Transfiguration

Transfiguration marks the beginning of Lent, on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday. The Book of Mark tells the story of a day when Jesus heads up a mountain with three of his disciples. Unexpecting what would happen, the disciples are frightened when Jesus becomes illuminated so brightly that they had to shield their eyes. The appearance of Moses and Elijah confuses them, and they do not know what to think. From the cloud that appears, they hear the voice of God, saying, “This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him.”

There had been many times that the disciples had witnessed Jesus perform miracles, but this was different. This was when Jesus showed them that he was truly the Son of God, transforming from his human body, to the shape of God. This was a moment that the disciples wanted to share with everyone. They offered to build a shelter for Jesus, Moses and Elijah. They wanted to erect a place where others could come and see what they had witnessed. Jesus knew that he had many things to do and that God had many plans, yet to be revealed, and the disciples had much more to witness as disciples before they were ready to go out into the world and share the transformation.

Our lesson today, teaches us that God is forever changing and that we can only glimpse his future plans for the world. We would like to predict what lies before us and look forward to the ending of the story. Who is Jesus? When will Jesus return? How can we understand the mysteries held by God?

Once we grow closer to God and trust in his love, our journey through life becomes easier. There are many mysteries in life. Jesus was only with us for a few years, yet his teachings are still helping us to understand that when we reach our own limits, God will lift us up and carry us.

Let us remember the Transformation as we go forward this Lenten Season as a day in the life of Jesus when he shined brilliantly to show us that God is the light of the world.

Crowded Table

Our Scripture reading today, from Mark 1:29-39, continues the story of Jesus and his disciples as they leave the synagogue and make their way to the home of Simon and Andrew. When Jesus sees the ailing woman suffering with fever, he takes her hand and lifts her from her bed.

Scripture does not give much information about the woman. We don’t know her name or how long she had been sick. We are only told that when Jesus helped her up, she immediately began serving the people in her house. By the time evening came, many people had gathered at her door hoping that Jesus would heal them from demons and disease.

Pastor Sarah introduced us today to a woman whose story could easily be overlooked when reading Scripture. Only three sentences are written about a woman who showed her gratitude by serving others and thereby; becoming the first Deacon, following Jesus in caring for others.

We learned today about a woman who taught us that serving is a “testimony to God’s love.”

The first meeting of the Deacons at FPC was held last week. At that meeting, people shared their excitement in the work that they will do in the name of Jesus Christ. These are the people who have heart and stamina to perform important work in helping the poor, hungry, sick, lost and friendless. These are difficult times and the work will be tiring. Deacons are compassionate, loving and their job is not for “the faint hearted.” We live in very difficult times where people are suffering in many ways and our Deacons have been called to become listeners, advisors, friends and prayerful.

Pastor Sarah said, “I give thanks for all our Deacons, past and present. For their ministry of compassion and to God for their source of compassion.”

The song below is an inspiration to us all and a reminder that our Deacons will be there doing all of these things for our congregation.

“Crowded Table”
sung by a virtual choir written by Natalie Hemby, Lori McKenna and Brandi Carlile.

You can hold my hand when you need to let go.
I can be a mountain when your feeling valley-low.
I can be a streetlight showing you the way home.
You can hold my hand when you need to let go.

I want a house with a crowded table
And a place by the fire for everyone.
Let us take on the world while we’re young and able.
And bring us back together when the day is done.

If we want a garden, we’re gonna have to sow the seeds.
Plant a little happiness. Let the roots run deep.
If it’s love that we give, then it’s love that we bring.
If we want a garden, we’re gonna have to sow the seeds.

I want a house with a crowded table
And a place by the fire for everyone.
Let us take on the world while we are able.
And bring us back together when the day is done.

The door is always open, your picture is on my wall.
Everyone is a little broken, Everyone belongs.
I want a house with a crowded table.
And a place by the fire for everyone.

Let us take on the world while we’re young and able
And bring us back together when the day is done.

The Holy One of God

Mark 1: 21-28

Pastor Sarah continued our journey through the Book of Mark from where we began last Sunday. As she told us, the Book of Mark is a fast paced writing about how Jesus is God’s plan to rescue the world.

The story we heard today takes place in Capernum on the day of the Sabbath. Jesus entered the synagogue and began teaching. While teaching, he was interrupted by a man with an unclean spirit. The man cries out, “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”

Jesus replies, “Be quiet. Come out of him.”

Scripture does not tell us what Jesus said that stilled the voice and sent the evil out of the man. We learn that the people who witnessed what happened were amazed that he spoke with authority and unlike the way the scribes taught.

Scribes were traditional in their teaching, bound by rules and laws. Jesus’ authority and divine wisdom became evident when confronted by the man with an unclean spirit.

Scripture tells us that there was more than one evil spirit that immediately recognized Jesus as “The Holy One of God.” It is no wonder that the people in the synagogue were amazed that Jesus could drive away the unclean spirits with the simple statement, “Be quiet. Come out of him.” This story teaches us that evil can not win over God.

In this short passage, we learn that Jesus had come to rescue the world from oppression. He had come to “silence the demands of the status quo, and teach us of the ever unchanging truth that God is committed to saving the people of the world.”

Pastor Sarah’s message today remind us that:

God is still here rescuing people who are poor, sick, oppressed and vulnerable.

We can spend time this year reaching out to others who are in need of help and we may find ourselves astonished by what Jesus is doing today.”

The Monster at the End of the Book

The Book of Mark tells us that from the wilderness, the prophesy of Isaiah was fulfilled, proclaiming the beginning of the Good News of the coming of God’s Son.

“I will send my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way”-
“a voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
make straight paths for him.’”

Our passage today was the beginning of Jesus ministry following his baptism and 40 days of temptation in the wilderness.

“Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”

Following his announcement of the “Good News,” Jesus called his first disciples and began healing, teaching, comforting, challenging and preparing his disciples to follow in his footsteps. The amazing events that are recorded in Mark were a time of hope, excitement, fear and disbelief. Mark allows us to decide what we choose to believe.

When she was a child, one of Pastor Sarah’s favorite books was “The Monster at the End of the Book.” A Sesame Street character, named Grover tells the reader that there will be “a monster at the end of the book,” and begs not to turn the page, in fear of the monster that will be revealed at the end. He tries everything to stop the page from turning, nailing and tying down pages, but alas, the last page is turned and the monster revealed. It was Grover himself.

This story is a delightful way for children to learn about facing their fears.

In the beginning of Jesus ministry he asked us to “repent and believe.” “Repent” is a word that we understand to describe our shortcomings or failure. The original writing in Mark used the word, “metanoia,” later translated in English to “repent.” “Metanoia” means, “to think differently or change perspective.” A change in words, has changed how we think about Jesus message.

He was a man of peace and love. He was asking us to change our thinking and to look at things differently. Jesus came to change the world and give us comfort in knowing that God;s love is here among us.

Facing our fears, no matter how old we are, can be difficult. We can learn from Grover and from Jesus that everything will be O.K. in the end. God sent the Good News with his Son and we need to believe that we are safely held in his hands.

Speak, Lord

Samuel 1:3-20

Tomorrow we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the anniversary of his birth, January 1, 1929. He was born in his grandparent’s house on Auburn Avenue, Atlanta, Georgia. Martin was raised in a home where family, education and faith were a priority and he ultimately followed in his father’s footsteps to become a minister.

“In a speech expressing his views on “the true mission of the Church,” Martin Luther King, Sr., told his fellow clergymen that they must not forget the words of God: “The spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor.... In this we find we are to do something about the brokenhearted, poor, unemployed, the captive, the blind, and the bruised” (King, Sr., 17 October 1940). Martin Luther King, Jr., credited his father with influencing his decision to join the ministry, saying: “He set forth a noble example that I didn’t [mind] following” (Papers 1:363).

Our Scripture today was about a miracle child, born to Hannah, a faithful believer in God. She named him Samuel, meaning ‘God Heard.’

Hannah believed that God heard her cries and prayers for a son and vowed to send him to serve the Lord. Little Samuel began his life in the tabernacle at about the age of 3 or 4, in the care and teachings of Eli, the high priest.

He slept in the tent of the tabernacle, a most holy place, where the ark of the covenant was kept.

It was during the night when God first spoke to Samuel, probably scaring the boy when he wakened him with his call. Samuel ran to Eli, believing it was him because Scripture tells us, ‘In those days the word of the Lord was rare; there were not many visions.’

Eli instructed Samuel to answer, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”

God’s message to Samuel was not an easy one. God was angry with Eli and his sons for abusing their power and the people of Israel. It was time to strip Eli of his authority and Samuel was the one chosen to tell Eli.

Samuel did not want to repeat God’s words to the man who had acted as his guardian and mentor. He was afraid, but Eli helped Samuel understand that no matter how difficult it was, Samuel must obey God.

Both Samuel and Martin Luther King Jr. grew in faith from the time they were little children. Both men had families that loved them deeply and loved God with all of their hearts. It is no wonder that they were chosen to be God’s messengers.

We can learn from these men that we must listen to God when he calls.

Pastor Sarah said:

“Our Scripture lesson is a reminder that first and foremost, our call is to listen to God above all others, and when necessary, to speak the truth as followers of Christ. God cherishes each and every child. There is no place in God’s kingdom for discrimination. For in so doing, we will clear the path for justice and peace. For in so doing, we will become the beloved community that waits for us in our dreams.”

Peace be with you

New Beginnings

Mark 1: 4-11

“Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

Deacon Mollie Duggal delivered an inspiring sermon today, titled, “New Beginnings.”

From the moment Jesus stepped out of the water, having been baptized by John, he began a new life. Jesus began his ministry on the day of his baptism.

Like Jesus, we are beginning a new way of living. Many of us have had to change how we work, how we interact with family, how our children attend school. We have learned that we can no longer live in the same way that was previously expected.

God sent the Holy Spirit on the day of Jesus’ baptism. In that moment, Jesus was revealed as a human, but also God’s Beloved Son and Savior. It was a new beginning for Jesus and even today, we are reminded that God sent his infinite love to us in his Beloved Son.

Presbyterians describe baptism as a sign and seal of the covenant of grace made by God through Jesus and extended to us. In baptism, Babies and adults are baptized as a way of showing our love for God and his Son. Our baptism is a ‘new beginning” in our faith journey as Christians.

Deacon Mollie said, “One thing we can agree on is that change is in the waters. We need to take time to be still and listen to God.”

This has been a difficult time and more change is yet to come. “Share the love of Christ with others and remember that the Holy Spirit is guiding us.”

Jesus taught us to not fear “new beginnings,” but to go forward with all of the faith and love that we have in our heart.

God will always be walking beside us.

When we pass through the waters of baptism it's a lifelong process. Dedicating our lives to Christ will help us as we begin a new year filled with “new beginnings.”

The Light in the Darkness

Scripture readings this week came from the books of Genesis, John 1, and Matthew.

Elder Doreen Corwith Eckert connected passages to explain the gifts of breath, human connection and the Word of God.

During this time in our lives when we are unable to be with loved ones, we turn to the Bible for reassurance. When we fear that breath can give us illness, the Bible tells us that the Holy Spirit is the breath of life. Take time to breathe and feel your body fill with God's love.

We need to touch others as a way of feeling connected. We use our hands for comfort. Jesus used his hands to heal. Without the touch of others, we feel alone and lose our sense of well being. Try cupping your hands to your face as if Jesus was holding you. He is always there.

Today we remember that God gave us his Son and sent the Holy Spirit. The Bible tells us in John 1: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." These are three gifts given to all God's people.

Elder Doreen asked that we look for the light that shines in the darkness and the manifestation of Jesus in our hearts.

Simeon and Anna

Luke 2:22-40

In keeping with the Law of Moses, Mary and Joseph, took their newborn son, Jesus, to the temple in Jerusalem to be presented to the Lord.

At the entrance of the temple was an elderly man named Simeon. He approached the new parents and taking the baby in his arms, as the Holy Spirit rested on him, he knew that the promise to meet the Messiah before dying was finally fulfilled.

Simeon had waited patiently many years to see the Messiah but there were times that Simeon grew weary of waiting. No matter how long he waited, he always believed that his long awaited hope to meet the savior of his people would be fulfilled.

At the same time, a woman, named Anna, never left the temple. According to Luke, she was 84 years old, and unlike Simeon, she was not prepared to die. We are told that she was a prophetess and that she spent night and day at the temple fasting and praying.

When Anna saw Simeon with Jesus, she recognized the baby as the Messiah. She immediately gave thanks to God for his Son and spread the good news that the one who would redeem the world had arrived.

Christmas is a time when we celebrate the birth of a long awaited King. A baby born humbly in a manger was not the expected messiah that had been prophesied in the Old Testament. Jesus came to us to welcome outsiders, people who had suffered in captivity. Why would anyone recognized him to the Son of God? Why would God choose Mary and Joseph to raise his son?

Shepherds in the field, wisemen from afar, Simeon and Anna, knew that God's promise had been fulfilled and they thanked the Lord for sending his Son.

Jesus was not the expected King, but God's love goes beyond our imagination. We can learn from the story of Simeon and Anna that Christmas is a new beginning. It is a time to give up our expectations for the world as we think is should be and see God's love for all of his people.

Christmas Always Comes

2 Samuel:  7: 1-16

        The Old Testament tells us the story of King David, a man who had grown very successful and wanted to show God that he was grateful for
all he had been given.  At the time of this story, the ark of God was kept in a tent, it traveled wherever David went.  This story tells us that  David thought that he would please God by building a house for the ark.

God spoke through the prophet Nathan,  "I have been with you wherever you have gone,"
God said, “I Myself took you from the pasture, from following the sheep, to be leader over My people Israel.  And I have been with you wherever you have gone, and have eliminated all your enemies from you; I will also make a great name for you, like the names of the great men who are on the earth.  And I will establish a place for My people Israel, and will plant them, so that they may live in their own place..."

We learn from this story that God is our leader and will make plans for us.  Building a house for God was a way for David to honor himself with a building for others to see.  God's message reminded David that he was never alone in all of the difficult times and wherever he went, God was with him.  God makes plans for us and we must trust in him with all of our heart.

Pastor Sarah shared her plans for the Christmas season and how quickly Christmas arrives. Most of the time she, like most of us, plan to decorate, bake cookies, wrap gifts, send cards, listen to music, and all of the many other wonderful Christmas activities that we have on our list.  And, like most of us, we run out of time and "ready or not," Christmas arrives.

Christmas is a wonderful time of year, especially at First Church.  The outside of the building is beautifully decorated.  The Sanctuary makes us feel at peace with the many poinsettias, wreaths and candles.  The music fills the air and we look forward to hearing our favorite carols.  The children are so adorable in their costumes.  It is a time where we await the birth of a baby boy who saved the world.  Every year seems like the first.

As we make plans for Christmas this year, we should remember King David and God's reminder that we are not in charge.  More than ever, this year has taught us that we are not always prepared for change in our daily lives.  We are worshipping in new ways, never expected by any of us.  This year, we need to pray harder than ever for God to show us his plan.
Come on Christmas Eve, light a candle, say a prayer and fall in love with God.

This Blessing is a gift from Pastor Sarah:

"We dream of music that makes our hearts swell
We dream of trees swaying in the breeze
We dream of sunrises that wrap us in light
We dream of a family dinner with people who love us
We dream of church services that gives us hope
We dream of potlucks and pancake breakfasts cooked by scouts

So today, as we draw near to Christmas Day
We let the lights of love remind us that we are never alone
That God is here and God is love
He lets the light of love guide us towards those who love us-
not for who we are and what we can do for them.

We let the light of love warm our hearts and open them to people who have no one else
And we let the light of love turn us to an Advent people.
A people who dream.

Mark 1: 1-8

Many years before Jesus’ birth, Isaiah, the prophet wrote:

“I will send my messenger ahead of you,
    who will prepare your way”[c]—
 “a voice of one calling in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord,
    make straight paths for him.’”

And in the wilderness, John the Baptist, preached repentance for forgiveness of sins. There in the Jordan River, John baptized those who came to confess their sins. And this was his message:

 “After me comes the one more powerful than I, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie.   I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

 This passage was written by John Mark.  He was not a disciple, but a traveling companion of Paul and Barnabas in sharing the “Good News of Jesus Christ.”  It is believed that he assisted Apostle Peter while in Rome and it was there that he wrote the Gospel of Mark based on his memories of the teachings of Paul and Peter.   The Book of Mark is believed to be the first gospel written.

 Pastor Sarah explained that the Book of Mark does not talk about the Christmas story, but begins with the words of Isaiah and the story of John the Baptist.

The references made by Mark in this scripture paint a picture of messengers living in the wilderness as they prepare the way for God’s Son. 

John the Baptist was a strange man, who ate locusts and wore camel hair clothing; yet he gave his life as God’s servant.  He was a voice crying in the wilderness, asking followers to prepare for the coming of our savior.

Isaiah and John were humble men called by God…dreamers…chosen to teach us to be ready for Christ.   

There is a dreamer in all of us – for a deeper connection with God and for a better world. 

We dream for a time when the world is at peace and we can open our church doors and sing to the top of our voices thanking God for having sent us his baby son on Christmas.

 Let us sing “fierce like Mary, brave like Joseph and with new dreams, like Jesus.”

It may feel like we are in the wilderness, but let us remember Isaiah and John; men who taught us to dream.  The time is now.

God bless you all!

Those Who Dream

Today marks the beginning of Advent, the beginning of the Christian year as we prepare ourselves for the arrival of Jesus. We lit the first candle this morning, the Candle of Hope. It is also a time for us to look deeply at ourselves and at the world around us, and wait for the hope of Christmas. Our theme this year is "Those Who Dream,"

The Bible passage today comes from Mark 13. In this passage, Jesus made a prophesy of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. He spoke only to Peter, James, John, and Andrew as they sat on the mount of Olives. From where they sat, there was a view of the beautiful temple. When asked if he saw the marvel of the stones and structure of the temple, Jesus responded, "See thou these great buildings? Not one stone will be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down."

The disciples asked, "When will these things be? And what will be the sign when these things will be fulfilled?"

Jesus responded: “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. It’s like a man going away: He leaves his house and puts his servants in charge, each with their assigned task, and tells the one at the door to keep watch. Therefore keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back—whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: ‘Watch!’”

Pastor Sarah's message is a reminder that Advent is not only a time to look forward to the birth of Jesus, but to prepare for his return.

We can grow tired of watching and waiting. COVID has disrupted our lives and politics have divided our country. We are not able to come together to worship in the church building or join friends and family members at the table. We have entered a new reality and we must not grow weary or we will miss signs.

With courage and determination, Pastor Sarah has learned how to keep us together in ways that she never dreamed possible. She told us that she predicted that this Pandemic would last a long time and along with her colleagues in the ministry, she developed a "Virtual Choir." She learned that other churches were experiencing sadness that choirs could not sing in church. So...with her gift of technology, she offered to put together a Virtual Choir for anyone who would like to join in singing our favorite Christmas Carols. Today we watched and listened to the beautiful music created by friends who never expected to meet. Out of the darkness and chaos grew love.

Our theme for Advent, "Those Who Dream," is a theme for the dreamer in all of us. Let us dream of healing and a peaceful world.

“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.” -John Lennon.

The Parable of the Talents

Matthew 25: 14-29

“The Parable of the Talents”

    In this story, a master delegates his money to three of his servants.  The first servant receives 5 talents, the second receives 2 talents and the third receives one talent.

While the master was away, the first two servants invested their talents and doubled their worth.  The third servant buried his talent in fear that he would lose it and the master would be angry.

    When the master returned, he complimented the first two servants for increasing the worth of their talents and reprimanded the third for hiding his talent and doing nothing with what he was given. As punishment, he made the third servant give his only talent to the first servant, leaving him with nothing.

    It would seem that this parable is about wealth and the importance of investing money; however, Jesus story has a much deeper meaning.  “The parable does not justify a gospel of economic prosperity. Instead, it challenges believers to emulate their Master by using all that God has given them for the sake of the kingdom.”

    We learn from this parable that God (the master) has given everyone gifts (talents). God does not give us identical or necessarily equal gifts, but expects that we use them wisely and with joy, and if we do, we will hear him say, “Well done.” And when Jesus returns, (like the master in the story), we can sing with joy in knowing that we have served him with all of our talents.

    Pastor Sarah spoke today of the many talents we share at FPC.  We praise the Lord for our blessings and the beautiful place we have to worship.  We are reminded to continue to work for the good of the kingdom and be joyful for all that we have been given. It is upon us to prepare for our future as we wait for the return of our Lord, Jesus Christ. God wants us to use all of our talents so that he can say, “Well done.”

Let us raise our voices and sing for joy.

Psalm 98

Sing to the Lord a new song,

    for he has done marvelous things;

his right hand and his holy arm

    have worked salvation for him.

The Lord has made his salvation known

    and revealed his righteousness to the nations.

He has remembered his love

    and his faithfulness to Israel;

all the ends of the earth have seen

    the salvation of our God.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,

    burst into jubilant song with music; make music to the Lord with the harp,

    with the harp and the sound of singing, with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—

    shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

Let the sea resound, and everything in it,

    the world, and all who live in it.

Let the rivers clap their hands,

    let the mountains sing together for joy; let them sing before the Lord,

    for he comes to judge the earth.

He will judge the world in righteousness

    and the peoples with equity.

November 1, 2020

Matthew 23: 1-12

Jesus said, “For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” 

Our lesson today comes from the Book of Matthew.  In this passage, Jesus warned his disciples and followers against the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees.

The Pharisees had become authoritarians in the 613 Laws of Moses. 

They believed that they were given the authority to oversee the Law and in an attempt for perfection, they added rituals and rules for each. 

These man made laws added burdens to many of those who were elderly, divorced or poor and the Pharisees had no compassion for their plight. 

One example of a strictly followed ritual created by the Pharisees is found in the Book of Luke where washing hands up to the elbow before a meal is expected. 

When invited to dinner at the house of a Pharisee, Jesus did not follow this rule because God does not require it.  When the Pharisee asked why Jesus did not wash, Jesus said, “Now you Pharisees, you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside you are full of greediness and wickedness.  Unreasonable ones!  The one who made the outside made also the inside, did he not?” 

Our passage today is a message to remind us that Jesus did not expect his followers to perfectly follow the rules made by men who were seeking power and authority, but to understand that we are all loved by God just as we are.

Jesus came for love, mercy and justice. We share the yolk of Christ with our burdens and the promise of salvation.  Let us remember Jesus teachings and that he gave us only two commandments to follow.  “Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as you love yourself.” 

Amen

"....love your neighbor as yourself. I am The Lord." Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18

Today, Pastor Sarah told us that the goal of the book of Leviticus was to provide a manual for the Israelites on how to live together and how to live with God.

In verses 1-2, God spoke to Moses and told him to deliver a message to the congregation of the children of Israel. He said, “It is required that the Israelites be a holy people, devoted to God. You shall be holy, for I am holy.”

In verses 15-18, God said, “You shall judge your neighbor in righteousness.” Jesus repeats these commandments when he tells us to “Love God with all your heart and love your neighbor as you love yourself.”

Leviticus, a book of laws, gave the Israelites codes to follow and abide by. They were given to help people remember to love God with all their hearts and minds. As years passed, laws were not understood and inappropriately applied by religious leaders. When Jesus came to earth, he never spoke against the laws, but taught a new way to understand what was written.

Pastor Sarah urged us to open our hearts to helping those less fortunate. There are people living without a warm home or a family to love them. Our church provides shelter to the homeless a few times each month starting in November. Under the direction of Katelyn Corwith, in collaboration with Maureen’s Haven, we serve meals, offer warm sleeping facilities and show the love for our neighbors. Helping is a way of saying, “Yes to God.” Amen

Matthew 22:15-22

Matthew 22:15-22 “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” Pastor Sarah spoke today about the question posed to Jesus by the Pharisees and Herodians. Once again, they expected to trap him into offending the leaders of Rome.

If he agreed that taxes were lawful, he would offend those who were burdened by taxes; however, if he spoke out against the tax, word would soon reach Rome with serious consequences. When he asked to see the coin, he saw the face of Caesar and said, “Whose face is this and whose title?” They answered, “Caesar, the emperor.” Jesus said, “Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

Jesus response pointed out that we answer to different authorities. He knew that there were authorities that people are forced to follow. Those authorities placed control over people’s lives. Caesar’s system was oppressive and completely unlike the authority of God. Caesar should get back what he was due and God will reign forever.

The Pharisees did not understand that we all belong to God. We have human obligations that create winners and losers, but God always rises above our human systems.

Our church mission in PCUSA is to live in God’s Grace as we respond to those who are hungry and live in poverty. We need to join together in changing unjust systems that keep human lives as collateral. Our church goal is to be an extension of Christ and to have enough strength to “mess with stuff that doesn’t work.”

We all have obligations, just like those in Jesus time. We pay our taxes and we answer to authority, but Jesus taught us that with God there no losers. God rules over everything and everyone, and Grace will keep us safe. Amen

Parable of the Wedding Feast

Matthew 22: 1-14 And again Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding feast for his son, and sent his servants[a] to call those who were invited to the wedding feast, but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready. Come to the wedding feast.”’ But they paid no attention and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, ‘The wedding feast is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the main roads and invite to the wedding feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the roads and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good. So the wedding hall was filled with guests. “But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment. And he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot and cast him into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’ For many are called, but few are chosen.”

Today we heard the Parable of the Wedding Feast that Jesus told to the Pharisees. A king (God) was planning a wedding feast for his son (Jesus) and sent out his servants (prophets) with invitations to many important people (Pharisees).

The story is interpreted to mean that God sent prophets who were killed for spreading the Good News that God would send his son. The Pharisees understood that Jesus was speaking about themselves because they were not willing to accept Jesus as the Messiah and refused the invitation to the wedding.

We learn from this parable that God never gave up trying to bring people together to celebrate his son’s life. God invites everyone to the table. No one is turned away.

God knows our heart and accepts us as we are, young or old, rich or poor, black or white. He will know if we are truly faithful or if we are not coming to his house with an open heart. The man without the wedding robe was a hypocrite, pretending to follow God, and cast into the darkness because he was not willing to accept Jesus as his son.

Those wearing the robes, came as one, equal and ready to serve God. All social status was removed when the guests wore the same clothing. It doesn’t matter how much money we have or how well we do on test scores. God loves us all, just as we are.

Pastor Sarah said: “Let us all remember and be mindful of the banquet which we were all invited. Let us don new attire and join other guests that have come to the table. The table is set, God welcomes you and I and all who truly love his son, Jesus Christ.”

“For many are called, but few are chosen” Amen

Parable of the Tenants Matthew 21: 33-46

During Jesus time, landowners would lease their land to tenants and go back to their own country, returning only to collect their portion of the harvest as payment for the use of the land. Jesus tells, "Parable of the Tenants," the second time the Pharisees question his authority at the temple.

There was a landowner who sent his servants to collect his portion of the harvest. When they arrived the servants were killed. The landowner sent a second group of servants, they too were killed. The landowner sent his son to collect the debt, but he too was killed by the tenants.

Jesus asks, "What should happen to the tenants when the landowner arrives?" Not understanding the true meaning of the story, the Pharisees respond, "They should meet a wretched end and the landowner should rent to other tenants who will give him his share of the crop."

Jesus asks..."Have you never read the Scriptures?" "The stone the builders rejected, has become the cornerstone; the Lord has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes."

This parable is not easily interpreted by the Pharisees. They are too proud and sure of their authority to see that they are the tenants. God, the landowner, has sent his son as the "cornerstone" of faith. A "cornerstone" In biblical times, was used as the foundation and standard upon which a building was constructed. Once in place, the rest of the building would conform to the angles and size of the cornerstone. In addition, if removed, the entire structure could collapse.

Jesus was sent by his father to ensure our salvation. He was the cornerstone of our faith and the foundation for Christianity. He taught us to be compassionate, to be kind, to be humble and to love God.

The Pharisees strictly followed the laws in the Torah. They became enforcers of the laws they imposed and believed that they were the most righteous followers of God. They believed that people who did not adhere to the laws, were unclean and were not to come into contact with them. Their power and greed led many of them to become hypocrites, pretending to follow God.

Jesus loved everyone. He never ignored a person who needed his help. He taught us to open our hearts to those who are in need of help and to people in pain, or who might be needing something to eat. Today is World Communion Sunday, it is a good time to reflect on our church vision and mission statements. Pastor Sarah asks that "our actions, words and thoughts are building a world wide community worthy of this Cornerstone."

Our Vision
Our Vision at First Presbyterian Church is to be a Cornerstone of Faith in Jesus and a Family of Love and Service, Reaching out to our Community and the World.

Our Mission
Our mission at historic First Presbyterian Church of Southampton is to be a welcoming beacon of light that inspires people of all ages to seek a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ. As disciples of Jesus, we will serve others through mission, guide and nurture our youth, and be a loving haven of comfort and support for our community.

"Let's rollup our sleeves and work toward building a better community."
God is with us.
Amen

Parable of the Two Sons

Following a night spent outside the city, Jesus came upon a barren fig-tree which he caused to wither and die. This lesson was meant to teach us that God wants us to be fruitful with our lives and those who are hypocrites will wither and die.  (verses 18-22)

    In verses 23-27, the chief priests and scribes were already offended by the teachings of Jesus.  His entry into Jerusalem was hailed with the song, “Hosanna to the son of David.’  His teachings had become a threat to their leadership.  They had begun to fear that he would cause them to lose power and that is why they challenged him with their question, “By what authority are you doing these things?” and “Who gave you the authority?”

Their question came following his triumphal entry into Jerusalem.  They were challenging his authority to teach without approval, or to heal the blind and lame. They were offended by his outrage for the moneychangers inside God’s house.  Jesus was clearly a threat and they were attempting to trap him into saying that he was the Messiah.

Jesus answered them with his own question, ““I also will ask you one question, and if you tell me the answer, then I also will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John, from where did it come? From heaven or from man?”

The elders were smart enough to know that Jesus had put them in a difficult position.  If they responded that John’s authority came from heaven (God), then Jesus must also have been given authority from God.  They would be admitting that he was the Messiah.

If they responded that his authority came from man, then Jesus authority also had come from the crowds of people following him.  Their own authority and power would diminish if they allowed people to give him the right to continue to teach and heal.

The only response that they could give was, “We do not know.”  Jesus had not satisfied them with an answer that they could claim was blasphemy.  He simply continued by telling them the story of the “Two Sons.”

The story tells of a father (God) asking his sons (children of God) to go out and work in the vineyard (the work God wants us to do in the world).  One son (a person who has sinned, but turns to God) refuses the work, but repents and goes out and works very hard for his father.  The second son (Pharisees and scribes) tells the father that he will do the work, but never goes out (these are the people who are hypocrites and those who pretend to follow God).

Pastor Sarah asks which of the two sons are we?  Are we willing to work for God?  How are we measuring up?  Are we doing God’s work?  Are we willing to “save the least of these?”

Let us take up our crosses and follow.

Amen

Manna

     Our scripture today came from the book of Exodus 16.  This is the story of the Israelites who followed Moses into the wilderness as they escaped slavery in Egypt.   The Bible tells us that after they had been in the desert for 2 months and 15 days, they began to grumble to Moses and Aaron.  Uncertain of where they were going and afraid that they might die without food, they expressed their anger and blame, saying, "if only we had died by the Lord's hands in Egypt." 

     The Israelites were so afraid and vulnerable that they never expected that God would send "manna" for them to eat.  Manna is similar to a wafer mixed with honey.  It can not be stored or traded.  It was a gift from God that would be just enough food for the day. 

     This passage is a reminder to us that God provides sustenance when we need it.  Our complaining about the circumstances that have come from COVID has thrown us into chaos and we wonder,  "Why me?"  We join the Israelites in our complaining and longing for the past.

     Pastor Sarah asks that we become "manna" for someone this week.  Perhaps we can send someone a card or give them a phone call.  Anything that we do to lift someone up, even for one day, is a reminder that God gives us what we need.  Let us turn our complaining to God and remember that God loves us and will heal our suffering.

Romans 14: 1-12

Now accept the one who is weak in faith, but not for the purpose of passing judgement on his opinions.

    Paul wrote this letter to the Christian Church in Rome during a time when there was disagreement among Jews and Gentiles regarding rules, rituals and food.  He asked Christians not to criticize or mock others, but to love them and respect them as children of God.

    Pastor Sarah told us that this passage is a message for us today, here in Southampton, for our country and for the world.  We are living in a time of division and differing opinions.  We are separating ourselves into "tribes" and openly criticizing opinions of others.  We judge them when we see things differently and deny them as God's children.  She asked that we look into our own behaviors and refrain from judging or mocking others.  We are reminded of Jesus' commandment to love our neighbors with all of our heart.  He died for us all.

    Her message comes from Paul's words:  "For we don't live for ourselves or die for ourselves.  If we live, it's to honor the Lord.  And if it's to die, it's to honor the Lord.  So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.  Christ died and rose again for this purpose - to be Lord both of the living and of the dead.

    Amen