Sermon Notes, Pente +9 - with Baptism

By faith! The letter to the Hebrews highlights the power of living by faith. "Faith" is the most common word in the passage we're given in today's lectionary, and with good reason. The lesson shares the history of faith; from the first connection of humanity and God. The omitted section in the lectionary details the faith of Abel, Enoch, and Noah, before focusing on the specifics of Abraham's faith experience here on earth (despite known hardships) and the focus of faith to look toward the heavenly reward that God has promised us. The full chapter (we receive just a portion) continues to tell of the faith of many additional individuals and communities: people whose lives were influenced and improved by their faith in God.
This letter inspires the reader to consider how faith has been active in their own life: to reflect and meditate on where and how the Word of God has made life better.

Perfect for a week when we are celebrating a baptism!
Baptism reminds us of the many facets of our faith, which grow and develop, ebb and flow, and above all remind us of the power of community.

The promises made are declaration of faith –
Vow and covenant being our intention and God’s engagement with it.
Holy times that serve as foundation for all aspects of our life – how can we live in faith, by faith, with faith, with the faithful?

Re-affirmed in the Gospel –
“Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

What joy! Receiving the kingdom!
And what blissful and blessed opportunity then – to receive the kingdom for all
To live in faith is to share the kingdom
To be ready when need arises,
To respond with heart and hands of loving action.
To receive the kingdom means to help others, to teach the faith, to grow in faith, to know what truly is important.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
So let’s consider that this week – what is our treasure?
How do we use that?
How is God calling us to share that treasure?
In what ways has faith allowed us to delight in God's grace and share the Good News of God?

Let’s start that trust in that living and active Good News with the sacrament of baptism – for young Brooks, and renewing those holy vows for us all.