An Episcopal Priest's Sermons, Prayers, and Reflections on Life, Becoming Human, and Discovering Our Divinity
Photo by Andrew Haimerl (andrewnef) on Unsplash When was the last time Jesus just really ticked you off? When have you been filled with rage at Jesus for something he said or did? And what was that about? When was the last time…
Read More Raging At Jesus – A Sermon On Luke 4:21-30
The people in the synagogue were looking forward to some hometown privilege. They see themselves as special and they are ticked off when they realize that Jesus won’t play to their presumed privilege and that they are being passed over. That’s what enrages them. They are raging mad about being passed over.
And I can’t help but wonder if we might not be the hometown crowd, if we somehow see ourselves as Jesus’ favorites. I can’t help but wonder if we don’t also assume some privileged status when it comes to Jesus, as if he always chooses (or should choose) our side, our church, our party, our country. And I can’t help but wonder if we’re not also in danger of being passed over.
Today’s gospel (Luke 4:21-30) needs to be heard and can really only be understood in the context of last week’s gospel (Luke 4:14-21). So let’s take a look at where we are. Jesus has been baptized, has overcome the temptations…
Read More Borders and the Politics of Jesus – A Sermon on Luke 4:21-30
“What’s your plan for the day?” It’s a question I often ask my wife; usually on the weekend. But sometimes in the evenings after work I’ll say, “What's your plan for this evening?” They seem like innocent enough questions and…
Read More Agendas in Nazareth, A Sermon on Luke 4:21-30
The collect and readings for today, the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany may be found here. The appointed gospel is Luke 4:21-30: 21Then he began to say to them, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” 22All spoke…
Read More How Wild Is Your Jesus?
Interrupting the Silence 