Jesus Begins
When we are at inaugural moments we hang on every word of the one who is beginning. The hometown pleasure of the listeners to Jesus “inaugural sermon” gives way to rage when he makes
What Now?
In outrageous times we may be at a loss as to how we find common ground. John’s razor-sharp responses to the crowd’s questions point them toward a way that they know—but did not follow
Name It
We have hopes and expectations and dreams and fears for our children. The Boy visiting the House of God was living under two sets of expectations and the dreams of one cannot always allay the fears of the other.
Essential Workers
Rebroadcast of Rev Matt’s meditation on “Essential Workers” from our Christmas Eve 2020 Candlelight service. With Laura Intravia and the Center Church Choral Ensemble.
God, With You
When our plans are derailed by circumstances beyond our control it’s natural to feel isolated and alone. Mary’s (and Elizabeth’s) story is one of derailment and a new path walked with God’s Holy Spirit.
Joy, Forever
A “new normal” that normalizes separation and oppression and poverty for ordinary people is no normal at all. Isaiah the 3rd outlines a norm that rebuilds from the rubble and lifts up the crushed
Extravagant Mercy
The question about when we can get back to real worship in our real church sanctuaries has led to real disorientation and harm. Joel’s word is that God offers us covenant love and extravagant
It Got Real
We may treat rules and regulations and laws as necessary but irrelevant details until we find them applying to us. It was Darius who found himself bound by a seemingly-harmless decree that put Daniel
New Day
Whether we brush facts aside or embrace them truth is truth and things will change. The indifference of Jehoiakim to the truth led to Judah’s downfall and left the promise of a new day
Singed
In hazardous and uncertain times our impulse is to go to the ramparts and do battle. Isaiah’s vision grounds God’s strength in a different realm—the realm of holiness. Our disarming gift to our neighbor