http://www.lchwelcome.org en ℗ & © 2011 Lutheran Church of Honolulu and individual preachers Sermons preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley and others at LCH Lutheran Church of Honolulu The Lutheran Church of Honolulu (ELCA) embraces this mission: "Welcoming to all / Worshipping, growing, serving / Christ's community." This podcast includes sermons preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley and others at LCH. New sermons are added as they become available, usually each Sunday afternoon, Hawaii time. Visit LCH online at www.lchwelcome.org. The Lutheran Church of Honolulu (ELCA) embraces this mission: "Welcoming to all / Worshipping, growing, serving / Christ's community." This podcast includes sermons preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley and others at LCH. New sermons are added as they become available, usually each Sunday afternoon, Hawaii time. Visit LCH online at www.lchwelcome.org. sermon, lutheran, ELCA, Lutheran Church of Honolulu, Jeff Lilley Lutheran Church of Honolulu webmaster@lchwelcome.org clean no Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 40:21-31 | Psalm 147:1-11, 20c | 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 | Mark 1:29-39 -------------------------------------------------------- There are two key words in today's Gospel. Jesus "lifts up" Simon Peter's mother-in-law, and she "serves" them. We know that the church and we are called to lift up the broken hearted and poor. But, as much as we like to be lifted and to lift up others, we often neglect serving. ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson often reminds us of our calling to lift up and serve. In the Gospel, the disciples wanted Jesus to stay with the crowds who had been healed, but Jesus took them to the next town. In the same way, God is sending all of us out to serve. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 40:21-31 | Psalm 147:1-11, 20c | 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 | Mark 1:29-39 -------------------------------------------------------- There are two key words in today's Gospel. Jesus "lifts up" Simon Peter's mother-in-law, and she "serves" them. We know that the church and we are called to lift up the broken hearted and poor. But, as much as we like to be lifted and to lift up others, we often neglect serving. ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson often reminds us of our calling to lift up and serve. In the Gospel, the disciples wanted Jesus to stay with the crowds who had been healed, but Jesus took them to the next town. In the same way, God is sending all of us out to serve. Sun, 5 Feb 2012 16:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-29.mp3 no 19:45 Bill Potter and Jim Cartwright A sermon preached by Bill Potter and Jim Cartwright A sermon preached by Bill Potter and Jim Cartwright -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 | Psalm 111 | 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 | Mark 1:21-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we focus on LCH's welcome for all people, and particularly lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people. Bill talked about welcoming as key to our calling as Christians, said the welcome to LGBT persons must be explicitly stated, and asked about our welcome to others who may be different. Jim described the journey from his upbringing in a pioneer Mormon family to his realization of God's love for him as a good part of creation. A sermon preached by Bill Potter and Jim Cartwright -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Deuteronomy 18:15-20 | Psalm 111 | 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 | Mark 1:21-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we focus on LCH's welcome for all people, and particularly lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered people. Bill talked about welcoming as key to our calling as Christians, said the welcome to LGBT persons must be explicitly stated, and asked about our welcome to others who may be different. Jim described the journey from his upbringing in a pioneer Mormon family to his realization of God's love for him as a good part of creation. Sun, 5 Feb 2012 16:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-29.mp3 no 12:36 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jonah 3:1-5, 10 | Psalm 62:5-12 | 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 | Mark 1:14-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons talk about God's call and what happens when people respond. In the first lesson we hear about Jonah fleeing from that call, his eventual response, and how the people of Nineveh repented. This is a radical story of enemies being transformed into friends. A friend of mine resisted God's call to become a pastor, but she is now set to become assistant to her bishop. This shows how we can be called to places we cannot imagine. In the Gospel, Andrew, James, and John are called to become disciples. In the life of our congregation, we are working out the call of an associate pastor. God calls us into ministry and will keeps us all as God's people. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jonah 3:1-5, 10 | Psalm 62:5-12 | 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 | Mark 1:14-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons talk about God's call and what happens when people respond. In the first lesson we hear about Jonah fleeing from that call, his eventual response, and how the people of Nineveh repented. This is a radical story of enemies being transformed into friends. A friend of mine resisted God's call to become a pastor, but she is now set to become assistant to her bishop. This shows how we can be called to places we cannot imagine. In the Gospel, Andrew, James, and John are called to become disciples. In the life of our congregation, we are working out the call of an associate pastor. God calls us into ministry and will keeps us all as God's people. Sun, 22 Jan 2012 15:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-22.mp3 no 12:07 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: 1 Samuel 3:1-20 | Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 | 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 | John 1:43-51 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons talk about God being revealed through disciples, sometimes in unexpected ways. Samuel did not know God when he was called, and he was drawn into a powerful story in which God is revealed by a prophet telling truth people did not want to hear. The Gospel tells of the calling of Nathanael and God being revealing in a new way through Jesus. There are prophets of our own time, like Martin Luther King, who lived out a life of discipleship and advocated that race, sexuality, and class be set aside so we can be truly human. God is calling you to be disciples. May you reply, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: 1 Samuel 3:1-20 | Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 | 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 | John 1:43-51 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons talk about God being revealed through disciples, sometimes in unexpected ways. Samuel did not know God when he was called, and he was drawn into a powerful story in which God is revealed by a prophet telling truth people did not want to hear. The Gospel tells of the calling of Nathanael and God being revealing in a new way through Jesus. There are prophets of our own time, like Martin Luther King, who lived out a life of discipleship and advocated that race, sexuality, and class be set aside so we can be truly human. God is calling you to be disciples. May you reply, "Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening." Sun, 15 Jan 2012 15:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-15.mp3 no 13:42 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1:1-5 | Psalm 29 | Acts 19:1-7 | Mark 1:4-11 -------------------------------------------------------- In the modern world, we often reduce religion to a mechanical relationship. Most of you were baptized, but you probably never think about that. In the lesson from Acts, we hear of Paul baptizing a group with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit moves where she wills, and the wind of the Spirit may blow us where we do not want to go. The Spirit can take us to places we never imagine--all because of the vocation of our baptism. Remember that you are God's child and ask how you can live out your vocation as God's beloved. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1:1-5 | Psalm 29 | Acts 19:1-7 | Mark 1:4-11 -------------------------------------------------------- In the modern world, we often reduce religion to a mechanical relationship. Most of you were baptized, but you probably never think about that. In the lesson from Acts, we hear of Paul baptizing a group with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit moves where she wills, and the wind of the Spirit may blow us where we do not want to go. The Spirit can take us to places we never imagine--all because of the vocation of our baptism. Remember that you are God's child and ask how you can live out your vocation as God's beloved. Sun, 8 Jan 2012 15:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-08.mp3 no 9:37 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1:1-5| Isaiah 9:1-7| Isaiah 11:1-9 | Philippians 2:5-11 | Luke 2:15-21 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we celebrate the Name of Jesus. We know Jesus by many names, which describe how God is working in and through us. While everyone knows the names of large corporations, the world does not know the names of Jesus. Our task is to go out and make the name of Jesus known in this world. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1:1-5| Isaiah 9:1-7| Isaiah 11:1-9 | Philippians 2:5-11 | Luke 2:15-21 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we celebrate the Name of Jesus. We know Jesus by many names, which describe how God is working in and through us. While everyone knows the names of large corporations, the world does not know the names of Jesus. Our task is to go out and make the name of Jesus known in this world. Sun, 1 Jan 2012 18:10:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon12-01-01.mp3 no 7:08 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 52:7-10 | Psalm 98 | Hebrews 1:1-4 [5-12] | John 1:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- We like to keep God at a distance so we can go about our business and pretend we are in control. When the Word becomes flesh and dwells among us, individualism and selfishness begin to crumble. Imagine the disruption to your routine if a stranger moved into your house. When the Word becomes flesh and dwells among us, we can no longer live for ourselves. In Christmas, God interrupts our lives and moves us to dance and give praise. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 52:7-10 | Psalm 98 | Hebrews 1:1-4 [5-12] | John 1:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- We like to keep God at a distance so we can go about our business and pretend we are in control. When the Word becomes flesh and dwells among us, individualism and selfishness begin to crumble. Imagine the disruption to your routine if a stranger moved into your house. When the Word becomes flesh and dwells among us, we can no longer live for ourselves. In Christmas, God interrupts our lives and moves us to dance and give praise. Sun, 1 Jan 2012 17:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon11-12-25.mp3 no 9:06 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 9:2-7 | Psalm 96 | Titus 2:11-14 | Luke 2:1-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Tonight we celebrate the time when a child was born to a scared mother--when God became flesh. We may want to dismiss this as a fairy tale, but God became real flesh, felt what you feel, and experienced what you experience. He grew up to preach good news, and we killed him. This is the God who chose to be present in the world and chooses to live with you. The world has not been the same since that night. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 9:2-7 | Psalm 96 | Titus 2:11-14 | Luke 2:1-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Tonight we celebrate the time when a child was born to a scared mother--when God became flesh. We may want to dismiss this as a fairy tale, but God became real flesh, felt what you feel, and experienced what you experience. He grew up to preach good news, and we killed him. This is the God who chose to be present in the world and chooses to live with you. The world has not been the same since that night. Sun, 1 Jan 2012 16:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon11-12-24.mp3 no 9:17 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 | Psalm 126 | 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 | John 1:6-8, 19-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Leymah Gbowee is a Lutheran Christian in Liberia, a country that has been at war for years. Having had enough of the situation, she gathered Christian and Muslim women to pray, sing, and bring about change. Strengthened by her faith, she pointed to the the light, and as a result, was awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize. In today's lesson, Isaiah calls us to bring good news. Like Leymah Gbowee, we are called to point to the light. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 | Psalm 126 | 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 | John 1:6-8, 19-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Leymah Gbowee is a Lutheran Christian in Liberia, a country that has been at war for years. Having had enough of the situation, she gathered Christian and Muslim women to pray, sing, and bring about change. Strengthened by her faith, she pointed to the the light, and as a result, was awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize. In today's lesson, Isaiah calls us to bring good news. Like Leymah Gbowee, we are called to point to the light. Sun, 11 Dec 2011 13:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon11-12-11.mp3 no 10:51 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 40:1-11 | Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 | 2 Peter 3:8-15a | Mark 1:1-8 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Mark tells us "This is the beginning of the good news." There is no genealogy, no dogma. The church has used many tolls to prepare the way: swords, doctrine, and homogeneity. Mark identifies different tools, such as love to bring life in the time of AIDS. Love, compassion, peace, and courage are just the beginning but not yet the end. We are called to use these tools to prepare the way of the Lord. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 40:1-11 | Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 | 2 Peter 3:8-15a | Mark 1:1-8 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Mark tells us "This is the beginning of the good news." There is no genealogy, no dogma. The church has used many tolls to prepare the way: swords, doctrine, and homogeneity. Mark identifies different tools, such as love to bring life in the time of AIDS. Love, compassion, peace, and courage are just the beginning but not yet the end. We are called to use these tools to prepare the way of the Lord. Sun, 4 Dec 2011 18:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon11-12-04.mp3 no 11:31 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 64:1-9 | Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 | 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 | Mark 13:24-37 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lesson from Isaiah and the Gospel both talk about heaven and earth being destroyed and remade. We can respond with fear, or run around like Chicken Little, or do nothing to change our lives. But Paul shows us another way. We have been given the spiritual gifts that allow us to see the revealing of Christ in the future and to be a part of that revealing here and now. We are called to light candles that will bring the light of Christ into the world and to become that light as the body of Christ. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 64:1-9 | Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 | 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 | Mark 13:24-37 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lesson from Isaiah and the Gospel both talk about heaven and earth being destroyed and remade. We can respond with fear, or run around like Chicken Little, or do nothing to change our lives. But Paul shows us another way. We have been given the spiritual gifts that allow us to see the revealing of Christ in the future and to be a part of that revealing here and now. We are called to light candles that will bring the light of Christ into the world and to become that light as the body of Christ. Sun, 27 Nov 2011 16:45:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2012/sermon11-11-27.mp3 no 12:28 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 | Psalm 95:1-7a | Ephesians 1:15-23 | Matthew 25:31-46 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lessons, Ezekiel explains how God will gather together the people pushed aside by their rulers, and Paul in Ephesians tells how God will reclaim people under Christ, who rules from the cross. God reigns not through power but compassion. We are called to go from this place to bring in God's kingdom of justice. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 | Psalm 95:1-7a | Ephesians 1:15-23 | Matthew 25:31-46 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lessons, Ezekiel explains how God will gather together the people pushed aside by their rulers, and Paul in Ephesians tells how God will reclaim people under Christ, who rules from the cross. God reigns not through power but compassion. We are called to go from this place to bring in God's kingdom of justice. Sun, 20 Nov 2011 14:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-11-20.mp3 no 11:46 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18 | Psalm 90:1-12 | 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 | Matthew 25:14-30 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel is often misinterpreted as being about prosperity or piety. But Jesus includes this parable in his discussion of the last days, as he is talking about God's presence in the world coming to fruit. The master lavishes impossible amounts of money as God has lavished on us the richness of grace. When we keep this gift to ourselves, we make it irrelevant. We cannot save God's grace in our church buildings or even in our hearts. We are called to invest it in the world and in others. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18 | Psalm 90:1-12 | 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 | Matthew 25:14-30 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel is often misinterpreted as being about prosperity or piety. But Jesus includes this parable in his discussion of the last days, as he is talking about God's presence in the world coming to fruit. The master lavishes impossible amounts of money as God has lavished on us the richness of grace. When we keep this gift to ourselves, we make it irrelevant. We cannot save God's grace in our church buildings or even in our hearts. We are called to invest it in the world and in others. Sat, 19 Nov 2011 20:10:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-11-13.mp3 no 14:32 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Revelation 7:9-17 | Psalm 34:1-10, 22 | 1 John 3:1-3 | Matthew 5:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we remember all the saints, living and dead. Conventional wisdom says that a church will be successful when people are satisfied and joyous, but today's Gospel has a different vision. In the Beatitudes, Jesus calls us to die to the world and serve others. Society calls us to different values. And Jesus is talking about being blessed right now and not just in the future. You are all saints of God, and that sainthood is wrapped in Christ on the cross. In weakness, God has brought the kingdom. This may not make us one of the top churches in numbers, but it will bring us to God. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Revelation 7:9-17 | Psalm 34:1-10, 22 | 1 John 3:1-3 | Matthew 5:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we remember all the saints, living and dead. Conventional wisdom says that a church will be successful when people are satisfied and joyous, but today's Gospel has a different vision. In the Beatitudes, Jesus calls us to die to the world and serve others. Society calls us to different values. And Jesus is talking about being blessed right now and not just in the future. You are all saints of God, and that sainthood is wrapped in Christ on the cross. In weakness, God has brought the kingdom. This may not make us one of the top churches in numbers, but it will bring us to God. Sun, 06 Nov 2011 17:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-11-06.mp3 no 10:40 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31:31-34 | Psalm 46 | Romans 3:19-28 | John 8: 31-36 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we remember how Martin Luther asked questions almost 500 years ago that energized a movement that is still going on. Luther had tried to be prefect, but it didn't work. In Romans, he was directed to the cross and realized that in Jesus Christ we are called to freedom. We often look for a God of power, but we are called to the cross where we are set free in weakness. This is a gift we are given in the Word. The Reformation means nothing if we do not continue in the Word. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31:31-34 | Psalm 46 | Romans 3:19-28 | John 8: 31-36 -------------------------------------------------------- Today we remember how Martin Luther asked questions almost 500 years ago that energized a movement that is still going on. Luther had tried to be prefect, but it didn't work. In Romans, he was directed to the cross and realized that in Jesus Christ we are called to freedom. We often look for a God of power, but we are called to the cross where we are set free in weakness. This is a gift we are given in the Word. The Reformation means nothing if we do not continue in the Word. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:45:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-10-30.mp3 no 13:04 Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18 | Psalm 1 | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 | Matthew 22:34-46 -------------------------------------------------------- When I was in Mexico before seminary, someone asked me "Who is Jesus?" and replied with the simple statement "Jesus is love." Christianity is much more about love than theology. In today's Gospel, they ask Jesus the greatest commandment, and he says to love God and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus points out that radical love supersedes the law. We know we cannot succeed at loving our neighbor, so we must rely on God's mercy. When we love God, we open ourselves up to transformation, but we must also ask how we can love our neighbors. A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Leviticus 19:1-2, 15-18 | Psalm 1 | 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 | Matthew 22:34-46 -------------------------------------------------------- When I was in Mexico before seminary, someone asked me "Who is Jesus?" and replied with the simple statement "Jesus is love." Christianity is much more about love than theology. In today's Gospel, they ask Jesus the greatest commandment, and he says to love God and love your neighbor as yourself. Jesus points out that radical love supersedes the law. We know we cannot succeed at loving our neighbor, so we must rely on God's mercy. When we love God, we open ourselves up to transformation, but we must also ask how we can love our neighbors. Sun, 23 Oct 2011 14:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-10-23.mp3 no 20:12 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 45:1-7 | Psalm 96 | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 | Matthew 22:15-22 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, the Pharisees try to trap Jesus by asked about paying taxes to the Emperor, and Jesus tells them to give to God what is God's and to Caesar what is Caesar's. We must understand this in the context of Genesis I, which tells us that all of creation belongs to God and we are simply stewards. Humans try to hold on to what we think is ours, but when we see ourselves as stewards, our hands open up. In baptism we are marked as God's own. We are God's currency, and God is spending us for the sake of the world. Live and love as if there is plenty and you are imprinted with the image of God. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 45:1-7 | Psalm 96 | 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 | Matthew 22:15-22 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, the Pharisees try to trap Jesus by asked about paying taxes to the Emperor, and Jesus tells them to give to God what is God's and to Caesar what is Caesar's. We must understand this in the context of Genesis I, which tells us that all of creation belongs to God and we are simply stewards. Humans try to hold on to what we think is ours, but when we see ourselves as stewards, our hands open up. In baptism we are marked as God's own. We are God's currency, and God is spending us for the sake of the world. Live and love as if there is plenty and you are imprinted with the image of God. Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-10-16.mp3 no 13:55 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 25:1-9 | Psalm 23 | Philippians 4:1-9 | Matthew 22:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's parable of the wedding banquet makes us wonder whether we want to be invited to the party of God's kingdom. Why are fewer and fewer people coming to church? Is it because we are not telling people or because we are serving food people don't want? Perhaps we are not passing the invitation to the next generation or keeping the party for ourselves and not inviting others. As the psalm says, God has prepared a table before us. We cannot compel people to come, but we must invite them. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 25:1-9 | Psalm 23 | Philippians 4:1-9 | Matthew 22:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's parable of the wedding banquet makes us wonder whether we want to be invited to the party of God's kingdom. Why are fewer and fewer people coming to church? Is it because we are not telling people or because we are serving food people don't want? Perhaps we are not passing the invitation to the next generation or keeping the party for ourselves and not inviting others. As the psalm says, God has prepared a table before us. We cannot compel people to come, but we must invite them. Sun, 09 Oct 2011 14:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-10-09.mp3 no 15:30 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 5:1-7 | Psalm 80:7-15 | Philippians 3:4b-14 | Matthew 21:33-46 -------------------------------------------------------- The key to understanding today's familiar parable of the vineyard is to think about the fruit. The owner took care to protect the fruit and only required that the grapes be harvested and shared. We are called to share the fruits of justice and righteousness we receive as gifts from God. Why do we hang on so tightly? Why do we build walls around the Gospel? Let us share the gifts of grace, love, and peace. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 5:1-7 | Psalm 80:7-15 | Philippians 3:4b-14 | Matthew 21:33-46 -------------------------------------------------------- The key to understanding today's familiar parable of the vineyard is to think about the fruit. The owner took care to protect the fruit and only required that the grapes be harvested and shared. We are called to share the fruits of justice and righteousness we receive as gifts from God. Why do we hang on so tightly? Why do we build walls around the Gospel? Let us share the gifts of grace, love, and peace. Sun, 09 Oct 2011 13:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-10-02.mp3 no 10:54 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; Psalm 25:1-8; Philippians 2:1-13; Matthew 21:23-32 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's readings ask us what authority God has in our lives. The Gospel parable of the two sons leads us to ask which son represents us as individuals and as a church. Paul urges us to have the mind of Christ and to empty ourselves and live the life of the crucified Christ. We need to understand that when we have the mind of Christ, we have the authority to love, forgive, and heal. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32; Psalm 25:1-8; Philippians 2:1-13; Matthew 21:23-32 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's readings ask us what authority God has in our lives. The Gospel parable of the two sons leads us to ask which son represents us as individuals and as a church. Paul urges us to have the mind of Christ and to empty ourselves and live the life of the crucified Christ. We need to understand that when we have the mind of Christ, we have the authority to love, forgive, and heal. Sat, 01 Oct 2011 22:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-09-25.mp3 no 14:52 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jonah 3:10-4:11; Psalm 145:1-8; Philippians 1:21-30; Matthew 20:1-16 -------------------------------------------------------- With today's readings, this should be called "God is not fair Sunday." Jonah is upset that God doesn't destroy Ninevah, and the wokers who labored all day are upsent that they got the same as those who only worked a few hours. We try to impose our ideas of fairness on God. But we would be in trouble if we received what we deserved from God. But the Gospel tells us that we don't get the wages we deserve; we get what God has promised. All are invited to the banquet; God's justice is the justice of love. We all have peace and love poured out through Christ who died on the cross for all of us. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jonah 3:10-4:11; Psalm 145:1-8; Philippians 1:21-30; Matthew 20:1-16 -------------------------------------------------------- With today's readings, this should be called "God is not fair Sunday." Jonah is upset that God doesn't destroy Ninevah, and the wokers who labored all day are upsent that they got the same as those who only worked a few hours. We try to impose our ideas of fairness on God. But we would be in trouble if we received what we deserved from God. But the Gospel tells us that we don't get the wages we deserve; we get what God has promised. All are invited to the banquet; God's justice is the justice of love. We all have peace and love poured out through Christ who died on the cross for all of us. Sun, 18 Sep 2011 17:10:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-09-18.mp3 no 12:09 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 50:15-21; Psalm 103:1-13; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35 -------------------------------------------------------- Unlike so many of the parables we have talked about recently, the one in today's Gospel is completely clear. Peter asks how many times to forgive, and Jesus says we must forgive seventy times seven times. As we listen to the parable about the slave who is forgiven for a huge debt but does not forgive the tiny debt of another, we sit convicted for the times we have not forgiven. As we remember the events of September 11, the words of Jesus echo for us. This is the Gospel we must follow. We have received rich mercies from God over and over, and each week we pray for our sins to be forgiven as we forgive others. We are called to give away forgiveness in the face of poverty, fear, and terrorism. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 50:15-21; Psalm 103:1-13; Romans 14:1-12; Matthew 18:21-35 -------------------------------------------------------- Unlike so many of the parables we have talked about recently, the one in today's Gospel is completely clear. Peter asks how many times to forgive, and Jesus says we must forgive seventy times seven times. As we listen to the parable about the slave who is forgiven for a huge debt but does not forgive the tiny debt of another, we sit convicted for the times we have not forgiven. As we remember the events of September 11, the words of Jesus echo for us. This is the Gospel we must follow. We have received rich mercies from God over and over, and each week we pray for our sins to be forgiven as we forgive others. We are called to give away forgiveness in the face of poverty, fear, and terrorism. Wed, 14 Sep 2011 21:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-09-11.mp3 no 13:47 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 33:7-11; Psalm 119:33-40; Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 18:15-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel outlines a process for resolving conflicts that we can put to use in our daily lives. We know that conflict is not healthy for us or our communities. Jesus recognizes that conflict happens and tells us to meet with the other party face to face. If that does not work, we are to take some witnesses to preserve the community and protect the dignity of both parties. This process saves us from law and revenge and lets love prevail. Note also the call to announce God's grace and let go of the sin. In this lesson, we learn how to live in the love that sets us free. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 33:7-11; Psalm 119:33-40; Romans 13:8-14; Matthew 18:15-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel outlines a process for resolving conflicts that we can put to use in our daily lives. We know that conflict is not healthy for us or our communities. Jesus recognizes that conflict happens and tells us to meet with the other party face to face. If that does not work, we are to take some witnesses to preserve the community and protect the dignity of both parties. This process saves us from law and revenge and lets love prevail. Note also the call to announce God's grace and let go of the sin. In this lesson, we learn how to live in the love that sets us free. Sun, 04 Sep 2011 22:10:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-09-04.mp3 no 12:41 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 15:15-21; Psalm 26:1-8; Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:21-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel continues from last week when Peter confessed that Jesus was the Messiah, but today Jesus calls Peter Satan because his idea of what it meant to be Messiah was so different from Jesus'. Jesus goes on to explain that he will suffer, die, and be raised and that if we are his disciples, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross. Jesus shows us that we cannot transform the world by conforming to conventional wisdom. Our hearts must be transformed so that loving our enemies is the norm. On the cross and through the cross, God's love transforms us. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 15:15-21; Psalm 26:1-8; Romans 12:9-21; Matthew 16:21-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel continues from last week when Peter confessed that Jesus was the Messiah, but today Jesus calls Peter Satan because his idea of what it meant to be Messiah was so different from Jesus'. Jesus goes on to explain that he will suffer, die, and be raised and that if we are his disciples, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross. Jesus shows us that we cannot transform the world by conforming to conventional wisdom. Our hearts must be transformed so that loving our enemies is the norm. On the cross and through the cross, God's love transforms us. Mon, 29 Aug 2011 06:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-08-28.mp3 no 14:34 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 51:1-6; Psalm 138; Romans 12:1-8; Matthew 16:13-20 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lesson, Paul calls on us to present ourselves as living sacrifices and not to be conformed to this world. We are to use our individual gifts and be transformed into the body of Christ. Then, instead of being individual instruments, we become an orchestra making music that sweeps over the word. In many cases, being a choir director is just a job, but Carl Crosier has woven the gifts of many together to build up the body of Christ. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 51:1-6; Psalm 138; Romans 12:1-8; Matthew 16:13-20 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lesson, Paul calls on us to present ourselves as living sacrifices and not to be conformed to this world. We are to use our individual gifts and be transformed into the body of Christ. Then, instead of being individual instruments, we become an orchestra making music that sweeps over the word. In many cases, being a choir director is just a job, but Carl Crosier has woven the gifts of many together to build up the body of Christ. Sun, 21 Aug 2011 21:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-08-21.mp3 no 12:37 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Psalm 67; Romans 11: 1-2a, 29-32; Matthew 15:10-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel lesson seems to combine two unrelated stories, and I never understood why they connected Jesus's teaching about clean and unclean food with the story of the Canaanite woman who asks for healing. The question of what food you ate was very important to the religion of Jesus' time, but he turns the usual teaching on its head by saying it is what comes out of our mouths that defiles us. Then he demonstrates this truth by calling the Canaanite woman a dog. But her response shows him that he was wrong. Imagine what the world would be like if Jesus had never repented and given us this teaching. The story changed his movement from one of reformation to one of transformation. Given this teaching, we can say to those who do not look like us or act like us, "You are welcome." A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 56:1, 6-8; Psalm 67; Romans 11: 1-2a, 29-32; Matthew 15:10-28 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel lesson seems to combine two unrelated stories, and I never understood why they connected Jesus's teaching about clean and unclean food with the story of the Canaanite woman who asks for healing. The question of what food you ate was very important to the religion of Jesus' time, but he turns the usual teaching on its head by saying it is what comes out of our mouths that defiles us. Then he demonstrates this truth by calling the Canaanite woman a dog. But her response shows him that he was wrong. Imagine what the world would be like if Jesus had never repented and given us this teaching. The story changed his movement from one of reformation to one of transformation. Given this teaching, we can say to those who do not look like us or act like us, "You are welcome." Sun, 14 Aug 2011 18:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-08-14.mp3 no 12:02 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Kings 19:9-18; Psalm 85:8-13; Romans 10:5-15; Matthew 14:22-33 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel story of Jesus walking on the water and calming the storm, we often focus on Peter's lack of faith, but we should really focus on the fact that Jesus saves him and puts him back in the boat. Jesus had sent the disciples by boat to the other side to tell the Good News. These days many want to get out of the boat (the church), but Jesus wants us in the boat, and Jesus wants that boat to be traveling where it is sent. We can be comfortable in the boat, but we want that boat to stay exactly where it is. A boat that never moves becomes a rotten hull and sinks. We are called to stay in the boat and see where God is taking us. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Kings 19:9-18; Psalm 85:8-13; Romans 10:5-15; Matthew 14:22-33 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel story of Jesus walking on the water and calming the storm, we often focus on Peter's lack of faith, but we should really focus on the fact that Jesus saves him and puts him back in the boat. Jesus had sent the disciples by boat to the other side to tell the Good News. These days many want to get out of the boat (the church), but Jesus wants us in the boat, and Jesus wants that boat to be traveling where it is sent. We can be comfortable in the boat, but we want that boat to stay exactly where it is. A boat that never moves becomes a rotten hull and sinks. We are called to stay in the boat and see where God is taking us. Mon, 08 Aug 2011 06:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-08-07.mp3 no 11:21 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 55:1-5; Psalm 145: 8-9, 15-22; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:13-21 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lesson, Isaiah invites the exiles of Israel who are thirsty and hungry to eat and drink without cost. As wealthy Christians, we may hear this as spiritual, but Isaiah was speaking to people who really needed food and drink. In the Gospel, Jesus has just heard about the death of his cousin John the Baptist, and yet he has compassion for the crowd and heals, teaches, and feeds them. The real miracle is that in the midst of his pain, Jesus has compassion. The real miracle is that--unlike most gods who are remote and unchanging--our God in Jesus feeds and heals, changes water into wine, calls Lazarus from the dead, and dies for us all on the cross. Feeling is not hard, but it is difficult for us to open ourselves up to feel with others and be changed. When we are knows as the church of compassion, we can truly be called the body of Christ. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 55:1-5; Psalm 145: 8-9, 15-22; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:13-21 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's lesson, Isaiah invites the exiles of Israel who are thirsty and hungry to eat and drink without cost. As wealthy Christians, we may hear this as spiritual, but Isaiah was speaking to people who really needed food and drink. In the Gospel, Jesus has just heard about the death of his cousin John the Baptist, and yet he has compassion for the crowd and heals, teaches, and feeds them. The real miracle is that in the midst of his pain, Jesus has compassion. The real miracle is that--unlike most gods who are remote and unchanging--our God in Jesus feeds and heals, changes water into wine, calls Lazarus from the dead, and dies for us all on the cross. Feeling is not hard, but it is difficult for us to open ourselves up to feel with others and be changed. When we are knows as the church of compassion, we can truly be called the body of Christ. Sun, 31 Jul 2011 12:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-07-31.mp3 no 15:18 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Kings 3:5-12; Psalm 119:129-136; Romans 8: 26-39; Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52 -------------------------------------------------------- There is so much to talk about in this Sunday's parables about the kingdom of God. A better word might be the reign of God because this is a process that stretches from the past, through the present, and into the future. We have parables about a mustard seed (a pesky weed), leaven (elsewhere something to be gotten rid of), a shyster buying land, and an indiscriminate and wasteful fisher. Jesus is telling us that God is up to something new, and we must be ready. We are the reign of God fleshed out in the world, called to bring that reign into being. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Kings 3:5-12; Psalm 119:129-136; Romans 8: 26-39; Matthew 13: 31-33, 44-52 -------------------------------------------------------- There is so much to talk about in this Sunday's parables about the kingdom of God. A better word might be the reign of God because this is a process that stretches from the past, through the present, and into the future. We have parables about a mustard seed (a pesky weed), leaven (elsewhere something to be gotten rid of), a shyster buying land, and an indiscriminate and wasteful fisher. Jesus is telling us that God is up to something new, and we must be ready. We are the reign of God fleshed out in the world, called to bring that reign into being. Sun, 24 Jul 2011 21:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-07-24.mp3 no 15:56 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 44:6-8; Psalm 86: 11-17; Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -------------------------------------------------------- If today's parable about the wheat and weeds were the only thing Jesus ever said, it would be easy to understand Christianity. But in his ministry Jesus was always interacting with people we would call weeds. It is none of our business what happens at the end of time. God sows the seed and will gather in who God wants. Our responsibility is to grow, love, be transformed, and send out God's word. The harvest will take care of itself. We are called to live as if the harvest is near--to live as God's adopted children, filled with the joy of living. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 44:6-8; Psalm 86: 11-17; Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -------------------------------------------------------- If today's parable about the wheat and weeds were the only thing Jesus ever said, it would be easy to understand Christianity. But in his ministry Jesus was always interacting with people we would call weeds. It is none of our business what happens at the end of time. God sows the seed and will gather in who God wants. Our responsibility is to grow, love, be transformed, and send out God's word. The harvest will take care of itself. We are called to live as if the harvest is near--to live as God's adopted children, filled with the joy of living. Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:10:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-07-17.mp3 no 9:36 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 55:10-13; Psalm 65: 9-14; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus tells the parable about the farmer scattering seed. Some falls on bad soil and dies, and some falls on good soil and bears fruit many time over. This way of farming is very different from the precise farming methods we know today. Many churches seem to want to be precise in proclaiming the Word, but Jesus tells us to scatter the seed of God's Word generously. We are called to cast the seed, and God will be responsible for the growth. You are sowers of the Word. Be generous; there is plenty of seed in the bag. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 55:10-13; Psalm 65: 9-14; Romans 8:1-11; Matthew 13: 1-9, 18-23 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus tells the parable about the farmer scattering seed. Some falls on bad soil and dies, and some falls on good soil and bears fruit many time over. This way of farming is very different from the precise farming methods we know today. Many churches seem to want to be precise in proclaiming the Word, but Jesus tells us to scatter the seed of God's Word generously. We are called to cast the seed, and God will be responsible for the growth. You are sowers of the Word. Be generous; there is plenty of seed in the bag. Sun, 10 Jul 2011 17:05:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-07-10.mp3 no 12:56 Pastor Steve Jensen A sermon preached by Pastor Steve Jensen A sermon preached by Pastor Steve Jensen -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Zechariah 9:9-12; Psalm 145:8-15; Romans 7:15-25a; Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus contrasts approaching God through strict observance of the law with the way his death and resurrection bring us God's love and acceptance. In my current work, I see how our Wounded Warriors depend on God to ease their burdens. I also see how those of us who are are yoked to Christ can bring people to relationships with God and with others. If your life is full of challenges, know that Christ is with you. Reach out and take his hand. A sermon preached by Pastor Steve Jensen -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Zechariah 9:9-12; Psalm 145:8-15; Romans 7:15-25a; Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus contrasts approaching God through strict observance of the law with the way his death and resurrection bring us God's love and acceptance. In my current work, I see how our Wounded Warriors depend on God to ease their burdens. I also see how those of us who are are yoked to Christ can bring people to relationships with God and with others. If your life is full of challenges, know that Christ is with you. Reach out and take his hand. Sun, 03 Jul 2011 14:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-07-03.mp3 no 23:41 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 28:5-9; Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18; Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus talks about what it means to be welcoming. Churches think that having good ushers is enough, but Jesus is calling us to a much more radical ministry that is rooted in justice. The usual human welcome expects the stranger to become like us, but Jesus sees the stranger for who they are: God's good creation. If we are truly welcoming, we are transformed by the new comer. In the end, being welcoming involves a risky love both given and received. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 28:5-9; Psalm 89:1-4, 15-18; Romans 6:12-23; Matthew 10:40-42 -------------------------------------------------------- Today Jesus talks about what it means to be welcoming. Churches think that having good ushers is enough, but Jesus is calling us to a much more radical ministry that is rooted in justice. The usual human welcome expects the stranger to become like us, but Jesus sees the stranger for who they are: God's good creation. If we are truly welcoming, we are transformed by the new comer. In the end, being welcoming involves a risky love both given and received. Wed, 29 Jun 2011 17:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-06-26.mp3 no 15:09 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1: 1-2: 4a; Psalm 8; 2 Corinthians 13: 11-13; Matthew 28: 16-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Trinity Sunday, when we use the idea of the Trinity to understand God better. We are used to the traditional Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but there are many other images of God in the Bible. Doctrine like the Trinity is supposed to open up our understanding, but too often it closes us off. If the Trinity is a static concept that boxes us up, it limits God. If we freeze ourself into on part of the Trinity, we loose sight of God's fullness. In Matthew, Jesus sends the disciples out in the name of the Trinity to tell the story of God at work in the world. The Trinity can prepare us as well for sharing the Good News of God. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 1: 1-2: 4a; Psalm 8; 2 Corinthians 13: 11-13; Matthew 28: 16-20 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Trinity Sunday, when we use the idea of the Trinity to understand God better. We are used to the traditional Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but there are many other images of God in the Bible. Doctrine like the Trinity is supposed to open up our understanding, but too often it closes us off. If the Trinity is a static concept that boxes us up, it limits God. If we freeze ourself into on part of the Trinity, we loose sight of God's fullness. In Matthew, Jesus sends the disciples out in the name of the Trinity to tell the story of God at work in the world. The Trinity can prepare us as well for sharing the Good News of God. Sun, 19 Jun 2011 16:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-06-19.mp3 no 13:25 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2: 1-;21; Psalm 104; I Corinthians 12:3b-13; John 20: 19-23 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Pentecost, and we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit in a new way. Before Jesus ascended, he breathed the Spirit, but the disciples stayed in the room. On Pentecost, the Spirit came in a mighty wind and tongues of fire, and the disciples went out to tell everyone in their own language that God had poured the Spirit on all creation. If we breathe in the Spirit and stay in our pews, we are like a balloon that gradually deflates. We know that physically we cannot keep breathing in; we have to exhale and let the Spirit out through our ministry. What Christ seeks is not the renewal of the church but the renewal of all creation. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2: 1-;21; Psalm 104; I Corinthians 12:3b-13; John 20: 19-23 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Pentecost, and we remember the coming of the Holy Spirit in a new way. Before Jesus ascended, he breathed the Spirit, but the disciples stayed in the room. On Pentecost, the Spirit came in a mighty wind and tongues of fire, and the disciples went out to tell everyone in their own language that God had poured the Spirit on all creation. If we breathe in the Spirit and stay in our pews, we are like a balloon that gradually deflates. We know that physically we cannot keep breathing in; we have to exhale and let the Spirit out through our ministry. What Christ seeks is not the renewal of the church but the renewal of all creation. Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:55:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-06-12.mp3 no 8:39 Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 1:1-;11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Ascension Sunday when we remember Jesus going up into heaven. His time on earth was over, and his ministry passed to the disciples. Acts tells us that they gathered together to wait expectantly for the Spirit. Our lives are full of in-between times like these--significant pauses that lead to life and growth. A sermon preached by Pastor Diane Martinson-Koyama -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 1:1-;11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:15-23; Luke 24:44-53 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Ascension Sunday when we remember Jesus going up into heaven. His time on earth was over, and his ministry passed to the disciples. Acts tells us that they gathered together to wait expectantly for the Spirit. Our lives are full of in-between times like these--significant pauses that lead to life and growth. Sun, 12 Jun 2011 16:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-06-05.mp3 no 15:02 Pastor Phyllis Hormann A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 17:22-31; Psalm 66:1-8; I Peter 3:13-22; John 14:15-21 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, we hear more of Jesus's farewell speech, where he says he will go and send the Comforter. The disciples knew there were changes ahead, and they must have been uncomfortable. Outside of God--who never changes--change is the only constant. All of us have experienced change and dislocation. It can help us have empathy for others. The Spirit can work marvelous transformation. Our call as baptized children of God is to allow the Spirit to work in and through us. A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 17:22-31; Psalm 66:1-8; I Peter 3:13-22; John 14:15-21 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, we hear more of Jesus's farewell speech, where he says he will go and send the Comforter. The disciples knew there were changes ahead, and they must have been uncomfortable. Outside of God--who never changes--change is the only constant. All of us have experienced change and dislocation. It can help us have empathy for others. The Spirit can work marvelous transformation. Our call as baptized children of God is to allow the Spirit to work in and through us. Sun, 29 May 2011 19:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-05-29.mp3 no 14:21 Pastor Phyllis Hormann A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; I Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, Jesus talks about our home with God. Given John's emphasis on the mutual indwelling of Jesus and the Father, this home is more a relationship than a place. Through Jesus we know the God who has created us, is in relationship with us, and puts us on a path to our final home in God's love. We are on the journey of a lifetime, guided by Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life. A sermon preached by Pastor Phyllis Hormann -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16; I Peter 2:2-10; John 14:1-14 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, Jesus talks about our home with God. Given John's emphasis on the mutual indwelling of Jesus and the Father, this home is more a relationship than a place. Through Jesus we know the God who has created us, is in relationship with us, and puts us on a path to our final home in God's love. We are on the journey of a lifetime, guided by Jesus, who is the way, the truth, and the life. Sun, 22 May 2011 17:35:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-05-22.mp3 no 19:19 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:42-47; Psalm 23; I Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-10 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, Jesus talks about a shepherd calling sheep by name. We don't know much about sheep these days, but we all have names. We know God's voice because God is trustworthy. In Acts we hear how the disciples responded to that call. We have lots of names that describe part of who we are, but the most important name we have is that of beloved children of God. Do we trust God enough to live lives true to that name? A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:42-47; Psalm 23; I Peter 2:19-25; John 10:1-10 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, Jesus talks about a shepherd calling sheep by name. We don't know much about sheep these days, but we all have names. We know God's voice because God is trustworthy. In Acts we hear how the disciples responded to that call. We have lots of names that describe part of who we are, but the most important name we have is that of beloved children of God. Do we trust God enough to live lives true to that name? Sun, 15 May 2011 21:55:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-05-15.mp3 no 10:02 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Psalm 116:10-17; I Peter 1:17-23; Luke 24:13-35 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's familiar Gospel, the disciples on the road to Emmaus get a Bible lesson from Jesus but still do not recognize him until he breaks the bread. The story describes us. We can listen and not be moved by the story until our eyes are opened by Scripture. It is not enough to take the road; we need to be changed. When we are called back to Christ we truly recognize Jesus. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:14a, 36-41; Psalm 116:10-17; I Peter 1:17-23; Luke 24:13-35 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's familiar Gospel, the disciples on the road to Emmaus get a Bible lesson from Jesus but still do not recognize him until he breaks the bread. The story describes us. We can listen and not be moved by the story until our eyes are opened by Scripture. It is not enough to take the road; we need to be changed. When we are called back to Christ we truly recognize Jesus. Sun, 08 May 2011 14:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-05-08.mp3 no 12:17 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Jim Sullivan A sermon preached by Jim Sullivan -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:14a, 22-32; Psalm 16; I Peter 1:3-9; John 20:19-31 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, the risen Christ appears to the disciples, breathes on them, sends them out, and empowers them to send away hurt and sin. We do this by helping others and living lives of thankfulness and respect. My Aunt Fanny taught me about conservation and the environment. On this Earth Day Sunday, we have lots of hurt and sin to send away. A sermon preached by Jim Sullivan -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Acts 2:14a, 22-32; Psalm 16; I Peter 1:3-9; John 20:19-31 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel, the risen Christ appears to the disciples, breathes on them, sends them out, and empowers them to send away hurt and sin. We do this by helping others and living lives of thankfulness and respect. My Aunt Fanny taught me about conservation and the environment. On this Earth Day Sunday, we have lots of hurt and sin to send away. Sun, 8 May 2011 14:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-05-01.mp3 no 12:35 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31: 1-6; Psalm 118; Acts 10: 34-43; Matthew 28: 1-10 -------------------------------------------------------- Each of today's lessons talks about how God keeps God's promises and how people cannot stop sharing this good news. The disciples are afraid when they find the empty tomb, but they meet the risen Christ and are changed. We are called to tell that same story again and again. Go out, full of the resurrection news. Take the good news of hope to a desperate world. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31: 1-6; Psalm 118; Acts 10: 34-43; Matthew 28: 1-10 -------------------------------------------------------- Each of today's lessons talks about how God keeps God's promises and how people cannot stop sharing this good news. The disciples are afraid when they find the empty tomb, but they meet the risen Christ and are changed. We are called to tell that same story again and again. Go out, full of the resurrection news. Take the good news of hope to a desperate world. Sun, 24 Apr 2011 13:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-04-24.mp3 no 6:38 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 37: 1-14; Psalm 130; Romans 8: 6-11; John 11: 1-45 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons all talk about animation and resurrection. They give us a foretaste of Easter, but we must remember what happens first. To understand the Ezekiel lesson about the dry bones, we need to know the context. With Jerusalem under siege and people dying, God promises to bring the dry bones to life. Our world is full of dry bones abroad and at home, but how can we prophesy? The miracle of the Lazarus story is that Jesus was showed up at the tomb and called the dead Lazarus to come out. God is present with us, and God calls us to be present with the dry bones of our world. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Ezekiel 37: 1-14; Psalm 130; Romans 8: 6-11; John 11: 1-45 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons all talk about animation and resurrection. They give us a foretaste of Easter, but we must remember what happens first. To understand the Ezekiel lesson about the dry bones, we need to know the context. With Jerusalem under siege and people dying, God promises to bring the dry bones to life. Our world is full of dry bones abroad and at home, but how can we prophesy? The miracle of the Lazarus story is that Jesus was showed up at the tomb and called the dead Lazarus to come out. God is present with us, and God calls us to be present with the dry bones of our world. Sun, 10 Apr 2011 17:00:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-04-10.mp3 no 14:54 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Samuel 16: 1-13; Psalm 23; Ephesians 5: 8-14; John 9: 1-41 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons are all about seeing in a new way. Samuel looks at Jesse's sons, and God guides him to see them differently. Here you see a bucket, but if I add drum sticks, you see something different. Or I can add a pillow, and it becomes a stool. In the Gospel, when Jesus talks about the man born blind, he leads his audience to see events differently. This new way of seeing begins with our baptisms, and so it is time for a baptismal revival. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: I Samuel 16: 1-13; Psalm 23; Ephesians 5: 8-14; John 9: 1-41 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's lessons are all about seeing in a new way. Samuel looks at Jesse's sons, and God guides him to see them differently. Here you see a bucket, but if I add drum sticks, you see something different. Or I can add a pillow, and it becomes a stool. In the Gospel, when Jesus talks about the man born blind, he leads his audience to see events differently. This new way of seeing begins with our baptisms, and so it is time for a baptismal revival. Sun, 03 Apr 2011 14:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-04-03.mp3 no 12:26 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 12: 1-4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4: 1-5, 13-17; John 3: 1-17 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Jesus gives Nicodemus a great gift in the form of John 3:16. This verse is very familiar, but most do not know the context. Nicodemus asks Jesus a technical question about how God works in the world and is given a spiritual answer. As Paul tells us in Romans, Abraham is given a great gift through God's grace without having done anything. Jesus explains that God loves all of creation so much that God gave God's only child to die for us--no matter what we have done or not done. And our response should be to give that same gift to others so the world can truly and fully live. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 12: 1-4a; Psalm 121; Romans 4: 1-5, 13-17; John 3: 1-17 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Jesus gives Nicodemus a great gift in the form of John 3:16. This verse is very familiar, but most do not know the context. Nicodemus asks Jesus a technical question about how God works in the world and is given a spiritual answer. As Paul tells us in Romans, Abraham is given a great gift through God's grace without having done anything. Jesus explains that God loves all of creation so much that God gave God's only child to die for us--no matter what we have done or not done. And our response should be to give that same gift to others so the world can truly and fully live. Sun, 20 Mar 2011 13:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-03-20.mp3 no 13:17 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 2: 15-17; 3: 1-7; Psalm 32; Romans 5: 12-19; Matthew 4: 1-11 -------------------------------------------------------- When considering today's first lesson from Genesis, people often focus on who is to blame for the fall. However, the real point of the story is God's steadfast love. In the Gospel about his temptation by the devil, Jesus does not rely on his own power and ability but on God's love. We may be tempted, and we may be afraid (as many were during the tsunami). But those fears and any tendency to blame are met with God's grace. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Genesis 2: 15-17; 3: 1-7; Psalm 32; Romans 5: 12-19; Matthew 4: 1-11 -------------------------------------------------------- When considering today's first lesson from Genesis, people often focus on who is to blame for the fall. However, the real point of the story is God's steadfast love. In the Gospel about his temptation by the devil, Jesus does not rely on his own power and ability but on God's love. We may be tempted, and we may be afraid (as many were during the tsunami). But those fears and any tendency to blame are met with God's grace. Sun, 13 Mar 2011 14:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-03-13.mp3 no 14:21 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17; Psalm 103:8-13; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -------------------------------------------------------- Lent is all about images. We begin tonight with crosses on our foreheads and the words "Remember that you are dust." This would be depressing if we didn't know how the story goes to the cross and ends in resurrection. We enter the disciplines of Lent not as signs for others but as reminders of our mortality, Christ's sacrifice, and God's promise. The marks on our foreheads are not permanent, but we cannot change who we are and what God calls us to be. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17; Psalm 103:8-13; 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -------------------------------------------------------- Lent is all about images. We begin tonight with crosses on our foreheads and the words "Remember that you are dust." This would be depressing if we didn't know how the story goes to the cross and ends in resurrection. We enter the disciplines of Lent not as signs for others but as reminders of our mortality, Christ's sacrifice, and God's promise. The marks on our foreheads are not permanent, but we cannot change who we are and what God calls us to be. Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:35:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-03-09.mp3 no 9:33 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Exodus 24: 12-18; Psalm 2; 2 Peter 1: 16-21; Matthew 17: 1-9 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Transfiguration Sunday, and we hear how the disciples saw Jesus transfigured on the mountain top. Even though that transfiguration led to a change in the disciples, they still went back to the valley and continued to pray, preach, and teach. When we listen deeply to the chord progression God plays for us through grace and love, we are compelled to provide the last chord, and God's love is complete. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Exodus 24: 12-18; Psalm 2; 2 Peter 1: 16-21; Matthew 17: 1-9 -------------------------------------------------------- Today is Transfiguration Sunday, and we hear how the disciples saw Jesus transfigured on the mountain top. Even though that transfiguration led to a change in the disciples, they still went back to the valley and continued to pray, preach, and teach. When we listen deeply to the chord progression God plays for us through grace and love, we are compelled to provide the last chord, and God's love is complete. Sun, 06 Mar 2011 13:45:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-03-06.mp3 no 12:33 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 49:8-16a; Psalm 131; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 6:24-34 -------------------------------------------------------- It can be difficult to follow Jesus' admonition in today's Gospel not to worry. The real question is how to balance the necessary attention to this world with following God. The key is not what you have but who you serve. We cannot compartmentalize; we must weave sacred and secular together into one beautiful piece. By trusting in God, our souls can be quieted. We can rest in the knowledge that--ike today--God will be with us tomorrow. We belong to God who loves us and provides. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 49:8-16a; Psalm 131; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5; Matthew 6:24-34 -------------------------------------------------------- It can be difficult to follow Jesus' admonition in today's Gospel not to worry. The real question is how to balance the necessary attention to this world with following God. The key is not what you have but who you serve. We cannot compartmentalize; we must weave sacred and secular together into one beautiful piece. By trusting in God, our souls can be quieted. We can rest in the knowledge that--ike today--God will be with us tomorrow. We belong to God who loves us and provides. Sun, 27 Feb 2011 13:25:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-02-27.mp3 no 12:44 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18; Psalm 119:33-40; I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23; Matthew 5:38-48 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Leviticus has a wonderful surprise. Instead of rules and punishments, we find God telling the people how to live as the holy people of God. And it ends with the call to "love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus builds on this foundation and calls us to love our enemies and be perfect. We are called to this mission because of God's love, and we can be perfect because God is the Lord. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18; Psalm 119:33-40; I Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23; Matthew 5:38-48 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Leviticus has a wonderful surprise. Instead of rules and punishments, we find God telling the people how to live as the holy people of God. And it ends with the call to "love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus builds on this foundation and calls us to love our enemies and be perfect. We are called to this mission because of God's love, and we can be perfect because God is the Lord. Sun, 20 Feb 2011 21:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-02-20.mp3 no 16:47 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 119:1-8; I Corinthians 3:1-9; Matthew 5:21-37 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel is one of those difficult texts that only comes around when Ash Wednesday is late, as it is this year. Jesus takes the law and expands it beyond what we expect. We are used to having what we want when we want it--just like Pandora, which gives us only music we like. Jesus reminds us that we cannot pick and choose. Law is about what God calls us to for the sake of the world; it is not about us. As in Deuteronomy, God give us a choice between life and death, and God urges us to choose life. But there is more: Jesus did not go to the cross so we could be good but so we could be loved. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Psalm 119:1-8; I Corinthians 3:1-9; Matthew 5:21-37 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's Gospel is one of those difficult texts that only comes around when Ash Wednesday is late, as it is this year. Jesus takes the law and expands it beyond what we expect. We are used to having what we want when we want it--just like Pandora, which gives us only music we like. Jesus reminds us that we cannot pick and choose. Law is about what God calls us to for the sake of the world; it is not about us. As in Deuteronomy, God give us a choice between life and death, and God urges us to choose life. But there is more: Jesus did not go to the cross so we could be good but so we could be loved. Mon, 14 Feb 2011 06:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-02-13.mp3 no 11:03 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 58: 1-12; Psalm 112; I Corinthians 2: 1-16; Matthew 5: 13-20 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel from from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says we are salt and light. He also says that if the salt looses its taste, we should throw it out. However, scientists tell us that salt--as long is it remains salt--can never loose its taste, and light can never loose its light-ness. As salt transports taste, we are called to transport the Gospel. Paul writes that he did not come with arguments, and Isaiah tells us that when we do justice, our light will shine. We discover God not through arguments but by living out the life of Christ. You are salt and light. Nothing can change that. Now you must live it. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 58: 1-12; Psalm 112; I Corinthians 2: 1-16; Matthew 5: 13-20 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel from from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says we are salt and light. He also says that if the salt looses its taste, we should throw it out. However, scientists tell us that salt--as long is it remains salt--can never loose its taste, and light can never loose its light-ness. As salt transports taste, we are called to transport the Gospel. Paul writes that he did not come with arguments, and Isaiah tells us that when we do justice, our light will shine. We discover God not through arguments but by living out the life of Christ. You are salt and light. Nothing can change that. Now you must live it. Sun, 06 Feb 2011 13:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-02-06.mp3 no 12:10 Bob Zimmer A sermon preached by Bob Zimmer A sermon preached by Bob Zimmer -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Micah 6: 1-8; Psalm 15; I Corinthians 1: 18-31; Matthew 5: 1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Recent years have seen positive changes in the ELCA and across society. But bullying was a part of my childhood, and many over the years have not believed that God's love was for them. In today's lessons we hear of acceptance and justice, and there are many resources of welcome at LCH and in other churches who join in this Welcoming Sunday. Love is the greatest gift of God; share it. A sermon preached by Bob Zimmer -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Micah 6: 1-8; Psalm 15; I Corinthians 1: 18-31; Matthew 5: 1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Recent years have seen positive changes in the ELCA and across society. But bullying was a part of my childhood, and many over the years have not believed that God's love was for them. In today's lessons we hear of acceptance and justice, and there are many resources of welcome at LCH and in other churches who join in this Welcoming Sunday. Love is the greatest gift of God; share it. Sun, 30 Jan 2011 14:35:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-01-30.mp3 no 13:55 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 9: 1-4; Psalm 27; I Corinthians 1: 10-18; Matthew 4: 12-23 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Jesus calls the disciples to fish for people. We are surrounded by an ocean of fish, so I have been collecting fishiing gear to go fishing. In the church, we often prepare to go out and fish for people, but like me, we often spend our time preparing and never actually go fishing. The disciples went out and shared the love of God, and Jesus calls us to go into the community with this same love of God as our bait. The world is hungry for this love, so let us go out on the water and do some real fishing for people. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 9: 1-4; Psalm 27; I Corinthians 1: 10-18; Matthew 4: 12-23 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel Jesus calls the disciples to fish for people. We are surrounded by an ocean of fish, so I have been collecting fishiing gear to go fishing. In the church, we often prepare to go out and fish for people, but like me, we often spend our time preparing and never actually go fishing. The disciples went out and shared the love of God, and Jesus calls us to go into the community with this same love of God as our bait. The world is hungry for this love, so let us go out on the water and do some real fishing for people. Sun, 23 Jan 2011 15:15:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-01-23.mp3 no 14:41 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 49: 1-7; Psalm 40; I Corinthians 1: 1-9; John 1: 29-17 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel from John, John the Baptist points Jesus out to some of his disciples who go to Jesus and ask where he is staying. Jesus gives no answer, but they follow and become his disciples. At the beginning of the Gospel of John, it says that the Word became flesh and dwelled among us. The word is "tabernacled" or "pitched a tent." We like God far away, but God in Jesus chose to pitch his tent with us. The disciples were changed when Jesus dwelled with them, and we show that God is with us in the way we live our lives. We are called to sing the "new song in our hearts" in today's psalm. Then the world will know that God has pitched tent with us. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 49: 1-7; Psalm 40; I Corinthians 1: 1-9; John 1: 29-17 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's Gospel from John, John the Baptist points Jesus out to some of his disciples who go to Jesus and ask where he is staying. Jesus gives no answer, but they follow and become his disciples. At the beginning of the Gospel of John, it says that the Word became flesh and dwelled among us. The word is "tabernacled" or "pitched a tent." We like God far away, but God in Jesus chose to pitch his tent with us. The disciples were changed when Jesus dwelled with them, and we show that God is with us in the way we live our lives. We are called to sing the "new song in our hearts" in today's psalm. Then the world will know that God has pitched tent with us. Sun, 16 Jan 2011 13:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-01-16.mp3 no 13:05 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 29; Acts 10:34-43; Matthew 3:13-17 -------------------------------------------------------- This pitcher sits on a shelf it my office. It looks pretty, but it doesn't fulfill its purpose. In the same way, many Christians have put their baptisms on a shelf. In Acts, we hear how the world changed because of Jesus' baptism. The church is not irrelevant, but many Christians are not engaged. If the church is to be revived, we must act out our baptismal calling. Earlier today, I found out that in the past this pitcher was used to pour water into the font whenever we had a baptism. We can say we are too busy and learn to be happy as pitchers on the shelf, or we can pour out baptismal waters. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 29; Acts 10:34-43; Matthew 3:13-17 -------------------------------------------------------- This pitcher sits on a shelf it my office. It looks pretty, but it doesn't fulfill its purpose. In the same way, many Christians have put their baptisms on a shelf. In Acts, we hear how the world changed because of Jesus' baptism. The church is not irrelevant, but many Christians are not engaged. If the church is to be revived, we must act out our baptismal calling. Earlier today, I found out that in the past this pitcher was used to pour water into the font whenever we had a baptism. We can say we are too busy and learn to be happy as pitchers on the shelf, or we can pour out baptismal waters. Sun, 09 Jan 2011 21:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-01-09.mp3 no 12:18 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 147:13-21; Ephesians 1:3-14; John 1:1-18 -------------------------------------------------------- The Gospel of John begins with language about creation and new beginnings: from the beginning, the Word was present, and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. This draws us into what God is up to in the world. God is not like us but one of us. New Years is a time of beginning and looking back and planning. But we must remember that God is loose in the world, and when we are in touch with God, we have power and resources to be part of God's activity. That activity does not depend on us, but God is calling us to be light for the world. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 147:13-21; Ephesians 1:3-14; John 1:1-18 -------------------------------------------------------- The Gospel of John begins with language about creation and new beginnings: from the beginning, the Word was present, and the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. This draws us into what God is up to in the world. God is not like us but one of us. New Years is a time of beginning and looking back and planning. But we must remember that God is loose in the world, and when we are in touch with God, we have power and resources to be part of God's activity. That activity does not depend on us, but God is calling us to be light for the world. Mon, 03 Jan 2011 07:50:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon11-01-02.mp3 no 13:13 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 7:10-16; Psalm 80:1-7, 16-18; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25 -------------------------------------------------------- Advent began with promises from the prophets, and today's Gospel tells us who is coming to fulfill those promises. There is much to talk about in this story, but the real miracle is in the name "Emmanuel: God with us." God chooses not to come to us but to be with us. We should not miss the intimacy of this decision. As Advent and Christmas happen each year, God chooses to be with us every moment. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Isaiah promises a transformation of the present wilderness. This vision begins to unfold in unexpected ways with Jesus. In the Gospel, John the Baptist asks if Jesus is the one, and Jesus replies by asking if the signs given by Isaiah have come. Just as we want Christmas to be here, we often want to be taken from our wilderness, but James tells us to be patient because the work of the Lord has begun. God has set the transformation of the wilderness in motion, and we must live and serve in the present as God's world unfolds. Sun, 19 Dec 2010 15:30:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon10-12-19.mp3 no 9:37 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Isaiah promises a transformation of the present wilderness. This vision begins to unfold in unexpected ways with Jesus. In the Gospel, John the Baptist asks if Jesus is the one, and Jesus replies by asking if the signs given by Isaiah have come. Just as we want Christmas to be here, we often want to be taken from our wilderness, but James tells us to be patient because the work of the Lord has begun. God has set the transformation of the wilderness in motion, and we must live and serve in the present as God's world unfolds. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Isaiah promises a transformation of the present wilderness. This vision begins to unfold in unexpected ways with Jesus. In the Gospel, John the Baptist asks if Jesus is the one, and Jesus replies by asking if the signs given by Isaiah have come. Just as we want Christmas to be here, we often want to be taken from our wilderness, but James tells us to be patient because the work of the Lord has begun. God has set the transformation of the wilderness in motion, and we must live and serve in the present as God's world unfolds. Sun, 12 Dec 2010 22:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon10-12-12.mp3 no 12:09 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Isaiah is a powerful vision of God's transforming work in the world. It can seem so idyllic that we dismiss it as fantasy and settle for what is. We get comfortable with injustice. God is loose in the world and challenging us to have the courage to do ministry in these difficult times. We are called to be rooted in Jesse, to branch out into God's kingdom, and to bear fruits of love. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 11:1-10; Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12 -------------------------------------------------------- Today's first lesson from Isaiah is a powerful vision of God's transforming work in the world. It can seem so idyllic that we dismiss it as fantasy and settle for what is. We get comfortable with injustice. God is loose in the world and challenging us to have the courage to do ministry in these difficult times. We are called to be rooted in Jesse, to branch out into God's kingdom, and to bear fruits of love. Sun, 05 Dec 2010 13:20:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon10-12-05.mp3 no 12:11 Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:36-44 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's first lesson, Isaiah talks about the future when people will stream to the mountain of the Lord, a place of transformation. Paul talks about Christ being within us now and calls us to lives of transformation. Matthew does not know when, so we are called to be ready. If we give up on Advent and do not demand the transformation of Isaiah and Paul, Christmas will not make a difference in our lives. But God is active, is coming, is already here. We must be watchful, active, and courageous. A sermon preached by Pastor Jeff Lilley -------------------------------------------------------- Lessons: Isaiah 2:1-5; Psalm 122; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:36-44 -------------------------------------------------------- In today's first lesson, Isaiah talks about the future when people will stream to the mountain of the Lord, a place of transformation. Paul talks about Christ being within us now and calls us to lives of transformation. Matthew does not know when, so we are called to be ready. If we give up on Advent and do not demand the transformation of Isaiah and Paul, Christmas will not make a difference in our lives. But God is active, is coming, is already here. We must be watchful, active, and courageous. Sun, 28 Nov 2010 13:40:00 -1000 http://www.lchwelcome.org/sermons/2011/sermon10-11-28.mp3 no 11:56