Sermons on Mark

From Jesus’ conversation with the disciples about the destruction of the temple, what life lessons might we learn about the very real difficulty of endings and the very real possibility of something new?

The story of the widow’s mite raises questions not only about giving but about the integrity of the recipients of gifts. What do we… both givers and receivers… have to learn anew?

According to Jesus, the ways of discipleship are deeply counter-cultural. Want to be a follower of Jesus? Give your life for others in order to save it. Strive to be at the back of the line instead of the front. Turn the hierarchy of honor and privilege upside down. In fact, dismantle it altogether. Be with and for one another in ways that defy cultural norms but that encircle all God’s children into a communion of neighborly love.

In our world today, what do these words about losing and saving life and following Jesus really mean?

This week’s reading about Jesus’ encounter with the Syrophoenician woman invites us to take the next step…to consider how we might be called to stretch spiritually in order to put Jesus’ words into practice.

Our scripture reading for this Sunday draws our attention to the power of tradition. When does a tradition offer healthy structure and a sense of belonging and when does it get in God’s way?

Join us for Pride Sunday as look back at “what was,” mark the moment of “what is,” and lean into “what will be.” Happy Pride!

What on earth do we have to learn from a fickle King and a headless prophet? Why did Mark include this account here and what does it have to say to us today?

Jesus “hit a bump” when he attempted to minister in his hometown of Nazareth. It was a good opportunity to teach his disciples (then and now) what it means to travel light as we journey through life and seek to be of consequence for Christ in the world.