In a few moments we’ll declare the creed, the statement of faith.
So here’s a question for you… Why do you believe?
What happened in your life that made you believe in God?
What was it that made you a follower of Jesus?
Think back to those times when you doubted - what was it that brought you back?
Whatever it was – one thing or a thousand – how wonderful for those divine expressions.
Whatever the answer, likely different one for each – for our faith journeys are unique.
And those journeys bring us to different ways to pray and praise, to connect, to serve.
Membership as part of the family of God – letter to Peter addresses this: being part of the make-up of the faithful
Life is full of variances in our journeys: membership becomes identity.
Army vs Navy
With all this effort on who is in and who is out, do we miss the bigger picture?
(re-read vss 11-12)
Summary: Believe in Jesus. For whatever reason you can.
Not your neighbour's reason, not your mother's reason, not the reason for the person sitting next to you.
You've already demonstrated that you want to believe;
of all the folks who are non-believers, non-religious, SBNRs, non-worshippers, etc.: you're here.
Jesus gives us exactly what we need, if we're willing to receive it.
And that’ can be a challenge!
even the disciples - with the Lord right in front of them - had a hard time with it.
BUT - Jesus continues to reach out to us.
Give us what we need.
Many ways, many opportunities, many reasons to believe.
Work of being Easter people is more than sorting out who is 'in' and who is 'out' - it's about loving unconditionally - as Jesus first loved us.
It's about welcoming the stranger
caring for the sick -- advocating for the oppressed -- teaching the faith -- supporting one another in our belief.
Why do you believe?
Because you're in a relationship that includes our God, the risen Christ, the person next to you in your pew, the clerk at the store, the atheist in the coffee shop...
you're in these holy connections with community because God wills it.
God puts us in relationship with one another so that we might exercise our faith, and consider our belief, and live out that belief in real, tangible ways.
So let us go out and do the works of God - based on our own belief, our own faith journey, with God's great world.
So don't let our hearts be troubled - let us believe in God, believe also in Jesus - and live in the household of God.
02 May 2026
25 April 2026
20 April 2026
Sermon, Easter 3 (Year A)
About a decade ago, the Irish folk band Mumford and Sons released a song called “Hopeless Wanderer” –
The general message indicates that the journey of the singer is not about escaping a time of struggle (or hopelessness), or of denying the ordinary while constantly seeking the next great adventure.
Rather, the point is that the singer sees the moment as a journey.
He speaks of each moment as an opportunity to fall in love with the surroundings and people, claiming “I will learn to love the skies I’m under”.
What a wonderful message, to endeavour to be fully present in the moment – seeing exactly what and who are there, not focused on the past or looking solely to the future.
And – here’s the hard part – the singer is suggesting that EVERY moment is THE moment to be savoured.
So no matter what happened last night, today is a time to celebrate being in the here and now.
No matter what the plans are for tomorrow, today is something to be held up and enjoyed.
This message of that song is no that different from the message of the Gospel today. The road to Emmaus. Again, it’s a well-loved piece of scripture, one that speaks to many of us.
It reminds us about the importance of living in the moment – in THIS moment – to the best of our ability. And that reminder comes to us from the disciples, who are not quite getting it at the time.
Because here they are, the disciples. The Christ followers. Headed to a new town, because the women at the tomb told them to go. They’re journeying, but they aren’t focused on the now.
They’re missing out on whatever is going on around them; oblivious to the scenery, to their own bodies, to the other people they encounter.
Even when they chat with Jesus who has appeared to them, they aren’t paying attention – they don’t recognise him.
So there they are, walking along. Trudging, likely. Tired, dusty, hungry, thirsty, a little depressed. Feeling both hopeless after the crucifixion, and almost uncertain if they dare to hope in the news of the Resurrection that has been shared with them.
It’s an emotionally charged time.
And into that, someone they don’t recognise comes alongside… they’re likely so distracted they couldn’t even say when or where he joined them ,… and asks them what they’re chatting about.
I would imagine my response would be one of confusion and hesitation…
yet here is Jesus, Inviting them to be more present, more observant, to what is actually happening.
But because they’re focused on the past, they don’t see the blessing in their midst. … so they go through the entire story for him. Is he the ONLY one who doesn’t know what’s happened. You can almost hear them, like a petulant child, telling the story.
And Jesus – never gives up. So rather than reveal himself directly, he continues his process of wanting his followers to discern, and learn.
he still wants his followers to see him as he accompanies them. As he reiterates to them everything they’ve heard, everything he’s taught them, everything about the scriptures being opened.
It’s a timeless act, as the scriptures always have relevance and meaning to the NOW moment. And still the disciples don’t see Jesus right there, they just see another man, journeying, as the end of the day nears.
And what patience Jesus demonstrates as their journey continues… waiting for them to see him; waiting for them to dwell in their faith, waiting for them to believe the Good News that the women have told them.
So he continues to journey with them, accepting their invitation of hospitality, blessing the food with the same words he’d used just a few days earlier at the last supper. Breaking and sharing the bread with them, in the exact same manner he had just a few days before.
Sharing not only communion, but community.
Can you imagine watching this – seeing Jesus give them every possible cue and clue as to who he is – and still his disciples did not understand.
They were overwhelmed and distracted, focused on the pain of the past and the confusion about the future. And so they missed the moment, the NOW, the very presence of the risen saviour.
They missed it. I can imagine we might do the same. We often overlook when grace is in front of us.
And then – they stopped being so focused on the past and future that they were able to be present in the NOW. Until they were able to truly LOOK and see what a great gift had been given them. Until the realized that their journey was significant because it was a journey, a collection of important moments.
And once they had clued in, once they had realized that they were meant to live in the NOW, Jesus ‘vanished from their sight’. They did some reflecting – which is a good thing – not to dwell on the past but to learn from it, to make the present even better.
And they realized that Christ’s presence had been to encourage them to focus on the here and now, to celebrate those moments, to find the extraordinary in the ordinary.
To delight in the gift of the now instead of being disappointed by the past or trapped by the potential future.
To use the gift of the now as an opportunity for ministry, for loving one another, for sharing the Good News of God.
And, with renewed energy, they repent and return… to Jerusalem; making that 7 mile return journey in the dark, because they have now truly seen.
While it’s a powerful message for those few disciples then, it’s just as relevant for us as disciples today. We get caught up in the same things – we get so busy, distracted, pensive, etc. that we miss the moment.
We miss the times when our journey becomes a bit easier because someone accompanies us.
We miss the people who want to journey with us but don’t feel they can engage with us.
We miss the people who would share faith with us, discussing faith or opening the scriptures, because we’re afraid we might offend if we talk faith.
We miss the people who would break bread with us, sharing in hospitality and nourishment, thereby dispelling loneliness and fear.
We can miss out because we are just like those disciples; thinking about ourselves, our experiences; spiritually distracted, trudging along the road, with our heads down.
Instead, Jesus encourages us to seek the blessings of the journey: to walk together in faith. Our faith journey is a celebration of the moment, responding to that call to “love the skies we’re under” – and to find Jesus there.
Wherever our roads take us, they can always lead us towards our own metaphorical Emmaus – that place of knowing Jesus as the Risen Lord whose promises are always sure.
The road on which our eyes will be opened to the companions along our way.
Where we’ll recognize the gifts of the people walking with us, even if it’s just for a short time. Where we’ll be enlightened by the opportunity to learn new things, to discuss what the scriptures mean, how our faith inspires.
Where we’ll receive the spiritual nourishment of joining together for the family meal, enjoying company with others and with God.
Where we’ll feel our hearts are burning within us, because we are in the presence of the risen and living God, who is constantly showing himself to us as we continue along our journey.
May our journey be joy-filled, may our eyes be open to the wonders of each and every moment, may we know the truth of the risen Christ as we encounter the world in front of us.
17 April 2026
Sermon Notes Easter Vigil
People of the Book
Not meaning the physical bindings.
But the narratives that guide and direct us.
The stories that speak of history (factual and allegorical)
People (literal and heroic)
Places (named and amorphous)
Journeys (literal and spiritual)
Experiences of being the people of God.
People of the Book know that the stories of our scripture take us through reality of being human.
Knowing that we try hard, we make mistakes, we fall – sometimes horribly.
And through it, the message of God is clear:
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s try again.
As people of the book, this message is for us all:
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s try again.
And so the stories that brought us to THIS point – so many of which we hear tonight – we continue the journey as the people of God.
With stories from our community and our time that speak of God guiding us, lighting our path.
The stories rooted in faith, that Support us.
Encourage us.
Inspire us.
And accompany us.
Because AS people of faith, we know these are not just narratives – they are the truth.
The truth of grace and mercy, of redemption and salvation, of love and love and more love.
And this.
This we honour and celebrate tonight, and carry with us.
Into the world.
The world that cries out “fake news” and discord to whatever doesn’t suit its own empire’s purpose.
And that’s okay too. Because even in those circles of darkness, God’s inconceivable love flows.
And for those of us with faith, we know the power of love.
The power of truth.
The power of being God’s people:
Imperfectly human, and perfectly, divinely loved.
This is our truth: this is our story.
This is the power of the resurrection, of life over death, of truth over all.
This is the power as God tells us at Easter (and always)
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s love again.
Not meaning the physical bindings.
But the narratives that guide and direct us.
The stories that speak of history (factual and allegorical)
People (literal and heroic)
Places (named and amorphous)
Journeys (literal and spiritual)
Experiences of being the people of God.
People of the Book know that the stories of our scripture take us through reality of being human.
Knowing that we try hard, we make mistakes, we fall – sometimes horribly.
And through it, the message of God is clear:
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s try again.
As people of the book, this message is for us all:
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s try again.
And so the stories that brought us to THIS point – so many of which we hear tonight – we continue the journey as the people of God.
With stories from our community and our time that speak of God guiding us, lighting our path.
The stories rooted in faith, that Support us.
Encourage us.
Inspire us.
And accompany us.
Because AS people of faith, we know these are not just narratives – they are the truth.
The truth of grace and mercy, of redemption and salvation, of love and love and more love.
And this.
This we honour and celebrate tonight, and carry with us.
Into the world.
The world that cries out “fake news” and discord to whatever doesn’t suit its own empire’s purpose.
And that’s okay too. Because even in those circles of darkness, God’s inconceivable love flows.
And for those of us with faith, we know the power of love.
The power of truth.
The power of being God’s people:
Imperfectly human, and perfectly, divinely loved.
This is our truth: this is our story.
This is the power of the resurrection, of life over death, of truth over all.
This is the power as God tells us at Easter (and always)
It’s okay. I still love you. Let’s love again.
29 March 2026
Sermon Notes Palm Sunday
This week we recognise two very different emotional journeys: the Palm procession, where joyous choruses ring out!
Palm Sunday isn’t just celebration—it’s challenge.
It’s protest.
It’s an interruption to the "norm" because the norm had become ridiculous.
Donkey? Coats on ground? Palms waving?
This is weird.
Shouting Hosannas - save us - also strange.
Because: Hosanna means SAVE US.
WHat is our hosanna today?
WHat do we want or need saving from?
And how on earth - literally - are we going to do that?
What is our non-violent protest?
How are we going to destabilise the cruelty and injustice of the world - with love and non-violence and faith...
Palm Sunday - as the journey to Holy Week begins - this is the triumph of hope.
It's the voice of hope for a better world that cries out those Hosannas.
It's the voice that we still need to cry out with today: for the world is certainly needing us to stand up for what is right and just and holy.
The world needs us to love: ridiculously - even with a donkey.
As we enter Holy Week, may God guide our footsteps - to stand against the evil in the world, that would still subvert the love that God offers.
Let us stand firm in our own Hosannas - for the Gospel is not just about what happened some 2000 years ago.
It's about our lives, our faith, our choices today.
Hosanna, Lord, Hosanna.
23 March 2026
Sermon, Lent 5 (Year A)
It’s not uncommon during Lent to have readings like we have today: a little bit awkward and uncomfortable – and ending with hope.
Now, we all know that hope is not a strategy; but it is a reality of how we put our faith into action.
As one diplomat said last week: Hope is a choice – a very practical one.
We’re at a point in the world where we could all use a little – or a lot – of hope.
So when we frame that as a practical choice – deeply rooted in our strong faith – hope becomes almost tangible.
Hope is a great starting point for us to focus on what really matters in this life: love, faith, justice, peace… rather than being distracted by the minutia of our daily lives.
I’m not saying the minutia isn’t important – it very much is – but when we think about defining our lives, we tend not to think about unloading the dishwasher or the commute to work.
So let’s think about the uncomfortable readings for a few moments.
Ezekiel gives us this field of dry bones – a little eerie and unpleasant.
And then God inviting the prophet to have a conversation with them.
It’s weird.
…Until we realise that the bones are not meant to be taken literally, but symbolically.
They represent people – the Biblical people of Israel.
These Israelites were the people of faith, who were struggling.
Their very name – isra-el meaning those who struggle with God.
They are normal people, trying to do the best they can, trying to live their lives in faithful ways, and feeling a little depleted. Drained. Done.
These are the people who say “Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are cut off completely.'
It’s uncomfortable to admit when we’re just not feeling it; when the weight of the world is hanging heavily around our shoulders.
Yet who among us hasn’t been there at some point? Who hasn’t felt frustrated by the events of the news… or futile in the light of the big picture… or just flattened by the messiness of life.
We’re human. It happens.
Yet the scriptures remind us that when we are most deflated is when we are most ready to receive new breath.
The breath of life, of God, of justice.
And there we begin to be re-filled with the spirit of community, and of grace, and of hope.
God promised the people they would be reunited with one another, in a healthy and whole place.
But they would also remember what that discomfort felt like: and so they would be encouraged to work to prevent backsliding into it again.
God filled them with breath – and with hope.
That’s the kind of holy hope that makes us all want to breathe a little bit deeper right now, isn’t it.
To fill ourselves with that life-giving presence that will re-fuel us in the work of justice.
Paul amplifies this sentiment when he writes to the church in Rome – reminding them that they are mortal.
And sadly, death happens. But – that life happens more.
We are not just the earthly sinews and structures that are found within our bodies; we are people who carry within us the spirit of the divine.
We aren’t human beings having an occasional spiritual experience;
We are spiritual beings having our human experience.
Which is hopeful – and helpful – that even when our bodies fail to do what we want them to do, our spiritual selves are never diminished.
Sometimes we keep our focus on our bodies – the earthly constructs that we know and exist within.
But again – hope supports us as we see the emphasis on life and peace that God has blessed us all with.
The Gospel today is… not subtle.
Jesus here invites us to consider how many times in our lives we have expected someone else to come along and do something.
To feed the hungry, to house the homeless, to lift up the broken-hearted, etc.
And Jesus instead invites us to realise that God has put us here to do just that.
To get involved in practices where we feel uncomfortable… where we don’t have all the answers… where we can’t do it alone… where it seems impossible.
We ask God to do the things to change our earthly situation to what we think is best, rather than trying to focus on God’s work happening in God’s time.
Jesus instead invites us to act with hope.
To do something. To become involved in initiatives and practices that can and do make the world a better place.
Even when they may make us uncomfortable at times.
Certainly, Jesus was not afraid to sit in the discomfort.
He joined in the physical, emotional, and spiritual reality of the world that faced him.
He sat with Mary and Martha, and wept with them in their grief.
He didn’t try to ignore the practicalities of death, as Martha reminds him of how quickly decay can come.
He rejected the spiritual bypass of loss, with a ‘quick-fix’ prayer or deflection of responsibility.
He sat. He wept.
He prayed an honest prayer.
And then he demonstrated the power of life over death – a power that only God can give – as he invited Lazarus to come out of the tomb.
He didn’t go into the tomb; he waited for Lazarus to act.
And Lazarus began to unbind himself enough to stand and emerge.
And the family began to unbind him, undoing the bonds they themselves had put on him.
And the community began to unbind themselves of the paralysis they had felt, shedding their apathy and lack of compassion and self-centredness, as they moved into their days – even the minutia – with a renewed understanding of the power of hope.
And we are invited to do the same.
To look inward to see where we have been bound by ourselves or by the world, and to see where we have bound others.
And while it’s uncomfortable, it’s also the first step to UNbinding –
And my goodness, what hope that potential can give us.
The world is messy. It’s uncomfortable. It’s feeling very Lent-y.
We don’t need to wait for someone else to tell us what to do to fix it: because God has already given us what we need:
the spirit of life, and the blessing of hope.
May we then recognise that the voice of God speaking into our hearts is unbinding us from all that denies life; and hear the invitation of Jesus to go into the world and shine the light of hope.
Now, we all know that hope is not a strategy; but it is a reality of how we put our faith into action.
As one diplomat said last week: Hope is a choice – a very practical one.
We’re at a point in the world where we could all use a little – or a lot – of hope.
So when we frame that as a practical choice – deeply rooted in our strong faith – hope becomes almost tangible.
Hope is a great starting point for us to focus on what really matters in this life: love, faith, justice, peace… rather than being distracted by the minutia of our daily lives.
I’m not saying the minutia isn’t important – it very much is – but when we think about defining our lives, we tend not to think about unloading the dishwasher or the commute to work.
So let’s think about the uncomfortable readings for a few moments.
Ezekiel gives us this field of dry bones – a little eerie and unpleasant.
And then God inviting the prophet to have a conversation with them.
It’s weird.
…Until we realise that the bones are not meant to be taken literally, but symbolically.
They represent people – the Biblical people of Israel.
These Israelites were the people of faith, who were struggling.
Their very name – isra-el meaning those who struggle with God.
They are normal people, trying to do the best they can, trying to live their lives in faithful ways, and feeling a little depleted. Drained. Done.
These are the people who say “Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are cut off completely.'
It’s uncomfortable to admit when we’re just not feeling it; when the weight of the world is hanging heavily around our shoulders.
Yet who among us hasn’t been there at some point? Who hasn’t felt frustrated by the events of the news… or futile in the light of the big picture… or just flattened by the messiness of life.
We’re human. It happens.
Yet the scriptures remind us that when we are most deflated is when we are most ready to receive new breath.
The breath of life, of God, of justice.
And there we begin to be re-filled with the spirit of community, and of grace, and of hope.
God promised the people they would be reunited with one another, in a healthy and whole place.
But they would also remember what that discomfort felt like: and so they would be encouraged to work to prevent backsliding into it again.
God filled them with breath – and with hope.
That’s the kind of holy hope that makes us all want to breathe a little bit deeper right now, isn’t it.
To fill ourselves with that life-giving presence that will re-fuel us in the work of justice.
Paul amplifies this sentiment when he writes to the church in Rome – reminding them that they are mortal.
And sadly, death happens. But – that life happens more.
We are not just the earthly sinews and structures that are found within our bodies; we are people who carry within us the spirit of the divine.
We aren’t human beings having an occasional spiritual experience;
We are spiritual beings having our human experience.
Which is hopeful – and helpful – that even when our bodies fail to do what we want them to do, our spiritual selves are never diminished.
Sometimes we keep our focus on our bodies – the earthly constructs that we know and exist within.
But again – hope supports us as we see the emphasis on life and peace that God has blessed us all with.
The Gospel today is… not subtle.
Jesus here invites us to consider how many times in our lives we have expected someone else to come along and do something.
To feed the hungry, to house the homeless, to lift up the broken-hearted, etc.
And Jesus instead invites us to realise that God has put us here to do just that.
To get involved in practices where we feel uncomfortable… where we don’t have all the answers… where we can’t do it alone… where it seems impossible.
We ask God to do the things to change our earthly situation to what we think is best, rather than trying to focus on God’s work happening in God’s time.
Jesus instead invites us to act with hope.
To do something. To become involved in initiatives and practices that can and do make the world a better place.
Even when they may make us uncomfortable at times.
Certainly, Jesus was not afraid to sit in the discomfort.
He joined in the physical, emotional, and spiritual reality of the world that faced him.
He sat with Mary and Martha, and wept with them in their grief.
He didn’t try to ignore the practicalities of death, as Martha reminds him of how quickly decay can come.
He rejected the spiritual bypass of loss, with a ‘quick-fix’ prayer or deflection of responsibility.
He sat. He wept.
He prayed an honest prayer.
And then he demonstrated the power of life over death – a power that only God can give – as he invited Lazarus to come out of the tomb.
He didn’t go into the tomb; he waited for Lazarus to act.
And Lazarus began to unbind himself enough to stand and emerge.
And the family began to unbind him, undoing the bonds they themselves had put on him.
And the community began to unbind themselves of the paralysis they had felt, shedding their apathy and lack of compassion and self-centredness, as they moved into their days – even the minutia – with a renewed understanding of the power of hope.
And we are invited to do the same.
To look inward to see where we have been bound by ourselves or by the world, and to see where we have bound others.
And while it’s uncomfortable, it’s also the first step to UNbinding –
And my goodness, what hope that potential can give us.
The world is messy. It’s uncomfortable. It’s feeling very Lent-y.
We don’t need to wait for someone else to tell us what to do to fix it: because God has already given us what we need:
the spirit of life, and the blessing of hope.
May we then recognise that the voice of God speaking into our hearts is unbinding us from all that denies life; and hear the invitation of Jesus to go into the world and shine the light of hope.
28 February 2026
Sermon Notes, Lent 2 (Year A)
Fullness of life
Genesis – Abram and Sarai promised a nation
BLESSINGS – fullness
Romans – continues the lineage of life!
Fullness, generations,
Through faith.
Gospel – focus on 3.16: comfortable passage –
Truly life-=changing
Salvation!
Eternal Life!
For ALL!
The fullness of faith goes beyond out wildest imaginations.,
(Sounds more Easter than Lent…)
But how do we GET there?
Lent is a journey…
Genesis – starts with a journey – literal and spiritual. Call to believe, to put behind them all that they thought they know.
Romans – Paul describes Abram’s journey as one towards the God “who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
That’s a marathon of faith:
Shift from what was to what IS – an emphasis on what IS, not what IF
Gospel: starts with Nicodemus.
Man with… shortcomings.
Comes to Jesus at night – hidden
Asking questions – good!
But not really able to grapple with the answers.
Because they don’t fit into his worldview – his box – his framework.
But God isn’t limited by our framework…
Nicodemus needs to learn to be born again, he’s told – to be born from above.
He’s being invited into the fullenss of life.
And that means change for him.
Because he is held back by fear.
Nicodemus – is all of us, at timers.
Coming to Jesus – wanting to understand, to learn, to follow!
And wanting to believe.
But the world holds us back.
Our fear
Greed
Selfishness
Need to be right
These things that hold us back from authentic relationship
Very human!
Very Lent.
Because God reminds us that wherever we are on our spiritual journey, we are wanted.
Jesus accompanies us through our shortcomings – and through our times of strong faith
God calls us into the fullness of life
But to go on that journey we need to let go of our earthly trappings.
So let us spend Lent seeking that life
Ready to let go of what is no longer building our faith
Focusing on the one who welcomes us home
Believing that the God who brought us into this life
Extends to us the promise of eternal life:
For God so loved us all.
Genesis – Abram and Sarai promised a nation
BLESSINGS – fullness
Romans – continues the lineage of life!
Fullness, generations,
Through faith.
Gospel – focus on 3.16: comfortable passage –
Truly life-=changing
Salvation!
Eternal Life!
For ALL!
The fullness of faith goes beyond out wildest imaginations.,
(Sounds more Easter than Lent…)
But how do we GET there?
Lent is a journey…
Genesis – starts with a journey – literal and spiritual. Call to believe, to put behind them all that they thought they know.
Romans – Paul describes Abram’s journey as one towards the God “who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.
That’s a marathon of faith:
Shift from what was to what IS – an emphasis on what IS, not what IF
Gospel: starts with Nicodemus.
Man with… shortcomings.
Comes to Jesus at night – hidden
Asking questions – good!
But not really able to grapple with the answers.
Because they don’t fit into his worldview – his box – his framework.
But God isn’t limited by our framework…
Nicodemus needs to learn to be born again, he’s told – to be born from above.
He’s being invited into the fullenss of life.
And that means change for him.
Because he is held back by fear.
Nicodemus – is all of us, at timers.
Coming to Jesus – wanting to understand, to learn, to follow!
And wanting to believe.
But the world holds us back.
Our fear
Greed
Selfishness
Need to be right
These things that hold us back from authentic relationship
Very human!
Very Lent.
Because God reminds us that wherever we are on our spiritual journey, we are wanted.
Jesus accompanies us through our shortcomings – and through our times of strong faith
God calls us into the fullness of life
But to go on that journey we need to let go of our earthly trappings.
So let us spend Lent seeking that life
Ready to let go of what is no longer building our faith
Focusing on the one who welcomes us home
Believing that the God who brought us into this life
Extends to us the promise of eternal life:
For God so loved us all.
23 February 2026
Sermon Notes, Ash/Lent1 (Year A)
ASHES:
Sign of death
Sign of impermanence
Not meant to be depressing but inspiring:
Life is limited –
How will we listen to God with the time that we have>
How will we serve God’s beloved with the skills that we
have?
How will we act with love and mercy for all God’s children?
LENT:
Some see as time of deprivation
Not meant to make us miserable; but compassionate.
Invite us to go deeper into the mystery
Favourite painting: Van Gogh Starry Night
Many who look at it see a lot of everything and of nothing:
Swirls, colours, stars… looking too much above can miss
what’s below.
Small church – in town
Cyprus tree – bridging earthly and heavenly
Lent does this for us:
Invites us deeper
Away from temptation (which the Gospels show us – the
tempter makes promises they never intend to keep, with things – food, love,
power – that were never theirs to begin with.
Life is full of temptations; but God remains constant.
Just beyond our comprehension
But never beyond connection
May our Lent be holy: as we embrace the mystery of love that
surrounds us.
May we engage the world with the time that we have, for
every day is a new opportunity.
Blessing by Henri Amiel:
Life is short,
And we do not have much time
to gladden the hearts of those who
make the journey with us.
So… be swift to love,
and make haste to be kind.
And the blessing of God,
who made us,
who loves us,
and who travels with us
be with you now and forever.
14 February 2026
Sermon Notes, Transfiguration
Transfiguration
= change in form or appearance
ALSO an exalting, glorifying, or spiritual change
(First english use – for this feast day)
Always a positive connotation
Transfig is invitation to us.
Jesus: up the mountaintop: suddenly seen as glowing – radiant – amazing
…What if Jesus isn’t the one who changed?
Change comes in how Jesus is seen
Jesus: embodiment of love, grace, mercy – those things remain unchanged.
Peter: has a moment that renders him… stunned? Senseless?
James and John – we don’t know their reaction – but they’re there.
Their worldview has shifted.
Jesus looks at them, and beyond them – to everything visible from the mountaintop (i.e. the world):
And they see Jesus loving it all.
And Peter and James and John realise that is the call in following Jesus: to find ways to love all.
Because in basking in THAT love, radiance happens,
Glow coming from within.
So this opportunity is an invitation for us to look out on the world that way too: as an invitation to love. Fully, at times foolishly, loving.
And the next invitation that we get today:
Suddenly Moses and Elijah are there: speaking with Jesus.
Heroes of the faith: not just amazingly known folks of the scriptures
But teachers of the faith. Inspirations. Encouragers. Role models.
Standing with Jesus – as Peter’s and James’ and John’s faith grows.
They see not just the person of Jesus, but the strength of tradition.
And they’re invited to recognise the continuity of faith – through this.
Invitation then invites us to consider who has been instrumental in our faith journey?
Who are our spiritual heroes?
Who do we see standing by Jesus when we are having our faith strengthened and encouraged and changed?
Whoever they are – they bless us.
And we are touched by the light of their faith – by the radiance of their gist to us.
May the love of God shock us with its brilliance.
May the face of Jesus continue to amaze us as it is revealed each day
May those who have formed us continue to inspire us in the faith
May we too come off of mountaintops ready to love, bless, and minister: always reflecting the light of Christ.
= change in form or appearance
ALSO an exalting, glorifying, or spiritual change
(First english use – for this feast day)
Always a positive connotation
Transfig is invitation to us.
Jesus: up the mountaintop: suddenly seen as glowing – radiant – amazing
…What if Jesus isn’t the one who changed?
Change comes in how Jesus is seen
Jesus: embodiment of love, grace, mercy – those things remain unchanged.
Peter: has a moment that renders him… stunned? Senseless?
James and John – we don’t know their reaction – but they’re there.
Their worldview has shifted.
Jesus looks at them, and beyond them – to everything visible from the mountaintop (i.e. the world):
And they see Jesus loving it all.
And Peter and James and John realise that is the call in following Jesus: to find ways to love all.
Because in basking in THAT love, radiance happens,
Glow coming from within.
So this opportunity is an invitation for us to look out on the world that way too: as an invitation to love. Fully, at times foolishly, loving.
And the next invitation that we get today:
Suddenly Moses and Elijah are there: speaking with Jesus.
Heroes of the faith: not just amazingly known folks of the scriptures
But teachers of the faith. Inspirations. Encouragers. Role models.
Standing with Jesus – as Peter’s and James’ and John’s faith grows.
They see not just the person of Jesus, but the strength of tradition.
And they’re invited to recognise the continuity of faith – through this.
Invitation then invites us to consider who has been instrumental in our faith journey?
Who are our spiritual heroes?
Who do we see standing by Jesus when we are having our faith strengthened and encouraged and changed?
Whoever they are – they bless us.
And we are touched by the light of their faith – by the radiance of their gist to us.
May the love of God shock us with its brilliance.
May the face of Jesus continue to amaze us as it is revealed each day
May those who have formed us continue to inspire us in the faith
May we too come off of mountaintops ready to love, bless, and minister: always reflecting the light of Christ.
Sermon Notes, EPiphany +5 (Year A)
Once upon a time…
Parish fundraising event: put up signs.
Challenge: all signs up INSIDE the building.
Upset that no one from broader community came to event
Never wondered WHY…
Learning is that when we look inwards, even with the best of intentions, we’re serving ourselves. It’s a closed circle.
Communities of Christ’s followers do not exist for ourselves.
Our identity is not to retreat from the world into our circle; facing inward
But to face outward – taking the Good News into the world.
Our shared identity is to engage in practices that highlight God’s kin-dom - and invite others to join us in this mission.
Today’s scripture: second half of Sermon on Mount – immediately following the beatitudes.
Parish fundraising event: put up signs.
Challenge: all signs up INSIDE the building.
Upset that no one from broader community came to event
Never wondered WHY…
Learning is that when we look inwards, even with the best of intentions, we’re serving ourselves. It’s a closed circle.
Communities of Christ’s followers do not exist for ourselves.
Our identity is not to retreat from the world into our circle; facing inward
But to face outward – taking the Good News into the world.
Our shared identity is to engage in practices that highlight God’s kin-dom - and invite others to join us in this mission.
Today’s scripture: second half of Sermon on Mount – immediately following the beatitudes.
Beatitudes turn world upside down - bring hope, promise, inspiration
YOU ARE SALT.
You – plural.
Of the Earth – rooted, grounded. Belonging.
Salt: exists to affect other elements.
Preserves, flavours, cleanses. Melts ice even! It enhances –
but too much all at once can be too much. – overpowering, dangerous
Jesus then goes on:
YOU ARE LIGHT.
Light: also good! Shows us where things are. Nurtures growth.
FOR the world: Biblical reference of God’s people resisting imperial injustice - light
But again too much all at once can be a problem – prevents sleep (restoring bodies); blinding; heat
Salt and Light: contextual: Meant for other things.
Salt enhances goodness that’s already there.
Light overcomes darkness.
We know the world is full of pockets of darkness:
We know the world is already full of pockets of goodness.
We are called to go to those.
Mission: enhance the goodness; overcome the darkness.
We are already called to do this:
We’re not told you WILL be salt or you’ll PLAN to be light.
These are already here:
Christ Followers.
Going into the world.
Jesus reminds us that as his followers, we live that identity as we are mission-focused.
We are facing out into the world – never alone, but supported, together, existing to bring the Good News of God to the world.
May God bless us as we take God’s good news beyond this space.
YOU ARE SALT.
You – plural.
Of the Earth – rooted, grounded. Belonging.
Salt: exists to affect other elements.
Preserves, flavours, cleanses. Melts ice even! It enhances –
but too much all at once can be too much. – overpowering, dangerous
Jesus then goes on:
YOU ARE LIGHT.
Light: also good! Shows us where things are. Nurtures growth.
FOR the world: Biblical reference of God’s people resisting imperial injustice - light
But again too much all at once can be a problem – prevents sleep (restoring bodies); blinding; heat
Salt and Light: contextual: Meant for other things.
Salt enhances goodness that’s already there.
Light overcomes darkness.
We know the world is full of pockets of darkness:
We know the world is already full of pockets of goodness.
We are called to go to those.
Mission: enhance the goodness; overcome the darkness.
We are already called to do this:
We’re not told you WILL be salt or you’ll PLAN to be light.
These are already here:
Christ Followers.
Going into the world.
Jesus reminds us that as his followers, we live that identity as we are mission-focused.
We are facing out into the world – never alone, but supported, together, existing to bring the Good News of God to the world.
May God bless us as we take God’s good news beyond this space.
25 January 2026
Sermon Notes, Epi +3 +baptism (Year A)
Jesus: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near”
Why is Jesus blatantly declaring this? What is he hoping to accomplish?
Changed hearts
Changed minds
Changed Actions
Changed Lives.
Repentance gives us a different way of living.
Not the worldly ways:
But Godly ways.
And when we choose to live as the baptised
(not one day, but every day)
We show the world our repentance
And that we take seriously God’s love at the foundation of our lives.
To love: boldly. Regardless of the cost.
Following Jesus is not meant to be symbolic, or performative.
It’s not about wearing a cross or holding a bible to demonstrate an allegiance;
it’s about putting our lives visibly as agents of love, of justice, of peace.
This weekend – in Minnesota - that looked like faith leaders kneeling in prayer and singing hymns against the violence of government agents – even as they were arrested.
It doesn’t take much, in our society, in our world, to see opportunities to stand up for justice.
For the vulnerable
The oppressed
The weak
The lonely
The fearful
The grieving.
And so we are called to repent.
To change:
As we both pray for the kingdom of heaven to come near
And as we act in ways to facilitate and celebrate that the kingdom of God HAS come near.
Call to repentance is call to baptism
Baptism means giving things up as well as taking things on…
We think of the newness of asking the Spirit for gifts, for blessings, for community, etc.
But also the shedding of the former ways. Not necessarily bad; but different.
A call answered by James and John
Shedding of their boat and nets –
Also shed employment, business, inheritance
Changed their relationship with family:
Walked away from father and business and community
We don’t know how it affected them; perhaps Zebedee was so overjoyed he didn’t mind finding new workers and no longer having heirs to the business.
But it was different.
Following Jesus changes us.
Because we repent: we change our hearts.
We look to God – and God alone –
as our moral compass,
our Guiding light,
our hope,
and our salvation.
This call to follow Jesus brings us together: in unity.
Not uniformity: but unity. (Week of Prayer for Christian Unity)
Paul’s appeal “that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose.”
Bringing all our differences together in prayer and worship.
We pray as one: for peace and justice to prevail.
For the confidence to stand up against all forms of evil that the world shows us.
For the truth that needs to be heard is this:
The darkness will not win.
It Cannot win:
For we carry the light.
It’s what God called us to do:
It’s what we do as people of faith.
We are called: each and every one of us:
Each and every day
Each and every encounter
Each and every opportunity to act in love.
So let us repent: AND REJOICE
For the kingdom of God is ALWAYS coming near.
Why is Jesus blatantly declaring this? What is he hoping to accomplish?
Changed hearts
Changed minds
Changed Actions
Changed Lives.
Repentance gives us a different way of living.
Not the worldly ways:
But Godly ways.
And when we choose to live as the baptised
(not one day, but every day)
We show the world our repentance
And that we take seriously God’s love at the foundation of our lives.
To love: boldly. Regardless of the cost.
Following Jesus is not meant to be symbolic, or performative.
It’s not about wearing a cross or holding a bible to demonstrate an allegiance;
it’s about putting our lives visibly as agents of love, of justice, of peace.
This weekend – in Minnesota - that looked like faith leaders kneeling in prayer and singing hymns against the violence of government agents – even as they were arrested.
It doesn’t take much, in our society, in our world, to see opportunities to stand up for justice.
For the vulnerable
The oppressed
The weak
The lonely
The fearful
The grieving.
And so we are called to repent.
To change:
As we both pray for the kingdom of heaven to come near
And as we act in ways to facilitate and celebrate that the kingdom of God HAS come near.
Call to repentance is call to baptism
Baptism means giving things up as well as taking things on…
We think of the newness of asking the Spirit for gifts, for blessings, for community, etc.
But also the shedding of the former ways. Not necessarily bad; but different.
A call answered by James and John
Shedding of their boat and nets –
Also shed employment, business, inheritance
Changed their relationship with family:
Walked away from father and business and community
We don’t know how it affected them; perhaps Zebedee was so overjoyed he didn’t mind finding new workers and no longer having heirs to the business.
But it was different.
Following Jesus changes us.
Because we repent: we change our hearts.
We look to God – and God alone –
as our moral compass,
our Guiding light,
our hope,
and our salvation.
This call to follow Jesus brings us together: in unity.
Not uniformity: but unity. (Week of Prayer for Christian Unity)
Paul’s appeal “that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same purpose.”
Bringing all our differences together in prayer and worship.
We pray as one: for peace and justice to prevail.
For the confidence to stand up against all forms of evil that the world shows us.
For the truth that needs to be heard is this:
The darkness will not win.
It Cannot win:
For we carry the light.
It’s what God called us to do:
It’s what we do as people of faith.
We are called: each and every one of us:
Each and every day
Each and every encounter
Each and every opportunity to act in love.
So let us repent: AND REJOICE
For the kingdom of God is ALWAYS coming near.
Sermon, Epi+2 (Year A)
Most of you will have heard me say, from time to time, that Jesus is the answer: whatever the question – the answer is Jesus.
We know that’s not always the best answer, however.
Sometimes, when we ask questions, there’s a simple answer. 2+2=4
Other times, however, a question asked will lead to another question, which can then lead to further questioning. And exploring, as each question reveals a new layer of asking. Trying to sort out what’s happening.
Always at a deeper level; not out of nosiness, but out of a deepening curiosity and desire to understand.
But: sometimes the more we understand, the more we become engaged. The more involved we are. The more our hearts draw us toward something – which may mean being changed.
The more we know, the more we realise we don’t know; and the more we know – the more we want to know.
So in today’s Gospel we have John speaking about his cousin, and then speaking with some of his friends (Andrew and someone else - unnamed).
And their conversation with Jesus is rather striking.
It’s simplistic; and yet rich in opportunity.
Jesus, seeing he is being followed, doesn’t start with a question like we might: “Can I help you?” or “What do you want?”
Instead he offers the very open-ended inquiry: “What are you looking for?”
He knows they’re not looking for a landmark, or a person even. They’re not following him for directions, or because he’s celebrity.
What are you looking for.
What a great question to ask ourselves:
What are we looking for: in our lives, in our employment, in our relationships, in our faith.
What are you looking for?
Which could, of course, lead us to ponder if we’re looking in the right way.
But back to our disciples.
Because they respond to Jesus with another question; which at first doesn’t seem to fit.
It certainly doesn’t tell him what they were looking for.
Instead, they respond with a very important statement of relationship:
they call him Rabbi.
Rabbi: meaning teacher.
And a teacher, of course, is someone they want to learn from.
So when they ask him where he is staying, they are indicating that they want to learn from him; to be in dialogue with him, to journey alongside him. They want to know more.
And asking him where he is staying is a full question: they don’t mean staying for lunch, or overnight, or for vacation. They’re asking him where he dwells – where he lives:
Where he calls home.
And again – Jesus’ answer is both a response and a non-response:
For he doesn’t even respond to their naming him as their teacher, and he doesn’t identify tell them where he is staying.
Instead, he invites them deeper:
Come and See.
Come and see carries with it the invitation to see his rooms – which they do;
And it carries the invitation to see HIM. His mission, his life, his love, his Good News.
So when the disciples follow him, knowing that they’re shifting from being John’s disciples to Jesus’ disciples – they’re doing so with courage. With faith.
Because they are entering into a deeper relationship.
They are willing to be changed by the experience.
To see more; the know more; to do more.
To hear the calling of God more clearly than they had before.
To discern more robustly how they are meant to bear the Good News.
Come and see is a powerful few words that inspire a lifetime of change.
For when we see something new, or see something old in a new way, we may have to admit that we didn’t already have all the answers.
And oh my goodness, who among us hasn’t sat at that precipice, wondering if we want to just go back to our prior state of un-knowing (despite realising that we really can’t go back, we’ll only be pretending); or to take the plunge into the unknown – eager to learn more.
With Jesus, we know that the knowing is life-changing: and for the better. Increasing our understanding of God’s grace and mercy can only help to improve our lives; encouraging us to live in ways that are fulfilling and faith-fuelled.
Knowing that as we are changed, we will also become agents of change.
For knowing Jesus – means we will tell others about Jesus as well.
From the first encounter – Andrew shows us how easy it is, when he invites his brother Simon.
We have seen the Messiah – the anointed – the holy one.
And instantly, Simon is changed – his name becoming Peter – a word that was never used as a name before: Peter, the rock, the solid foundation.
He came; he saw; he was changed.
So today we are reminded to come and see: and to be changed.
For the Lord formed us to be his servants, his helpers; to bring others to him. (as the prophet Isaiah writes)
And Paul reminds us of how easy it is to share this Good invitation, as he writes to a whole community affirming that they are sanctified in the Lord; that “In every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind…You are not lacking in any spiritual gift.”
And here we are. All of us: who came this morning, seeking:
Seeking solace, community, and Christ.
In the prayers, in the eucharist, in the shared experience of worship.
Here, we find Jesus; here, Jesus finds us.
And from here we go into the world, encouraged and encouraging; hopeful, and hoping; blessed, and blessing; for we have responded to the call to come and see.
Thanks be to God.
We know that’s not always the best answer, however.
Sometimes, when we ask questions, there’s a simple answer. 2+2=4
Other times, however, a question asked will lead to another question, which can then lead to further questioning. And exploring, as each question reveals a new layer of asking. Trying to sort out what’s happening.
Always at a deeper level; not out of nosiness, but out of a deepening curiosity and desire to understand.
But: sometimes the more we understand, the more we become engaged. The more involved we are. The more our hearts draw us toward something – which may mean being changed.
The more we know, the more we realise we don’t know; and the more we know – the more we want to know.
So in today’s Gospel we have John speaking about his cousin, and then speaking with some of his friends (Andrew and someone else - unnamed).
And their conversation with Jesus is rather striking.
It’s simplistic; and yet rich in opportunity.
Jesus, seeing he is being followed, doesn’t start with a question like we might: “Can I help you?” or “What do you want?”
Instead he offers the very open-ended inquiry: “What are you looking for?”
He knows they’re not looking for a landmark, or a person even. They’re not following him for directions, or because he’s celebrity.
What are you looking for.
What a great question to ask ourselves:
What are we looking for: in our lives, in our employment, in our relationships, in our faith.
What are you looking for?
Which could, of course, lead us to ponder if we’re looking in the right way.
But back to our disciples.
Because they respond to Jesus with another question; which at first doesn’t seem to fit.
It certainly doesn’t tell him what they were looking for.
Instead, they respond with a very important statement of relationship:
they call him Rabbi.
Rabbi: meaning teacher.
And a teacher, of course, is someone they want to learn from.
So when they ask him where he is staying, they are indicating that they want to learn from him; to be in dialogue with him, to journey alongside him. They want to know more.
And asking him where he is staying is a full question: they don’t mean staying for lunch, or overnight, or for vacation. They’re asking him where he dwells – where he lives:
Where he calls home.
And again – Jesus’ answer is both a response and a non-response:
For he doesn’t even respond to their naming him as their teacher, and he doesn’t identify tell them where he is staying.
Instead, he invites them deeper:
Come and See.
Come and see carries with it the invitation to see his rooms – which they do;
And it carries the invitation to see HIM. His mission, his life, his love, his Good News.
So when the disciples follow him, knowing that they’re shifting from being John’s disciples to Jesus’ disciples – they’re doing so with courage. With faith.
Because they are entering into a deeper relationship.
They are willing to be changed by the experience.
To see more; the know more; to do more.
To hear the calling of God more clearly than they had before.
To discern more robustly how they are meant to bear the Good News.
Come and see is a powerful few words that inspire a lifetime of change.
For when we see something new, or see something old in a new way, we may have to admit that we didn’t already have all the answers.
And oh my goodness, who among us hasn’t sat at that precipice, wondering if we want to just go back to our prior state of un-knowing (despite realising that we really can’t go back, we’ll only be pretending); or to take the plunge into the unknown – eager to learn more.
With Jesus, we know that the knowing is life-changing: and for the better. Increasing our understanding of God’s grace and mercy can only help to improve our lives; encouraging us to live in ways that are fulfilling and faith-fuelled.
Knowing that as we are changed, we will also become agents of change.
For knowing Jesus – means we will tell others about Jesus as well.
From the first encounter – Andrew shows us how easy it is, when he invites his brother Simon.
We have seen the Messiah – the anointed – the holy one.
And instantly, Simon is changed – his name becoming Peter – a word that was never used as a name before: Peter, the rock, the solid foundation.
He came; he saw; he was changed.
So today we are reminded to come and see: and to be changed.
For the Lord formed us to be his servants, his helpers; to bring others to him. (as the prophet Isaiah writes)
And Paul reminds us of how easy it is to share this Good invitation, as he writes to a whole community affirming that they are sanctified in the Lord; that “In every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind…You are not lacking in any spiritual gift.”
And here we are. All of us: who came this morning, seeking:
Seeking solace, community, and Christ.
In the prayers, in the eucharist, in the shared experience of worship.
Here, we find Jesus; here, Jesus finds us.
And from here we go into the world, encouraged and encouraging; hopeful, and hoping; blessed, and blessing; for we have responded to the call to come and see.
Thanks be to God.
17 January 2026
Sermon Notes, Baptism of Jesus (Year A)
Baptism - Extravagance!
Not normally the descriptor...
- simple elements
- accessible
- initiation
Context matters! - dessert - water is life
living water - springs - abundance
MIKVEH
- natural source water, living water
- ritual immersion
- size for full immersion - dimensions of size, volume, 144 eggs
- Spiritual Cleansing - often after life events
Process: to make right
- right with self
- right with others
- right with God
Christian liturgy follows this process/journey
- confession
- peace
- eucharist
Baptism: renewal of vows and covenant
- renew faith
- reconnect community
- reengage ministry
thus:
extravagance of GRACE
- fully included (God shows no partiality)
- fully loved (in all of us, God delights)
- fully encouraged! To live the possibility and potential of serv ice to everyone with whom our souls connect - i.e. everyone.
Baptism of Jesus: celebrates baptism of grace - renewal of ourselves in the extravagance of God's grace.
05 January 2026
Epiphany Sermon (Year A)
This morning, we celebrate the feast of the Epiphany –
That Ah-HA! moment where the divinity of Jesus is being made known clearly and broadly…
For some – this is amazing news, the fulfillment of the prophesy from Isaiah – Arise, shine, for your light has come! The promise of a Messiah, a Saviour – a light shining into the darkness of the world – this is great news.
For others, it is not welcome. Herod, for example, is now realising that his worst fears are more than just fears.
Another ruler – being sought out by magi – the seers from afar, the folks who are in tune with the other-worldly signs – that apparently Herod’s own advisors and supporters have not recognised or shared with him.
It’s no wonder that the magi are warned not to reconnect with Herod before the headed back to their homes.
Choosing to go another way – both physically, by roads that did not go back to the centre of town; but also culturally, as they ignore the societal norm of announcing their departure as a means of protecting Jesus’ family, and likely themselves, from coming into harm.
So the divinity is becoming known. Even while still a young child, Jesus causes great struggle and controversy: as his mere presence shines a light on those who would serve God – and on those who would serve empire.
It’s sadly, a division that continues to exist in our world today;
as we hear of wars and conflicts,
of devastation as distraction,
of rulers overstepping their bounds and rights to exert violence and control.
The complexity of international politics and governance remains a delicate and brutal place;
the justifications and excuses as human rights and dignities are stripped away at alarming rates.
We know the news this weekend has not been that of peace; we pray for safety in the week ahead.
And part of what can bring us through the horrors of the headlines that we read is that same thing that brought the magi to their intended purpose in God’s story – and took them away, we presume safely home.
How they teach us to do that is three-fold:
:Keeping our focus on God
:Using and sharing the gifts that we have been called to share
:Staying faithful to our role as messengers of God’s Good News
So let’s consider the inclusion of the magi in Matthew’s account of the early life of Jesus for what it is – a lesson to us all as we encounter the divine.
For the magi, the long-awaited prophesy of a light coming into the world was likely not culturally central to them: these folks were not Jewish, they were not local, they were not involved in the tradition that was waiting on that light.
What they were is faithful: they knew that when a star appears, moving differently than the other stars; shining more brilliantly than they’d ever seen… clearly the creator of the universe was trying to send a message.
And so they responded: coming from their home countries, in their own timelines, with their own entourages, doing the best they could to be faithful to God, and respectful of local custom.
Yet when they introduced themselves to Herod, and realised this was not going to be a “good guy” in the history; they renewed their faithfulness to God.
They didn’t start conflict with Herod – they knew that wouldn’t help – but they opted not to follow his directions moving forward.
Their resistance to Herod’s violence can inspire those of us looking for our own way forward in the world.
Then, the using and sharing of gifts.
We learn of three gifts that are offered: each portable, valuable, and marketable: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Let’s consider them for a moment:
GOLD, we know, is a precious metal, to this day a valuable commodity. Our society even set a standard by it – our currency exchanges are based on it – and around the world, the attraction of gold remains now much as it did in biblical times.
The gift of Gold is a symbol of financial stability – security, even. It was what may have funded the flight into Egypt for Jesus’ family, and provided their physical well-being in those tumultuous times.
The gift of financial means that we have today allows us to engage in ministry; to assist those experiencing need; to reach out to the community; to be a house of prayer for all who seek it.
FRANKINCENSE was a rare and extremely fragrant resin that took time and skill to procure; burned in worship as an offering or oblation to God in the temple. To smell this type of incense reminded people of holy things, orienting their hearts and minds to prayer.
Frankincense was a call to prayer and to spiritual solace, a sensual reminder of the home place, of communal connection with God and with one another.
For Mary and Joseph, this rooted their souls in the people and traditions that they had left, and would need to flee from.
For us, we carry with us reminders of our own spiritual journey: of people and experiences that have formed us; of the Holy Spirit speaking to us in ways we cannot fully explain (or maybe even understand) – but that we know were holy. Of our shared ministries: of prayer, of companionship, of kindness, of love.
Finally: MYRRH. A rare spice that came from far-off regions of Arabia. It was mysterious and pungent and bitter – and used as part of the anointing practices at time of burial. It spoke of Jesus’ humanity, foreshadowing what was to come, and confirming for Mary what she had been told all along.
While myrrh denotes the symbolism of death, we also see within it a practice of intentionality, compassion, and caring. The respectful preparation of earthly remains shows a gift of time and tradition, this practice took time and experience to learn, and was a blessing from the women to use it properly, with the ones deeply loved, despite their own personal grief and suffering.
From our own relationships, we honour each other with our attentive presence, and with the sharing of our time and skills.
Truly, these gifts to the Holy Family also inspire us to consider the gifts that we have received, and the gifts that God invites us to share.
Gold: the gift of financial treasure.
Frankincense: the gift of spiritual treasure.
Myrrh: the gift of relationship treasure.
Which of course brings us to the third teaching of the magi: The reminder and encouragement to Stay faithful to our role as messengers of God’s Good News.
For we all share the opportunity to share the good news: of how the light and glory of God is brighter than any of the darkness creeping in.
So as we begin this new year, let us ponder anew how we can use the gifts that we have been given to make the world a healthier, happier, holier place.
We can shine the light; because we have received it.
We can act in love; because we are loved.
We can extend great joy; because we are joy-filled.
And we can arise and shine; because the glory of the Lord is upon us all.
Wherever our road takes us, may we be faithful in our journey, never forgetting the Good News that has been gifted to us.
Amen.
That Ah-HA! moment where the divinity of Jesus is being made known clearly and broadly…
For some – this is amazing news, the fulfillment of the prophesy from Isaiah – Arise, shine, for your light has come! The promise of a Messiah, a Saviour – a light shining into the darkness of the world – this is great news.
For others, it is not welcome. Herod, for example, is now realising that his worst fears are more than just fears.
Another ruler – being sought out by magi – the seers from afar, the folks who are in tune with the other-worldly signs – that apparently Herod’s own advisors and supporters have not recognised or shared with him.
It’s no wonder that the magi are warned not to reconnect with Herod before the headed back to their homes.
Choosing to go another way – both physically, by roads that did not go back to the centre of town; but also culturally, as they ignore the societal norm of announcing their departure as a means of protecting Jesus’ family, and likely themselves, from coming into harm.
So the divinity is becoming known. Even while still a young child, Jesus causes great struggle and controversy: as his mere presence shines a light on those who would serve God – and on those who would serve empire.
It’s sadly, a division that continues to exist in our world today;
as we hear of wars and conflicts,
of devastation as distraction,
of rulers overstepping their bounds and rights to exert violence and control.
The complexity of international politics and governance remains a delicate and brutal place;
the justifications and excuses as human rights and dignities are stripped away at alarming rates.
We know the news this weekend has not been that of peace; we pray for safety in the week ahead.
And part of what can bring us through the horrors of the headlines that we read is that same thing that brought the magi to their intended purpose in God’s story – and took them away, we presume safely home.
How they teach us to do that is three-fold:
:Keeping our focus on God
:Using and sharing the gifts that we have been called to share
:Staying faithful to our role as messengers of God’s Good News
So let’s consider the inclusion of the magi in Matthew’s account of the early life of Jesus for what it is – a lesson to us all as we encounter the divine.
For the magi, the long-awaited prophesy of a light coming into the world was likely not culturally central to them: these folks were not Jewish, they were not local, they were not involved in the tradition that was waiting on that light.
What they were is faithful: they knew that when a star appears, moving differently than the other stars; shining more brilliantly than they’d ever seen… clearly the creator of the universe was trying to send a message.
And so they responded: coming from their home countries, in their own timelines, with their own entourages, doing the best they could to be faithful to God, and respectful of local custom.
Yet when they introduced themselves to Herod, and realised this was not going to be a “good guy” in the history; they renewed their faithfulness to God.
They didn’t start conflict with Herod – they knew that wouldn’t help – but they opted not to follow his directions moving forward.
Their resistance to Herod’s violence can inspire those of us looking for our own way forward in the world.
Then, the using and sharing of gifts.
We learn of three gifts that are offered: each portable, valuable, and marketable: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Let’s consider them for a moment:
GOLD, we know, is a precious metal, to this day a valuable commodity. Our society even set a standard by it – our currency exchanges are based on it – and around the world, the attraction of gold remains now much as it did in biblical times.
The gift of Gold is a symbol of financial stability – security, even. It was what may have funded the flight into Egypt for Jesus’ family, and provided their physical well-being in those tumultuous times.
The gift of financial means that we have today allows us to engage in ministry; to assist those experiencing need; to reach out to the community; to be a house of prayer for all who seek it.
FRANKINCENSE was a rare and extremely fragrant resin that took time and skill to procure; burned in worship as an offering or oblation to God in the temple. To smell this type of incense reminded people of holy things, orienting their hearts and minds to prayer.
Frankincense was a call to prayer and to spiritual solace, a sensual reminder of the home place, of communal connection with God and with one another.
For Mary and Joseph, this rooted their souls in the people and traditions that they had left, and would need to flee from.
For us, we carry with us reminders of our own spiritual journey: of people and experiences that have formed us; of the Holy Spirit speaking to us in ways we cannot fully explain (or maybe even understand) – but that we know were holy. Of our shared ministries: of prayer, of companionship, of kindness, of love.
Finally: MYRRH. A rare spice that came from far-off regions of Arabia. It was mysterious and pungent and bitter – and used as part of the anointing practices at time of burial. It spoke of Jesus’ humanity, foreshadowing what was to come, and confirming for Mary what she had been told all along.
While myrrh denotes the symbolism of death, we also see within it a practice of intentionality, compassion, and caring. The respectful preparation of earthly remains shows a gift of time and tradition, this practice took time and experience to learn, and was a blessing from the women to use it properly, with the ones deeply loved, despite their own personal grief and suffering.
From our own relationships, we honour each other with our attentive presence, and with the sharing of our time and skills.
Truly, these gifts to the Holy Family also inspire us to consider the gifts that we have received, and the gifts that God invites us to share.
Gold: the gift of financial treasure.
Frankincense: the gift of spiritual treasure.
Myrrh: the gift of relationship treasure.
Which of course brings us to the third teaching of the magi: The reminder and encouragement to Stay faithful to our role as messengers of God’s Good News.
For we all share the opportunity to share the good news: of how the light and glory of God is brighter than any of the darkness creeping in.
So as we begin this new year, let us ponder anew how we can use the gifts that we have been given to make the world a healthier, happier, holier place.
We can shine the light; because we have received it.
We can act in love; because we are loved.
We can extend great joy; because we are joy-filled.
And we can arise and shine; because the glory of the Lord is upon us all.
Wherever our road takes us, may we be faithful in our journey, never forgetting the Good News that has been gifted to us.
Amen.
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