Sunday, August 23, 2020 INTRODUCTION. As I said in the E-News, I would prefer to have face-to-face conversations with all of the members and friends of Beargrass. But that is not feasible, so if you haven’t seen the video, read the E-News, or “heard through the grapevine,” here we go. Ellen and I have been reflecting about my retirement date. We think…
This week’s story from Matthew 15 will become more powerful for us if we remember the timing and context. Jesus has been trying to get a break. He goes off to pray and get away from the crowds. He even packs up his pals in a boat and sends them out to sea. But after a rather stormy conclusion, Jesus is thrust…
Matthew 11:28-30 This week we will continue to make our way through the middle of the Gospel of Matthew and focus on the demands of discipleship. I recommend that you read all of chapter 11—but let me warn you—it is pretty rough! It seems that Jesus needs a vacation. He “loses” it—and lets loose on…
As we continue to proceed through the season of Pentecost, we began what will be an extended journey through the middle of the Gospel of Matthew. The focus in Matthew 10 is on discipleship. Jesus gathers his dynamic dozen and gives them power over the diseases of mind, body and spirit. Undoubtedly, they feel honored,…
We dive deeper into the text for this week and think about Jesus’ sending out the disciples to bring healing and liberation. As we continue with our theme of Pentecost Perspectives, we will again consider the “Pentecost Effect” and how we can view and live our lives as “Spirit filled” people of faith, focusing on…
Creation, Care, Commitment, Community. Last Sunday I began a series called “Pentecost Perspectives.” We thought about the giving of the gift of the Holy Spirit to the disciples from John’s point of view. His story describes Jesus “breathing” on them—the Spirit is given peacefully and privately. Next Sunday we will focus on the more familiar…
The theme for the upcoming services is “Pentecost Perspectives.” What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Pentecost?” Although Pentecost is the longest “season” of the Church by far, stretching from May until December, some of us aren’t sure “what it’s all about” or “what to do with it.” Some of us might…