-12-04T04:10:00.001-08:002018-12-04T04:10:04.706-08:00Signs: here and now! - Sermon on Luke 21:25-36 - 12.02.2018<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>Luke 21:25-36</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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25 "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">26 </span></sup>People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">27 </span></sup>Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">28 </span></sup>Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">29 </span></sup>Then he told them a parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">30 </span></sup>as soon as they sprout leaves you can see for yourselves and know that summer is already near.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">31 </span></sup>So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>Truly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things have taken place.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">33 </span></sup>Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">34 </span></sup>"Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">35 </span></sup>like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">36 </span></sup>Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."</blockquote>
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December 31, 1999. New Year’s Eve. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed celebrating the holidays, but by New Years’ Eve the steam was usually waning. I don’t have very many memories of celebrating New Year’s Eve. At best I remember sitting in the living room with mom watching, napping, waiting,. And then once the ball dropped we called it a night. But in 1999, this particular News Years’ Eve was different. We did something drastically different; almost as though the world was ending…We went to a party.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anybody remember Y2K? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, a member of our church hosted a party that evening. And full disclosure, I was 12 years old…so the concept of the world crashing at midnight because of technology was a bit lost on me. But I remember walking the house at the party and there being a weird tension in the air. Like an anxiety. Almost fearful. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I remember seeing a stockpile of bottled water in the corner of the basement along with batteries, canned food, and other doomsday-esk paraphernalia. I remember thinking, “Goodness, I’ve heard about Y2K, but could this really be it?” <o:p></o:p></div>
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As midnight approached our parents encouraged us to stay upstairs, playing in one of the teenagers rooms. I don’t know if they were trying to spate the generations in case we had to lead the world into a new age, or if they were trying to distract us so we couldn’t countdown the seconds to our demise. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We crept out of the room and down the split-level staircase to peak over the banister as all the adults had gathered in the basement for the final moment. Ten – nine – eight...do you remember where you where? 5 – 4 – 3 – 2 – 1…then in a moment like a movie, where everything freezes into slow motion and the camera circles the room…the clock struck midnight. And do you remember what happened?! That’s right, nothing! <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus sits opposite the temple and talks about the end times, "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">26 </span></sup>People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">27 </span></sup>Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. It seems that ever since that moment, humankind has worked overtime to predict and prepare for the end. And every time, believe it or not, human kind is wrong. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Do you remember May 21 2011? Christian radio broadcaster, Harold Camping told us the world would end on May 21, 2011. They spent millions of dollars getting the word out. Do you remember what happened? Nothing. In fact, Camping said he’d rather predict and be wrong then not believe at all and miss out. So, he said the world would certainly end by Oct. 21, 2011. Still, nothing happened and humankind survived. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There was the infamous blood moon on Oct. 7 2015. Spoiler alert, we all survived.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In fact, you may be delighted to know that according to a Google search humankind, you and I, have persevered through more that 150 failed end-of-the-world predictions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And just so you can’t say you didn’t know…the world will end in Jesus will return on June 9 next year. That’s my birthday by the way.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Or in case that’s wrong, keep an eye out for an asteroid in 2026…or countless other predictions. And I suppose the good news is if we make it to 2026, there are no current recorded predictions until 2129.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The point is that Humankind has exhausted itself predicting and preparing for the end times. You ever get tracks on your window shield? Or the bathroom stall? Or in a case of beer? ..or so I’ve heard.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What’s alarming about all of these signs and our predictions is that not only are they wrong… not only do they negate Jesus telling us that no one knows the hour or day….but they all foster a climate of fear. They instill fear…fear of the end…fear of missing out…fear of the unknown…fear of what happens next. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The world seems to always be searching for a sign. Natural disaster, political uprising, famine, deep space discovery, Biblical numerology…society is obsessed with predicting the end times or spin current events to convince others it’s here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well today Jesus sits on the temple mount and teaches about the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. The disciples demand a sign. And Jesus says, “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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He goes on to say that Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” For Jesus, the signs of the final judgment will be crystal clear for those who live by the way of Christ. But until then, no one knows. No one knows. And when it happens, you’ll know….so don’t ask for the signs. Don’t fabricate signs. Don’t exaggerate what you think could be signs. Don’t stir up fear for fear’s sake. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In fact, Jesus says, "Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life…so that the day does not catch you unexpectedly,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">35 </span></sup>like a trap.” Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man."<o:p></o:p></div>
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It seems to me that Jesus is less concerned about that signs of the end times as he is about the signs and actions of the disciples then and there…of you and me, here and now. To be not s focused on signes of the sun, moon, stars…signs of the heavens and the son of man, but focused, called, committed to the signs of the kingdom here and now.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rather than seek out signs of the final day and be drowned in fear of the end, perhaps Jesus would have us be signs to the world. Signs that dispel fear, darkness, and endings…Signs that point to new hope, new beginnings, a new heaven and a new earth. Signs that point to the nearness of the kingdom of God now. <span style="color: #202124;">Jesus is a sign that the kingdom of God has come near. And perhaps that is the only sign we need. The only sign needed to know that repentance begins now, a new beginning is ushered in. Be alert! Wait, sure, but wait actively.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">Today we enter the Advent season. The colors have changed, the Advent wreath is up, the Chrismon tree is standing tall, and the crèche is on our front lawn. Today begins a season of waiting and anticipation…not only as we remember the Virgin Mary and the world eagerly waiting for a Messiah and Savior…but as we continue to wait today. Actively waiting for the return of Christ to reconcile the world and make all things new.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">We begin Advent not with our typical story…Mary and Joseph, a manger and no room in the inn. Shepherd and wisemen. No, we begin this season with a reminder that the Advent season is one hope and anticipation…anxious and active waiting for the return of our savior – the messiah – Emmanuel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">And with Jesus as our sign we proclaim a message of hope. Of love, grace, joy, and peace. Not fear. Jesus is the first fruit, the first sign in God’s grace-filled kingdom. Jesus calls us to lives of joy and abundance, love and hope. And until the kingdom of God comes to complete fullness, we are called through baptism to be visible, tangible, and faithful signs to the world. Signs of hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">That is why today, we light the 1<sup>st </sup>candle of the Advent wreath, also known as the hope candle. It is also sometimes called the Prophet’s candle. Until that candle is lit, the wreath stands in darkness. After lighting, the darkness is dispelled and the promise of hope is ignited. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">It burns as a sign that it is only the beginning. There are more signs to come. As the prophets of old, when given the world of God upon their lips, they could not help but proclaim the good news of God. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">We too have been blessed by the waters, nourished by the body and blood, called and sent into the world to dispel darkness and fear, burn with the brightness of God’s promise for everlasting life. Called to be a sign of hope, peace, joy, and love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">And friends, if God calls us as Christians to be a sign unto the world, then we better be crystal clear about our message. Go out of our way to articulate and proclaim without a doubt the goodness of God’s love. So that all the world may take notice. We live, serve, and act with clarity and humility.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">So for the poor, hungry, and…the very people Jesus spent his life loving hear of a message that God’s kingdom is open to all, it’s welcoming, generous, and full of hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;"> So the oppressed and discarded of society read a message that God’s kingdom is just, equal, and equitable. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;"> So that victims to unjust systems of power and cycles of abuse and neglect see a sign that declares God’s kingdom as a home for all people. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">So that the ill, lame, and unclean...those kicked down by the stench and darkness of disease or death may take sight of the kingdom of God. and know that in Jesus the burden is light and the Kingdom of God thrives to heal, restore, and make whole. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">As a system of love and justice that cast the mighty down from their thrones and uplifts the humble of heart. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">So that the outcast, the different, the abused, the neglected, and the bullied find a light in the kingdom of God that welcomes all and celebrates each and every individual gift and ability.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">So often the voice of opposition…those who misinterpret the promise of God. Those who abuse the prophecy of final judgment and act out of fear...they carry big posters…big signs...celebrating injustice and fostering division...those are signs of fear.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">But as Christians, the signs we are called to proclaim take form not in banners, posters, and billboards...but in action. Tangible and visible witnesses...testimonies. Signs that God’s love dispels all fear and and infects the darkness with hope beyond hope.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: #202124;">My friends, oh my friends, what an opportunity and privilege we have to be claimed by God…to know the ending of the story…to know and believe in the promise of a new and heaven and new earth…and to be called by Jesus to worry not about the final day but to live here and now proclaiming the goodness of God’s love. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />When these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near<span style="color: #202124;">. Speak with authority and love. Act with humility and justice. Serve with patience and kindness. Love without fear. Hope without a doubt. Welcome all. Proclaim, cry out, share, witness, testify, and be alert. </span>Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape the fear and trembling of the world, but rather stand before the Son of Man….in the promise and hope of Jesus Christ. God’s gracious sign for the world. Amen. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Dec. 02, 2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-79882940476036798422018-11-11T19:10:00.002-08:002018-11-11T19:10:36.463-08:0080th Anniversary and Renovations of Growth<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.2; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Let me first say, Happy 80th Anniversary!! On October 14th we celebrated our anniversary with worship and a pig roast. Former Florida-Bahamas Synod bishop and St. Mark’s pastor, William Trexler, joined us as our special guest to preach. It was an incredible event and I am so thankful to not only everyone who volunteered their time and energy to make the event a great success, but to all of you who made the trip to be with us as well. It was joy to see old friends reunite, share stories and memories, and honor St. Mark’s history in this community. St. Mark’s has a rich history and we excitedly look to the future as we continue to grow, learn, and serve. May we always be asking, “What is God up to in this place?”</span></div>
<b id="docs-internal-guid-ef4e46f3-7fff-adf1-e8af-512543f4a530" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">In preparation for the 80th anniversary, I reviewed the history of leadership at St. Mark’s. You can read a brief synopsis of our history on our website under the “history” tab. And as I reread our history, I noticed that under the tenure of each pastor we lift up not only the flourishing ministry and mission during their time, but also significant changes and additions to our physical building. From the beginning, during the tenure of Pastor George Hart, our history notes purchasing our first property as well as constructing the original church building at our current location. During Pastor Nordsiek’s tenure history notes new plans for a Fellowship Hall and Education Building. During Pastor Biemiller’s tenure renovations were made to the education facility and faceted glass was added to the chapel. During Pastor Trexler’s tenure a new nave was built. During Pastor Scholl’s tenure, the church expanded to include a new fellowship hall, music suite, kitchen, and offices.</span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This observation made me reflect on why building renovations are important to our history. Why take the time to honor and record renovations and updates within our church’s history? Is it that building renovations and additions are the most tangible result of a pastor’s tenure? Or, perhaps, building growth is a parallel to membership growth and mission outreach.</span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Perhaps a thriving congregation necessitates updates and renovations and, therefore honoring those physical changes honors our congregation’s vitality. After all, it is the continual update, improvement, and modernization that allows St. Mark’s to have such an impact in the community. The Nordsiek building is home to 120 preschoolers and more than 30 staff. The music suite and nave ensure safe venue for not only worship, but Bach Vespers, San Marco Chamber Music Society, Organ Concerts, guest musicians, clinicians, and other artists. General repairs and updates exemplify our commitment to being a warm and inviting, albeit temporary, home for Family Promise. Additions and renovations like Hart Hall and the Fellowship Hall allow us to host groups and partners in ministry like Lutheran Social Services, yoga, community band, chess tournaments for kids, and more.</span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am excited that 80 years later, renovations and updates continue still today. Most recently the library and office (rooms used for hosting Family Promise) received a fresh coat of paint and new flooring. Over the next six months the catalog and content of our library will be updated. As our new collection grows, I invite you to check out a book, offer a review, share with a friend, or start a book group. The library is an incredible resource and we are working hard to restore its relevance. In the weeks to come, we will be replacing our Nave roof, which is our oldest roof. As we look to the future, plans are in being put in place for the installation of a fire protection system and grants are being written for updates the St. Mark’s Ark playground and kitchen. </span></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); color: black; font-family: -webkit-standard; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><br /></b>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I never imagined that my first year at St. Mark’s would involve so many conversations regarding facility maintenance, renovations and upgrades. I am beyond excited that they are happening because these conversations are a testament to the Spirit’s movement here and now at St. Mark’s. God is always forming and reforming us. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">It is an exciting time to be a part of this community of faith, and if you have ideas, interests, or a heart for handiwork, please contact me.</span></div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-36100472799041521112018-11-11T19:08:00.002-08:002018-11-11T19:11:10.331-08:00Noticed - Sermon on Mark 12:38-44 - 11.11.2018<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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Mark 12:38-44<o:p></o:p></div>
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38 As he taught, he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">39 </span></sup>and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets!<sup><span style="color: #222222;">40 </span></sup>They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">41 </span></sup>He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">42 </span></sup>A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">43 </span></sup>Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">44 </span></sup>For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.</blockquote>
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At first glance it would seem as though today’s Gospel text has all of the makings for a good, classic, and what most folks would call, a “stewardship sermon”. More specifically a sermon about, dare I say, money. Financial stewardship. After all, it is the season of pledge letters and budget planning.</div>
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And honestly, I lament that we wait until November, which is ironically budget season, for the church to talk about the stewardship of money. It seems to me that if the conversation of financial stewardship was daily, weekly, even year-long, then a sermon on today’s text about stewardship and generous giving wouldn’t be so taboo. We might not be so hesitant to talk about giving, if we talked about it more often.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Quick poll, how many of us have heard a sermon on stewardship around this time of year? More specifically, how many of us have heard today’s story of the poor widow as a text used to encourage us to be generous, faithful givers? Giving all we have back to God, even if it leaves us with nothing? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Too often we reduce this poor widow and her miserable experience of life into a model of faithfulness by which we should tithe our money to the church. Her experience is manipulated and set it as the benchmark of generosity. How often do we exploit her story of financial and social emptiness for the sake of our church budget and annual pledge campaigns? Too often, perhaps.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well today’s sermon my friends is not that. This is not going to be a sermon that critiques the giving of the rich, haughty religious elites against the poor widow. Furthermore, it is not my intention to abuse the widow and her story for the sake of convincing, convicting, or guilting anyone into a more faithful and generous way of living and giving. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I don’t want to give a good ol’ classic stewardship sermon today. And I should be clear, I believe that faithful, generous tithing is important. More than important, it is part of our life in Christ. It is part of our fellowship within the Body of Christ and our membership in this community of faith. I believe that God has first given all things to us, ourselves, our time, and our possessions. God has gifted us with every gift, financial and otherwise, and has called us to be stewards. Managers of those gifts. None of it is truly ours. God’s has just called us to faithfully and generously manage it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And to be even more clear, this IS a generous and faithful community with regards to giving. It’s no secret that St. Mark’s has experienced a time in which it felt poor. Like the widow. Poor, with not much to give. And yet, this community of faith was faithful. Trusting. Giving...of yourselves and your time and your money. Investing in this community for the sake of our call to ministry and mission of the gospel in this place. This is a generous and faithful congregation. It is also a generous congregation with regards to money. It is budget season, and the finance committee is hard at work. But the generous commitments of this body of Christ make the finance committee’s work so much easier. And rather than scrape and squeeze, thanks be to God, we celebrate a time of growth with great excitement. We look to the future with assured hope, new vision, and opportunity. Because God provides.<o:p></o:p></div>
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But as for today’s text, as promised, I want us to notice something that perhaps is more often than not overlooked. I think we’re so quick to juxtapose the giving of the richest with that of the poor widow against our own generosity, that we miss a bigger picture. And feel free, pull out the bulletin, or I dare you, the Bible in front of you and look at today’s text. <o:p></o:p></div>
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In the 12th chapter of Mark, Jesus is constant conversation with the Pharisees and Scribes on the Temple mount. Their conversations have not always gone well, and they seek new ways of challenging Jesus. Jesus confronts them of the topic of taxes, convicts them with a parable. He schools them on resurrection and finally, right in front of them ridicules them for their excessive egos. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He critiques their pompous presence and their self-absorbed show of false religious piety. Jesus tells the disciples, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces,<sup><span style="color: #222222;"></span></sup>to have the best seats in the synagogues.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"> </span></sup>They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then notice verse 41. “Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money in the treasury.” Jesus noticed the rich elites putting in large sums from their abundance. But then Jesus notices a poor widow, who comes forward and drops two small copper coins, the worth of a penny into the treasury. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Now Bible scholars have concluded that within the Temple Treasury there were 13 coffers for the purpose of receiving offerings. And I imagine the rich elites carrying their abundant offerings to the treasury and dropping their coins in one by one by one. Taking their time so all could here the excessive clanging of their generous gift. And then the widow, who I suspect no one notices, approaches the treasury and lays in her last two coins. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Offerings were given in the Temple treasury as part of their religious obligation. Their offerings went to support the Temple, it’s leaders and workers. We might understand this as say that the offerings not only kept the lights on, and the leaders employed, but the offering was intended to support the mission and ministry of the Temple mount as well as those who members of faith who sought the Temple mount for spiritual needs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So in comes a poor widow. And she’s not poor just in the sense that she has no money, no earnings. She is socially, physically, emotionally poor. Because she is widowed, she has no status in society. She is ostracized and on the margins. She in vulnerable and cast out. And as she approaches the treasury she offers her last two coins. Everything she had, Jesus says. Every she had to live on. As to say that offering those two coins may as well have sealed her fate. She had nothing left to live on.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And if we walk closely with the text, we might notice that as Jesus pulls the disciples aside, he doesn’t lift her up as an example to the disciples or us. Jesus never says, “be like this poor widow..” Jesus doesn’t commend her sacrifice or even her faith. Simply, he notices her.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Rather, we might notice, as Jesus does, that this woman who has nothing due to the societal and cultural systems in place...is giving all she has back into that very system. <o:p></o:p></div>
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She invests her tithe into the Temple. The very religious community that wouldn’t even give her the time of day. She invests into the same community that views her as an outcast, oppresses her status, and removes her voice. The community that will take and demand her offering, but fail to notice her as she fades to nothing. She places her offering into the very Temple system that Jesus vows to destroy. She gives, out of faithfulness to God, to a broken system. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Reading closely we might notice that this story isn’t so much about the generous and faithful stewardship of a poor, discarded widow, but rather this story might notice and call out atrocious, broken, and abusive stewardship of the community of faith that surrounds her. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus doesn’t elevate her as an example to the disciples. I think Jesus laments and offers a stern warning to the disciples that systems of power have as great a responsibility, privilege really, to be good stewards of the resources invested in them. To care for each and every person, especially those who have nothing left to give. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus does, what Jesus always does he notices those afflicted by unjust systems. He notices those ostracized and abandoned by the very community called to support them. Jesus notices this poor woman, and even more so I think Jesus knows that after giving all she had to live on, she was destined to die, lonely, unnoticed. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Friends, I think the significance of today’s text is not about individual piety or individual stewardship. I don’t think is about faithfully and generously giving everything you have left to live on. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Rather, I think today’s text is a lesson and reminder about the stewardship of trust and commitment to the other. About the stewardship of community. Confessing that the size of the offering is irrelevant because it isn’t ours in the first place. Confessing that generosity has less to do with the amount given, and more to do with sharing in the abundance God has given us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Today, we might be reminded that regardless of who pledges and tithes, and regardless of how much or how little, the call of this congregation is to be a communal steward of God’s resources. <o:p></o:p></div>
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That together, as a community of faith, share all that God has entrusted to us, we might live in such a way that no one goes unnoticed and no one is in want. That together, we might faithfully and generously steward each and every coin of our tithes and offerings. That is our responsibility. It is our privilege. It is God’s gift to us. Together as a stewarding community, we are called to do so much more than we can on our own. Together we provide housing for families who may feel unnoticed by the systems of power. Together we are able to provide a place of education for children 6 weeks to 5 years of age, for kids like my son. The St. Mark’s Ark also provides employment to more than 30 siblings in Christ. Our collective stewardship empowers LSS and their presence in the community, as they provide food pantries, refugee resettlement, an AIDS clinic, and much more. </div>
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Faithful stewardship leads to partnerships with UCOM, OneBlood, seminaries, camps, campus ministry, and so many local organizations. Faithful stewardship means joining God’s resources with the whole Christian church by supporting our synod and Church wide expression, as they extend the mission of the gospel in a way we cannot on our own. As they work globally to combat aids and cure malaria. As they support future church leaders in education and empower more that 250 missionaries across the globe. As they provide disaster response, advocate for changes to corrupt and unjust policies, and all their work for peace, justice, and equity. </div>
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The truth is friends, stewardship is so much greater than you or me pledging our tithes for next year. We give because God first gave to us. We give because together we can do so much more. Together we can serve as a beacon of light and hope into our community, so much so that God willing, no one may go unnoticed. And the good news is that it’s not about how much or how little we each can give. It’s not even about money. <o:p></o:p></div>
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It’s about noticing that all we have is God’s. Ourselves, our time, our possessions. Yes, even our money. It is God’s. And our ability to give is God’s gift to us. God notices us. God notices you. God notices each and every uniquely and beautifully created person. And God desires us to live abundantly, sharing in God’s good, good creation. </div>
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And as long as we remember that God is our original steward, that God is the provider of abundance, then there will always be more than enough to share. Amen.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Nov. 11, 2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-51195048226178540362018-10-29T08:15:00.000-07:002018-10-29T08:20:07.325-07:00Freedom - Sermon on John 8:31-36 - Reformation Sunday 2018<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; text-decoration: none;">here.</a></div>
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<b>John 8:31-36<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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31 Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples;<sup><span style="color: #222222;">32 </span></sup>and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."<sup><span style="color: #222222;">33 </span></sup>They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean by saying, "You will be made free'?"<sup><span style="color: #222222;">34 </span></sup>Jesus answered them, "Very truly, I tell you, everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">35 </span></sup>The slave does not have a permanent place in the household; the son has a place there forever.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">36 </span></sup>So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.</blockquote>
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<b>SERMON</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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So what is so special about this day? Why is today a festival Sunday? Anybody know? That’s right, it’s my one year anniversary at St. Mark’s! That’s what you were all thinking right? One year ago today marked my first Sunday in this pulpit as your newly called pastor. And while it may be worth noting or even celebrating my anniversary, today’s festival actually remembers and honors the 501st year of the protestant reformation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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500 and One years ago, a good German monk posted 95 Theses on a church door in Wittenberg, Germany. Luther’s theses kicked up the dust of complacent theology, and sparked a reformation of the church with an outcome that he never imagined, nor intended. <o:p></o:p></div>
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His 95 Theses were prompts for debate, meant to encourage theological discourse for the benefit of the whole Christian church. And even more so, his theses were posted to challenge the Pope and the theology of the Catholic church in his day. <o:p></o:p></div>
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He strongly believed in a more robust, freeing, and grace-filled interpretation of God revealed in scripture. He was passionate about the Word of God and making it accessible to all people. He envisioned a Christian faith that sought input and perspective from every member of the body, and worked tirelessly to encourage and empower those not privileged by a seat of religious power to explore, discuss, interpret, debate, and celebrate God’s salvific grace. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And to be fair and honest, while there is much to honor about Luther’s contribution to church history, we should also acknowledge that he was by no means perfect.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It was my first week here a year ago….it was the 500th anniversary of the reformation. And I noticed, after walking the hall 100 times, that the there was a hallway dedicated to Luther. Luther paintings and prints. 95 theses, and images of the reformation. There were books in the cabinet. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And I remember commenting to someone, “So, what will we display next?” They looked at me puzzled. “What do you mean?” I said, well it’s the 500th anniversary, and this hall is full of Luther-things, so I only assume it’s decorated for the occasion and I was just wondering what we’ll put up after the reformation.” I remember them laughing at me then saying...No, this is Luther Hall and these pictures have been here for at least 20 years.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Even two weeks ago, former Pastor Bill Trexler walked into the hallway and said “Oh, good, Luther is still hanging here in the hallway!” I have learned not to make assumptions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But the question I ask today is why? Why celebrate the protest reformation? Why Luther hall? Why Lutheranism? <o:p></o:p></div>
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In one of Luther’s many works, he wrote:<span style="color: maroon;"> </span>“The first thing I ask is that people should not make use of my name, and should not call themselves Lutherans, but Christians. What is Luther? The teaching is not mine. Nor was I crucified for anyone. St. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 3, would not tolerate Christians calling themselves Pauls or Peters, but only Christians. How did I, poor stinking bag of maggots that I am, come to the point where people call the children of Christ by my evil name?”<o:p></o:p></div>
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It seems to me that Luther, and the whole company of protestant reformers had absolutely no intention of being honored or venerated for their work. I suspect Luther, lying in his grave underneath All Saints’ church in Wittenberg would be rolling knowing that there is an entire denomination of Christians who identify as Lutherans. Especially if he knew how fractured Lutheranism itself has become. And of course, this is to say nothing of having his own hallway at church in Jacksonville, FL <o:p></o:p></div>
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So why this reformation Sunday? Why recognize and honor the reformers, whose only intentions was to elevate debate, challenge religious authority, and point to the freedom of God’s grace in Jesus Christ? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Perhaps the biggest witness this day, is not the act of the reformers, fracturing a church through theological debate, but rather their passion, dedication, and commitment to the re-forming of Christ’s church. Above all else, we ought to honor the reformation and its many reformers for stirring up complacent theology and equipping the Christian body for theological freedom by pointing to Christ. For teaching us that Christ’s church was first formed by God, and as long as we belong to God, the body of Christ will always be forming and reforming in God’s grace.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And the best way for us to honor the reformers this day is not to lift them up or elevate their contributions, but rather honor their footprints, hear their message of reform, and trace their finger as they point to Christ. Christ crucified. And thankfully, in the greatest transformation the Christian church has ever known, Christ conquering death and rising to new life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In today’s gospel lesson, Jesus is in the Temple Mount and he’s in an on-going conversation with the Scribes, Pharisees. Through this conversation he begins to win favor among some of the Jews who were listening. Finally he looks to them and says, “if you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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He goes on to say, “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” Well, now wait a minute. It seems only a week ago that I stood here and read from the 10th chapter of Mark, where Jesus tells the disciples if any wish to be the greatest or to be first, then you must be a servant to all. In fact, Jesus says, you ought to be a slave to all. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A week ago I preached on Jesus calling us to be servants and slaves to one another.. Yet today Jesus reminds us that we are free and free indeed. So which is it? As Christians, are we free or are we slaves? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, on this reformation Sunday, as we honor our heritage and tradition as Lutherans, it seems that perhaps the best Lutheran answer is Yes. It’s both And. Yes we are free. Yes we are slaves. After all, Lutherans love paradox.<o:p></o:p></div>
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In fact, this is one of Luther’s biggest contributions to the Christian faith. Luther passionately believed and defended relentlessly that it is Christ alone who makes us free. Christ alone.<o:p></o:p></div>
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By the grace of God in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we are free from the power of sin, death, and the devil. We are freed by God. Freedom from the elements of the world that work to disrupt our relationship with God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Freed from the lure of a sinful world that thrives on division and destruction, wealth and power. Freed from corruption of greed. Freed from self-centeredness, standards, judgment, and personal ambition. We are made free to live life in the God’s creation as God intended.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Freed to live for the sake of the other. Indebted to no one. Beholden to nothing. God and God alone freely bestows upon us by grace a faith that is rooted in love and service. And it is through the freedom of God’s grace that we live to serve one another; just as Christ lived to serve.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom from and Freedom for! To be a Christian is to be totally free from all things and yet to be bound in service to all people. This is how God formed creation out of nothing to live. And thank God, that in spite of our faults, shortcomings, or wavering, God continues to form and reform us. Always making us new. <o:p></o:p></div>
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One need not look too far now-a-days to see a world in desperate need of transformation. To see and hear a world that is yearning, groaning even to be re-formed. Groaning as divisions between siblings in Christ deepen and hatred swells. Crying out as pipe bombs and mass shootings have become a typical news cycle. Yearning as society dismisses, dismantles, or displaces an entire race, gender, ethnicity, or culture. Groaning as we live in fear of the other, attacking and accusing rather than listening. Crying as empathy and compassion are trampled upon by power, fear, and indifference. Yearning as our siblings in Christ risk persecution and judgment in order to just be themselves. As they so desperately long to be seen, heard, recognized, and honored as people of God. One need not look too far now-a-days to see a world in desperate need of transformation.</div>
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Luther once said, “The church needs a reformation, which is not the work of humankind…but it is the work of the whole world, indeed it is the work of God alone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think it does us well this day, as we honor the life and work of the protestant reformers, to remember that God is always stirring up something new. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Since the dawn of creation God has always been about the work of forming and reforming. In the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God continues God’s promise of reforming and transforming. Again and again. making all things whole. Making all things new. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And, friends, hear me when I say this, in the waters, God transforms us. Frees us from sin death and the devil, and frees us for a life in God’s love and grace. God names us and claims us, seals us with the Spirit and marks us with the cross of Christ, freeing us to serve God and serve one another. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to tear down the walls the divide. Cross the borders, barriers, and aisles. Reform division into unity and equity.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to raise up the lowly. Give privilege and honor to the oppressed and voiceless. Freedom to work for justice and equality. Re-form oppressive systems of power..<o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of the other. Advocate for the downtrodden, dismissed, and displaced. Stand up to hatred, violence, and abuse. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to challenge human-made standards and expectations. Freedom to challenge powerful systems and proclaim peace. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to respect our neighbor, honor our unique gifts, differences, and traditions. Freedom to worship regardless of race, sex, color, gender, ethnicity, or belief. Freedom to grieve and mourn. Freedom to see and be seen. To be heard. To be know and honored as a child of God.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to NOT live in fear. Freedom to confess our sins in the promise of forgiveness. Freedom to love, love, and if God help and guide us to love some more. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Freedom to admit defeat, share success, and work together for the sake of the world. Freedom in Christ to always be made new.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Friends, the freedom God gives us through Christ isn’t meant to be stagnant, complacent, or content. It is a freedom from but it is also a freedom for. Freedom that should burn within us a fire for justice, peace, and love. Freedom that has the power to heal the world, offer hope, and restore faith. <o:p></o:p></div>
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By the grace of God, may we, the church, and the world always be forming, re-forming, and transforming until such a time that all will not only be made new, but all will be made one. <o:p></o:p></div>
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One in Christ, by God, through the Holy Spirit. Amen. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Oct. 28, 2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-147171310572196729.post-7864279859175565982018-09-30T18:55:00.002-07:002018-10-29T08:17:21.513-07:00Stumbling blocks - Sermon on Mark 9:38-50 - 09.30.2018<div>
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<span id="docs-internal-guid-7b86058d-7fff-dd41-6509-235153b05f92"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; font-weight: normal; white-space: normal;">Listen to the gospel lesson and sermon </span><a href="https://soundcloud.com/eric-olson-6" style="color: #771000; font-size: 14.850000381469727px; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; white-space: normal;">here.</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 700; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mark 9:38-50</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">38 John said to him, "Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us."</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 39 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">But Jesus said, "Do not stop him; for no one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 40 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Whoever is not against us is for us.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 41 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">For truly I tell you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you bear the name of Christ will by no means lose the reward.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 42 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 43 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life maimed than to have two hands and to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 44 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">45 And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and to be thrown into hell. ,</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 46 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">47 And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into hell,</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 48 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">where their worm never dies, and the fire is never quenched.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 49 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">"For everyone will be salted with fire.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7.199999999999998pt; vertical-align: super; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 50 </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 12pt; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another."</span></blockquote>
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The gospel of the Lord? Holy smokes, Jesus. Did you hear what he just said? "If any of you put a stumbling block before one of these little ones who believe in me, it would be better for you if a great millstone were hung around your neck and you were thrown into the sea.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">43 </span></sup>If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life maimed than to have two hands and to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire.<sup><span style="color: #222222;">44 </span></sup>45 And if your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and to be thrown into hell. ,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">46 </span></sup>47 And if your eye causes you to stumble, tear it out; it is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than to have two eyes and to be thrown into hell,<sup><span style="color: #222222;">48 </span></sup>where their worm never dies, and the fire is never quenched.<sup><span style="color: #222222;"></span></sup><o:p></o:p></div>
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This does not sound like the blue-eyed, blonde hair Jesus we read about in children’s Bibles. In fact, this seems to be a far departure from the soft-hearted, compassionate, and patient Jesus we love and prefer. Something triggers within Jesus this very direct and emphatic teaching. Being drowned as sea by the weight of a millstone, cutting off your hand or foot, removing your eye...these, Jesus says, are the alternatives, the better alternatives, mind you to deceiving someone in faith. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus, hyperbolic as he may sound, emphasizes the personal risk in causing another to sin or stumble. Leading a neighbor astray. Jesus instructs those who follow him that the stakes are incredibly high. And to be certain, it’s not so much the stakes of your own life, the call to pick up the cross and follow that comes at a great cost. <o:p></o:p></div>
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No, it’s the call to teach, instruct, associate, and show others the way of faithful living that carries such stakes. For if one were to cause a stumbling block, then it is better to drown, cut off a limb, or remove your eye. You’d think that there’s nothing worse than losing a hand, foot, or eye, but Jesus clearly says there is. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The stakes are intense so that we may never lead anyone into sin. That we may never lead a neighbor astray. That we may never bear a false witness. That we may never hinder the fervor of the gospel. It’s hard to wrap my mind around Jesus saying that the consequences of causing another to stumble are far worse than self-maiming so that we never do it again.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And Such responsibility comes with incredibly high stakes. These are difficult and challenging words from Jesus. There is no fluffing the edges in order to avoid conviction. And honestly, these words should have us to shudder in a our seat at least a little bit. Can you imagine a world in which Jesus’ teaching was strictly followed? <o:p></o:p></div>
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If we led a neighbor or stranger to sin or worse, stood in the way of the gospel message, then we would cut, remove, maim or drown ourselves? The song goes, “They will know we are Christians by our love,” but in taking this teaching to heart I suspect “they would come to know we are Christians by our missing limbs.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Powerful and intimidating teaching by Jesus. And I suspect that very few of us wish to dive into these words with any form eagerness. They are hard to hear, and the easiest thing to do is brush them off and move on to the next passage, the next Sunday, the next sermon. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But if we dare, and we must, then we might be receptive to these convicting words and hear the necessity and relevance of Jesus’ teaching then and now. For none of us with to lose and arm, a leg, and eye...and I’m sure none of us wish for death by drowning under the weight of a millstone. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Today’s gospel lesson falls on the coattails of Jesus foretelling his impending rejection, suffering, death, and resurrection. Jesus taught them about the fate of the son of man not once but twice so far and on both occasions they respond poorly. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Most recently we heard the disciples arguing among themselves who is the greatest. Rather than process, lament, or grieve the news of Jesus’ forthcoming death, the disciples are concerned about themselves. Who is the greatest. Who will lead. Sure, they don’t fully understand their call as disciples and apostles, but they knew it was them who were called. So who was the greatest. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus gives them a stern lesson that whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all. He then takes a child in his arms and says whoever welcomes one such child in my name, welcomes me. Now I remind you that a child in those days was the lowest in society. They had no rights or privileges. No protection of the law or advocate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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They were considered a drain on society and were a constant reminder of poverty, disease, and death. Until they could provide for themselves or contribute to society, they were considered the ultimate of the lost, least, and last. <o:p></o:p></div>
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For Jesus, the child was a representation to the disciples that their call as well as their desire to be the greatest was ultimately dependent upon their ability and willingness to care for the outcast. The oppressed. The poor. The lame. The ill. And the sinner. Only then, in the name of Jesus, when you humble yourself to the lowest among you can you be considered in the company of the greatest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So the disciples return to Jesus this morning eager to point a finger at someone who is acting in Jesus’ name. Rather than approach the individual and affirm their ministry, the run to Jesus to say he’s not one of us and he’s acting in your name! He must be stopped. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But Jesus, who is still embracing that same child teaches them yet another lesson. This time a bit harsher than the last. Rather be concerned about the ministry of someone else, Jesus implores the disciples to pay attention instead to their own behavior. To look within and consider the ways in which they themselves might be hindering the ministry of the gospel to those around them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Jesus launches into one of the most harsh teachings in all of the gospel. Four brutal statements to illustrate the severity of leading someone to sin. The danger of being a hindrance to faith. The detriment of tempting another into the ensnarement of sin. Jesus calls these actions, stumbling blocks. Stones that cause one to trip. In this case, trip them in their understanding and experience of faith. Of God’s deep abiding grace, love, mercy, and forgiveness.</div>
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Perhaps, just maybe, even against our own comfort, Jesus’ teaching speaks hard truths to the Christian faith still today. Is it possible that we, and I mean the Christian church as a whole, have created, maintained, inserted, or even elevated stumbling blocks for those outside of the faith? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Empowered barriers, borders, or speed bumps to impeded the good news of Christ from reaching that last, lost, and least. The lowest, oppressed, scorned, and damaged. Or even those within the Christian faith, have we failed to support, empower, understand, welcome, and love in the name of Christ? Excluding rather than including. Dismissing rather than inviting. Rejecting rather than supporting. Ignoring rather than embracing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Please, hear me when I say that my intent is not to invoke Jesus’ teaching as a means of conviction upon St. Mark’s, Lutherans, or Christianity as whole. Rather, I think Jesus’ teaching demands that we pause, if even for a moment of deep self-reflection. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To reclaim the power of the gospel, remove the dead limbs and sinful impediments, and repave the way to everlasting life so that no one, and I mean no one may stumble when receiving the grace of God. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Research confirms, and I suspect we can all agree that there is a deep concern that mainline Christianity as whole is on the decline. That the need or desire for a life in a community of faith is waning. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Certainly there are a multitude of reasons and factors, but so often I hear stories of people who have felt burned by the Christian church, or they feel that the good news we preach isn’t always shown through our actions. These are the result of stumbling blocks. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I think this week, the Christian community was forced to grapple with one of these stumbling blocks. What is the response of the church in stories of assault. With rise and empowerment of movements like #metoo and #times up, more and more individuals are choosing to be vulnerable and tell their stories. What is the role of the church? And to be fair, the Bible itself is not immune to such stories. Ironically enough we’ll explore one of them today in Sunday school. <o:p></o:p></div>
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But as one of these stories played out on national television on Thursday, I wrestled with wondering what is the church’s response. Is there a beacon of hope clearly guiding the way to a God who loves unconditionally, a way clear of bumps and hindrances? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Ya know I think that faith and the love of Christ is an overwhelming relief to the burden one might carry, but when I also hear the relentless stories of priests abusing their own power over children...I fear that the church has lost its credibility and relevance. Why would anyone be so vulnerable trust me with their story? Is the stumbling block too severe to traverse?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now this is one, weighty example, but it is absolutely current. And it is these sorts of honest and difficult impediments to faith that Christ calls us to confront and overcome. To repair. To repent. To reconcile. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And It seems to me that in today’s society and culture, Christianity can ill-afford any stumbling blocks. Rather than compartmentalize our faith and distance the good news of Christ from all notions of a sinful world, I think Jesus would have us engage a sinful and broken world. To jump right in, pull out the jack hammer, and shine a light on every crack and rock that might cause someone to misstep when seeking out faith. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And Yes, yes it is a lofty responsibility. The stakes, as Jesus points out are incredibly high. But brothers and sisters, the good news is that in breaking down the stumbling blocks and shining a light in the darkness, we have a proclamation far better than the world could ever dream of. <o:p></o:p></div>
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We are called to serve witness to the greatest story of all. God’s salvation and love poured out unconditionally upon all creation. A story of immense grace and forgiveness. A story washed by mercy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And thus Christianity is the city on the hill, where a light shines in the darkness and the darkness of the world did not overcome it. A place where the oppressed are set free, the poor are raised up, and the abused are heard. Where the blind see and the deaf hear. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A refuge for all who have been scorned, dismayed, or rejected by a world that honors self-righteousness over humility, exclusion over invitation, rejection over acceptance. God’s story empowers us to welcome the stranger, care for the least among us, give shelter to the homeless, and clothe the naked. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And in today’s gospel lesson, Jesus advises the disciples and us to be speak with wisdom and truth, to act justly with grace and mercy, to be diligent and thoughtful, open and welcoming. For now as much as ever, the Christian faith has a call to be a relevant and faithful presence in the world. Remove the impediments of faith, and proclaim Christ crucified until all of creation is reconciled into the one body of Christ.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And when the stumbling blocks are removed, when the light shines in the darkness and all are bid come and follow, the story of God’s love in Jesus Christ has the power to bring about peace in a war-torn world. The power to build up unity in a divisive world. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To tear down walls, bridge the isle, and end division. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The power to breed compassion, soften hearts, and pour out love. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The power to end hunger and poverty, the power to lift up lowly and cast down the mighty. To establish not just equality but equity. The power to give voice to the oppressed and forgiveness to the oppressor. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My dearest sisters and brothers, the gospel message that we proclaim...the same message that created us. The very message the claimed us in the waters. The message the nourishes us and sustains us. The message that saves us is one of immense, unconditional love. And it’s a message given to the whole world. It’s a message too good not to share. <o:p></o:p></div>
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And today, with difficult and necessary words, Jesus reminds us that our call is not just to proclaim the gospel message, but to take every measure necessary to ensure that no one be precluded from hearing, tasting, or seeing for themselves. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Amen. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">© Pastor Daniel Locke, preached Sept. 30, 2018 @ St. Mark's Lutheran Jacksonville, FL</span></div>
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Rev. Daniel Lockehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08446731225812327964noreply@blogger.com0