First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Sun, 07 Jun 2026 08:28:00 -0400 http://www.togetherweserve.org en-us © 2026 First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo yes 3162ba89-ced9-5036-9e74-642620be5db0 First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo episodic no Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) church, sermon, Presbyterian, religion, Marin First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo https://storage.buzzsprout.com/yd3q9zt5xv9cal4btvouli5x5m8f?.jpg First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.togetherweserve.org Join us as each week as we explore and practice what it means to express God's love for the world. First Presbyterian is an inclusive congregation located in the heart of Marin County, California. We are a church that feels called to love one another, exp Rev and Restore -- Genesis 1:1-2:4 (Trinity Sunday) Rev and Restore -- Genesis 1:1-2:4 (Trinity Sunday) God builds into creation a rhythm of creative action, followed by rest, renewal, and restoration.

]]> God builds into creation a rhythm of creative action, followed by rest, renewal, and restoration.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19269359 Sun, 31 May 2026 17:00:00 -0400 1490 Genesis, Creation, Sabbath, Mindfulness, Breathing, Mindful Breathing, Rest, Renewal full false God builds into creation a rhythm of creative action, followed by rest, renewal, and restoration. Bold in Spirit -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) Bold in Spirit -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) At Pentecost, the Spirit fills everyone gathered with a spirit of boldness, a spirit of generosity, and a spirit of real and lasting community.

]]> At Pentecost, the Spirit fills everyone gathered with a spirit of boldness, a spirit of generosity, and a spirit of real and lasting community.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19231015 Sun, 24 May 2026 18:00:00 -0400 1267 Pentecost, Book of Acts, Acts of the Apostles, Holy Spirit, Anti-Racism, Justice, Melba Beals full false At Pentecost, the Spirit fills everyone gathered with a spirit of boldness, a spirit of generosity, and a spirit of real and lasting community. Until We Meet Again -- Luke 24:44-53; Acts 1:1-11 (Ascension Sunday) Until We Meet Again -- Luke 24:44-53; Acts 1:1-11 (Ascension Sunday) In the forty days leading up to the Ascension, Jesus and the disciples had the chance to say good-bye – part of the aliveness that they experience in Resurrection. In Resurrection, no good-bye is ever final.

]]> In the forty days leading up to the Ascension, Jesus and the disciples had the chance to say good-bye – part of the aliveness that they experience in Resurrection. In Resurrection, no good-bye is ever final.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19196822 Sun, 17 May 2026 14:00:00 -0400 1281 Easter, Resurrection, Ascension, Good-byes, Death, Hospice, Impermanence, Alive in the World, Acts of the Apostles full false In the forty days leading up to the Ascension, Jesus and the disciples had the chance to say good-bye – part of the aliveness that they experience in Resurrection. In Resurrection, no good-bye is ever final. What We Cannot Know, and What We Can -- Acts 17:22-31 (6th Sunday of Easter) What We Cannot Know, and What We Can -- Acts 17:22-31 (6th Sunday of Easter) The Apostle Paul walks around Athens and notices a temple to “An Unknown God.” The God who is beyond our knowing, reaches out to us, in the Risen Christ, and is close at hand.

]]> The Apostle Paul walks around Athens and notices a temple to “An Unknown God.” The God who is beyond our knowing, reaches out to us, in the Risen Christ, and is close at hand.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19153711 Sun, 10 May 2026 17:00:00 -0400 1202 Book of Acts, Easter, Resurrection, Apostle Paul, Unknowing, Not Knowing, Mystery full false The Apostle Paul walks around Athens and notices a temple to “An Unknown God.” The God who is beyond our knowing, reaches out to us, in the Risen Christ, and is close at hand. Where Life Slows, Life Speaks -- John 21:1-13; Proverbs 16:1-3 (Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim, preaching) (5th Sunday in Easter) Where Life Slows, Life Speaks -- John 21:1-13; Proverbs 16:1-3 (Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim, preaching) (5th Sunday in Easter) When we pause to think, reflect, and feel, life begins to speak.

]]> When we pause to think, reflect, and feel, life begins to speak.

]]> Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim Buzzsprout-19129927 Sun, 03 May 2026 14:00:00 -0400 1394 Easter, Gospel of John, Spirituality full false When we pause to think, reflect, and feel, life begins to speak. "As Any Had Need" -- Acts 2:42-47 (4th Sunday in Easter) "As Any Had Need" -- Acts 2:42-47 (4th Sunday in Easter) In the days after Resurrection and Pentecost, the community had everything in common, sold what they had, and gave to any as they had need. The Resurrection experience of radical sharing in community is alive with possibility.

]]> In the days after Resurrection and Pentecost, the community had everything in common, sold what they had, and gave to any as they had need. The Resurrection experience of radical sharing in community is alive with possibility.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19080378 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 21:00:00 -0400 1541 Easter, Economic Justice, Community, Koinonia, Alive in the World, Resurrection, Book of Acts full false In the days after Resurrection and Pentecost, the community had everything in common, sold what they had, and gave to any as they had need. The Resurrection experience of radical sharing in community is alive with possibility. Companions on the Way -- Luke 24:13-35 (3rd Sunday in Easter) Companions on the Way -- Luke 24:13-35 (3rd Sunday in Easter) This Sunday, we considered the familiar story of the two disciples who encounter the Risen Christ on the Road to Emmaus. The Risen Christ is alive in the world in the steady, sustaining rhythm of human companionship – sharing life’s journey – walking and talking – companions on the way.

]]> This Sunday, we considered the familiar story of the two disciples who encounter the Risen Christ on the Road to Emmaus. The Risen Christ is alive in the world in the steady, sustaining rhythm of human companionship – sharing life’s journey – walking and talking – companions on the way.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-19041922 Sun, 19 Apr 2026 20:00:00 -0400 1446 Easter, Resurrection, Companions, Companionship, Relationship, Community, Talking, Gospel of Luke full false This Sunday, we considered the familiar story of the two disciples who encounter the Risen Christ on the Road to Emmaus. The Risen Christ is alive in the world in the steady, sustaining rhythm of human companionship – sharing life’s journey – walking and talking – companions on the way. When Doubt Declines, Faith Decides -- John 20:19-32 (2nd Sunday in Easter) (Chaplain Chitoka Webb, preaching) When Doubt Declines, Faith Decides -- John 20:19-32 (2nd Sunday in Easter) (Chaplain Chitoka Webb, preaching) Chaplain Chitoka Webb Buzzsprout-19022883 Sun, 12 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0400 1301 Easter, Doubt, Doubting Thomas, Peace full false Alive in the World -- Matthew 28:1-10, 16-20 Alive in the World -- Matthew 28:1-10, 16-20 Like the women headed to the tomb, we know what it is to wake up in a bad-news world. On Easter morning, there is a different kind of headline: Christ is risen! The Good News is alive in the world, and so are we.

]]> Like the women headed to the tomb, we know what it is to wake up in a bad-news world. On Easter morning, there is a different kind of headline: Christ is risen! The Good News is alive in the world, and so are we.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18970674 Sun, 05 Apr 2026 14:00:00 -0400 1162 Gospel of Matthew, Easter, Resurrection, Alive in the World full false Like the women headed to the tomb, we know what it is to wake up in a bad-news world. On Easter morning, there is a different kind of headline: Christ is risen! The Good News is alive in the world, and so are we. The Good News is... love lived out -- Matthew 21:1-17 (Palm Sunday) The Good News is... love lived out -- Matthew 21:1-17 (Palm Sunday) Palm Sunday is a protest. The people follow Jesus, shouting and embodying together Good News. Holy Week is how that Good News then gets lived out.

]]> Palm Sunday is a protest. The people follow Jesus, shouting and embodying together Good News. Holy Week is how that Good News then gets lived out.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18926557 Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0400 1412 Gospel of Matthew, Lent, Holy Week, Palm Sunday, Protest, Justice full false Palm Sunday is a protest. The people follow Jesus, shouting and embodying together Good News. Holy Week is how that Good News then gets lived out. The Good News is... protection and care of the vulnerable -- Deut. 24:17-22, Matt. 19:13-15 (5th Sunday of Lent) The Good News is... protection and care of the vulnerable -- Deut. 24:17-22, Matt. 19:13-15 (5th Sunday of Lent) God creates, commands, and impels an ethic and moral order that center the protection, care, and well-being of the most vulnerable.  NOTE: Our usual method of recording did not work as planned, and as a result the sound is not of as high a quality this week.

]]> God creates, commands, and impels an ethic and moral order that center the protection, care, and well-being of the most vulnerable.  NOTE: Our usual method of recording did not work as planned, and as a result the sound is not of as high a quality this week.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18901006 Sun, 22 Mar 2026 12:00:00 -0400 1445 Lent, Gospel of Matthew, Deuteronomy, Justice, Immigration, Children, Tell Me Something Good full false God creates, commands, and impels an ethic and moral order that center the protection, care, and well-being of the most vulnerable.  NOTE: Our usual method of recording did not work as planned, and as a result the sound is not of as high a quality this week. Lavish Love -- Luke 7:36-50 (4th Sunday in Lent) Lavish Love -- Luke 7:36-50 (4th Sunday in Lent) As a woman washes Jesus’ feet, we see her lavish love, in response to God’s, inviting us to live out our own.

]]> As a woman washes Jesus’ feet, we see her lavish love, in response to God’s, inviting us to live out our own.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18864535 Sun, 15 Mar 2026 17:00:00 -0400 1276 Lent, Tell Me Something Good, Love, Agape, Visio divina Footwashing full false As a woman washes Jesus’ feet, we see her lavish love, in response to God’s, inviting us to live out our own. Sitting Down Is Sufficient Mark 6:31-44 (3rd Sunday in Lent) (Rev. Dr. Nancy Wiens, preaching) Sitting Down Is Sufficient Mark 6:31-44 (3rd Sunday in Lent) (Rev. Dr. Nancy Wiens, preaching) In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus invites us to sit down and rest in the presence of the holy.

]]> In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus invites us to sit down and rest in the presence of the holy.

]]> Rev. Dr. Nancy Wiens Buzzsprout-18811784 Sun, 08 Mar 2026 18:00:00 -0400 1437 Lent, Tell Me Something Good, Presence, Feeding, Spiritual Practice, Examen full false In the feeding of the 5,000, Jesus invites us to sit down and rest in the presence of the holy. The Good News Is... All Are Welcome -- Luke 15:15-24 (2nd Sunday in Lent) The Good News Is... All Are Welcome -- Luke 15:15-24 (2nd Sunday in Lent) At a banquet, Jesus tells a story about a banquet. The Good News is... all are welcome. The invitation is for everyone. The response is ours to make.

]]> At a banquet, Jesus tells a story about a banquet. The Good News is... all are welcome. The invitation is for everyone. The response is ours to make.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18775855 Sun, 01 Mar 2026 11:00:00 -0500 1378 Gospel of Luke, Lent, Welcome, Inclusion, Hospitality, Parables full false At a banquet, Jesus tells a story about a banquet. The Good News is... all are welcome. The invitation is for everyone. The response is ours to make. The Good News is… so good it catches us by surprise -- Matthew 4:1-11; John 2:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) The Good News is… so good it catches us by surprise -- Matthew 4:1-11; John 2:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) The Good News is that God’s love for us in Jesus Christ catches us by surprise – because God always loves us and the whole world more. What Jesus does in his testing in the wilderness and at the wedding at Cana should catch us by surprise. It’s not the way the world works – but it points us to the way the world ought to be.

]]> The Good News is that God’s love for us in Jesus Christ catches us by surprise – because God always loves us and the whole world more. What Jesus does in his testing in the wilderness and at the wedding at Cana should catch us by surprise. It’s not the way the world works – but it points us to the way the world ought to be.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18732793 Sun, 22 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500 1278 Lent; Tell Me Something Good; Wedding at Cana; Temptation of Jesus; Gospel of Matthew; Gospel of John full false The Good News is that God’s love for us in Jesus Christ catches us by surprise – because God always loves us and the whole world more. What Jesus does in his testing in the wilderness and at the wedding at Cana should catch us by surprise. It’s not the way the world works – but it points us to the way the world ought to be. Mountaintop Spirituality - The Radiance of God -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday, Rev. Beverly Brewster, Preaching) Mountaintop Spirituality - The Radiance of God -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday, Rev. Beverly Brewster, Preaching) Rev. Beverly Brewster Buzzsprout-18732869 Sun, 15 Feb 2026 13:00:00 -0500 1206 Transfiguration, Gospel of Matthew full false And He Sat Down to Teach -- Matthew 5:11-20 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) And He Sat Down to Teach -- Matthew 5:11-20 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus teaches us how to be fully human, and then invites us to be salt and light for the world. How we live our lives teaches something. It makes a difference in the world not only through direct cause and effect – but it also ripples out in what people see and what people hear; in how we convey, in our lived-out lives, what matters most and what it means to be human. We learn by living – and our living teaches something too.

]]> Jesus teaches us how to be fully human, and then invites us to be salt and light for the world. How we live our lives teaches something. It makes a difference in the world not only through direct cause and effect – but it also ripples out in what people see and what people hear; in how we convey, in our lived-out lives, what matters most and what it means to be human. We learn by living – and our living teaches something too.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18645647 Sun, 08 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0500 1327 Gospel of Matthew, We Learn by Living, Teaching, Learning, Beatitudes, Sermon on the Mount, Ethics, Walk for Peace full false Jesus teaches us how to be fully human, and then invites us to be salt and light for the world. How we live our lives teaches something. It makes a difference in the world not only through direct cause and effect – but it also ripples out in what people see and what people hear; in how we convey, in our lived-out lives, what matters most and what it means to be human. We learn by living – and our living teaches something too. A World Full of Blessing -- Matthew 5:1-12 (4th Sunday After Epiphany) A World Full of Blessing -- Matthew 5:1-12 (4th Sunday After Epiphany) The Beatitudes describe how God is infusing the world with good. They give us a lens – that draws us into a vision –that comes to life in the lives we live. What we learn with Jesus is nothing less than how to be fully human.

]]> The Beatitudes describe how God is infusing the world with good. They give us a lens – that draws us into a vision –that comes to life in the lives we live. What we learn with Jesus is nothing less than how to be fully human.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18606573 Sun, 01 Feb 2026 17:00:00 -0500 1251 Gospel of Matthew, Beatitudes, Imagination, Justice, Epiphany, We Learn by Living full false The Beatitudes describe how God is infusing the world with good. They give us a lens – that draws us into a vision –that comes to life in the lives we live. What we learn with Jesus is nothing less than how to be fully human. "Come and Ask, Come and See" -- John 1:35-42 (3rd Sunday After Epiphany) "Come and Ask, Come and See" -- John 1:35-42 (3rd Sunday After Epiphany) Jesus invites us to ask questions – to seek understanding beyond what we know now;  to learn and grow; and to learn to live together in the complexity of the things we can’t yet comprehend.

]]> Jesus invites us to ask questions – to seek understanding beyond what we know now;  to learn and grow; and to learn to live together in the complexity of the things we can’t yet comprehend.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18572781 Sun, 25 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0500 1574 Gospel of John, Learning, Discipleship, Teaching, Questions full false Jesus invites us to ask questions – to seek understanding beyond what we know now;  to learn and grow; and to learn to live together in the complexity of the things we can’t yet comprehend. Learning from Our Mistakes -- Matthew 15:21-28 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany; MLK Sunday) Learning from Our Mistakes -- Matthew 15:21-28 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany; MLK Sunday) As part of the humanity we have in Jesus Christ, God gives us the capacity to learn from our mistakes, and help set the world right.

]]> As part of the humanity we have in Jesus Christ, God gives us the capacity to learn from our mistakes, and help set the world right.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18529202 Sun, 18 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0500 1443 Gospel of Matthew, Epiphany, We Learn by Living, Justice, Anti-Racism, MLK Day, Martin Luther King Jr full false As part of the humanity we have in Jesus Christ, God gives us the capacity to learn from our mistakes, and help set the world right. Beginning with Who We Are -- Matthew 3:13-17 (1st Sunday After Epiphany) Beginning with Who We Are -- Matthew 3:13-17 (1st Sunday After Epiphany) Standing knee-deep in the waters of baptism, we find our true humanity in Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies and invites us into that full humanity – the fullness of life lived out in mutuality, sharing, love, healing, and peace.

]]> Standing knee-deep in the waters of baptism, we find our true humanity in Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies and invites us into that full humanity – the fullness of life lived out in mutuality, sharing, love, healing, and peace.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18490198 Sun, 11 Jan 2026 17:00:00 -0500 1159 Gospel of Matthew; Baptism; Humanity; Identity; We Learn by Living full false Standing knee-deep in the waters of baptism, we find our true humanity in Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies and invites us into that full humanity – the fullness of life lived out in mutuality, sharing, love, healing, and peace. "Get Out the Map" -- Matthew 2 (Epiphany Sunday) "Get Out the Map" -- Matthew 2 (Epiphany Sunday) On Epiphany Sunday, we consider the two journey stories that we find in Matthew 2 -- the journey of the Magi seeking the Christ, and the journey of Joseph, Mary, and Joseph as they seek refuge in Egypt. In a world of disruption and power-over, God accompanies us and empowers us to find our way to the new life birthed in Jesus Christ.

]]> On Epiphany Sunday, we consider the two journey stories that we find in Matthew 2 -- the journey of the Magi seeking the Christ, and the journey of Joseph, Mary, and Joseph as they seek refuge in Egypt. In a world of disruption and power-over, God accompanies us and empowers us to find our way to the new life birthed in Jesus Christ.

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-18452423 Sun, 04 Jan 2026 21:00:00 -0500 1202 Gospel of Matthew, Epiphany, Discernment, Learning, We Learn by Living, Transformative Learning full false On Epiphany Sunday, we consider the two journey stories that we find in Matthew 2 -- the journey of the Magi seeking the Christ, and the journey of Joseph, Mary, and Joseph as they seek refuge in Egypt. In a world of disruption and power-over, God accompanies us and empowers us to find our way to the new life birthed in Jesus Christ. A Longing for Human Decency -- Matthew 1:18-25 (4th Sunday of Advent) A Longing for Human Decency -- Matthew 1:18-25 (4th Sunday of Advent) Into a menacing world, in Jesus Christ, God is birthing a new humanity, grounded in human decency and overflowing with tender mercy.

]]> Into a menacing world, in Jesus Christ, God is birthing a new humanity, grounded in human decency and overflowing with tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18395799 Sun, 21 Dec 2025 17:00:00 -0500 1415 Gospel of Matthew, Joseph, Kindness, Advent, Human Decency, Humanity, Humanness full false Into a menacing world, in Jesus Christ, God is birthing a new humanity, grounded in human decency and overflowing with tender mercy. A Longing for a Just World -- Isaiah 11:1-10 (2nd Sunday of Advent) A Longing for a Just World -- Isaiah 11:1-10 (2nd Sunday of Advent) God longs for a just world, ordered to center the well-being of the poor and vulnerable.

]]> God longs for a just world, ordered to center the well-being of the poor and vulnerable.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18322112 Sun, 07 Dec 2025 21:00:00 -0500 1222 Isaiah, Advent, A Longing in Our Hearts, Justice, Hunger, Poverty, Economic Justice full false God longs for a just world, ordered to center the well-being of the poor and vulnerable. A Longing for Peace -- Isaiah 2:1-5 (1st Sunday of Advent) A Longing for Peace -- Isaiah 2:1-5 (1st Sunday of Advent) In a world of violence and war, we long for peace. In our longing, we find God already longing for us, ready to teach us the ways that lead to peace.

]]> In a world of violence and war, we long for peace. In our longing, we find God already longing for us, ready to teach us the ways that lead to peace.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18275980 Sun, 30 Nov 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1163 Isaiah, Prophetic Word, Peace, War, Longing full false In a world of violence and war, we long for peace. In our longing, we find God already longing for us, ready to teach us the ways that lead to peace. The Turn Toward Gratitude -- Luke 17:11-19 (Thanksgiving Sunday) The Turn Toward Gratitude -- Luke 17:11-19 (Thanksgiving Sunday) God empowers us to see the good that God is doing in the world, give thanks, and then live out our gratitude in ways that keep putting more and more good into the world.

]]> God empowers us to see the good that God is doing in the world, give thanks, and then live out our gratitude in ways that keep putting more and more good into the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18240869 Sun, 23 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500 1499 Gospel of Luke, Thanksgiving, Gratitude, Healing, Community full false God empowers us to see the good that God is doing in the world, give thanks, and then live out our gratitude in ways that keep putting more and more good into the world. "I am creating..." -- Isaiah 65:17-25 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching) (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) "I am creating..." -- Isaiah 65:17-25 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching) (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) In troubled times, God is creating and inviting us into simplicity of living and relationships grounded in peace.

]]> In troubled times, God is creating and inviting us into simplicity of living and relationships grounded in peace.

]]> Rev. Marissa Danney Buzzsprout-18200491 Sun, 16 Nov 2025 17:00:00 -0500 976 Isaiah, Prophets, Creating, Creation full false In troubled times, God is creating and inviting us into simplicity of living and relationships grounded in peace. Grounded in Love -- Psalm 1, Haggai 1:15b-2:9 (22nd Sunday After Pentecost) Grounded in Love -- Psalm 1, Haggai 1:15b-2:9 (22nd Sunday After Pentecost) Out of the rubble, God encourages us to rebuild: Something will rise up out of this, and we will build it together.

]]> Out of the rubble, God encourages us to rebuild: Something will rise up out of this, and we will build it together.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-18160236 Sun, 09 Nov 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1368 Haggai, Grounded in Love, Prophets, Prophetic Word, Community, Neighborhood, Stewardship full false Out of the rubble, God encourages us to rebuild: Something will rise up out of this, and we will build it together. Our Watch -- Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 (All Saints Sunday) Our Watch -- Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 (All Saints Sunday) God keeps watch with us over the trouble in this world. We, then, keep watch for how God is on the move, and join together in God’s healing, saving work.

]]> God keeps watch with us over the trouble in this world. We, then, keep watch for how God is on the move, and join together in God’s healing, saving work.

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-18121158 Sun, 02 Nov 2025 19:00:00 -0500 1216 Habakkuk, Prophets, All Saints, Communion of Saints, Justice full false God keeps watch with us over the trouble in this world. We, then, keep watch for how God is on the move, and join together in God’s healing, saving work. The Parable Trap -- Luke 18:9-14 (Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt, preaching) (20th Sunday After Pentecost) The Parable Trap -- Luke 18:9-14 (Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt, preaching) (20th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-18093231 Sun, 26 Oct 2025 18:00:00 -0400 1099 Gospel of Luke, Parables full false "When Discouraged, Listen for God's Mumbling" -- 1 Kings 19:1-15 (Rev. Scott Quinn, preaching) (19th Sunday After Pentecost) "When Discouraged, Listen for God's Mumbling" -- 1 Kings 19:1-15 (Rev. Scott Quinn, preaching) (19th Sunday After Pentecost) Empathizing with Elijah in the cave, guest preacher Rev. Scott Quinn invited us to think of the stories that hold us back; to notice the nearness of God; and to know that we are seen, heard, and held.

]]> Empathizing with Elijah in the cave, guest preacher Rev. Scott Quinn invited us to think of the stories that hold us back; to notice the nearness of God; and to know that we are seen, heard, and held.

]]> Rev. Scott Quinn, Guest Preacher Buzzsprout-18038551 Sun, 19 Oct 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1432 1 Kings, Spirituality, Presence of God full false Empathizing with Elijah in the cave, guest preacher Rev. Scott Quinn invited us to think of the stories that hold us back; to notice the nearness of God; and to know that we are seen, heard, and held. Grow Where You Are Planted -- Jeremiah 29:1, 4-9 (18th Sunday After Pentecost) Grow Where You Are Planted -- Jeremiah 29:1, 4-9 (18th Sunday After Pentecost) Even in calamity, God is near, inviting us to build and plant and live to heal the world.

]]> Even in calamity, God is near, inviting us to build and plant and live to heal the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17998942 Sun, 12 Oct 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1330 Jeremiah, Prophets, Prophetic Word, Justice, Truth, Suffering, Climate Collapse, Climate Crisis, Global Warming full false Even in calamity, God is near, inviting us to build and plant and live to heal the world. How Does One "Pray for the King"? -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 (World Communion Sunday; 17th Sunday After Pentecost) How Does One "Pray for the King"? -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 (World Communion Sunday; 17th Sunday After Pentecost) God exhorts us to pray for all people – including our leaders – so that all people may live free.

]]> God exhorts us to pray for all people – including our leaders – so that all people may live free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17960108 Sun, 05 Oct 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1285 1 Timothy, Pastoral Epistles, Not So Ordinary Time, Citizenship, Justice, Prayer full false God exhorts us to pray for all people – including our leaders – so that all people may live free. Constancy v Consistency in Ordinary Time -- Lamentations 3:22-32; Hebrews 13:1-8 (Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim, preaching) (16th Sunday After Pentecost) Constancy v Consistency in Ordinary Time -- Lamentations 3:22-32; Hebrews 13:1-8 (Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim, preaching) (16th Sunday After Pentecost) Constancy is a quality of God: "Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever." We are called to live our lives consistently with God's steadfast love.

]]> Constancy is a quality of God: "Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever." We are called to live our lives consistently with God's steadfast love.

]]> Rev. Grace Hyeryung Kim Buzzsprout-17925888 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1549 Lamentations; Hebrews; Steadfast Love; Constancy of God; Not So Ordinary Time full false Constancy is a quality of God: "Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever." We are called to live our lives consistently with God's steadfast love. At the Dimming of the Day -- Genesis 28:10-19 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) At the Dimming of the Day -- Genesis 28:10-19 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Over the breadth of Scripture, humanity encounters God, not only in the bright light of day, but when the shadows fall, and the world becomes still. At night, God keeps close, and we will not be left alone.

]]> Over the breadth of Scripture, humanity encounters God, not only in the bright light of day, but when the shadows fall, and the world becomes still. At night, God keeps close, and we will not be left alone.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17893380 Sun, 21 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1314 Genesis, Evening Prayer, Spirituality, Prayer at Night, Compline, Dreams, Jacob's Ladder full false Over the breadth of Scripture, humanity encounters God, not only in the bright light of day, but when the shadows fall, and the world becomes still. At night, God keeps close, and we will not be left alone. Welcome Sinners, Tax Collectors, and Pharisees! -- Luke 15:1-10 (14th Sunday After Pentecost) Welcome Sinners, Tax Collectors, and Pharisees! -- Luke 15:1-10 (14th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus rejects the world’s separations and the “politics of disgust,” and insists that we welcome everyone to the table of community and shared power.

]]> Jesus rejects the world’s separations and the “politics of disgust,” and insists that we welcome everyone to the table of community and shared power.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17848338 Sun, 14 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1489 Gospel of Luke, Welcome, Hospitality, Justice, Immigration, Inclusion full false Jesus rejects the world’s separations and the “politics of disgust,” and insists that we welcome everyone to the table of community and shared power. A Time to Let Go, and a Time to Embrace -- Luke 14:15-23 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) A Time to Let Go, and a Time to Embrace -- Luke 14:15-23 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) During “ordinary time” we walk with Jesus through the ordinary days of his life, just as he walks with us through the ordinary days of ours. Jesus invites us to see things as they are, to let go of attachments that hold us back, and to embrace the way of the cross that leads to life.

 

]]> During “ordinary time” we walk with Jesus through the ordinary days of his life, just as he walks with us through the ordinary days of ours. Jesus invites us to see things as they are, to let go of attachments that hold us back, and to embrace the way of the cross that leads to life.

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17810039 Sun, 07 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1497 Gospel of Luke, Attachment, Cross, Liturgical Year, Impermanence, Not So Ordinary Time, Spirituality full false During “ordinary time” we walk with Jesus through the ordinary days of his life, just as he walks with us through the ordinary days of ours. Jesus invites us to see things as they are, to let go of attachments that hold us back, and to embrace the way of the cross that leads to life.   "Bless Thou the Handling of Our Hands" -- Luke 13:10-17 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) "Bless Thou the Handling of Our Hands" -- Luke 13:10-17 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) In his healing hands, Jesus sets the whole world free. In the work of our hands, God’s handiwork can come to life, as well.

]]> In his healing hands, Jesus sets the whole world free. In the work of our hands, God’s handiwork can come to life, as well.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17764152 Sun, 31 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1349 Gospel of Luke, Celtic Spirituality, Spirituality, Prayer, Not So Ordinary Time, Labor Day, Work full false In his healing hands, Jesus sets the whole world free. In the work of our hands, God’s handiwork can come to life, as well. From Branches to Blessing -- Luke 19:1-10 (Chaplain Chitoka Webb, preaching) (11th Sunday After Pentecost) From Branches to Blessing -- Luke 19:1-10 (Chaplain Chitoka Webb, preaching) (11th Sunday After Pentecost) What is hindering you from living into the grace-filled economy of Jesus?

]]> What is hindering you from living into the grace-filled economy of Jesus?

]]> Chaplain Chitoka Webb Buzzsprout-17730755 Sun, 24 Aug 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1660 Gospel of Luke; Zacchaeus; Grace; Generosity full false What is hindering you from living into the grace-filled economy of Jesus? Is This What the Path to Peace Looks Like? -- Luke 12:49-56; Rev. Bev Brewster preaching (10th Sunday After Pentecost) Is This What the Path to Peace Looks Like? -- Luke 12:49-56; Rev. Bev Brewster preaching (10th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Bev Brewster preaching Buzzsprout-17696628 Sun, 17 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400 1279 Gospel of Luke full false Come, Jesus, Come -- Revelation 22: 1-5, 16-21 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) Come, Jesus, Come -- Revelation 22: 1-5, 16-21 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) Revelation invites us to say Amen to God’s sovereignty in Jesus Christ, creating a new heaven and new earth, right now and forever. Amen – so be it in me, so be it in us. Come, Jesus, Come. Let today be the day.

]]> Revelation invites us to say Amen to God’s sovereignty in Jesus Christ, creating a new heaven and new earth, right now and forever. Amen – so be it in me, so be it in us. Come, Jesus, Come. Let today be the day.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17613329 Sun, 03 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0400 1133 Revelation, Eschatology, Imagination, Sovereignty, Hope, Amen full false Revelation invites us to say Amen to God’s sovereignty in Jesus Christ, creating a new heaven and new earth, right now and forever. Amen – so be it in me, so be it in us. Come, Jesus, Come. Let today be the day. The Wild Hope of Imagination -- Revelation 21:1-7, 15-24 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) The Wild Hope of Imagination -- Revelation 21:1-7, 15-24 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) In the apocalyptic imagination, God gives us a wild and lively vision of a world to inhabit now. The old order of things has come to an end. Behold God’s new heaven and new earth. Live it now.

]]> In the apocalyptic imagination, God gives us a wild and lively vision of a world to inhabit now. The old order of things has come to an end. Behold God’s new heaven and new earth. Live it now.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17582404 Sun, 27 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1361 Revelation, Hope, Imagination, The Wild Hope of Imagination, Apocalyptic, Eschatology full false In the apocalyptic imagination, God gives us a wild and lively vision of a world to inhabit now. The old order of things has come to an end. Behold God’s new heaven and new earth. Live it now. On Being Lukewarm -- Revelation 3:7-22 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) On Being Lukewarm -- Revelation 3:7-22 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) Power-over wants us to stay quiet and lukewarm. That's how power stays in power. In the complexity of life, God is near, encouraging and empowering us to stand where we know we ought to stand.

]]> Power-over wants us to stay quiet and lukewarm. That's how power stays in power. In the complexity of life, God is near, encouraging and empowering us to stand where we know we ought to stand.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17534842 Sun, 20 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1432 Revelation, Justice, The Wild Hope of Imagination, Ethics, Resistance, Power full false Power-over wants us to stay quiet and lukewarm. That's how power stays in power. In the complexity of life, God is near, encouraging and empowering us to stand where we know we ought to stand. Pause, Refresh, Reset -- Philippians 4:4-8 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) Pause, Refresh, Reset -- Philippians 4:4-8 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) At the midpoint of the year, we pause to refresh and reset, returning to the 7 spiritual practices that ground us in the new thing God is doing in every new day.

]]> At the midpoint of the year, we pause to refresh and reset, returning to the 7 spiritual practices that ground us in the new thing God is doing in every new day.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17502839 Sun, 13 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1533 Philippians, Spiritual Practices, Lectio, Gratitude, Intentions, Mindfulness, Spirituality full false At the midpoint of the year, we pause to refresh and reset, returning to the 7 spiritual practices that ground us in the new thing God is doing in every new day. "The One upon the Throne" -- Revelation 1:4-8, 5:11-14 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) "The One upon the Throne" -- Revelation 1:4-8, 5:11-14 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) The wild hope of our imagination finds its sure footing in Jesus Christ, the one who enters into the deep suffering of the world and is sovereign from there.

]]> The wild hope of our imagination finds its sure footing in Jesus Christ, the one who enters into the deep suffering of the world and is sovereign from there.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17457599 Sun, 06 Jul 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1226 Revelation; Imagination; Sovereignty of God; Sovereignty; Declaration of Independence; The Wild Hope of Imagination; Apocalyptic full false The wild hope of our imagination finds its sure footing in Jesus Christ, the one who enters into the deep suffering of the world and is sovereign from there. A Healing Imagination -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) A Healing Imagination -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) God’s healing imagination comes to life in our collaboration and cooperation – inviting us to an economy of mutuality and a politics of compassion and freedom.

]]> God’s healing imagination comes to life in our collaboration and cooperation – inviting us to an economy of mutuality and a politics of compassion and freedom.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17419556 Sun, 29 Jun 2025 20:00:00 -0400 1279 2 Kings; Naaman; Healing; Imagination; The Wild Hope of Imagination; Justice full false God’s healing imagination comes to life in our collaboration and cooperation – inviting us to an economy of mutuality and a politics of compassion and freedom. Beyond the Cave -- 1 Kings 19:1-15 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) Beyond the Cave -- 1 Kings 19:1-15 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) Beyond the caves and fear of domination, God empowers us to imagine and create a world better, brighter, and more beautiful than the struggle and suffering we are experiencing now.

]]> Beyond the caves and fear of domination, God empowers us to imagine and create a world better, brighter, and more beautiful than the struggle and suffering we are experiencing now.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17391672 Sun, 22 Jun 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1370 1 Kings, Elijah, Imagination, Prophetic Imagination, Prophets, Justice full false Beyond the caves and fear of domination, God empowers us to imagine and create a world better, brighter, and more beautiful than the struggle and suffering we are experiencing now. For All Those Who Are Far from Home -- Luke 15:11-32 (Trinity Sunday) For All Those Who Are Far from Home -- Luke 15:11-32 (Trinity Sunday) God is willing to re-order the world to seek out and welcome everyone who is far from home. The Story of the Prodigal Son says to us: No matter where we are on the journey – no matter how far from home – no matter who we are – no matter what we’ve done – there is One who is willing to bring us back home.

]]> God is willing to re-order the world to seek out and welcome everyone who is far from home. The Story of the Prodigal Son says to us: No matter where we are on the journey – no matter how far from home – no matter who we are – no matter what we’ve done – there is One who is willing to bring us back home.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17341467 Sun, 15 Jun 2025 18:00:00 -0400 1321 Gospel of Luke; Inclusion; Justice; Pride; LGBTQIA+; Juneteenth Prodigal Son; Immigration; Transgender full false God is willing to re-order the world to seek out and welcome everyone who is far from home. The Story of the Prodigal Son says to us: No matter where we are on the journey – no matter how far from home – no matter who we are – no matter what we’ve done – there is One who is willing to bring us back home. "What Then Shall We Do?" -- Isaiah 61:1-4; Luke 3:10-14 (5th Sunday of Easter) "What Then Shall We Do?" -- Isaiah 61:1-4; Luke 3:10-14 (5th Sunday of Easter)  In bewildering times, empowered by the Spirit, “what we can do” is the steady work that flows out of our baptism.

 

]]>  In bewildering times, empowered by the Spirit, “what we can do” is the steady work that flows out of our baptism.

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17185135 Sun, 18 May 2025 20:00:00 -0400 1336 Isaiah; Gospel of Luke; Baptism; Easter; Resurrection; Justice; Gaza; Climate Collapse full false  In bewildering times, empowered by the Spirit, “what we can do” is the steady work that flows out of our baptism.   Who Then Are We? -- Acts 11:1-18 (4th Sunday of Easter) Who Then Are We? -- Acts 11:1-18 (4th Sunday of Easter) In baptism, we enact what has always been true: God loves and welcomes everyone.

]]> In baptism, we enact what has always been true: God loves and welcomes everyone.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17144663 Sun, 11 May 2025 10:00:00 -0400 1043 Book of Acts, Resurrection, Easter, Baptism, Inclusion, Cornelius full false In baptism, we enact what has always been true: God loves and welcomes everyone. Unshrouded Hearts -- Isaiah 25:6-9; Luke 24:14-39 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; 3rd Sunday in Easter) Unshrouded Hearts -- Isaiah 25:6-9; Luke 24:14-39 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; 3rd Sunday in Easter) Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-17102979 Sun, 04 May 2025 13:00:00 -0400 1111 Easter; Resurrection full false Not the Same Old Story -- Luke 23:55-24:12 (Easter Sunday) Not the Same Old Story -- Luke 23:55-24:12 (Easter Sunday) With the women at the empty tomb, we proclaim this Resurrection truth: Everything that lies ahead is life.

]]> With the women at the empty tomb, we proclaim this Resurrection truth: Everything that lies ahead is life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-17011171 Sun, 20 Apr 2025 20:00:00 -0400 1207 Easter, Mary Magdalene, Resurrection, Liberation, Gospel of Luke full false With the women at the empty tomb, we proclaim this Resurrection truth: Everything that lies ahead is life. Turning Toward the Cross -- Luke 19:28-40, 23:26-45 (Palm/Passion Sunday) Turning Toward the Cross -- Luke 19:28-40, 23:26-45 (Palm/Passion Sunday) On Palm Sunday, as we turn toward the cross, Jesus joins us in the deep suffering of the world, with tender mercy there, too.

]]> On Palm Sunday, as we turn toward the cross, Jesus joins us in the deep suffering of the world, with tender mercy there, too.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16984303 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1263 Lent, Turning Toward the Way, Palm Sunday, Suffering, Passion Sunday, Gospel of Luke full false On Palm Sunday, as we turn toward the cross, Jesus joins us in the deep suffering of the world, with tender mercy there, too. Turning Toward Tender Mercy -- John 12:1-11 (5th Sunday in Lent) Turning Toward Tender Mercy -- John 12:1-11 (5th Sunday in Lent) As Mary anoints Jesus, they embody for us a world based on sharing, reciprocity, and tender mercy.

]]> As Mary anoints Jesus, they embody for us a world based on sharing, reciprocity, and tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16940608 Sun, 06 Apr 2025 15:00:00 -0400 1458 Gospel of Luke, Lent, Lazarus, Mary, Anointing, Tender Mercy, Economy, Gift Economy, Sharing full false As Mary anoints Jesus, they embody for us a world based on sharing, reciprocity, and tender mercy. "They Not Like Us" -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 (4th Sunday of Lent) "They Not Like Us" -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 (4th Sunday of Lent) We consider the call of the Parable of the Lost Son, with Rev. Floyd Thompkins preaching (Pastor, St Andrew Presbyterian Church, Marin City)

]]> We consider the call of the Parable of the Lost Son, with Rev. Floyd Thompkins preaching (Pastor, St Andrew Presbyterian Church, Marin City)

]]> Rev. Floyd Thompkins Buzzsprout-16891413 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:00:00 -0400 1537 Gospel of Luke, Lent, Prodigal Son, Parables full false We consider the call of the Parable of the Lost Son, with Rev. Floyd Thompkins preaching (Pastor, St Andrew Presbyterian Church, Marin City) Turning Toward Our Fears -- Genesis 32:6-8, 22-32 (3rd Sunday in Lent) Turning Toward Our Fears -- Genesis 32:6-8, 22-32 (3rd Sunday in Lent) In our fear, God comes to us with the gifts of presence and possibility for a future in which we are not alone.

]]> In our fear, God comes to us with the gifts of presence and possibility for a future in which we are not alone.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16846007 Sun, 23 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1487 Lent, Genesis, Jacob, Esau, Fear full false In our fear, God comes to us with the gifts of presence and possibility for a future in which we are not alone. Too Much Turning -- Psalm 22 (2nd Sunday of Lent) Too Much Turning -- Psalm 22 (2nd Sunday of Lent) Our world these days can feel utterly disorienting. As we cry out in lament, we find God not far off, but near... in the midst of the suffering, joining our lament, and calling us into life. Psalm 22 invites us to lament (loudly); to listen for lament (the suffering of the world); and to draw near (to God and to each other).

]]> Our world these days can feel utterly disorienting. As we cry out in lament, we find God not far off, but near... in the midst of the suffering, joining our lament, and calling us into life. Psalm 22 invites us to lament (loudly); to listen for lament (the suffering of the world); and to draw near (to God and to each other).

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16808193 Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:00:00 -0400 1441 Psalms, Lament, Psalms of Lament, Disorientation full false Our world these days can feel utterly disorienting. As we cry out in lament, we find God not far off, but near... in the midst of the suffering, joining our lament, and calling us into life. Psalm 22 invites us to lament (loudly); to listen for lament (the suffering of the world); and to draw near (to God and to each other). Turning From, Turning Toward -- Luke 4:1-13 (1st Sunday in Lent) Turning From, Turning Toward -- Luke 4:1-13 (1st Sunday in Lent) In his testing in the wilderness, Jesus turns from evil and turns toward the Way that will lead to the cross – a way that leads us to life.

]]> In his testing in the wilderness, Jesus turns from evil and turns toward the Way that will lead to the cross – a way that leads us to life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16775377 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0400 1356 Gospel of Luke, Lent, Temptation, Turning Toward the Way, Discernment full false In his testing in the wilderness, Jesus turns from evil and turns toward the Way that will lead to the cross – a way that leads us to life. Astounded at the Greatness of God -- Luke 9:28-43 (Transfiguration Sunday) Astounded at the Greatness of God -- Luke 9:28-43 (Transfiguration Sunday) The glory of God in Jesus comes to life on the mountain top, and in everyday acts of healing, and in us.

]]> The glory of God in Jesus comes to life on the mountain top, and in everyday acts of healing, and in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16735131 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0500 1149 Gospel of Luke, Transfiguration, Embodiment, Glory, Demons, Healing full false The glory of God in Jesus comes to life on the mountain top, and in everyday acts of healing, and in us. Love Everyone (No Exceptions) -- Luke 6:27-38 (7th Sunday of Epiphany) Love Everyone (No Exceptions) -- Luke 6:27-38 (7th Sunday of Epiphany) In a world fueled by enmity and retribution, Jesus commands love: Love God. Love others. Love yourself. Love your enemy. Love everyone. No exceptions.

]]> In a world fueled by enmity and retribution, Jesus commands love: Love God. Love others. Love yourself. Love your enemy. Love everyone. No exceptions.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16679847 Sun, 23 Feb 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1843 Gospel of Luke, Love, Enemies, Spirituality, Howard Thurman full false In a world fueled by enmity and retribution, Jesus commands love: Love God. Love others. Love yourself. Love your enemy. Love everyone. No exceptions. "Like a tree planted by water" - Jeremiah 17:5-10; 1 Cor. 15:12-20 (6th Sunday of Epiphany) "Like a tree planted by water" - Jeremiah 17:5-10; 1 Cor. 15:12-20 (6th Sunday of Epiphany) Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-16646823 Tue, 18 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0500 1289 Jeremiah, First Corinthians, Spiritual Practices full false Humble and Bold -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Luke 4:21-30 (5th Sunday of Epiphany) Humble and Bold -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11; Luke 4:21-30 (5th Sunday of Epiphany) In these days of turmoil, God’s grace meets us where we are and empowers us to be both humble and bold, in the name of Jesus.

]]> In these days of turmoil, God’s grace meets us where we are and empowers us to be both humble and bold, in the name of Jesus.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16596750 Sun, 09 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0500 1341 Gospel of Luke; First Corinthians; Black History Month: Constitution; Anti-Racism; Justice full false In these days of turmoil, God’s grace meets us where we are and empowers us to be both humble and bold, in the name of Jesus. All the Boring Virtues -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (4th Sunday of Epiphany) All the Boring Virtues -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 (4th Sunday of Epiphany) The Body of Christ lives out love for the well-being of all people. It’s the love we see in Jesus Christ – “the kind of love that longs for the well-being of the beloved.” It’s a love that never forgets the vulnerable. It’s a love that always seeks the common good. 

]]> The Body of Christ lives out love for the well-being of all people. It’s the love we see in Jesus Christ – “the kind of love that longs for the well-being of the beloved.” It’s a love that never forgets the vulnerable. It’s a love that always seeks the common good. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16558249 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 21:00:00 -0500 1300 Apostle Paul, Love, First Corinthians, Justice, Virtues, Virtue Ethics, Agape full false The Body of Christ lives out love for the well-being of all people. It’s the love we see in Jesus Christ – “the kind of love that longs for the well-being of the beloved.” It’s a love that never forgets the vulnerable. It’s a love that always seeks the common good.  Today -- Luke 4:14-21 (3rd Sunday of Epiphany; Rev. Eric Beene preaching) Today -- Luke 4:14-21 (3rd Sunday of Epiphany; Rev. Eric Beene preaching) Rev. Eric Beene Buzzsprout-16512885 Mon, 27 Jan 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1099 Gospel of Luke, Justice full false Grace Gifts & Working Papers -- 1 Corinthians 12:1-13, 27 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany) Grace Gifts & Working Papers -- 1 Corinthians 12:1-13, 27 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany) Grounded in Christ, empowered by the Spirit, we engage the work that is ours to do in the world. The Spirit gifts each of us with particular gifts that together we embody for the common good.

]]> Grounded in Christ, empowered by the Spirit, we engage the work that is ours to do in the world. The Spirit gifts each of us with particular gifts that together we embody for the common good.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16466046 Sun, 19 Jan 2025 19:00:00 -0500 1460 First Corinthians, Corinthians, Body, Spiritual Gifts, Howard Thurman, Spirituality, Activism, Justice full false Grounded in Christ, empowered by the Spirit, we engage the work that is ours to do in the world. The Spirit gifts each of us with particular gifts that together we embody for the common good. Whose We Are -- Luke 3:10-17, 21-22 (1st Sunday After Epiphany) Whose We Are -- Luke 3:10-17, 21-22 (1st Sunday After Epiphany) In the waters of baptism, we find our identity with and in Christ, in a community of mutuality and sharing. In a tumultuous world, we ground ourselves there.

]]> In the waters of baptism, we find our identity with and in Christ, in a community of mutuality and sharing. In a tumultuous world, we ground ourselves there.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16431397 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 16:00:00 -0500 1251 Gospel of Luke, Baptism, Baptism of the Lord, Identity, Spirituality, Justice full false In the waters of baptism, we find our identity with and in Christ, in a community of mutuality and sharing. In a tumultuous world, we ground ourselves there. New Life, New Day, New Year -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 (2nd Sunday of Christmas) New Life, New Day, New Year -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 (2nd Sunday of Christmas) The prophets look to what God is doing in the world: Always, God is bringing new life for a new day. Let’s begin every day there.

]]> The prophets look to what God is doing in the world: Always, God is bringing new life for a new day. Let’s begin every day there.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16391141 Sun, 05 Jan 2025 13:00:00 -0500 1418 Jeremiah, Christmas, Epiphany, Spiritual Practice, Prophets, Gratitude, Mindfulness, Breath Prayer, Intentions full false The prophets look to what God is doing in the world: Always, God is bringing new life for a new day. Let’s begin every day there. On the Cusp -- Titus 3:4-7;Luke 2:41-52 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; First Sunday of Christmas) On the Cusp -- Titus 3:4-7;Luke 2:41-52 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; First Sunday of Christmas) Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-16372082 Sun, 29 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0500 1346 full false "And the whole world give back the song" -- Luke 2:8-20 (4th Sunday of Advent) "And the whole world give back the song" -- Luke 2:8-20 (4th Sunday of Advent) In the ache of our world, God enters into the lowest places, comes alongside the most vulnerable, and makes God’s home there.

]]> In the ache of our world, God enters into the lowest places, comes alongside the most vulnerable, and makes God’s home there.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16325421 Sun, 22 Dec 2024 17:00:00 -0500 1327 Advent, Gospel of Luke, Incarnation, Angels, And Hear the Angels Sing, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear full false In the ache of our world, God enters into the lowest places, comes alongside the most vulnerable, and makes God’s home there. "O you, beneath life's crushing load" -- Luke 1:26-38, 46-55 (2nd Sunday in Advent) "O you, beneath life's crushing load" -- Luke 1:26-38, 46-55 (2nd Sunday in Advent) With the angel, Mary proclaims that God is turning the world rightside up.

With Mary, will you say “yes” to being turned rightside up?

]]> With the angel, Mary proclaims that God is turning the world rightside up.

With Mary, will you say “yes” to being turned rightside up?

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16248865 Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:00:00 -0500 1159 Gospel of Luke, Advent, Magnificat, Mary, And Hear the Angels Sing, Justice full false With the angel, Mary proclaims that God is turning the world rightside up. With Mary, will you say “yes” to being turned rightside up? "O, hush the noise and cease the strife" -- Luke 1:8-25, 57-58, 67-80 (1st Sunday of Advent) "O, hush the noise and cease the strife" -- Luke 1:8-25, 57-58, 67-80 (1st Sunday of Advent) In the clamor of the world, God gives us a holy hush – quiet to listen and watch for God’s tender mercy setting the whole world free.

]]> In the clamor of the world, God gives us a holy hush – quiet to listen and watch for God’s tender mercy setting the whole world free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16211422 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 20:00:00 -0500 1369 Gospel of Luke, Advent, Silence, Quiet, Zechariah, Angels, And Hear the Angels Sing, It Came Upon the Midnight Clear full false In the clamor of the world, God gives us a holy hush – quiet to listen and watch for God’s tender mercy setting the whole world free. A Baseline of Gratitude -- Philippians 4:4-9 (Thanksgiving Sunday) A Baseline of Gratitude -- Philippians 4:4-9 (Thanksgiving Sunday) When we choose to live lives of gratitude, generosity, and sharing, it is a radical, subversive act. We say “no” to the dominant narrative of scarcity, and “yes” to sharing a world full of God’s abundance.

]]> When we choose to live lives of gratitude, generosity, and sharing, it is a radical, subversive act. We say “no” to the dominant narrative of scarcity, and “yes” to sharing a world full of God’s abundance.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16167174 Sun, 24 Nov 2024 20:00:00 -0500 1178 Philippians, Apostle Paul, Gratitude, Gratefulness, Thanksgiving, Sharing full false When we choose to live lives of gratitude, generosity, and sharing, it is a radical, subversive act. We say “no” to the dominant narrative of scarcity, and “yes” to sharing a world full of God’s abundance. Longing for Enough -- Exodus 16:1-5, 13-23 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; 26th Sunday After Pentecost) Longing for Enough -- Exodus 16:1-5, 13-23 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching; 26th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-16130295 Sun, 17 Nov 2024 18:00:00 -0500 1340 Exodus; Abundance full false Unshakeoffable -- Ruth 1:1-18 (25th Sunday After Pentecost) Unshakeoffable -- Ruth 1:1-18 (25th Sunday After Pentecost) In a world stripped bare, God’s unshakeoffable lovingkindess grounds us, sustains us, and moves us forward.

]]> In a world stripped bare, God’s unshakeoffable lovingkindess grounds us, sustains us, and moves us forward.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16088785 Sun, 10 Nov 2024 20:00:00 -0500 1502 Book of Ruth, Ruth, Naomi, Hesed, Lovingkindness, Steadfast Love, Election, Resiliency, Faithfulness full false In a world stripped bare, God’s unshakeoffable lovingkindess grounds us, sustains us, and moves us forward. Saints Seen and Unseen -- Hebrews 11 (All Saints' Sunday) Saints Seen and Unseen -- Hebrews 11 (All Saints' Sunday) On All Saints’ Sunday, we remember how we have seen God at work in the lives of the saints. This Scripture reminds us that what God is doing in the world is so much bigger even than what eye can see and ear can hear.

]]> On All Saints’ Sunday, we remember how we have seen God at work in the lives of the saints. This Scripture reminds us that what God is doing in the world is so much bigger even than what eye can see and ear can hear.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-16041987 Sun, 03 Nov 2024 20:00:00 -0500 1297 Hebrews, All Saints Day, Communion of the Saints, Saints full false On All Saints’ Sunday, we remember how we have seen God at work in the lives of the saints. This Scripture reminds us that what God is doing in the world is so much bigger even than what eye can see and ear can hear. They Persisted - Mark 10:46-52 (Rev. Beverly Brewster, preaching; 23rd Sunday After Pentecost) They Persisted - Mark 10:46-52 (Rev. Beverly Brewster, preaching; 23rd Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Beverly Brewster Buzzsprout-16012707 Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1312 full false You Do Not Know What You Are Asking - Mark 10:35-45 (Rev. Eric Beene, preaching; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) You Do Not Know What You Are Asking - Mark 10:35-45 (Rev. Eric Beene, preaching; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Eric Beene Buzzsprout-15972382 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:00:00 -0400 1174 Gospel of Mark full false Rubble -- Ezra 3:1-3, 8-13 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) Rubble -- Ezra 3:1-3, 8-13 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) Over the course of the Scriptures through the Hebrew Scriptures, and really on into the New Testament, again and again, a tenacious people make meaning out of the recurring rubble of their world. Standing in the reality of that rubble, the people lament even as they glimpse a path toward healing, weeping, and shouting, and singing “God is good. God is good. God’s steadfast love endures forever.” God creates us for life in community and accompanies us so that, in a changing world, even in calamity, we can find our way to life.

]]> Over the course of the Scriptures through the Hebrew Scriptures, and really on into the New Testament, again and again, a tenacious people make meaning out of the recurring rubble of their world. Standing in the reality of that rubble, the people lament even as they glimpse a path toward healing, weeping, and shouting, and singing “God is good. God is good. God’s steadfast love endures forever.” God creates us for life in community and accompanies us so that, in a changing world, even in calamity, we can find our way to life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15919280 Sun, 13 Oct 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1400 Ezra, Exile, Climate Change, Climate Unravelling, Gaza, Bombing, Election, Rebuilding full false Over the course of the Scriptures through the Hebrew Scriptures, and really on into the New Testament, again and again, a tenacious people make meaning out of the recurring rubble of their world. Standing in the reality of that rubble, the people lament even as they glimpse a path toward healing, weeping, and shouting, and singing “God is good. God is good. God’s steadfast love endures forever.” God creates us for life in community and accompanies us so that, in a changing world, even in calamity, we can find our way to life. "The Welcome Table" -- Mark 6:30-44 (World Communion Sunday) "The Welcome Table" -- Mark 6:30-44 (World Communion Sunday) At the Welcome Table, Jesus invites one and all, the deep need of the world becomes clear, and Jesus says to us, “You give them something to eat.”

]]> At the Welcome Table, Jesus invites one and all, the deep need of the world becomes clear, and Jesus says to us, “You give them something to eat.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15892663 Sun, 06 Oct 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1356 Gospel of Mark, World Communion Sunday, Communion, Table, Hospitality, Hunger, Hungry, Feeding Miracles full false At the Welcome Table, Jesus invites one and all, the deep need of the world becomes clear, and Jesus says to us, “You give them something to eat.” Finding Our Way Home Together -- Mark 6:6-13 (Homecoming Sunday; 17th Sunday After Pentecost) Finding Our Way Home Together -- Mark 6:6-13 (Homecoming Sunday; 17th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus gathers us in and sends us out, insisting that we create home for each other along the way. Home is both a place of shelter, steady and sure – and a vital and living place of encounter – moving out into the world – meeting and greeting the world – in ever-expanding circles of hospitality, welcome, and healing.

]]> Jesus gathers us in and sends us out, insisting that we create home for each other along the way. Home is both a place of shelter, steady and sure – and a vital and living place of encounter – moving out into the world – meeting and greeting the world – in ever-expanding circles of hospitality, welcome, and healing.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15757681 Sun, 15 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1026 Gospel of Mark, Home, Hospitality, Mission, Homecoming, Welcome, Service, Community full false Jesus gathers us in and sends us out, insisting that we create home for each other along the way. Home is both a place of shelter, steady and sure – and a vital and living place of encounter – moving out into the world – meeting and greeting the world – in ever-expanding circles of hospitality, welcome, and healing. Mind Blowing, Heart Opening Encounters -- Mark 7:24-37 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) Mind Blowing, Heart Opening Encounters -- Mark 7:24-37 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) In worship, we welcomed to the pulpit Elder Susan Krehbiel from the Migrant Accompaniment Ministries of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.  Looking to the experiences of migrants and those who accompany and support, Krehbiel invited us to consider what we have to learn from heart-opening encounters with each other.

]]> In worship, we welcomed to the pulpit Elder Susan Krehbiel from the Migrant Accompaniment Ministries of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.  Looking to the experiences of migrants and those who accompany and support, Krehbiel invited us to consider what we have to learn from heart-opening encounters with each other.

]]> Elder Susan Krehbiel Buzzsprout-15724813 Mon, 09 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1083 Gospel of Mark, Accompaniment, Immigration, Migration, Hospitality, Justice full false In worship, we welcomed to the pulpit Elder Susan Krehbiel from the Migrant Accompaniment Ministries of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.  Looking to the experiences of migrants and those who accompany and support, Krehbiel invited us to consider what we have to learn from heart-opening encounters with each other. Sowers Gonna Sow -- Mark 4:1-9 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Sowers Gonna Sow -- Mark 4:1-9 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) A sower went out to sow: In the work we do, the life of Christ comes alive in us.

]]> A sower went out to sow: In the work we do, the life of Christ comes alive in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15678713 Sun, 01 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0400 976 Gospel of Mark, Parables, Parable of the Sower, Work, Labor, Labor Day full false A sower went out to sow: In the work we do, the life of Christ comes alive in us. Don't Go to Court -- Matthew 18:15-22 (14th Sunday After Pentecost) Don't Go to Court -- Matthew 18:15-22 (14th Sunday After Pentecost) In these courtroom scenes in Scripture, we have seen a lot of real life, and we’ve seen God right there in the midst of it all – with truth, wisdom, justice, compassion, mercy, and grace. In this Scripture, Jesus invites us to wade into real life and engage the worthy work of reconciliation.

]]> In these courtroom scenes in Scripture, we have seen a lot of real life, and we’ve seen God right there in the midst of it all – with truth, wisdom, justice, compassion, mercy, and grace. In this Scripture, Jesus invites us to wade into real life and engage the worthy work of reconciliation.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15639206 Sun, 25 Aug 2024 16:00:00 -0400 1340 Gospel of Matthew, Call Your Next Witness, Reconciliation, Community, Forgiveness full false In these courtroom scenes in Scripture, we have seen a lot of real life, and we’ve seen God right there in the midst of it all – with truth, wisdom, justice, compassion, mercy, and grace. In this Scripture, Jesus invites us to wade into real life and engage the worthy work of reconciliation. "The Quality of Mercy" -- Genesis 45:1-15 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) "The Quality of Mercy" -- Genesis 45:1-15 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) Extending mercy to the brothers who have done him wrong, Joseph recalibrates entirely our understanding of what it is that we deserve, grounding us in our shared humanity. In God’s mercy, God gives humanity what humanity deserves: Love. Life. Dignity. Food. Water. Access to healthcare. The freedom to live without constant fear of violence. All the things we need to live and to thrive.

]]> Extending mercy to the brothers who have done him wrong, Joseph recalibrates entirely our understanding of what it is that we deserve, grounding us in our shared humanity. In God’s mercy, God gives humanity what humanity deserves: Love. Life. Dignity. Food. Water. Access to healthcare. The freedom to live without constant fear of violence. All the things we need to live and to thrive.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15602283 Sun, 18 Aug 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1375 Genesis, Joseph, Mercy, Forgiveness, Grace, Call Your Next Witness full false Extending mercy to the brothers who have done him wrong, Joseph recalibrates entirely our understanding of what it is that we deserve, grounding us in our shared humanity. In God’s mercy, God gives humanity what humanity deserves: Love. Life. Dignity. Food. Water. Access to healthcare. The freedom to live without constant fear of violence. All the things we need to live and to thrive. Rev. Scott Quinn, preaching -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Scott Quinn, preaching -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Scott Quinn, Marin Interfaith Council (MIC) Buzzsprout-15576451 Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0400 1272 Gospel of Mark full false When God Is in the Dock -- Job 23 & 38 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) When God Is in the Dock -- Job 23 & 38 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) We come to the Book of Job – with Job’s big questions – and ours – and we don’t find a neat and tidy answer. We come to the Book of Job – and what we find is a groan and a shout – as ancient as this story, and as fresh and alive as the dawn of this very day. In our suffering, God speaks with us out of the whirlwind, and we live, and we somehow find our way to love. 

]]> We come to the Book of Job – with Job’s big questions – and ours – and we don’t find a neat and tidy answer. We come to the Book of Job – and what we find is a groan and a shout – as ancient as this story, and as fresh and alive as the dawn of this very day. In our suffering, God speaks with us out of the whirlwind, and we live, and we somehow find our way to love. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15529714 Sun, 04 Aug 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1297 Job, Book of Job, Suffering, Lament, Theodicy, Call Your Next Witness full false We come to the Book of Job – with Job’s big questions – and ours – and we don’t find a neat and tidy answer. We come to the Book of Job – and what we find is a groan and a shout – as ancient as this story, and as fresh and alive as the dawn of this very day. In our suffering, God speaks with us out of the whirlwind, and we live, and we somehow find our way to love.  When God Brings the Charges -- Isaiah 1:2-3, 12-30 & Isaiah 5 (10th Sunday after Pentecost) When God Brings the Charges -- Isaiah 1:2-3, 12-30 & Isaiah 5 (10th Sunday after Pentecost) In the reality of climate unraveling, God speaks truth to us, calls us to change, and invites us to become part of the operative healing reality moving forward.

]]> In the reality of climate unraveling, God speaks truth to us, calls us to change, and invites us to become part of the operative healing reality moving forward.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15496979 Sun, 28 Jul 2024 19:00:00 -0400 1199 Isaiah, Prophets, Prophetic Word, Courtroom scenes, Climate Collapse, Climate Unravelling, Brian McLaren, Life After Doom, Hope full false In the reality of climate unraveling, God speaks truth to us, calls us to change, and invites us to become part of the operative healing reality moving forward. The Heart of Wisdom -- 1 Kings 3 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) The Heart of Wisdom -- 1 Kings 3 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) God’s wisdom calls us to see each other whole, in the fullness of life, and find together the ways of living that lead to more life.

]]> God’s wisdom calls us to see each other whole, in the fullness of life, and find together the ways of living that lead to more life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15448863 Sun, 21 Jul 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1454 Solomon, 1 Kings, Wisdom, Listening, Womanism, Feminism, Patriarchy full false God’s wisdom calls us to see each other whole, in the fullness of life, and find together the ways of living that lead to more life. "What Is Truth?" -- John 18:28-40 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) "What Is Truth?" -- John 18:28-40 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) We are beginning a sermon series exploring courtroom scenes in Scripture -- scenes that bring real life in focus as we seek some glimpse of the truth. In Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, Pilate asks the question, "What is truth?" What we find: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. We are sent now to testify to that truth, that Word embodied in us.

]]> We are beginning a sermon series exploring courtroom scenes in Scripture -- scenes that bring real life in focus as we seek some glimpse of the truth. In Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, Pilate asks the question, "What is truth?" What we find: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. We are sent now to testify to that truth, that Word embodied in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15417475 Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1282 Gospel of John, Jesus, Pontius Pilate, Courtroom drama, Courtroom scenes, Call Your Next Witness, Truth, Embodiment full false We are beginning a sermon series exploring courtroom scenes in Scripture -- scenes that bring real life in focus as we seek some glimpse of the truth. In Jesus' trial before Pontius Pilate, Pilate asks the question, "What is truth?" What we find: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. We are sent now to testify to that truth, that Word embodied in us. Who's in Charge Here? -- Philippians 2:1-12 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) Who's in Charge Here? -- Philippians 2:1-12 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) God is sovereign by sharing God’s own freedom with us, urging us to live out the self-giving love of Christ.

]]> God is sovereign by sharing God’s own freedom with us, urging us to live out the self-giving love of Christ.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15380991 Mon, 08 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0400 1070 Philippians, Apostle Paul, Sovereignty, Power, Freedom, United States Supreme Court, Christology full false God is sovereign by sharing God’s own freedom with us, urging us to live out the self-giving love of Christ. Everyone Belongs -- Ephesians 2:11-22 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) Everyone Belongs -- Ephesians 2:11-22 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) In Christ, we are citizens of a new humanity, where all of us belong and participate in the fullness of life. Citizenship is about belonging – that deepest of human needs. And citizenship is about the quality of participation that we put back into the community into which we all have been welcomed.

]]> In Christ, we are citizens of a new humanity, where all of us belong and participate in the fullness of life. Citizenship is about belonging – that deepest of human needs. And citizenship is about the quality of participation that we put back into the community into which we all have been welcomed.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15337392 Sun, 30 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1294 Ephesians, Citizenship, Community, Body of Christ, New Humanity, Service full false In Christ, we are citizens of a new humanity, where all of us belong and participate in the fullness of life. Citizenship is about belonging – that deepest of human needs. And citizenship is about the quality of participation that we put back into the community into which we all have been welcomed. Kindred Spirits & Bosom Friends -- 1 Samuel 18:1-8, 20:1-22 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) Kindred Spirits & Bosom Friends -- 1 Samuel 18:1-8, 20:1-22 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) In a world that would tear them apart, Jonathan and David choose a better way. Friendship is a chosen relationship with another person in which we come to agree to see and be seen by the other; to act for the other’s good; to be present with each other in challenge and struggle; and to be a loving place to which we can always return. In a world that would separate and tear folks apart, God gives us friendship as a way of living out, with each other, God’s own love and loyalty – God’s own hesed – God’s own unshakeoffable love. 

]]> In a world that would tear them apart, Jonathan and David choose a better way. Friendship is a chosen relationship with another person in which we come to agree to see and be seen by the other; to act for the other’s good; to be present with each other in challenge and struggle; and to be a loving place to which we can always return. In a world that would separate and tear folks apart, God gives us friendship as a way of living out, with each other, God’s own love and loyalty – God’s own hesed – God’s own unshakeoffable love. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15299044 Sun, 23 Jun 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1371 Friendship, David, Jonathan, David & Jonathan, Hesed, Love, Pride, Family of Choice, Kindred Spirits, Community full false In a world that would tear them apart, Jonathan and David choose a better way. Friendship is a chosen relationship with another person in which we come to agree to see and be seen by the other; to act for the other’s good; to be present with each other in challenge and struggle; and to be a loving place to which we can always return. In a world that would separate and tear folks apart, God gives us friendship as a way of living out, with each other, God’s own love and loyalty – God’s own hesed – God’s own unshakeoffable love.  "Created Equal" -- 1 Samuel 15:35-16:13 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) "Created Equal" -- 1 Samuel 15:35-16:13 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) Juneteenth calls us to remember and celebrate freedom and liberation, but also insists that we remember slavery and its continuing impact on our world today. God creates us all equally human, and insists that we work for the freedom and equality of all. 

]]> Juneteenth calls us to remember and celebrate freedom and liberation, but also insists that we remember slavery and its continuing impact on our world today. God creates us all equally human, and insists that we work for the freedom and equality of all. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15259693 Sun, 16 Jun 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1513 Juneteenth, Justice, Imago Dei, Image of God, Equality, Anti-Racism, Systemic Racism full false Juneteenth calls us to remember and celebrate freedom and liberation, but also insists that we remember slavery and its continuing impact on our world today. God creates us all equally human, and insists that we work for the freedom and equality of all.  Presence & Peace -- Matthew 28:16-20; Philippians 4:4-7 (2nd Sunday After Pentecost; Rev. Bev Brewster, preaching) Presence & Peace -- Matthew 28:16-20; Philippians 4:4-7 (2nd Sunday After Pentecost; Rev. Bev Brewster, preaching) Rev. Beverly Brewster, Preaching Buzzsprout-15232339 Sun, 02 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0400 959 full false “It Will Not Be Over Until We Talk” --- Luke 7:1-10 (Trinity Sunday; Nick Morris, preaching) “It Will Not Be Over Until We Talk” --- Luke 7:1-10 (Trinity Sunday; Nick Morris, preaching) Nick Morris, Preaching Buzzsprout-15232322 Sun, 26 May 2024 12:00:00 -0400 1412 full false A Tale of Wind and Flame -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) A Tale of Wind and Flame -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) Pentecost is a tale of wind and flame that becomes flesh and bone before our very eyes and ears – one that we can touch and taste and experience in our very bodies. While the day of Pentecost begins in the loneliness of loss and separation, in its mighty wind and crown of flame, we see connection – God and us – us and us. No separation – a leveling of power-over, a lifting up of all we are, and a radiating out so that no one is left out.

]]> Pentecost is a tale of wind and flame that becomes flesh and bone before our very eyes and ears – one that we can touch and taste and experience in our very bodies. While the day of Pentecost begins in the loneliness of loss and separation, in its mighty wind and crown of flame, we see connection – God and us – us and us. No separation – a leveling of power-over, a lifting up of all we are, and a radiating out so that no one is left out.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15096878 Sun, 19 May 2024 16:00:00 -0400 963 Pentecost, Acts, Book of Acts, Holy Spirit, Spirit, Incarnation full false Pentecost is a tale of wind and flame that becomes flesh and bone before our very eyes and ears – one that we can touch and taste and experience in our very bodies. While the day of Pentecost begins in the loneliness of loss and separation, in its mighty wind and crown of flame, we see connection – God and us – us and us. No separation – a leveling of power-over, a lifting up of all we are, and a radiating out so that no one is left out. "And the Chains Fell Off" -- Acts 12:1-10, 18-21 (7th Sunday of Easter) "And the Chains Fell Off" -- Acts 12:1-10, 18-21 (7th Sunday of Easter) The Way of Resurrection is “enfleshed freedom” – an end to every separation and the freedom of every body. By the power of the Spirit, the Way of Resurrection moves us ever and always into more healing, more freedom, more life.

]]> The Way of Resurrection is “enfleshed freedom” – an end to every separation and the freedom of every body. By the power of the Spirit, the Way of Resurrection moves us ever and always into more healing, more freedom, more life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15054873 Sun, 12 May 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1301 Easter, Resurrection, Justice, Freedom, Liberation, Incarceration, Gaza full false The Way of Resurrection is “enfleshed freedom” – an end to every separation and the freedom of every body. By the power of the Spirit, the Way of Resurrection moves us ever and always into more healing, more freedom, more life. No Separation, Part 2 -- Acts 10 (6th Sunday of Easter) No Separation, Part 2 -- Acts 10 (6th Sunday of Easter) Radiating out with God’s expansive embrace, the Way of Resurrection unfolds in the complexity of human relationship – in the complexity of community.

]]> Radiating out with God’s expansive embrace, the Way of Resurrection unfolds in the complexity of human relationship – in the complexity of community.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-15013284 Sun, 05 May 2024 18:00:00 -0400 1081 Acts of the Apostles, Book of Acts, Peter, Inclusion, Community, Easter, Resurrection, Communion full false Radiating out with God’s expansive embrace, the Way of Resurrection unfolds in the complexity of human relationship – in the complexity of community. No Separation -- Acts 8: 26-39 (5th Sunday of Easter) No Separation -- Acts 8: 26-39 (5th Sunday of Easter) In the Way of Resurrection, the Spirit radiates out in ever-expanding circles of embrace. In the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch, we see that God welcomes everyone all the way in.

]]> In the Way of Resurrection, the Spirit radiates out in ever-expanding circles of embrace. In the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch, we see that God welcomes everyone all the way in.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14971705 Sun, 28 Apr 2024 21:00:00 -0400 1395 Book of Acts, Easter, Resurrection, Ethiopian Eunuch, Welcome, Inclusion, Anti-Racism, LGBTQIA+ full false In the Way of Resurrection, the Spirit radiates out in ever-expanding circles of embrace. In the story of the Ethiopian Eunuch, we see that God welcomes everyone all the way in. Stretch Out Your Hand -- Acts 3:1-10, 4:23-31 (4th Sunday of Easter) Stretch Out Your Hand -- Acts 3:1-10, 4:23-31 (4th Sunday of Easter) The "Way of Resurrection" is embodied in us. In the Body of the Risen Christ, "Stretch out your hand to heal and bring to life signs and wonders in the name of Jesus."

]]> The "Way of Resurrection" is embodied in us. In the Body of the Risen Christ, "Stretch out your hand to heal and bring to life signs and wonders in the name of Jesus."

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-14928387 Sun, 21 Apr 2024 16:00:00 -0400 1042 Book of Acts, Resurrection, Holy Spirit, Risen Christ, Healing, Signs and Wonders, Easter full false The "Way of Resurrection" is embodied in us. In the Body of the Risen Christ, "Stretch out your hand to heal and bring to life signs and wonders in the name of Jesus." "Witnesses" -- Luke 24:36b-48 (Rev. Eric Beene, preaching; 3rd Sunday in Easter) "Witnesses" -- Luke 24:36b-48 (Rev. Eric Beene, preaching; 3rd Sunday in Easter) We are witnesses to the Resurrection in what we have seen and heard, and in the lives we live.

]]> We are witnesses to the Resurrection in what we have seen and heard, and in the lives we live.

]]> Rev. Eric Beene Buzzsprout-14900999 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0400 1069 Easter, Resurrection, Witnesses, Risen Christ full false We are witnesses to the Resurrection in what we have seen and heard, and in the lives we live. Life, Love, and Abounding Grace -- John 20:1-18; 21:15-19 (Easter Sunday) Life, Love, and Abounding Grace -- John 20:1-18; 21:15-19 (Easter Sunday) The Good News of Easter Morning is a Word of life, love, and abounding grace.

]]> The Good News of Easter Morning is a Word of life, love, and abounding grace.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14802945 Sun, 31 Mar 2024 20:00:00 -0400 1280 Easter, Resurrection, Forgiveness, Peter, Gospel of John full false The Good News of Easter Morning is a Word of life, love, and abounding grace. Yes and No -- John 12:12-19, John 18:15-27 (Palm Sunday/ Passion Sunday) Yes and No -- John 12:12-19, John 18:15-27 (Palm Sunday/ Passion Sunday) As the Hosannas! of Palm Sunday fade, and as the NOs of Holy Week begin to build, Jesus continues to say YES.

]]> As the Hosannas! of Palm Sunday fade, and as the NOs of Holy Week begin to build, Jesus continues to say YES.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14757209 Sun, 24 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1073 Lent, Palm Sunday, Passion Sunday, Holy Week, Jesus Christ, Peter, Christology, Resurrection, Wandering Heart full false As the Hosannas! of Palm Sunday fade, and as the NOs of Holy Week begin to build, Jesus continues to say YES. The Time Peter Got It Right... and Then Didn't -- Matthew 16:13-25 (4th Sunday of Lent) The Time Peter Got It Right... and Then Didn't -- Matthew 16:13-25 (4th Sunday of Lent) Jesus is the Christ we follow into the suffering of the world, who raises us up into life.

]]> Jesus is the Christ we follow into the suffering of the world, who raises us up into life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14663311 Sun, 10 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0400 1149 Gospel of Matthew, Lent, Christ, Christology, Peter, Image of God, Image of Christ, Wandering Heart full false Jesus is the Christ we follow into the suffering of the world, who raises us up into life. "Rescue Us from Danger" -- Matthew 14:22-33 (3rd Sunday in Lent) "Rescue Us from Danger" -- Matthew 14:22-33 (3rd Sunday in Lent) Out of our fear, Jesus calls us to take courage, trust, and walk out into the storm – like Jesus, with Jesus – to sink and rise up again.

]]> Out of our fear, Jesus calls us to take courage, trust, and walk out into the storm – like Jesus, with Jesus – to sink and rise up again.

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-14620321 Sun, 03 Mar 2024 18:00:00 -0500 1078 Gospel of Matthew, Faith, Grace, Fear, Wandering Heart, Lent, Peter full false Out of our fear, Jesus calls us to take courage, trust, and walk out into the storm – like Jesus, with Jesus – to sink and rise up again. Teach Us How to Find Forgiveness -- Matthew 18:15-22 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching; Second Sunday in Lent) Teach Us How to Find Forgiveness -- Matthew 18:15-22 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching; Second Sunday in Lent) Forgiveness can come to life in many forms. Jesus encourages us that we can find (and extend) forgiveness in more ways than we think.

]]> Forgiveness can come to life in many forms. Jesus encourages us that we can find (and extend) forgiveness in more ways than we think.

]]> Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching Buzzsprout-14581843 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0500 903 Lent, Gospel of Matthew, Wandering Heart, Forgiveness, Grace full false Forgiveness can come to life in many forms. Jesus encourages us that we can find (and extend) forgiveness in more ways than we think. "Jesus Sought Me" -- Luke 5:1-11 (First Sunday in Lent) "Jesus Sought Me" -- Luke 5:1-11 (First Sunday in Lent) Jesus seeks out and calls Peter (and us) into relationship - into community that embodies good news for the poor, healing for every hurt, and freedom from every oppression.

]]> Jesus seeks out and calls Peter (and us) into relationship - into community that embodies good news for the poor, healing for every hurt, and freedom from every oppression.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14526998 Sun, 18 Feb 2024 17:00:00 -0500 1314 Gospel of Luke, Lent, Wandering Heart, Peter, Simon Peter, Calling, Vocation, Community full false Jesus seeks out and calls Peter (and us) into relationship - into community that embodies good news for the poor, healing for every hurt, and freedom from every oppression. When What Is Before Us Is Beyond Us -- Mark 9:2-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) When What Is Before Us Is Beyond Us -- Mark 9:2-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) In experiences that are beyond us, God is always bigger, always stronger, always moving the world toward justice, healing, and peace.

]]> In experiences that are beyond us, God is always bigger, always stronger, always moving the world toward justice, healing, and peace.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14482861 Sun, 11 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0500 1208 Gospel of Mark, Transfiguration, Gaza, Palestine, Israel, Justice full false In experiences that are beyond us, God is always bigger, always stronger, always moving the world toward justice, healing, and peace. Quite a Full Day -- Mark 1:29-39 (5th Sunday After Epiphany) Quite a Full Day -- Mark 1:29-39 (5th Sunday After Epiphany) Embodying good news, Jesus heals, and takes on the powers, and takes a breath, and keeps on moving.

]]> Embodying good news, Jesus heals, and takes on the powers, and takes a breath, and keeps on moving.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14444577 Mon, 05 Feb 2024 14:00:00 -0500 1377 Gospel of Mark, Epiphany, Healing, Feminist Theology, Sabbath, Spirituality full false Embodying good news, Jesus heals, and takes on the powers, and takes a breath, and keeps on moving. The Sounds of God Calling -- 1 Samuel 3:1-20 (4th Sunday After Epiphany) The Sounds of God Calling -- 1 Samuel 3:1-20 (4th Sunday After Epiphany) God is always calling us, always inviting us to pay attention, listen, and live.

]]> God is always calling us, always inviting us to pay attention, listen, and live.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14394712 Sun, 28 Jan 2024 21:00:00 -0500 1385 1 Samuel, Epiphany, Samuel, Sound Design, Mindfulness, Listening, Awareness, Spirituality full false God is always calling us, always inviting us to pay attention, listen, and live. Glad News -- Psalm 40 (3rd Sunday After Epiphany) (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching) Glad News -- Psalm 40 (3rd Sunday After Epiphany) (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching) What glad news of justice do you bring to the world?

]]> What glad news of justice do you bring to the world?

]]> Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-14355271 Mon, 22 Jan 2024 13:00:00 -0500 1646 Psalms, Justice, MLK full false What glad news of justice do you bring to the world? "No Ways Tired" -- Exodus 17:1-11 (2nd Sunday After Epiphany) "No Ways Tired" -- Exodus 17:1-11 (2nd Sunday After Epiphany) On the wilderness road to freedom, God supports and sustains the weary. God encourages us to join the hard work of freedom with humility and mutuality, in ways that also help create some rest for the weary.

]]> On the wilderness road to freedom, God supports and sustains the weary. God encourages us to join the hard work of freedom with humility and mutuality, in ways that also help create some rest for the weary.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14309154 Sun, 14 Jan 2024 20:00:00 -0500 1271 MLK, Martin Luther King Jr, Exodus, Epiphany, Racial Justice, Anti-Racism, Marin City full false On the wilderness road to freedom, God supports and sustains the weary. God encourages us to join the hard work of freedom with humility and mutuality, in ways that also help create some rest for the weary. World, Interrupted -- Mark 1:1-11 (Epiphany & Baptism of the Lord Sunday) World, Interrupted -- Mark 1:1-11 (Epiphany & Baptism of the Lord Sunday) Jesus interrupts a world already in progress, and turns power on its head.

]]> Jesus interrupts a world already in progress, and turns power on its head.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14266511 Sun, 07 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0500 963 Gospel of Mark, Epiphany, Baptism, Baptism of the Lord, Communion, Gospel full false Jesus interrupts a world already in progress, and turns power on its head. And Not Long After That Night -- Luke 2:22-40 (First Sunday of Christmas) And Not Long After That Night -- Luke 2:22-40 (First Sunday of Christmas) Simeon and Anna hold the Christ child and proclaim: This is God’s saving help come yet again, once for all – light and liberation for all people.

]]> Simeon and Anna hold the Christ child and proclaim: This is God’s saving help come yet again, once for all – light and liberation for all people.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14227461 Sun, 31 Dec 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1072 Christmas, Advent, Simeon, Anna, Nativity, Incarnation, Holy Spirit, Gospel of Luke full false Simeon and Anna hold the Christ child and proclaim: This is God’s saving help come yet again, once for all – light and liberation for all people. The Joy of That Night -- Luke 1:1-20 (4th Sunday of Advent; Christmas Eve) The Joy of That Night -- Luke 1:1-20 (4th Sunday of Advent; Christmas Eve) With folks all around the world, today is the day we tell the story: In the birth of the Christ, the fresh presence of God comes to life in the fullness of humanity.

]]> With folks all around the world, today is the day we tell the story: In the birth of the Christ, the fresh presence of God comes to life in the fullness of humanity.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14200636 Sun, 24 Dec 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1319 Advent, Nativity, Christmas Eve, Christmas, Joy Mary, Shepherds full false With folks all around the world, today is the day we tell the story: In the birth of the Christ, the fresh presence of God comes to life in the fullness of humanity. "Joy Notwithstanding" -- Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 1:46b-55 (Third Sunday of Advent) "Joy Notwithstanding" -- Isaiah 61:1-11; Luke 1:46b-55 (Third Sunday of Advent) Joy is “the fresh presence of God... the fresh action of God,” rising up from the steady and sure saving action of God across all time. Joy is God’s forever longing for human flourishing. In this sermon, we consider “joy because” of the goodness we experience in life, “joy notwithstanding” the challenges and sorrow of life, and “joy against” everything that seeks to harm human flourishing.

]]> Joy is “the fresh presence of God... the fresh action of God,” rising up from the steady and sure saving action of God across all time. Joy is God’s forever longing for human flourishing. In this sermon, we consider “joy because” of the goodness we experience in life, “joy notwithstanding” the challenges and sorrow of life, and “joy against” everything that seeks to harm human flourishing.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14162344 Sun, 17 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1353 Advent, Isaiah, Gospel of Luke, Magnificat, Joy, Justice, Juneteenth, Christmas, Pride full false Joy is “the fresh presence of God... the fresh action of God,” rising up from the steady and sure saving action of God across all time. Joy is God’s forever longing for human flourishing. In this sermon, we consider “joy because” of the goodness we experience in life, “joy notwithstanding” the challenges and sorrow of life, and “joy against” everything that seeks to harm human flourishing. "With Those Who Work or Watch or Weep" -- Mark 13:24-37 (1st Sunday of Advent) "With Those Who Work or Watch or Weep" -- Mark 13:24-37 (1st Sunday of Advent) In a hurting world, Jesus invites us to keep watch for the Advent of God in every moment, as together we make the long journey toward joy.

]]> In a hurting world, Jesus invites us to keep watch for the Advent of God in every moment, as together we make the long journey toward joy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-14080692 Sun, 03 Dec 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1199 Advent, The Long Journey Toward Joy, Gospel of Mark, Apocalyptic, Embodiment full false In a hurting world, Jesus invites us to keep watch for the Advent of God in every moment, as together we make the long journey toward joy. "Who Do You Say I Am?" -- Isaiah 56:3-8 & Luke 9:18-20 "Who Do You Say I Am?" -- Isaiah 56:3-8 & Luke 9:18-20 Listen in as Rev. Dr. Janie Spahr preaches at First Pres San Anselmo.

]]> Listen in as Rev. Dr. Janie Spahr preaches at First Pres San Anselmo.

]]> Rev. Dr. Jane Spahr Buzzsprout-14041841 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0500 1318 Isaiah, Gospel of Luke, Inclusion, Justice full false Listen in as Rev. Dr. Janie Spahr preaches at First Pres San Anselmo. A Place of Thanksgiving -- Psalm 78:1-8, Philippians 1:2-11 (Thanksgiving Sunday; 24th Sunday After Pentecost) A Place of Thanksgiving -- Psalm 78:1-8, Philippians 1:2-11 (Thanksgiving Sunday; 24th Sunday After Pentecost) Our experience of grace and gratitude is not in any way bound or determined or limited by circumstance. In Jesus Christ, God’s grace reaches us and embraces us even in the mire and the muck.

]]> Our experience of grace and gratitude is not in any way bound or determined or limited by circumstance. In Jesus Christ, God’s grace reaches us and embraces us even in the mire and the muck.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13999831 Sun, 19 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1318 Philippians, Psalms, Thanksgiving, Gratitude, Anti-Racism, Indigenous nations, A Place for You Here full false Our experience of grace and gratitude is not in any way bound or determined or limited by circumstance. In Jesus Christ, God’s grace reaches us and embraces us even in the mire and the muck. The Life We Live on Tuesday -- Matthew 23:1-12 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) The Life We Live on Tuesday -- Matthew 23:1-12 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) God’s New Creation comes to life, not just in the words we say and sing on Sunday, but in the life we live on Tuesday.

]]> God’s New Creation comes to life, not just in the words we say and sing on Sunday, but in the life we live on Tuesday.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13957258 Sun, 12 Nov 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1179 Gospel of Matthew, Service, Serving, Deacon, Integrity, A Place for You Here full false God’s New Creation comes to life, not just in the words we say and sing on Sunday, but in the life we live on Tuesday. "A Crowded Cosmos" -- Revelation 7:9-21 (All Saints' Sunday; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) "A Crowded Cosmos" -- Revelation 7:9-21 (All Saints' Sunday; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) God embodies God’s love for the world in the communion of the saints, all of us embraced, drawn together in one Body.  All Saints Day gives us a moment to look back in gratitude, forward in hope, and present in the intention to live so that everyone can be free.

]]> God embodies God’s love for the world in the communion of the saints, all of us embraced, drawn together in one Body.  All Saints Day gives us a moment to look back in gratitude, forward in hope, and present in the intention to live so that everyone can be free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13913563 Sun, 05 Nov 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1268 Revelation, All Saints' Day, A Place for You Here, Communion, Communion of the Saints, Saints, Benedictine spirituality full false God embodies God’s love for the world in the communion of the saints, all of us embraced, drawn together in one Body.  All Saints Day gives us a moment to look back in gratitude, forward in hope, and present in the intention to live so that everyone can be free. Holy Questions - Lev. 19:1-2, 15-18, Matt. 22:34-45 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching) Holy Questions - Lev. 19:1-2, 15-18, Matt. 22:34-45 (Rev. Dvera Hadden, preaching) There is a place for you here if you come with questions- about Scripture, about community, about how to live well in the world.  There is a place for you here to learn and grow through questions.  

]]> There is a place for you here if you come with questions- about Scripture, about community, about how to live well in the world.  There is a place for you here to learn and grow through questions.  

]]> Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-13880993 Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1435 Leviticus, Questions, A Place for You Here full false There is a place for you here if you come with questions- about Scripture, about community, about how to live well in the world.  There is a place for you here to learn and grow through questions.   Life in a Body -- Romans 12:1-8 (21st Sunday After Pentecost Life in a Body -- Romans 12:1-8 (21st Sunday After Pentecost "In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Whoever you are, wherever you are, in the Body of Christ, there is a place for you... here.

]]> "In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Whoever you are, wherever you are, in the Body of Christ, there is a place for you... here.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13825125 Sun, 22 Oct 2023 20:00:00 -0400 684 Apostle Paul, Romans, Letter to the Romans, Body, Embodiment, Body of Christ, A Place for You Here full false "In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” Whoever you are, wherever you are, in the Body of Christ, there is a place for you... here. Who Will We Be? -- Philippians 4:4-14 (20th Sunday After Pentecost) Who Will We Be? -- Philippians 4:4-14 (20th Sunday After Pentecost) In Christ, creation groans in suffering and in hope. In the body of Christ, climate collapse invites us into a practice of reverence, relinquishment, reconciliation, restoration, resilience, and resistance.

The sermon included a presentation of Peter Anderson's photos from Standing Rock, which you can see and hear on the worship video (available on our YouTube page): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxUkkhUz8d0WpU50H87N1Eb3-fnu0We11 

]]> In Christ, creation groans in suffering and in hope. In the body of Christ, climate collapse invites us into a practice of reverence, relinquishment, reconciliation, restoration, resilience, and resistance.

The sermon included a presentation of Peter Anderson's photos from Standing Rock, which you can see and hear on the worship video (available on our YouTube page): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxUkkhUz8d0WpU50H87N1Eb3-fnu0We11 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark & Peter Anderson Buzzsprout-13780844 Sun, 15 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0400 1263 Philippians, Apostle Paul, Climate Emergency, Climate Crisis, Climate Collapse, Standing Rock, Hope, Real Hope, A Place for You Here full false In Christ, creation groans in suffering and in hope. In the body of Christ, climate collapse invites us into a practice of reverence, relinquishment, reconciliation, restoration, resilience, and resistance. The sermon included a presentation of Peter Anderson's photos from Standing Rock, which you can see and hear on the worship video (available on our YouTube page): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxUkkhUz8d0WpU50H87N1Eb3-fnu0We11  Somewhere Between Despair and Hope -- Jeremiah 12:10-13; Romans 8:18-27 (19th Sunday After Pentecost) Somewhere Between Despair and Hope -- Jeremiah 12:10-13; Romans 8:18-27 (19th Sunday After Pentecost) In 2023, as we think of the Earth as our home, we live somewhere between despair and hope. Even as we are honest about the severity of climate disruption, the place for us here is always our place in the Body of Christ – an integrated, interconnected part of all creation – the New Creation – groaning as we birth together something new.

]]> In 2023, as we think of the Earth as our home, we live somewhere between despair and hope. Even as we are honest about the severity of climate disruption, the place for us here is always our place in the Body of Christ – an integrated, interconnected part of all creation – the New Creation – groaning as we birth together something new.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13739004 Sun, 08 Oct 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1555 Romans; Jeremiah; Climate Crisis; Climate Emergency; Climate Collapse; Despair; Hope; A Place for You Here full false In 2023, as we think of the Earth as our home, we live somewhere between despair and hope. Even as we are honest about the severity of climate disruption, the place for us here is always our place in the Body of Christ – an integrated, interconnected part of all creation – the New Creation – groaning as we birth together something new. Companions on the Way -- Genesis 18:1-10; Matthew 20:1-16 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) Companions on the Way -- Genesis 18:1-10; Matthew 20:1-16 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) As we accompany and extend hospitality to each other, God creates a world of welcome, where everyone is seen as fully human and everyone has enough.

]]> As we accompany and extend hospitality to each other, God creates a world of welcome, where everyone is seen as fully human and everyone has enough.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13650291 Sun, 24 Sep 2023 20:00:00 -0400 1340 Genesis, Gospel of Matthew, Parables, Hospitality, Welcome, Immigration, Refugees, Refugee Accompaniment full false As we accompany and extend hospitality to each other, God creates a world of welcome, where everyone is seen as fully human and everyone has enough. A People on the Move -- Lev. 19:1-4, 33-37; Matthew 2:23-33 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) A People on the Move -- Lev. 19:1-4, 33-37; Matthew 2:23-33 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) In a world of people on the move, God insists that we love and shelter the stranger. Throughout history and around the world today, God accompanies us as we accompany each other.

]]> In a world of people on the move, God insists that we love and shelter the stranger. Throughout history and around the world today, God accompanies us as we accompany each other.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13607143 Sun, 17 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1340 Gospel of Matthew, Refugees, Accompaniment, Refugee Accompaniment, A Place for You Here, Justice, Immigration, Migration, Displaced People full false In a world of people on the move, God insists that we love and shelter the stranger. Throughout history and around the world today, God accompanies us as we accompany each other. "A Place for You Here" -- Romans 12:9-21 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) "A Place for You Here" -- Romans 12:9-21 (15th Sunday After Pentecost)  In the Body of Christ, love comes to life – as we love with integrity, share in the deep need of the world, and practice hospitality.

]]>  In the Body of Christ, love comes to life – as we love with integrity, share in the deep need of the world, and practice hospitality.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13565685 Sun, 10 Sep 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1202 Letter to the Romans, Apostle Paul, Epistle to the Romans, Love, Community, Hospitality, Refugees full false  In the Body of Christ, love comes to life – as we love with integrity, share in the deep need of the world, and practice hospitality. A Good Day's Work -- Matthew 14:13-21 (14th Sunday After Pentecost; Labor Day Weekend) A Good Day's Work -- Matthew 14:13-21 (14th Sunday After Pentecost; Labor Day Weekend) Jesus invites us in to work healing and feeding, bringing to life a world of possibility. As Jesus feeds the multitude, Jesus brings the disciples to work, invites them into the building of a brave new world, and says to them: “All this healing, all this feeding, all this life –this is the work that is ours to do together.”

]]> Jesus invites us in to work healing and feeding, bringing to life a world of possibility. As Jesus feeds the multitude, Jesus brings the disciples to work, invites them into the building of a brave new world, and says to them: “All this healing, all this feeding, all this life –this is the work that is ours to do together.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13526966 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1053 Gospel of Matthew, Work, Communion, Feeding the 5,000, Healing, Reign of God, Kingdom of God full false Jesus invites us in to work healing and feeding, bringing to life a world of possibility. As Jesus feeds the multitude, Jesus brings the disciples to work, invites them into the building of a brave new world, and says to them: “All this healing, all this feeding, all this life –this is the work that is ours to do together.” Singing the Songbook of Life -- Psalm 1 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) Singing the Songbook of Life -- Psalm 1 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) The Psalms take us on a journey through the whole of life – and what we find – again and again – everywhere we look – is the goodness of God. The invitation that the Psalms extend is this: Like a tree planted by streams of water, sink your roots deep, and live.


]]> The Psalms take us on a journey through the whole of life – and what we find – again and again – everywhere we look – is the goodness of God. The invitation that the Psalms extend is this: Like a tree planted by streams of water, sink your roots deep, and live.


]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13479419 Sun, 27 Aug 2023 19:00:00 -0400 1359 Psalms, Psalm 1, Prayer full false The Psalms take us on a journey through the whole of life – and what we find – again and again – everywhere we look – is the goodness of God. The invitation that the Psalms extend is this: Like a tree planted by streams of water, sink your roots deep, and live. And What About Those Angry Psalms? -- Psalm 109 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) And What About Those Angry Psalms? -- Psalm 109 (12th Sunday After Pentecost) God – in God’s goodness and steadfast love – stands with the poor, the vulnerable, and the oppressed, in the place of deepest need. In our anger, God invites us to stand there too. The imprecatory psalms point us to the deep pain in the world; they point us to the peril of our propensity for violence; and they point us – through all that – to seek the goodness of God, who is always standing there, in the place of deepest need.

]]> God – in God’s goodness and steadfast love – stands with the poor, the vulnerable, and the oppressed, in the place of deepest need. In our anger, God invites us to stand there too. The imprecatory psalms point us to the deep pain in the world; they point us to the peril of our propensity for violence; and they point us – through all that – to seek the goodness of God, who is always standing there, in the place of deepest need.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13439180 Sun, 20 Aug 2023 19:00:00 -0400 1607 Psalms, Psalm 109, Imprecatory psalms, Anger, Violence, Angry psalms, Hesed, Steadfast love full false God – in God’s goodness and steadfast love – stands with the poor, the vulnerable, and the oppressed, in the place of deepest need. In our anger, God invites us to stand there too. The imprecatory psalms point us to the deep pain in the world; they point us to the peril of our propensity for violence; and they point us – through all that – to seek the goodness of God, who is always standing there, in the place of deepest need. A Recipe for Spiritual Hydration -- Psalm 63 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching; 11th Sunday After Pentecost) A Recipe for Spiritual Hydration -- Psalm 63 (Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching; 11th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Marissa Danney Buzzsprout-13410705 Tue, 15 Aug 2023 13:00:00 -0400 751 Psalms, Spirituality full false "My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?" -- Psalm 22 & Matthew 27:45-54 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) "My God, My God, Why Have You Forsaken Me?" -- Psalm 22 & Matthew 27:45-54 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) From the cross, Jesus cries out in the lament of the psalms, and brings us into a new song for a new creation and a brave new world.

]]> From the cross, Jesus cries out in the lament of the psalms, and brings us into a new song for a new creation and a brave new world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13358446 Sun, 06 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1229 Psalms, Psalm 22, Cross, Crucifixion, Resurrection, Lament, New Creation full false From the cross, Jesus cries out in the lament of the psalms, and brings us into a new song for a new creation and a brave new world. So Help Me God -- Psalms 56 and 103 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) So Help Me God -- Psalms 56 and 103 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) When we pray out of our pain, God is listening, and God is for us. In the psalms of lament, we pray in response to the God we have come to know – to the God who has loved us first – and we ask for help.

]]> When we pray out of our pain, God is listening, and God is for us. In the psalms of lament, we pray in response to the God we have come to know – to the God who has loved us first – and we ask for help.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13317365 Sun, 30 Jul 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1619 Psalms, Psalm 56, Psalm 103, Lament, Help, Prayer full false When we pray out of our pain, God is listening, and God is for us. In the psalms of lament, we pray in response to the God we have come to know – to the God who has loved us first – and we ask for help. Fear and Faith -- Psalm 46; Mark 4:35-41 (Rev. Paul Gaffney, preaching; 8th Sunday After Pentecost) Fear and Faith -- Psalm 46; Mark 4:35-41 (Rev. Paul Gaffney, preaching; 8th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Paul Gaffney Buzzsprout-13295358 Wed, 26 Jul 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1183 Psalms, Fear, Faith full false "Sing a New Song" -- Psalms of Praise -- Psalms 146-150 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) "Sing a New Song" -- Psalms of Praise -- Psalms 146-150 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) We praise to name and acknowledge God’s goodness in the world, more powerful than anything that does us harm. “We praise God in order to see the world as God does,” and then to say “Yes!” to helping God make it so.

]]> We praise to name and acknowledge God’s goodness in the world, more powerful than anything that does us harm. “We praise God in order to see the world as God does,” and then to say “Yes!” to helping God make it so.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13233580 Sun, 16 Jul 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1224 Psalms, Praise, Psalm 149, Psalm 147, Psalm 148, Psalm 150 full false We praise to name and acknowledge God’s goodness in the world, more powerful than anything that does us harm. “We praise God in order to see the world as God does,” and then to say “Yes!” to helping God make it so. Do We Really Want to Be Known? -- Psalm 139 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) Do We Really Want to Be Known? -- Psalm 139 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) God searches us, knows us, and loves us still.  God creates us, challenges us, recreates us – always in love. Psalm 139 comforts us and unsettles us, and asks: Do we really want to be known? 

]]> God searches us, knows us, and loves us still.  God creates us, challenges us, recreates us – always in love. Psalm 139 comforts us and unsettles us, and asks: Do we really want to be known? 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13190096 Sun, 09 Jul 2023 18:00:00 -0400 1454 Psalms, Psalm 139, Howard Thurman, Prayer, Spirituality, Intimacy with God full false God searches us, knows us, and loves us still.  God creates us, challenges us, recreates us – always in love. Psalm 139 comforts us and unsettles us, and asks: Do we really want to be known?  The Psalms and the Nations -- Psalm 72 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) The Psalms and the Nations -- Psalm 72 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) The Psalms speak to our public life, singing the world God wants. God insists that public power be used for the well-being of the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized.

]]> The Psalms speak to our public life, singing the world God wants. God insists that public power be used for the well-being of the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13149623 Sun, 02 Jul 2023 20:00:00 -0400 1224 Psalms, The Songbook of Life, Royal psalms, Justice, Sovereignty, Supreme Court, Nations full false The Psalms speak to our public life, singing the world God wants. God insists that public power be used for the well-being of the poor, the vulnerable, and the marginalized. The Songs We Know by Heart -- Psalms 121 & 23 (Pride Sunday; 4th Sunday After Pentecost) The Songs We Know by Heart -- Psalms 121 & 23 (Pride Sunday; 4th Sunday After Pentecost) In the Psalms, we sing our life to God, and God sings our life with us – every distress on the way to deliverance, every lament into the wide expanse of liberation, every lonesome groan into singing together the songs we know by heart.

]]> In the Psalms, we sing our life to God, and God sings our life with us – every distress on the way to deliverance, every lament into the wide expanse of liberation, every lonesome groan into singing together the songs we know by heart.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13104898 Sun, 25 Jun 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1336 Psalms, Psalm 121, Psalm 23, Prayer, Pride, Spirituality full false In the Psalms, we sing our life to God, and God sings our life with us – every distress on the way to deliverance, every lament into the wide expanse of liberation, every lonesome groan into singing together the songs we know by heart. Psalms of Liberation -- Psalms 137 and 126 (Juneteenth & the 3rd Sunday After Pentecost) Psalms of Liberation -- Psalms 137 and 126 (Juneteenth & the 3rd Sunday After Pentecost) In psalms of liberation, we remember, hope, and move forward into God’s ongoing, liberating work in the world. As we join that work, what do those psalms require of us? What does Juneteenth require of us?

]]> In psalms of liberation, we remember, hope, and move forward into God’s ongoing, liberating work in the world. As we join that work, what do those psalms require of us? What does Juneteenth require of us?

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-13061698 Sun, 18 Jun 2023 16:00:00 -0400 1264 Psalms, Psalm 126, Psalm 137, Liberation, Lament, Juneteenth, Justice, Anti-Racism, Racism full false In psalms of liberation, we remember, hope, and move forward into God’s ongoing, liberating work in the world. As we join that work, what do those psalms require of us? What does Juneteenth require of us? Everyone. Everywhere. All the Time -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) Everyone. Everywhere. All the Time -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) Pentecost opens up a world of infinite possibility – a world whose possibilities are limited only by the bounds of God’s love and power and imagination. With the gift of the Spirit, this becomes clear: What God has been doing in Christ – God is now doing in us.

]]> Pentecost opens up a world of infinite possibility – a world whose possibilities are limited only by the bounds of God’s love and power and imagination. With the gift of the Spirit, this becomes clear: What God has been doing in Christ – God is now doing in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12934476 Sun, 28 May 2023 15:00:00 -0400 1240 Pentecost, Holy Spirit, Acts of the Apostles, Inclusion, Incarnation, Everything Everywhere All at Once full false Pentecost opens up a world of infinite possibility – a world whose possibilities are limited only by the bounds of God’s love and power and imagination. With the gift of the Spirit, this becomes clear: What God has been doing in Christ – God is now doing in us. In Every Bit of Creation -- Acts 17:22-31 (7th Sunday of Easter) In Every Bit of Creation -- Acts 17:22-31 (7th Sunday of Easter) In the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has set all creation free; we are God’s own offspring. Christ’s resurrection life is present in every bit of creation, which means that every bit of creation gets to be free.

]]> In the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has set all creation free; we are God’s own offspring. Christ’s resurrection life is present in every bit of creation, which means that every bit of creation gets to be free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12890825 Sun, 21 May 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1347 Acts of the Apostles, Apostle Paul, Unknown God, Resurrection, Incarnation, Womanist Theology, Freedom full false In the Resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has set all creation free; we are God’s own offspring. Christ’s resurrection life is present in every bit of creation, which means that every bit of creation gets to be free. In the Worst of Times -- Acts 7:55-60 (5th Sunday of Easter) In the Worst of Times -- Acts 7:55-60 (5th Sunday of Easter) Facing violence and death, Stephen fixes his gaze on the life we find in the Risen Christ – healing, justice, and mercy stronger than any power that can do us harm.

]]> Facing violence and death, Stephen fixes his gaze on the life we find in the Risen Christ – healing, justice, and mercy stronger than any power that can do us harm.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12801658 Sun, 07 May 2023 16:00:00 -0400 1255 Acts of the Apostles, Stephen, Resurrection, Life, Forgiveness, Grace, Prophetic Gaze, Prophetic full false Facing violence and death, Stephen fixes his gaze on the life we find in the Risen Christ – healing, justice, and mercy stronger than any power that can do us harm. "Share Everything" -- Acts 2:42-47 (4th Sunday of Easter) "Share Everything" -- Acts 2:42-47 (4th Sunday of Easter) In Resurrection, Jesus shares life with us, and invites us to share everything in life-giving community.  Acts 2 gives us a glimpse -- a memory of who we hope to be, in Christ – a community where love takes shape, where we live together and learn together and break bread together, where we share what we have so that everyone can thrive.

]]> In Resurrection, Jesus shares life with us, and invites us to share everything in life-giving community.  Acts 2 gives us a glimpse -- a memory of who we hope to be, in Christ – a community where love takes shape, where we live together and learn together and break bread together, where we share what we have so that everyone can thrive.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12753053 Sun, 30 Apr 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1503 Acts of the Apostles, Easter, Resurrection, Sharing, Sharing Economy, Giving, Community, Koinonia, Community of Practice full false In Resurrection, Jesus shares life with us, and invites us to share everything in life-giving community.  Acts 2 gives us a glimpse -- a memory of who we hope to be, in Christ – a community where love takes shape, where we live together and learn together and break bread together, where we share what we have so that everyone can thrive. In the Walking, Talking, and Breaking of Bread -- Luke 24:13-35 (3rd Sunday of Easter) In the Walking, Talking, and Breaking of Bread -- Luke 24:13-35 (3rd Sunday of Easter) On the Road to Emmaus, in the walking, talking, and breaking of bread – they experience the Risen Christ and the power of Resurrection – in the fullness of life – in every step – in every word – in every taste, sight, sound, smell, and touch.

]]> On the Road to Emmaus, in the walking, talking, and breaking of bread – they experience the Risen Christ and the power of Resurrection – in the fullness of life – in every step – in every word – in every taste, sight, sound, smell, and touch.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12707481 Sun, 23 Apr 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1245 Easter, Resurrection, Road to Emmaus, Gospel of Luke, Five Senses, Life, Walking full false On the Road to Emmaus, in the walking, talking, and breaking of bread – they experience the Risen Christ and the power of Resurrection – in the fullness of life – in every step – in every word – in every taste, sight, sound, smell, and touch. We Believe? -- John 20:19-31 (2nd Sunday of Easter, Patrick O'Connor preaching) We Believe? -- John 20:19-31 (2nd Sunday of Easter, Patrick O'Connor preaching) Will we have the courage to embrace doubt and the faith to believe in the one who can overcome it?

]]> Will we have the courage to embrace doubt and the faith to believe in the one who can overcome it?

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-12666948 Sun, 16 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400 704 Doubt, Faith, Resurrection, Easter full false Will we have the courage to embrace doubt and the faith to believe in the one who can overcome it? The End Is Not the End -- John 20:1-18 (Easter Sunday) The End Is Not the End -- John 20:1-18 (Easter Sunday) In Resurrection, Jesus opens up a brand new day where everything that lies ahead is life.  The beginning, the middle, and the end – it’s all right here in this moment – full of grace and truth – alive in us.

 

]]> In Resurrection, Jesus opens up a brand new day where everything that lies ahead is life.  The beginning, the middle, and the end – it’s all right here in this moment – full of grace and truth – alive in us.

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12622539 Sun, 09 Apr 2023 13:00:00 -0400 1269 Easter, Resurrection, Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene full false In Resurrection, Jesus opens up a brand new day where everything that lies ahead is life.  The beginning, the middle, and the end – it’s all right here in this moment – full of grace and truth – alive in us.   "Who Will You Follow?" -- Matthew 21:1-11 (Palm Sunday) "Who Will You Follow?" -- Matthew 21:1-11 (Palm Sunday) On Palm Sunday, Jesus sets his face like flint, knowing where he is heading, and leads us toward the cross and on into Resurrection.

]]> On Palm Sunday, Jesus sets his face like flint, knowing where he is heading, and leads us toward the cross and on into Resurrection.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12570531 Sun, 02 Apr 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1210 Gospel of Matthew, Palm Sunday, Crowd Psychology, January 6th Insurrection, Holy Week, Discipleship, Resurrection full false On Palm Sunday, Jesus sets his face like flint, knowing where he is heading, and leads us toward the cross and on into Resurrection. "Can These Bones Live?" -- Ezekiel 37:1-14 (5th Sunday in Lent) "Can These Bones Live?" -- Ezekiel 37:1-14 (5th Sunday in Lent) In the valley of dry bones, Ezekiel embodies a word of life. In all our places of desolation, God breathes breath into our dry bones and brings us into new life.

]]> In the valley of dry bones, Ezekiel embodies a word of life. In all our places of desolation, God breathes breath into our dry bones and brings us into new life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12519287 Sun, 26 Mar 2023 18:00:00 -0400 1177 Ezekiel, Lent, Dry Bones, Resurrection, Ukraine, Climate Crisis, Climate Collapse, Good Ancestor, Prophetic Word full false In the valley of dry bones, Ezekiel embodies a word of life. In all our places of desolation, God breathes breath into our dry bones and brings us into new life. "Who Sinned?" -- John 9 (4th Sunday of Lent; Patrick O'Connor, preaching) "Who Sinned?" -- John 9 (4th Sunday of Lent; Patrick O'Connor, preaching) The story of Jesus and the man born blind challenges us to question the assumptions underlying some of our questions -- and invites us to ask, "How can we heal?" and "How can we help?"

]]> The story of Jesus and the man born blind challenges us to question the assumptions underlying some of our questions -- and invites us to ask, "How can we heal?" and "How can we help?"

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-12471484 Sun, 19 Mar 2023 17:00:00 -0400 1091 Gospel of John, Lent, Healing, Disability, Disability Theology, Assumptions full false The story of Jesus and the man born blind challenges us to question the assumptions underlying some of our questions -- and invites us to ask, "How can we heal?" and "How can we help?" "Will You Give Me a Drink of Water?" -- John 4 (Third Sunday of Lent) "Will You Give Me a Drink of Water?" -- John 4 (Third Sunday of Lent) In all our parched places, Jesus gives us living water and invites us to live in relationships of mutuality.

]]> In all our parched places, Jesus gives us living water and invites us to live in relationships of mutuality.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12425339 Sun, 12 Mar 2023 19:00:00 -0400 1095 Gospel of John, Lent, Mutuality, Community, Feminist Theology full false In all our parched places, Jesus gives us living water and invites us to live in relationships of mutuality. How Do We Begin Again? -- Genesis 12:1-4a (2nd Sunday in Lent) How Do We Begin Again? -- Genesis 12:1-4a (2nd Sunday in Lent) With God, we go, into this world of new beginnings, together, to be a blessing and to welcome each other into beginning again.

]]> With God, we go, into this world of new beginnings, together, to be a blessing and to welcome each other into beginning again.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12378905 Sun, 05 Mar 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1248 Genesis, Abraham, Sarah, Immigration, Migration, Refugees, Malala, Welcome, Blessing, Lent full false With God, we go, into this world of new beginnings, together, to be a blessing and to welcome each other into beginning again. Sifting the Voices -- Matthew 4:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) Sifting the Voices -- Matthew 4:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) This Sunday, we consider the story of Jesus tempted in the wilderness. In a world full of voices that compete for our attention, the one that matters most is the one that says: “You are a beloved child of God.”

]]> This Sunday, we consider the story of Jesus tempted in the wilderness. In a world full of voices that compete for our attention, the one that matters most is the one that says: “You are a beloved child of God.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12332350 Sun, 26 Feb 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1378 Gospel of Matthew, Children of God, Belonging, Grace, Devil, Temptation, Evil full false This Sunday, we consider the story of Jesus tempted in the wilderness. In a world full of voices that compete for our attention, the one that matters most is the one that says: “You are a beloved child of God.” Transforming Awe -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) Transforming Awe -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) In the experience of awe, God draws us out of ourselves, connects us to something so much bigger than us, and urges us into lives of strength, courage, and kindness.

 

]]> In the experience of awe, God draws us out of ourselves, connects us to something so much bigger than us, and urges us into lives of strength, courage, and kindness.

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12285739 Sun, 19 Feb 2023 19:00:00 -0500 1367 Gospel of Matthew, Awe, Transfiguration, Moral Beauty full false In the experience of awe, God draws us out of ourselves, connects us to something so much bigger than us, and urges us into lives of strength, courage, and kindness.   And Then Some -- Matthew 5:17-18, 21-37 (6th Sunday of Epiphany) And Then Some -- Matthew 5:17-18, 21-37 (6th Sunday of Epiphany) In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus opens up an ethic for living God’s brave new world into being. In Jesus Christ, we come to understand that what God has always been doing is urging us toward what matters most – what God has always been about – the dignity and well-being of all humanity and all creation.

]]> In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus opens up an ethic for living God’s brave new world into being. In Jesus Christ, we come to understand that what God has always been doing is urging us toward what matters most – what God has always been about – the dignity and well-being of all humanity and all creation.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12244056 Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:00:00 -0500 1525 Gospel of Matthew, Ethics, Marriage, Divorce, Sermon on the Mount, Reconciliation, Kingdom of Heaven full false In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus opens up an ethic for living God’s brave new world into being. In Jesus Christ, we come to understand that what God has always been doing is urging us toward what matters most – what God has always been about – the dignity and well-being of all humanity and all creation. Let Salt Be Salty -- Matthew 5:13-20 (5th Sunday of Epiphany) Let Salt Be Salty -- Matthew 5:13-20 (5th Sunday of Epiphany) In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus announces a brave new world, breaking forth even now. We actualize that when we live it out. “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” Let salt be salty. Let light shine.

]]> In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus announces a brave new world, breaking forth even now. We actualize that when we live it out. “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” Let salt be salty. Let light shine.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12189202 Sun, 05 Feb 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1107 Gospel of Matthew, Salt of the Earth, Light of the World, Anti-Racism, Black History Month, Freedom Songs, This Little Light of Mine full false In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus announces a brave new world, breaking forth even now. We actualize that when we live it out. “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.” Let salt be salty. Let light shine. A Brave New World -- Matthew 5:1-12 (4th Sunday of Epiphany) A Brave New World -- Matthew 5:1-12 (4th Sunday of Epiphany) In the Beatitudes, Jesus announces a brave new world that honors and dignifies and lifts up our humanity and that, in Christ reshapes our lives on the basis of loving relationship.

]]> In the Beatitudes, Jesus announces a brave new world that honors and dignifies and lifts up our humanity and that, in Christ reshapes our lives on the basis of loving relationship.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12141617 Sun, 29 Jan 2023 17:00:00 -0500 1292 Gospel of Matthew, Beatitudes, Sermon on the Mount, Kingdom of God, Kingdom of Heaven, Dalai Lama full false In the Beatitudes, Jesus announces a brave new world that honors and dignifies and lifts up our humanity and that, in Christ reshapes our lives on the basis of loving relationship. "Follow Me to the Light" -- Matthew 4:12-23 (Third Sunday of Epiphany) "Follow Me to the Light" -- Matthew 4:12-23 (Third Sunday of Epiphany) “Follow me” is an invitation not just to do something, but to be something. It is an invitation to belong to God’s beloved community.  

]]> “Follow me” is an invitation not just to do something, but to be something. It is an invitation to belong to God’s beloved community.  

]]> Rev. Judy Slater, Guest Preacher Buzzsprout-12104527 Sun, 22 Jan 2023 19:00:00 -0500 1621 Discipleship, Gospel of Matthew full false “Follow me” is an invitation not just to do something, but to be something. It is an invitation to belong to God’s beloved community.   What Would You Give? -- Mark 10:17-31 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany) What Would You Give? -- Mark 10:17-31 (2nd Sunday of Epiphany) Rev. Paul Gaffney, Guest Preacher Buzzsprout-12105028 Sun, 15 Jan 2023 20:00:00 -0500 1617 Gospel of Mark, Poverty, Wealth, Justice full false Setting Intentions -- Matthew 2:1-12 (Epiphany Sunday) Setting Intentions -- Matthew 2:1-12 (Epiphany Sunday) As we set intentions at the start of a new year, God guides us together into the life of Christ.

]]> As we set intentions at the start of a new year, God guides us together into the life of Christ.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-12003719 Sun, 08 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1295 Gospel of Matthew, Epiphany, Magi, Wise Ones, Intentions, Spiritual Practice, New Year Resolutions full false As we set intentions at the start of a new year, God guides us together into the life of Christ. Let It Be -- John 1:1-14 (New Year's Day; 2nd Sunday in Christmas) Let It Be -- John 1:1-14 (New Year's Day; 2nd Sunday in Christmas) On the first day of the new year, we arrive in this truth: The Word became flesh and dwells in us, full of grace and truth.  Let it be.

]]> On the first day of the new year, we arrive in this truth: The Word became flesh and dwells in us, full of grace and truth.  Let it be.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11961158 Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:00:00 -0500 1069 Gospel of John, Incarnation, New Year's Day, Mindfulness, Awareness, Attention full false On the first day of the new year, we arrive in this truth: The Word became flesh and dwells in us, full of grace and truth.  Let it be. The Heartbeat of God -- Luke 2:8-20 (Christmas Day) The Heartbeat of God -- Luke 2:8-20 (Christmas Day) This is the Good News of Christmas – the heartbeat of God pulsing in the fullness of humanity.  As we live into the life of Christ, we become the heartbeat of God in and for the world God loves.

]]> This is the Good News of Christmas – the heartbeat of God pulsing in the fullness of humanity.  As we live into the life of Christ, we become the heartbeat of God in and for the world God loves.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11933496 Mon, 26 Dec 2022 14:00:00 -0500 1050 Gospel of Luke, Christmas, Heartbeat of God, Celtic Spirituality, Incarnation, Embodiment full false This is the Good News of Christmas – the heartbeat of God pulsing in the fullness of humanity.  As we live into the life of Christ, we become the heartbeat of God in and for the world God loves. The Nights Before Christmas -- Luke 1 & 2 (Fourth Sunday in Advent) The Nights Before Christmas -- Luke 1 & 2 (Fourth Sunday in Advent) In the hope of a starlit sky, in our embodied lives, in the coming of Christ – God is already here, and always on the way.

]]> In the hope of a starlit sky, in our embodied lives, in the coming of Christ – God is already here, and always on the way.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11894392 Sun, 18 Dec 2022 19:00:00 -0500 1481 Advent, Christmas, Hope, Zechariah, Elizabeth, Mary, New Creation, Incarnation full false In the hope of a starlit sky, in our embodied lives, in the coming of Christ – God is already here, and always on the way. Freedom Comes in the Night -- Exodus 12:31-37, 40-42 (Second Sunday in Advent) Freedom Comes in the Night -- Exodus 12:31-37, 40-42 (Second Sunday in Advent) The second in our Advent series "Hope of a Starlit Night" -- God keeps vigil at night, inviting us into the vigil and into the work of freedom.

]]> The second in our Advent series "Hope of a Starlit Night" -- God keeps vigil at night, inviting us into the vigil and into the work of freedom.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11812353 Sun, 04 Dec 2022 20:00:00 -0500 1102 Exodus, Advent, Hope, Nighttime, Passover, Underground Railroad full false The second in our Advent series "Hope of a Starlit Night" -- God keeps vigil at night, inviting us into the vigil and into the work of freedom. Hope of a Starlit Night -- Matthew 24:36-44 (First Sunday in Advent) Hope of a Starlit Night -- Matthew 24:36-44 (First Sunday in Advent) In the quiet of a starlit night, we watch, and wait, and hope – for Christ, already with us, and always on the way.

]]> In the quiet of a starlit night, we watch, and wait, and hope – for Christ, already with us, and always on the way.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11768784 Sun, 27 Nov 2022 16:00:00 -0500 1062 Advent, Hope, Stars, Starlit Night, Starry Night, NASA, Webb Space Telescope full false In the quiet of a starlit night, we watch, and wait, and hope – for Christ, already with us, and always on the way. In Good Times and Not So Good -- Leviticus 23:33-34, 39-43; Psalm 136 (Thanksgiving Sunday) In Good Times and Not So Good -- Leviticus 23:33-34, 39-43; Psalm 136 (Thanksgiving Sunday) In good times and not so good, God accompanies us in love and grace, and we thrive in gratitude.

]]> In good times and not so good, God accompanies us in love and grace, and we thrive in gratitude.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11732772 Sun, 20 Nov 2022 19:00:00 -0500 1149 Leviticus, Thanksgiving, Gratitude, Grace, Sukkot, Spiritual Practice, Psalms full false In good times and not so good, God accompanies us in love and grace, and we thrive in gratitude. A Discernment Lifestyle -- Matthew 7:7-8, Psalm 63:1-5 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost), Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching A Discernment Lifestyle -- Matthew 7:7-8, Psalm 63:1-5 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost), Rev. Marissa Danney, preaching God invites us into a discernment lifestyle, an ongoing conversation with God in prayer.

]]> God invites us into a discernment lifestyle, an ongoing conversation with God in prayer.

]]> Rev. Marissa Danney Buzzsprout-11686908 Sun, 13 Nov 2022 20:00:00 -0500 635 Gospel of Matthew, Discernment, Spirituality, Prayer full false God invites us into a discernment lifestyle, an ongoing conversation with God in prayer. "How Long and High and Wide and Deep" -- Ephesians 1:11-23, 3:14-21 (All Saints Sunday) "How Long and High and Wide and Deep" -- Ephesians 1:11-23, 3:14-21 (All Saints Sunday) On All Saints Day, we celebrate God’s love alive in the saints who have gone before, those living now, and those who are yet to come.

]]> On All Saints Day, we celebrate God’s love alive in the saints who have gone before, those living now, and those who are yet to come.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11648494 Sun, 06 Nov 2022 12:00:00 -0500 965 Ephesians, All Saints Day, Community, Communion of the Saints, Communion full false On All Saints Day, we celebrate God’s love alive in the saints who have gone before, those living now, and those who are yet to come. "To Embrace" -- Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 (Reformation Sunday; Rev. Eric Beene, preaching) "To Embrace" -- Habakkuk 1:1-4, 2:1-4 (Reformation Sunday; Rev. Eric Beene, preaching) Rev. Eric Beene Buzzsprout-11619027 Wed, 02 Nov 2022 15:00:00 -0400 975 Reformation, Reformation Sunday, Habakkuk full false Praying Our Need for God -- Luke 18:9-14 (20th Sunday After Pentecost) Praying Our Need for God -- Luke 18:9-14 (20th Sunday After Pentecost) In prayer, Jesus invites us to draw near to God, confessing our need for God, living into Christ’s tender mercy.

]]> In prayer, Jesus invites us to draw near to God, confessing our need for God, living into Christ’s tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11552275 Sun, 23 Oct 2022 15:00:00 -0400 1188 Gospel of Luke, Parables, Prayer full false In prayer, Jesus invites us to draw near to God, confessing our need for God, living into Christ’s tender mercy. The Persistence of Hunger -- Luke 17:20-21, 18:1-8 (19th Sunday After Pentecost; World Food Day) The Persistence of Hunger -- Luke 17:20-21, 18:1-8 (19th Sunday After Pentecost; World Food Day) God hears the pleas of the hungry and invites us to listen and act – to pray and never give up. The world is full of the pleas and cries of the hundreds of millions who hunger. World Food Day asks us to listen and to act.

]]> God hears the pleas of the hungry and invites us to listen and act – to pray and never give up. The world is full of the pleas and cries of the hundreds of millions who hunger. World Food Day asks us to listen and to act.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11511022 Sun, 16 Oct 2022 20:00:00 -0400 1144 Gospel of Luke, Hunger, Hunger Action, Parables, Justice, Prayer full false God hears the pleas of the hungry and invites us to listen and act – to pray and never give up. The world is full of the pleas and cries of the hundreds of millions who hunger. World Food Day asks us to listen and to act. Glimpsing the Glory of God -- 2 Corinthians 3:1-6,12-18 (Deacons Sunday; 18th Sunday After Pentecost) Glimpsing the Glory of God -- 2 Corinthians 3:1-6,12-18 (Deacons Sunday; 18th Sunday After Pentecost) If you want to experience the glory of God, look to what Deacons do.

]]> If you want to experience the glory of God, look to what Deacons do.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11467310 Sun, 09 Oct 2022 18:00:00 -0400 1274 2 Corinthians; Apostle Paul; Service; Deacons; Tender Mercy full false If you want to experience the glory of God, look to what Deacons do. "Among You As One Who Serves" -- Luke 15:1-10; 22:14-17 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) "Among You As One Who Serves" -- Luke 15:1-10; 22:14-17 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus seeks us out and brings us to the table, saying, “I am among you as one who serves.”

]]> Jesus seeks us out and brings us to the table, saying, “I am among you as one who serves.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11423897 Sun, 02 Oct 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1066 Gospel of Luke, Communion, World Communion, Inclusion, Welcome, Hospitality, Benedictine spirituality full false Jesus seeks us out and brings us to the table, saying, “I am among you as one who serves.” We Say Ouch -- Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) We Say Ouch -- Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) God joins us in the circle of lament -- as we listen to the lament of the world, share our own, and move forward together into a world of healing.

]]> God joins us in the circle of lament -- as we listen to the lament of the world, share our own, and move forward together into a world of healing.

]]> Patrick O'Connor & Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11382188 Sun, 25 Sep 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1306 Jeremiah, Lament, Anti-Racism, Grief, Grieving full false God joins us in the circle of lament -- as we listen to the lament of the world, share our own, and move forward together into a world of healing. Creation Says Ouch! -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Creation Says Ouch! -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Patrick, O'Connor, M.Div. Buzzsprout-11353474 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 12:00:00 -0400 1143 full false The Work That Is Ours to Do -- Philemon 1-22 (13th Sunday After Pentecost; Labor Day Weekend) The Work That Is Ours to Do -- Philemon 1-22 (13th Sunday After Pentecost; Labor Day Weekend) In Christ, our work is to work for the freedom of all, so that individually and together we can become all we are created to be and do in the world.

]]> In Christ, our work is to work for the freedom of all, so that individually and together we can become all we are created to be and do in the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11258714 Sun, 04 Sep 2022 14:00:00 -0400 1203 Philemon, Onesimus, Apostle Paul, Labor Day, Labor, Work, Freedom, Anti-Racism full false In Christ, our work is to work for the freedom of all, so that individually and together we can become all we are created to be and do in the world. Give Up Your Seat -- Luke 14:1,7-14 (Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost) Give Up Your Seat -- Luke 14:1,7-14 (Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus invites all of us to a table of mutuality and justice, where the privileged give up our place at the table as we celebrate those who are finding theirs.

]]> Jesus invites all of us to a table of mutuality and justice, where the privileged give up our place at the table as we celebrate those who are finding theirs.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11218436 Sun, 28 Aug 2022 19:00:00 -0400 1251 Gospel of Luke, Privilege, Freudenfreude, Welcome, Hospitality, Anti-Racism, Justice, Inclusion full false Jesus invites all of us to a table of mutuality and justice, where the privileged give up our place at the table as we celebrate those who are finding theirs. But There's a Rule -- Luke 13:10-17 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) But There's a Rule -- Luke 13:10-17 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) In Sabbath, Jesus embodies the rule of freedom – God’s liberating power at work healing the world.

]]> In Sabbath, Jesus embodies the rule of freedom – God’s liberating power at work healing the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11174893 Sun, 21 Aug 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1205 Gospel of Luke, Sabbath, Healing, Rule of Life, Rule of St Benedict, Freedom full false In Sabbath, Jesus embodies the rule of freedom – God’s liberating power at work healing the world. When Worlds Collapse -- Isaiah 5:1-7 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) When Worlds Collapse -- Isaiah 5:1-7 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) God grieves the destruction we wreak on this Earth, but even in collapse, draws us into deeper connection and creative work.

]]> God grieves the destruction we wreak on this Earth, but even in collapse, draws us into deeper connection and creative work.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11136683 Sun, 14 Aug 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1373 Isaiah, Climate Emergency, Climate Collapse, Spiritual Practice, Global Warming, Gratitude, Grieving full false God grieves the destruction we wreak on this Earth, but even in collapse, draws us into deeper connection and creative work. A Good Day -- Luke 22:14-27 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) A Good Day -- Luke 22:14-27 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) On the night before he dies, Jesus embodies and suggests an answer to the question, “What does a good day look like for you?” – inviting us to live into what really matters.

]]> On the night before he dies, Jesus embodies and suggests an answer to the question, “What does a good day look like for you?” – inviting us to live into what really matters.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11096566 Sun, 07 Aug 2022 20:00:00 -0400 1210 Gospel of Luke, Communion, Last Supper, Atul Gawande, Being Mortal, Living and Imperfect Life Well, Aging, Death & Dying full false On the night before he dies, Jesus embodies and suggests an answer to the question, “What does a good day look like for you?” – inviting us to live into what really matters. The Rhythm of Do and Rest -- Luke 10:25-42 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) The Rhythm of Do and Rest -- Luke 10:25-42 (8th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus invites us into a rhythm of a life centered and grounded in love – acting with compassion to meet the needs of the world, and resting in the presence of the God who welcomes us all.

]]> Jesus invites us into a rhythm of a life centered and grounded in love – acting with compassion to meet the needs of the world, and resting in the presence of the God who welcomes us all.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-11063377 Sun, 31 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0400 1103 Gospel of Luke, Good Samaritan, Martha and Mary, Sabbath, Rest, Spirituality full false Jesus invites us into a rhythm of a life centered and grounded in love – acting with compassion to meet the needs of the world, and resting in the presence of the God who welcomes us all. Resting Our Faith on Solid Ground -- 1 Samuel 2:1-10 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) Resting Our Faith on Solid Ground -- 1 Samuel 2:1-10 (7th Sunday After Pentecost) What is the center of our faith?  Like Hannah, let us ground our faith in the love of a steadfast and trustworthy God.

]]> What is the center of our faith?  Like Hannah, let us ground our faith in the love of a steadfast and trustworthy God.

]]> Patrick Kiptum, Former First Pres Seminary Intern Buzzsprout-11025465 Sun, 24 Jul 2022 14:00:00 -0400 1022 full false What is the center of our faith?  Like Hannah, let us ground our faith in the love of a steadfast and trustworthy God. Healing in the Small Things -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) Healing in the Small Things -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 (6th Sunday After Pentecost) God sends us a word of healing, not in our power and privilege, but in our shared vulnerability. 

]]> God sends us a word of healing, not in our power and privilege, but in our shared vulnerability. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10979843 Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0400 1148 2 Kings, Naaman, Healing, Power, Privilege, Vulnerability full false God sends us a word of healing, not in our power and privilege, but in our shared vulnerability.  Travel Light -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) Travel Light -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 (5th Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus sets at the center of our journey all that we need, and invites us to travel light.

]]> Jesus sets at the center of our journey all that we need, and invites us to travel light.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10940501 Mon, 11 Jul 2022 11:00:00 -0400 1126 Gospel of Luke, Spirituality, Letting Go, Distraction, Focus, Travel, Journey full false Jesus sets at the center of our journey all that we need, and invites us to travel light. Living at the Intersection of Freedom & Power -- 1 Samuel 8:1-22: Galatians 5 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) Living at the Intersection of Freedom & Power -- 1 Samuel 8:1-22: Galatians 5 (4th Sunday After Pentecost) In a world of power-over, the Good News lies in the agency and freedom that God gives us to live –  by the power of the Spirit – lives that work for freedom, for the common good, and for the well-being of all people. God gives us agency and freedom to work for the common good, within the context of the constitutional structures of nations.

 

]]> In a world of power-over, the Good News lies in the agency and freedom that God gives us to live –  by the power of the Spirit – lives that work for freedom, for the common good, and for the well-being of all people. God gives us agency and freedom to work for the common good, within the context of the constitutional structures of nations.

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10902519 Sun, 03 Jul 2022 13:00:00 -0400 1447 Freedom, Power, Power-over, Tyranny, 4th of July, Galatians, 1 Samuel, Supreme Court, Roe v Wade, January 6 Insurrection full false In a world of power-over, the Good News lies in the agency and freedom that God gives us to live –  by the power of the Spirit – lives that work for freedom, for the common good, and for the well-being of all people. God gives us agency and freedom to work for the common good, within the context of the constitutional structures of nations.   Living an Imperfect Life Well -- Galatians 5:1-2, 13-25 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) Living an Imperfect Life Well -- Galatians 5:1-2, 13-25 (3rd Sunday After Pentecost) In freedom, the Spirit of Christ empowers us to live out lives of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control.

]]> In freedom, the Spirit of Christ empowers us to live out lives of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10859142 Sun, 26 Jun 2022 20:00:00 -0400 1268 Galatians, Apostle Paul, Fruit of the Spirit, Spirit, Holy Spirit, COVID, Roe v Wade, Freedom full false In freedom, the Spirit of Christ empowers us to live out lives of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control. And They Were Afraid -- 1 Kings 19:1-5, 8-15a and Luke 8:26-39 (Rev. Dvera Hadden preaching, 2nd Sunday After Pentecost) And They Were Afraid -- 1 Kings 19:1-5, 8-15a and Luke 8:26-39 (Rev. Dvera Hadden preaching, 2nd Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-10854542 Sat, 25 Jun 2022 18:00:00 -0400 1379 full false Liberating Resurrection -- Acts 16:16-34 (7th Sunday in Easter) Liberating Resurrection -- Acts 16:16-34 (7th Sunday in Easter) In the power of the Risen Christ, Resurrection liberates bodies and lives. Resurrection breaks everything free, and then invites us to take the next step into this new life of liberation.

]]> In the power of the Risen Christ, Resurrection liberates bodies and lives. Resurrection breaks everything free, and then invites us to take the next step into this new life of liberation.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10701631 Sun, 29 May 2022 14:00:00 -0400 1424 Resurrection, Easter, Book of Acts, Paul, Anti-Racism, Gun Violence, Mass Shootings, Intersectionality, Liberation, Beyoncé Mass full false In the power of the Risen Christ, Resurrection liberates bodies and lives. Resurrection breaks everything free, and then invites us to take the next step into this new life of liberation. "Welcome In" -- Acts 16:9-15, Acts 9:36-43 (6th Sunday in Easter) "Welcome In" -- Acts 16:9-15, Acts 9:36-43 (6th Sunday in Easter) Like, Paul and Lydia and Ananias and Tabitha and the women at the river outside the city gates, and the widows in Joppa, we welcome each other in to the life of Resurrection.  In Christ, we experience Resurrection in depth of belonging – in hospitality and tender mercy – embodied in community – embodied in us.

]]> Like, Paul and Lydia and Ananias and Tabitha and the women at the river outside the city gates, and the widows in Joppa, we welcome each other in to the life of Resurrection.  In Christ, we experience Resurrection in depth of belonging – in hospitality and tender mercy – embodied in community – embodied in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10662793 Sun, 22 May 2022 19:00:00 -0400 1282 Book of Acts, Easter, Resurrection, Lydia, Tabitha, Dorcas, Welcome, Hospitality, Tender Mercy, Anti-Racism, Gun Violence full false Like, Paul and Lydia and Ananias and Tabitha and the women at the river outside the city gates, and the widows in Joppa, we welcome each other in to the life of Resurrection.  In Christ, we experience Resurrection in depth of belonging – in hospitality and tender mercy – embodied in community – embodied in us. In Christ Together -- Acts 9:1-20 (5th Sunday in Easter) In Christ Together -- Acts 9:1-20 (5th Sunday in Easter) In our baptism, we are baptized into community – into a family of all God’s children. In Christ, we are baptized into life with each other.  

]]> In our baptism, we are baptized into community – into a family of all God’s children. In Christ, we are baptized into life with each other.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10621710 Sun, 15 May 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1244 Easter, Baptism, Community, Apostle Paul, Ananias, Book of Acts, Resurrection full false In our baptism, we are baptized into community – into a family of all God’s children. In Christ, we are baptized into life with each other.   The Overflow of Life -- Revelation 7:9-17 (4th Sunday of Easter) The Overflow of Life -- Revelation 7:9-17 (4th Sunday of Easter) In this Sunday's sermon, we venture into the world of Revelation. Enlivened and empowered by Resurrection, we experience the Risen Christ in fierce resistance and in tender mercy.

]]> In this Sunday's sermon, we venture into the world of Revelation. Enlivened and empowered by Resurrection, we experience the Risen Christ in fierce resistance and in tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10586331 Mon, 09 May 2022 12:00:00 -0400 1204 Revelation, Resurrection, Tears, Crying, Compassion, Easter full false In this Sunday's sermon, we venture into the world of Revelation. Enlivened and empowered by Resurrection, we experience the Risen Christ in fierce resistance and in tender mercy. The Smell of Love Cooking -- John 21:1-12 (3rd Sunday of Easter) The Smell of Love Cooking -- John 21:1-12 (3rd Sunday of Easter) In breakfast on the shore with the Risen Christ, the disciples experience Resurrection in their bodies. They experience not only Jesus’ Resurrection, but their own.  (This homily followed an enactment of the Scripture, from the play "Fish Eyes.")

]]> In breakfast on the shore with the Risen Christ, the disciples experience Resurrection in their bodies. They experience not only Jesus’ Resurrection, but their own.  (This homily followed an enactment of the Scripture, from the play "Fish Eyes.")

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10537133 Sun, 01 May 2022 15:00:00 -0400 321 Gospel of John, Resurrection, Easter full false In breakfast on the shore with the Risen Christ, the disciples experience Resurrection in their bodies. They experience not only Jesus’ Resurrection, but their own.  (This homily followed an enactment of the Scripture, from the play "Fish Eyes.") The Case for Thomas -- John 20:19-31 (2nd Sunday of Easter) The Case for Thomas -- John 20:19-31 (2nd Sunday of Easter) In worship, we heard the case for Thomas, who history has wrongly judged for doubting. To Thomas’s questions, the Risen Christ responds with the gracious offer of himself and of life. The case for Thomas is the case for us. 

]]> In worship, we heard the case for Thomas, who history has wrongly judged for doubting. To Thomas’s questions, the Risen Christ responds with the gracious offer of himself and of life. The case for Thomas is the case for us. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10502521 Mon, 25 Apr 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1330 Gospel of John, Easter, Thomas, Doubting Thomas, Doubt, Believing, Belief, Resurrection full false In worship, we heard the case for Thomas, who history has wrongly judged for doubting. To Thomas’s questions, the Risen Christ responds with the gracious offer of himself and of life. The case for Thomas is the case for us.  An Expansive Life -- Luke 24: 1-10 (Easter Sunday) An Expansive Life -- Luke 24: 1-10 (Easter Sunday) In Resurrection, Jesus draws us into expansive life, and gives us a future we can live from.

]]> In Resurrection, Jesus draws us into expansive life, and gives us a future we can live from.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10453917 Sun, 17 Apr 2022 15:00:00 -0400 1320 Easter, Gospel of Luke, Resurrection full false In Resurrection, Jesus draws us into expansive life, and gives us a future we can live from. Full to the Brim - Even the Stones Will Shout -- Luke 19:28-40 (Palm/Passion Sunday) Full to the Brim - Even the Stones Will Shout -- Luke 19:28-40 (Palm/Passion Sunday) If the stones shout out, what will they shout?  Will they shout praise, and protest, and lament? In the fullness of Holy Week, what we experience is Christ filled to the fullness of our humanity, as we are filled to the fullness of Christ’s.

]]> If the stones shout out, what will they shout?  Will they shout praise, and protest, and lament? In the fullness of Holy Week, what we experience is Christ filled to the fullness of our humanity, as we are filled to the fullness of Christ’s.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10413674 Sun, 10 Apr 2022 19:00:00 -0400 1107 Full to the Brim, Lent, Palm Sunday, Protest, Holy Week, Gospel of Luke full false If the stones shout out, what will they shout?  Will they shout praise, and protest, and lament? In the fullness of Holy Week, what we experience is Christ filled to the fullness of our humanity, as we are filled to the fullness of Christ’s. Full to the Brim -- Are You Aware? -- John 12:1-8 (Fifth Sunday in Lent) Full to the Brim -- Are You Aware? -- John 12:1-8 (Fifth Sunday in Lent) As Mary anoints his feet, Jesus helps us become aware of what really matters in the present moment.

]]> As Mary anoints his feet, Jesus helps us become aware of what really matters in the present moment.

]]> Rev. Ashley DeTar Birt Buzzsprout-10383773 Tue, 05 Apr 2022 13:00:00 -0400 1005 Gospel of John, Lent, Full to the Brim, Awareness, Grace full false As Mary anoints his feet, Jesus helps us become aware of what really matters in the present moment. Full to the Brim -- A Prodigal Grace - Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 (4th Sunday in Lent) Full to the Brim -- A Prodigal Grace - Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 (4th Sunday in Lent) With prodigal grace, Jesus welcomes us all and reconciles us to God and to each other.

]]> With prodigal grace, Jesus welcomes us all and reconciles us to God and to each other.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10349757 Sun, 27 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0400 1386 Gospel of Luke, Prodigal Son, Reconciliation, Grace, Lent, Full to the Brim full false With prodigal grace, Jesus welcomes us all and reconciles us to God and to each other. Full to the Brim -- A Fig Tree in the Vineyard - Luke 13:1-9 (3rd Sunday in Lent) Full to the Brim -- A Fig Tree in the Vineyard - Luke 13:1-9 (3rd Sunday in Lent) In the parable of the fig tree, Jesus walks us into a world where folks together till the soil of new creation, so that everyone can live and thrive.

]]> In the parable of the fig tree, Jesus walks us into a world where folks together till the soil of new creation, so that everyone can live and thrive.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10284069 Sun, 20 Mar 2022 16:00:00 -0400 1098 Gospel of Luke, Full to the Brim, Repentance, Fig Tree, Parable, New Creation full false In the parable of the fig tree, Jesus walks us into a world where folks together till the soil of new creation, so that everyone can live and thrive. Full to the Brim - Like a Mother Sheltering Her Brood -- Psalm 27: Luke 13:31-35 (2nd Sunday in Lent) Full to the Brim - Like a Mother Sheltering Her Brood -- Psalm 27: Luke 13:31-35 (2nd Sunday in Lent) With our thoughts on Ukraine, this morning’s psalm takes seriously the suffering of the world and gives it voice.  And, at the same time, the psalm holds that lament with hope – hope in a God who is our shelter and our strength.

]]> With our thoughts on Ukraine, this morning’s psalm takes seriously the suffering of the world and gives it voice.  And, at the same time, the psalm holds that lament with hope – hope in a God who is our shelter and our strength.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10243079 Sun, 13 Mar 2022 20:00:00 -0400 1404 Psalms, Psalm 27, Gospel of Luke, Hope, Lent, Full to the Brim, Lament, Ukraine, Refugees, Displaced Peoples full false With our thoughts on Ukraine, this morning’s psalm takes seriously the suffering of the world and gives it voice.  And, at the same time, the psalm holds that lament with hope – hope in a God who is our shelter and our strength. Full to the Brim - Even in the Desert -- Luke 4:1-11; Deuteronomy 26:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) Full to the Brim - Even in the Desert -- Luke 4:1-11; Deuteronomy 26:1-11 (1st Sunday in Lent) Even in the wilderness, we are Full to the Brim with God’s overflowing grace.

]]> Even in the wilderness, we are Full to the Brim with God’s overflowing grace.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10204113 Sun, 06 Mar 2022 11:00:00 -0500 1245 Lent, Full to the Brim, Deuteronomy, Grace, Wilderness, Journey, Gospel of Luke full false Even in the wilderness, we are Full to the Brim with God’s overflowing grace. Full to the Brim -- "With All That You Are" -- Joel 2 (Ash Wednesday) Full to the Brim -- "With All That You Are" -- Joel 2 (Ash Wednesday) The invitation of Ash Wednesday:  Even now, even now, return to me with all your heart – with all your broken pieces – with all you are.  And I will pour out my spirit on all flesh.  Your youth will see visions; your elders dream dreams.

]]> The invitation of Ash Wednesday:  Even now, even now, return to me with all your heart – with all your broken pieces – with all you are.  And I will pour out my spirit on all flesh.  Your youth will see visions; your elders dream dreams.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10184430 Thu, 03 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0500 906 Joel, Lent, Full to the Brim full false The invitation of Ash Wednesday:  Even now, even now, return to me with all your heart – with all your broken pieces – with all you are.  And I will pour out my spirit on all flesh.  Your youth will see visions; your elders dream dreams. "Death in a Tenured Position" -- Mark 10:17-27 (Transfiguration Sunday) "Death in a Tenured Position" -- Mark 10:17-27 (Transfiguration Sunday) How many layers must a camel shed to get through the eye of a needle? And what about us? Everything is possible with God.

]]> How many layers must a camel shed to get through the eye of a needle? And what about us? Everything is possible with God.

]]> Rev. Dr. Jana Childers Buzzsprout-10170342 Tue, 01 Mar 2022 19:00:00 -0500 1388 Gospel of Mark, Letting Go full false How many layers must a camel shed to get through the eye of a needle? And what about us? Everything is possible with God. The Threshold of the Moment -- Genesis 45:1-15 (7th Sunday After Epiphany) The Threshold of the Moment -- Genesis 45:1-15 (7th Sunday After Epiphany) At every threshold, God is present moving the whole world toward good – toward healing, toward forgiveness, toward belonging, toward love.

]]> At every threshold, God is present moving the whole world toward good – toward healing, toward forgiveness, toward belonging, toward love.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10111802 Sun, 20 Feb 2022 20:00:00 -0500 1003 Epiphany, Joseph, Genesis, Providence, Prevenient Grace, Forgiveness, Thresholds full false At every threshold, God is present moving the whole world toward good – toward healing, toward forgiveness, toward belonging, toward love. The Threshold of Blessing & Woe -- Luke 6:17-26 (Sixth Sunday After Epiphany) The Threshold of Blessing & Woe -- Luke 6:17-26 (Sixth Sunday After Epiphany) With blessing and woe, Jesus brings us into a world of mutuality, a level place, where we see each other face to face, and see and meet each other’s need.

]]> With blessing and woe, Jesus brings us into a world of mutuality, a level place, where we see each other face to face, and see and meet each other’s need.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10068178 Sun, 13 Feb 2022 18:00:00 -0500 1193 Beatitudes, Woes, Gospel of Luke, Thresholds, Black History Month, Anti-Racism full false With blessing and woe, Jesus brings us into a world of mutuality, a level place, where we see each other face to face, and see and meet each other’s need. The Threshold of Forgiveness -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (Fifth Sunday After Epiphany) The Threshold of Forgiveness -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (Fifth Sunday After Epiphany) At the Threshold of Forgiveness – by God’s grace, we stand in the life we have lived until now –  then we step through... into the life we find in Jesus Christ – we step into the new creation – into a world filled with love, possibility, and hope.  

]]> At the Threshold of Forgiveness – by God’s grace, we stand in the life we have lived until now –  then we step through... into the life we find in Jesus Christ – we step into the new creation – into a world filled with love, possibility, and hope.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-10022588 Sun, 06 Feb 2022 16:00:00 -0500 1044 Forgiveness, Grace, Apostle Paul, Corinthians, First Corinthians, Acts, Resurrection full false At the Threshold of Forgiveness – by God’s grace, we stand in the life we have lived until now –  then we step through... into the life we find in Jesus Christ – we step into the new creation – into a world filled with love, possibility, and hope.   The Threshold of Calling -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 (Fourth Sunday After Epiphany) The Threshold of Calling -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 (Fourth Sunday After Epiphany) In the threshold of calling, God calls us to bring all of who we are created to be into the fullness of the life we live – and to join together in a shared life of rebuilding and reshaping a world where all live free.

]]> In the threshold of calling, God calls us to bring all of who we are created to be into the fullness of the life we live – and to join together in a shared life of rebuilding and reshaping a world where all live free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9980417 Sun, 30 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0500 1175 Jeremiah, Prophets, Prophetic Imagination, Thresholds, Justice full false In the threshold of calling, God calls us to bring all of who we are created to be into the fullness of the life we live – and to join together in a shared life of rebuilding and reshaping a world where all live free. The Threshold of the Body -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (Third Sunday After Epiphany) The Threshold of the Body -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 (Third Sunday After Epiphany) Our body is the threshold where we encounter God.  The body of Christ – our bodies together in One Body – is where the world encounters God.  This Body, this is where Christ is coming to life in the world right now, and we are a part of that.

]]> Our body is the threshold where we encounter God.  The body of Christ – our bodies together in One Body – is where the world encounters God.  This Body, this is where Christ is coming to life in the world right now, and we are a part of that.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9938061 Sun, 23 Jan 2022 19:00:00 -0500 1203 First Corinthians, Body, Body of Christ, Threshold, Embodiment full false Our body is the threshold where we encounter God.  The body of Christ – our bodies together in One Body – is where the world encounters God.  This Body, this is where Christ is coming to life in the world right now, and we are a part of that. The Threshold of Trouble -- Luke 4:14-30 (Second Sunday After Epiphany; MLK Sunday) The Threshold of Trouble -- Luke 4:14-30 (Second Sunday After Epiphany; MLK Sunday) At the Threshold of Trouble – the gap between the world as it is, and the world as God is re-creating it to be –  Jesus walks toward the trouble, and expects us to do the same. 

]]> At the Threshold of Trouble – the gap between the world as it is, and the world as God is re-creating it to be –  Jesus walks toward the trouble, and expects us to do the same. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9896359 Sun, 16 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0500 1325 Thresholds, Justice, Anti-Racism, Gospel of Luke, MLK full false At the Threshold of Trouble – the gap between the world as it is, and the world as God is re-creating it to be –  Jesus walks toward the trouble, and expects us to do the same.  The Threshold of Belonging -- Luke 3:2-18 (First Sunday After Epiphany; Baptism of Jesus) The Threshold of Belonging -- Luke 3:2-18 (First Sunday After Epiphany; Baptism of Jesus) In the waters of baptism, Jesus welcomes us into the threshold of belonging – each of us God’s beloved child.

]]> In the waters of baptism, Jesus welcomes us into the threshold of belonging – each of us God’s beloved child.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9855935 Sun, 09 Jan 2022 16:00:00 -0500 1086 Baptism, Belonging, Transgender, Inclusion, Gospel of Luke full false In the waters of baptism, Jesus welcomes us into the threshold of belonging – each of us God’s beloved child. The Threshold of a New Year -- Matthew 2:1-12 (2nd Sunday of Christmas; Epiphany Sunday) The Threshold of a New Year -- Matthew 2:1-12 (2nd Sunday of Christmas; Epiphany Sunday) In every threshold, God is with us liberating and empowering us into the next new thing.  Thresholds open up the opportunity for us to pause and to ask – Where have I been and what have I learned there? What is being made manifest here and now?  And, how shall I now live?

]]> In every threshold, God is with us liberating and empowering us into the next new thing.  Thresholds open up the opportunity for us to pause and to ask – Where have I been and what have I learned there? What is being made manifest here and now?  And, how shall I now live?

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9819905 Sun, 02 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0500 1129 Epiphany; Threshold; New Year; Howard Thurman; The Growing Edge; Magi; Gospel of Matthew full false In every threshold, God is with us liberating and empowering us into the next new thing.  Thresholds open up the opportunity for us to pause and to ask – Where have I been and what have I learned there? What is being made manifest here and now?  And, how shall I now live? A Song of Christmas -- Luke 2:21-52 (First Sunday of Christmas) A Song of Christmas -- Luke 2:21-52 (First Sunday of Christmas) What is your song of Christmas?  How will you bear God in the world in the unfolding days to come?  How will you share the birth of Christ in the world? 

]]> What is your song of Christmas?  How will you bear God in the world in the unfolding days to come?  How will you share the birth of Christ in the world? 

]]> Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-9799184 Sun, 26 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500 1329 full false What is your song of Christmas?  How will you bear God in the world in the unfolding days to come?  How will you share the birth of Christ in the world?  Monologues adapted from Carol Howard Merritt's "I Am Mary" (Fourth Sunday in Advent) Monologues adapted from Carol Howard Merritt's "I Am Mary" (Fourth Sunday in Advent) As we continue with our Advent theme Embracing Love and Tender Mercy, our worship centered on monologues adapted from Carol Howard Merritt's "I Am Mary."  The monologues were adapted by Jessica Powell, with permission of the author.

]]> As we continue with our Advent theme Embracing Love and Tender Mercy, our worship centered on monologues adapted from Carol Howard Merritt's "I Am Mary."  The monologues were adapted by Jessica Powell, with permission of the author.

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-9750223 Sun, 19 Dec 2021 18:00:00 -0500 982 full false As we continue with our Advent theme Embracing Love and Tender Mercy, our worship centered on monologues adapted from Carol Howard Merritt's "I Am Mary."  The monologues were adapted by Jessica Powell, with permission of the author. The Call of Mary -- Luke 1:26-38 (First Sunday of Advent) The Call of Mary -- Luke 1:26-38 (First Sunday of Advent) With the world whirling around her, in this moment of calm, Mary hears of the Christ to come, and embraces a love and tender mercy that will upend and change the world for good.  The images and art discussed in the sermon can be found, along with the sermon text, at https://www.togetherweserve.org/post/the-call-of-mary-luke-1-26-38-first-sunday-of-advent

]]> With the world whirling around her, in this moment of calm, Mary hears of the Christ to come, and embraces a love and tender mercy that will upend and change the world for good.  The images and art discussed in the sermon can be found, along with the sermon text, at https://www.togetherweserve.org/post/the-call-of-mary-luke-1-26-38-first-sunday-of-advent

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9626368 Sun, 28 Nov 2021 19:00:00 -0500 1334 Advent, Mary, Gospel of Luke full false With the world whirling around her, in this moment of calm, Mary hears of the Christ to come, and embraces a love and tender mercy that will upend and change the world for good.  The images and art discussed in the sermon can be found, along with the sermon text, at https://www.togetherweserve.org/post/the-call-of-mary-luke-1-26-38-first-sunday-of-advent "Rejoice and Give Thanks" -- Philippians 4:4-9 (Thanksgiving Homily) "Rejoice and Give Thanks" -- Philippians 4:4-9 (Thanksgiving Homily) The practice of gratitude is a daily practice.  Every minute of every day.  God is near. And, every year, once a year – on Thanksgiving – no matter what’s going on in the world – we stop and give thanks.  

]]> The practice of gratitude is a daily practice.  Every minute of every day.  God is near. And, every year, once a year – on Thanksgiving – no matter what’s going on in the world – we stop and give thanks.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9613661 Thu, 25 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0500 831 Thanksgiving, Gratitude, Apostle Paul, Philippians full false The practice of gratitude is a daily practice.  Every minute of every day.  God is near. And, every year, once a year – on Thanksgiving – no matter what’s going on in the world – we stop and give thanks.   "A New Song" -- Psalm 96 (Reign of Christ Sunday; Patrick O'Connor preaching) "A New Song" -- Psalm 96 (Reign of Christ Sunday; Patrick O'Connor preaching) As we celebrate the Reign of Christ, we sing our part in God’s new song that sings of loving God and loving neighbor.

]]> As we celebrate the Reign of Christ, we sing our part in God’s new song that sings of loving God and loving neighbor.

]]> Patrick O'Connor Buzzsprout-9600286 Sun, 21 Nov 2021 11:00:00 -0500 970 Christ the King, Reign of Christ, Psalm 96 full false As we celebrate the Reign of Christ, we sing our part in God’s new song that sings of loving God and loving neighbor. The Generosity of Generations -- Hebrews 11 (All Saints Sunday) The Generosity of Generations -- Hebrews 11 (All Saints Sunday) On All Saints Day, the past, present, and future converge in one eternal moment before God, as we live forward together toward a better day.

]]> On All Saints Day, the past, present, and future converge in one eternal moment before God, as we live forward together toward a better day.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9507926 Sun, 07 Nov 2021 18:00:00 -0500 1040 All Saints, All Saints Day, Communion of the Saints, Hebrews full false On All Saints Day, the past, present, and future converge in one eternal moment before God, as we live forward together toward a better day. "With Glad and Generous Hearts" -- Acts 2:42-47, Deuteronomy 5:1-11 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) "With Glad and Generous Hearts" -- Acts 2:42-47, Deuteronomy 5:1-11 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) God’s generosity requires the practice of generosity at the heart of community, in the systems we inhabit, and in our everyday lives.

]]> God’s generosity requires the practice of generosity at the heart of community, in the systems we inhabit, and in our everyday lives.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9465801 Sun, 31 Oct 2021 16:00:00 -0400 1308 Deuteronomy, Generosity, Stewardship, Debt forgiveness, Economic justice, Practice full false God’s generosity requires the practice of generosity at the heart of community, in the systems we inhabit, and in our everyday lives. The Lion Is the Lamb -- Revelation 5:1-14 (Calvin Sodestrom, preaching) (22nd Sunday After Pentecost) The Lion Is the Lamb -- Revelation 5:1-14 (Calvin Sodestrom, preaching) (22nd Sunday After Pentecost) In the heavenly throne room, John hears Lion but sees Lamb.  Whether we recognize it or not, we are tempted to see God as a Lion, one who conquers through might and strength.  But God's power and strength is most clearly expressed in the self-giving sacrificial love of the Lamb.

]]> In the heavenly throne room, John hears Lion but sees Lamb.  Whether we recognize it or not, we are tempted to see God as a Lion, one who conquers through might and strength.  But God's power and strength is most clearly expressed in the self-giving sacrificial love of the Lamb.

]]> Calvin Sodestrom, Guest Preacher Buzzsprout-9438119 Sun, 24 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1249 full false In the heavenly throne room, John hears Lion but sees Lamb.  Whether we recognize it or not, we are tempted to see God as a Lion, one who conquers through might and strength.  But God's power and strength is most clearly expressed in the self-giving sacrificial love of the Lamb. Gracious Gleaning -- Ruth 2:1-16 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) Gracious Gleaning -- Ruth 2:1-16 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) In a world full of displaced peoples seeking shelter and home, welcoming each other is the work we are called to do.

]]> In a world full of displaced peoples seeking shelter and home, welcoming each other is the work we are called to do.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9385487 Sun, 17 Oct 2021 22:00:00 -0400 1762 Displaced peoples, Ruth, Book of Ruth, Gleaning full false In a world full of displaced peoples seeking shelter and home, welcoming each other is the work we are called to do. Perspectives of Human Nature -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17; Psalm 22:14; Mark 10: 21-22 (Rev. Ruth T. West, preaching) (20th Sunday After Pentecost) Perspectives of Human Nature -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17; Psalm 22:14; Mark 10: 21-22 (Rev. Ruth T. West, preaching) (20th Sunday After Pentecost) Rev. Ruth T. West Buzzsprout-9348817 Sun, 10 Oct 2021 11:00:00 -0400 1037 full false "The Wisdom and Power of God" -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (World Communion Sunday) "The Wisdom and Power of God" -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (World Communion Sunday) The wisdom of God turns the wisdom of the world on its head.  The wisdom of God is embodied in Jesus and in a community that stands with those whose backs are up against a wall – in ways of living that lead to more life for all people.

]]> The wisdom of God turns the wisdom of the world on its head.  The wisdom of God is embodied in Jesus and in a community that stands with those whose backs are up against a wall – in ways of living that lead to more life for all people.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9303149 Sun, 03 Oct 2021 17:00:00 -0400 1075 Wisdom, Communion, World Communion, First Corinthians, Apostle Paul full false The wisdom of God turns the wisdom of the world on its head.  The wisdom of God is embodied in Jesus and in a community that stands with those whose backs are up against a wall – in ways of living that lead to more life for all people. "Wisdom Is More a Who Than a What" -- Proverbs 8 -- Woman Wisdom's Call (Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost) "Wisdom Is More a Who Than a What" -- Proverbs 8 -- Woman Wisdom's Call (Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost) When Woman Wisdom rises up off the page, she smashes through the confines of patriarchy and invites us into a more expansive, freer world. 

]]> When Woman Wisdom rises up off the page, she smashes through the confines of patriarchy and invites us into a more expansive, freer world. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9268307 Sun, 26 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1180 Wisdom, Woman Wisdom, Inclusive Language, Expansive Language, Feminism, She Who Is, Proverbs full false When Woman Wisdom rises up off the page, she smashes through the confines of patriarchy and invites us into a more expansive, freer world.  Words Unwise and Wise -- James 1:29, 3:1-13 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) Words Unwise and Wise -- James 1:29, 3:1-13 (17th Sunday After Pentecost) Created in the image of a God who speaks worlds into being, our words have the power to speak realities into being. Wisdom helps us use that power for good.

]]> Created in the image of a God who speaks worlds into being, our words have the power to speak realities into being. Wisdom helps us use that power for good.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9223107 Sun, 19 Sep 2021 18:00:00 -0400 1221 Wisdom, Speech, Words, Silence, Clearness Committee full false Created in the image of a God who speaks worlds into being, our words have the power to speak realities into being. Wisdom helps us use that power for good. Wisdom in Action -- James 1:17-27 (Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost) Wisdom in Action -- James 1:17-27 (Sixteenth Sunday After Pentecost) Wisdom invites us to into lives of reflection, rethinking, and action – to live out the life of Christ in the lives we live.

]]> Wisdom invites us to into lives of reflection, rethinking, and action – to live out the life of Christ in the lives we live.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9183041 Sun, 12 Sep 2021 20:00:00 -0400 1686 Wisdom, Rethinking, James, Action Reflection, Spiritual Practices, Examen full false Wisdom invites us to into lives of reflection, rethinking, and action – to live out the life of Christ in the lives we live. Working Wisdom -- A Panel Conversation on Work in the Time of COVID -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Working Wisdom -- A Panel Conversation on Work in the Time of COVID -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 (15th Sunday After Pentecost) On Labor Day weekend, we share a conversation about work in the time of pandemic -- wisdom at the intersection of work and our life of faith.

]]> On Labor Day weekend, we share a conversation about work in the time of pandemic -- wisdom at the intersection of work and our life of faith.

]]> Panel: Cheryl Prowell, Vivian Volz, Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9154246 Sun, 05 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1225 work, wisdom, COVID, Labor Day full false On Labor Day weekend, we share a conversation about work in the time of pandemic -- wisdom at the intersection of work and our life of faith. The Wisdom of Generations -- Proverbs 3 (Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost) The Wisdom of Generations -- Proverbs 3 (Fourteenth Sunday After Pentecost) Wisdom is always-active, engaged, inter-generational, community learning – as we seek together for ways of living that lead to more life – for this moment and then the next.  

]]> Wisdom is always-active, engaged, inter-generational, community learning – as we seek together for ways of living that lead to more life – for this moment and then the next.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9110575 Mon, 30 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1452 Wisdom, Generational Wisdom, Proverbs, Marian Wright Edelman full false Wisdom is always-active, engaged, inter-generational, community learning – as we seek together for ways of living that lead to more life – for this moment and then the next.   The Beginning of Wisdom -- 1 Kings 3:1-15 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) The Beginning of Wisdom -- 1 Kings 3:1-15 (13th Sunday After Pentecost) In Wisdom, God is present with us in the questions, in the struggle, in the real stuff of life – helping us find ways of living that lead to more life. The beginning of wisdom is knowing that we know not, and listening with our whole heart – our whole selves – for the steadfast, loving presence of God, walking with us always into life.

]]> In Wisdom, God is present with us in the questions, in the struggle, in the real stuff of life – helping us find ways of living that lead to more life. The beginning of wisdom is knowing that we know not, and listening with our whole heart – our whole selves – for the steadfast, loving presence of God, walking with us always into life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9076350 Sun, 22 Aug 2021 20:00:00 -0400 1451 Wisdom, Unknowing, Solomon, Listening Heart full false In Wisdom, God is present with us in the questions, in the struggle, in the real stuff of life – helping us find ways of living that lead to more life. The beginning of wisdom is knowing that we know not, and listening with our whole heart – our whole selves – for the steadfast, loving presence of God, walking with us always into life. "For the Children" -- Luke 9:46-48 (Patrick O'Connor preaching) (12th Sunday After Pentecost) "For the Children" -- Luke 9:46-48 (Patrick O'Connor preaching) (12th Sunday After Pentecost) God calls us to welcome all God's children.  As we welcome children, God welcomes all of us.

]]> God calls us to welcome all God's children.  As we welcome children, God welcomes all of us.

]]> Patrick O'Connor Buzzsprout-9038408 Sun, 15 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0400 1085 Welcome, Children, Lovingkindness full false God calls us to welcome all God's children.  As we welcome children, God welcomes all of us. The Welcoming Body of Christ -- Ephesians 4:1-16 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) The Welcoming Body of Christ -- Ephesians 4:1-16 (11th Sunday After Pentecost) The Welcoming Body of Christ works for the freedom of all bodies so that, individually and together, we can all be all that we are created to be, in love. The body of Christ is not complete until all bodies are free.

]]> The Welcoming Body of Christ works for the freedom of all bodies so that, individually and together, we can all be all that we are created to be, in love. The body of Christ is not complete until all bodies are free.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-9006908 Sun, 08 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1478 Body of Christ, Welcome, Freedom, Bodies, Embodiment, Ephesians, Installation full false The Welcoming Body of Christ works for the freedom of all bodies so that, individually and together, we can all be all that we are created to be, in love. The body of Christ is not complete until all bodies are free. The Rhythm of Welcome -- John 6:24-35 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) The Rhythm of Welcome -- John 6:24-35 (10th Sunday After Pentecost) In the rhythm of all our coming and going, in our gathering and going out and gathering again, Jesus says: “I am the bread of life – I will always welcome you in. Trust into me.” Moving forward together, we act in vulnerability and courage in the midst of the unknown; we experience authenticity; and we build trust.

]]> In the rhythm of all our coming and going, in our gathering and going out and gathering again, Jesus says: “I am the bread of life – I will always welcome you in. Trust into me.” Moving forward together, we act in vulnerability and courage in the midst of the unknown; we experience authenticity; and we build trust.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8957600 Sun, 01 Aug 2021 17:00:00 -0400 1397 COVID, Jesus, Welcome, Trust, Belief Gospel of John, Miraculous Feeding full false In the rhythm of all our coming and going, in our gathering and going out and gathering again, Jesus says: “I am the bread of life – I will always welcome you in. Trust into me.” Moving forward together, we act in vulnerability and courage in the midst of the unknown; we experience authenticity; and we build trust. Unwelcome (Dis)Comfort -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) Unwelcome (Dis)Comfort -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 (9th Sunday After Pentecost) With discomforting Scriptures, the Spirit unsettles us and challenges us to see and name how we participate in systems that oppress, to change, and to join God's work of welcome and justice.

]]> With discomforting Scriptures, the Spirit unsettles us and challenges us to see and name how we participate in systems that oppress, to change, and to join God's work of welcome and justice.

]]> Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-8930252 Sun, 25 Jul 2021 10:00:00 -0400 1670 David, Batsheba, Violence, Justice full false With discomforting Scriptures, the Spirit unsettles us and challenges us to see and name how we participate in systems that oppress, to change, and to join God's work of welcome and justice. Welcoming God -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 (Seventh Sunday After Pentecost) Welcoming God -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 (Seventh Sunday After Pentecost) The welcome we return to God must be as loving and liberating as the welcome we have received – a welcome that names and dismantles every system that holds anyone anywhere down, a welcome that leaves no one behind, a welcome that sets the whole world free. 

]]> The welcome we return to God must be as loving and liberating as the welcome we have received – a welcome that names and dismantles every system that holds anyone anywhere down, a welcome that leaves no one behind, a welcome that sets the whole world free. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8846284 Sun, 11 Jul 2021 16:00:00 -0400 1574 Michal, Uzzah, David, 1 Samuel, Justice, Welcome full false The welcome we return to God must be as loving and liberating as the welcome we have received – a welcome that names and dismantles every system that holds anyone anywhere down, a welcome that leaves no one behind, a welcome that sets the whole world free.  Shake Off the Dust -- Mark 6:1-13 (Sixth Sunday After Pentecost) Shake Off the Dust -- Mark 6:1-13 (Sixth Sunday After Pentecost) Jesus rejects inhospitality, welcomes everyone, and insists that we do too – through the spiritual practice of hospitality. The practice of hospitality invites us to approach every encounter (in our families, church, community, and nation) with a commitment to welcome:  What are the barriers here?  What does hospitality require of us?

]]> Jesus rejects inhospitality, welcomes everyone, and insists that we do too – through the spiritual practice of hospitality. The practice of hospitality invites us to approach every encounter (in our families, church, community, and nation) with a commitment to welcome:  What are the barriers here?  What does hospitality require of us?

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8814813 Mon, 05 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400 1366 Hospitality, Welcome, Inclusion, Immigration full false Jesus rejects inhospitality, welcomes everyone, and insists that we do too – through the spiritual practice of hospitality. The practice of hospitality invites us to approach every encounter (in our families, church, community, and nation) with a commitment to welcome:  What are the barriers here?  What does hospitality require of us? How Love Shows Up -- 1 Sam. 17:57-18:5, 2 Sam. 1:1, 17-27 (5th Sunday After Pentecost; Pride Sunday) How Love Shows Up -- 1 Sam. 17:57-18:5, 2 Sam. 1:1, 17-27 (5th Sunday After Pentecost; Pride Sunday) We are how love shows up in the world – God’s love for the whole world, embodied in humanity, in us.

]]> We are how love shows up in the world – God’s love for the whole world, embodied in humanity, in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8772271 Sun, 27 Jun 2021 18:00:00 -0400 1498 Love, Jonathan & David, David & Jonathan, Pride, LGBTQIA+, Justice, Welcome full false We are how love shows up in the world – God’s love for the whole world, embodied in humanity, in us. God Chooses You -- 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 (Third Sunday After Pentecost) God Chooses You -- 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 (Third Sunday After Pentecost) God has chosen to be Christ for the world, and in that choice, God continues to choose us again and again.

]]> God has chosen to be Christ for the world, and in that choice, God continues to choose us again and again.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8700980 Sun, 13 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1332 Inclusion, Welcome, David, Doctrine of Election, Love full false God has chosen to be Christ for the world, and in that choice, God continues to choose us again and again. Take the Call -- Exodus 3:4-14 (Second Sunday After Pentecost; Graduation Sunday) Take the Call -- Exodus 3:4-14 (Second Sunday After Pentecost; Graduation Sunday) God calls us to be part of God's creation work; may we take the call.

]]> God calls us to be part of God's creation work; may we take the call.

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-8654769 Sun, 06 Jun 2021 17:00:00 -0400 1165 Call, Calling, Moses, Burning Bush, Vocation, Graduation full false God calls us to be part of God's creation work; may we take the call. What Happens Next -- Acts 2:42-3:10 (Trinity Sunday) What Happens Next -- Acts 2:42-3:10 (Trinity Sunday) God’s own life is life lived in community – in community and mutuality – reaching out to us, and inviting us and the whole world in. Our life in Christ is life in community, reaching out to the world with Christ's healing touch in our hands.

]]> God’s own life is life lived in community – in community and mutuality – reaching out to us, and inviting us and the whole world in. Our life in Christ is life in community, reaching out to the world with Christ's healing touch in our hands.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8614600 Sun, 30 May 2021 18:00:00 -0400 1660 Trinity Sunday, Trinity, Acts, Community, COVID full false God’s own life is life lived in community – in community and mutuality – reaching out to us, and inviting us and the whole world in. Our life in Christ is life in community, reaching out to the world with Christ's healing touch in our hands. "Moments of Shared Witnessing" -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) "Moments of Shared Witnessing" -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost Sunday) At Pentecost, in a moment of shared witnessing, we find the life of Christ alive in us. Moments of shared witnessing are not just about what the audience sees and hears; they are also about the story we then tell – the lives we live – the song we sing.

]]> At Pentecost, in a moment of shared witnessing, we find the life of Christ alive in us. Moments of shared witnessing are not just about what the audience sees and hears; they are also about the story we then tell – the lives we live – the song we sing.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8574332 Sun, 23 May 2021 20:00:00 -0400 1437 Pentecost, Holy Spirit, Spirit, Listening, Hanif Abdurraqib, Aretha Franklin, Pandemic full false At Pentecost, in a moment of shared witnessing, we find the life of Christ alive in us. Moments of shared witnessing are not just about what the audience sees and hears; they are also about the story we then tell – the lives we live – the song we sing. Here We Go -- Acts 1:1-11 (Ascension Sunday) Here We Go -- Acts 1:1-11 (Ascension Sunday) The Risen Christ Ascends with a blessing and an assignment for the here and now.  Here we go!

]]> The Risen Christ Ascends with a blessing and an assignment for the here and now.  Here we go!

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8536231 Sun, 16 May 2021 14:00:00 -0400 1345 Ascension, Risen Christ, Easter, Resurrection, Reopening, Re-entry full false The Risen Christ Ascends with a blessing and an assignment for the here and now.  Here we go! Where Love Abides -- 1 John 4:7-21 (Sixth Sunday of Easter) Where Love Abides -- 1 John 4:7-21 (Sixth Sunday of Easter) First John 4 offers us a topography of where love abides – how we locate ourselves and move around in love, as we abide in God, and God abides and us.

]]> First John 4 offers us a topography of where love abides – how we locate ourselves and move around in love, as we abide in God, and God abides and us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8496155 Sun, 09 May 2021 21:00:00 -0400 1463 Love, 1 John, Topography, Topographies, City Lights Bookstore, Abiding full false First John 4 offers us a topography of where love abides – how we locate ourselves and move around in love, as we abide in God, and God abides and us. The Bread We Break -- Luke 24:13-35 (Fifth Sunday of Easter) The Bread We Break -- Luke 24:13-35 (Fifth Sunday of Easter) Stories about bread take us deep into the heart of the most basic human need.  And we find God there. In the bread we break, the Risen Christ makes us bread for the world.

]]> Stories about bread take us deep into the heart of the most basic human need.  And we find God there. In the bread we break, the Risen Christ makes us bread for the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8452711 Sun, 02 May 2021 17:00:00 -0400 1280 Easter, Road to Emmaus, Bread, Hunger, Hunger Action, Bread for the World full false Stories about bread take us deep into the heart of the most basic human need.  And we find God there. In the bread we break, the Risen Christ makes us bread for the world. Be Bold -- Acts 14:1-4 (Ariel Mink, preaching) (Fourth Sunday of Easter) Be Bold -- Acts 14:1-4 (Ariel Mink, preaching) (Fourth Sunday of Easter) We are Easter people, called and empowered by God through the Spirit of the Risen Christ to be bold, live out our faith, and challenge the powers that oppress.

]]> We are Easter people, called and empowered by God through the Spirit of the Risen Christ to be bold, live out our faith, and challenge the powers that oppress.

]]> Ariel Mink, Stated Clerk, Presbytery of the Redwoods Buzzsprout-8406658 Mon, 26 Apr 2021 11:00:00 -0400 1279 Resurrection, Easter, Acts, Easter people full false We are Easter people, called and empowered by God through the Spirit of the Risen Christ to be bold, live out our faith, and challenge the powers that oppress. Broiled Fish and Cinnamon Toast -- Luke 24:36b-48 (Third Sunday of Easter) Broiled Fish and Cinnamon Toast -- Luke 24:36b-48 (Third Sunday of Easter) In stories of sharing broiled fish and cinnamon toast, we see this: Resurrection is an everyday, embodied experience of the Risen Christ – embodied in us. Witnesses are those who see and go out and live what they have learned and loved, for the blessing of the whole world.  

]]> In stories of sharing broiled fish and cinnamon toast, we see this: Resurrection is an everyday, embodied experience of the Risen Christ – embodied in us. Witnesses are those who see and go out and live what they have learned and loved, for the blessing of the whole world.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8357256 Sun, 18 Apr 2021 16:00:00 -0400 1086 Resurrection, Cinnamon Toast, Broiled Fish, Embodiment, Embodied full false In stories of sharing broiled fish and cinnamon toast, we see this: Resurrection is an everyday, embodied experience of the Risen Christ – embodied in us. Witnesses are those who see and go out and live what they have learned and loved, for the blessing of the whole world.   “Life, in Jesus’s Name” -- Acts 4:32-35; John 20:19-31 (Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso, preaching) (Second Sunday of Easter) “Life, in Jesus’s Name” -- Acts 4:32-35; John 20:19-31 (Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso, preaching) (Second Sunday of Easter) Resurrection opens up the power of life to overturn death and its forces, and the choice to center ourselves in that reality. To live lives of resurrection hope that pour compassion and love and justice and forgiveness and healing into all the world’s wounds. 

]]> Resurrection opens up the power of life to overturn death and its forces, and the choice to center ourselves in that reality. To live lives of resurrection hope that pour compassion and love and justice and forgiveness and healing into all the world’s wounds. 

]]> Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso Buzzsprout-8318758 Sun, 11 Apr 2021 10:00:00 -0400 1110 Resurrection, COVID19, Community, Easter full false Resurrection opens up the power of life to overturn death and its forces, and the choice to center ourselves in that reality. To live lives of resurrection hope that pour compassion and love and justice and forgiveness and healing into all the world’s wounds.  The Blessing of Life -- Mark 16:1-8 (Easter Sunday) The Blessing of Life -- Mark 16:1-8 (Easter Sunday) In Resurrection, the Risen Christ blesses us with life, and invites us to go and tell the story with the lives we live. When the Gospel of Mark tells the story of Resurrection – in language spare and startling – “He is risen!  He’s gone ahead to meet you.  Just like he said.  Go and tell the others” – it invites us to write ourselves into the narrative.

]]> In Resurrection, the Risen Christ blesses us with life, and invites us to go and tell the story with the lives we live. When the Gospel of Mark tells the story of Resurrection – in language spare and startling – “He is risen!  He’s gone ahead to meet you.  Just like he said.  Go and tell the others” – it invites us to write ourselves into the narrative.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8274090 Sun, 04 Apr 2021 09:00:00 -0400 967 Easter, Resurrection, Gospel of Mark, Mark 16:1-8, Hamilton, Eliza Hamilton full false In Resurrection, the Risen Christ blesses us with life, and invites us to go and tell the story with the lives we live. When the Gospel of Mark tells the story of Resurrection – in language spare and startling – “He is risen!  He’s gone ahead to meet you.  Just like he said.  Go and tell the others” – it invites us to write ourselves into the narrative. The Blessing of Foolishness -- Mark 11:1-11 (Palm Sunday) The Blessing of Foolishness -- Mark 11:1-11 (Palm Sunday) In Palm Sunday, the cross, and the empty tomb, Jesus blesses the world by declaring a new reality with his body. This is what Jesus is doing on Palm Sunday, inviting us with his body, gathered with our bodies, to proclaim the Good News he has come to make real.

]]> In Palm Sunday, the cross, and the empty tomb, Jesus blesses the world by declaring a new reality with his body. This is what Jesus is doing on Palm Sunday, inviting us with his body, gathered with our bodies, to proclaim the Good News he has come to make real.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8233064 Sun, 28 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400 1281 Palm Sunday, Procession, Protest, Meaning Making, Rebecca Solnit, Resurrection full false In Palm Sunday, the cross, and the empty tomb, Jesus blesses the world by declaring a new reality with his body. This is what Jesus is doing on Palm Sunday, inviting us with his body, gathered with our bodies, to proclaim the Good News he has come to make real. The Blessing of Tears to Shed -- Psalm 22 (Fifth Sunday in Lent) The Blessing of Tears to Shed -- Psalm 22 (Fifth Sunday in Lent) As we listen to the lament of Psalm 22, of Jesus from the cross, of the prayers of Celtic spirituality, and of our own world, we find our way to this blessing: God blesses us with tears to shed with each other, the presence of God in the midst of our suffering.

]]> As we listen to the lament of Psalm 22, of Jesus from the cross, of the prayers of Celtic spirituality, and of our own world, we find our way to this blessing: God blesses us with tears to shed with each other, the presence of God in the midst of our suffering.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8187427 Mon, 22 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0400 1310 Tears, Crying, Lament, Psalms, Psalm 22, Suffering, Lent, Blessing, Celtic Spirituality full false As we listen to the lament of Psalm 22, of Jesus from the cross, of the prayers of Celtic spirituality, and of our own world, we find our way to this blessing: God blesses us with tears to shed with each other, the presence of God in the midst of our suffering. The Blessing of a Name -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 (Patrick O'Connor preaching) (Fourth Sunday in Lent) The Blessing of a Name -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 (Patrick O'Connor preaching) (Fourth Sunday in Lent) In the blessing of a name, God claims us as God's own; and in our names for God, we use metaphor to offer glimpses of what we see of God.

]]> In the blessing of a name, God claims us as God's own; and in our names for God, we use metaphor to offer glimpses of what we see of God.

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-8139313 Sun, 14 Mar 2021 18:00:00 -0400 1407 Names, Abraham, Sarah, Metaphor, Sally McFague, Names for God full false In the blessing of a name, God claims us as God's own; and in our names for God, we use metaphor to offer glimpses of what we see of God. The Blessing of Anger -- John 2:13-22 (Third Sunday in Lent) The Blessing of Anger -- John 2:13-22 (Third Sunday in Lent) In the blessing of anger, Jesus takes a stance against everything that does us harm, and invites us into Resurrection life.

]]> In the blessing of anger, Jesus takes a stance against everything that does us harm, and invites us into Resurrection life.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-8095117 Sun, 07 Mar 2021 17:00:00 -0500 1221 Lent, Anger, Blessing, Justice, Marriage Equality, Gospel of John full false In the blessing of anger, Jesus takes a stance against everything that does us harm, and invites us into Resurrection life. The Blessing of the Cross -- Mark 8:31-38 (Rev. Allie Utley preaching) (Second Sunday in Lent) The Blessing of the Cross -- Mark 8:31-38 (Rev. Allie Utley preaching) (Second Sunday in Lent) Rev. Allie Utley leads us in a reflection on the troubling image of the cross and invites us to consider this:  In the suffering of the cross, God knows us, intimately, the whole of our human experience, including our sorrow and pain.

]]> Rev. Allie Utley leads us in a reflection on the troubling image of the cross and invites us to consider this:  In the suffering of the cross, God knows us, intimately, the whole of our human experience, including our sorrow and pain.

]]> Rev. Allie Utley Buzzsprout-8053283 Mon, 01 Mar 2021 13:00:00 -0500 1043 Cross, Suffering, Lent full false Rev. Allie Utley leads us in a reflection on the troubling image of the cross and invites us to consider this:  In the suffering of the cross, God knows us, intimately, the whole of our human experience, including our sorrow and pain. The Blessing of Discomfort -- Isaiah 58:1-12 (First Sunday in Lent) The Blessing of Discomfort -- Isaiah 58:1-12 (First Sunday in Lent) In our Lenten journey, God blesses us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that we might live deeply and from the heart.

]]> In our Lenten journey, God blesses us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that we might live deeply and from the heart.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7999435 Sun, 21 Feb 2021 20:00:00 -0500 1307 Blessing of Discomfort, Isaiah, Lent, Anti-Racism, White Fragility, CPE full false In our Lenten journey, God blesses us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that we might live deeply and from the heart. The Blessing of Dust -- Psalm 103 (Ash Wednesday) The Blessing of Dust -- Psalm 103 (Ash Wednesday) On Ash Wednesday, we remember that we are dust and that God’s steadfast love endures forever.  With God, what will we make of the dust of our lives?

]]> On Ash Wednesday, we remember that we are dust and that God’s steadfast love endures forever.  With God, what will we make of the dust of our lives?

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7944880 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0500 911 Ash Wednesday, Dust, Psalm 103 full false On Ash Wednesday, we remember that we are dust and that God’s steadfast love endures forever.  With God, what will we make of the dust of our lives? The Silence Between the Words -- Mark 9:2-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) The Silence Between the Words -- Mark 9:2-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) Transfiguration brings us to the place where the words run out, and invites us into the holy experience of silence – the place where we meet God in ways that words simply cannot express.

]]> Transfiguration brings us to the place where the words run out, and invites us into the holy experience of silence – the place where we meet God in ways that words simply cannot express.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7866439 Sun, 14 Feb 2021 19:00:00 -0500 1362 Transfiguration, Silence, Contemplation, Contemplative Prayer full false Transfiguration brings us to the place where the words run out, and invites us into the holy experience of silence – the place where we meet God in ways that words simply cannot express. "The Real Presence of Christ" -- Mark 14:17-26 (Fifth Sunday After Epiphany) "The Real Presence of Christ" -- Mark 14:17-26 (Fifth Sunday After Epiphany) In communion, we embody the real presence of Christ. The real presence of Christ is not complete without you.

]]> In communion, we embody the real presence of Christ. The real presence of Christ is not complete without you.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7745395 Sun, 07 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0500 1054 Communion, Real Presence of Christ, John Calvin, Last Supper, Inclusion full false In communion, we embody the real presence of Christ. The real presence of Christ is not complete without you. Psalm 139: Seen & Known -- Rev Ashley DeTar Birt (Fourth Sunday in Epiphany) Psalm 139: Seen & Known -- Rev Ashley DeTar Birt (Fourth Sunday in Epiphany) Psalm 139 invites us to see ourselves and each other as seen and known by God.

]]> Psalm 139 invites us to see ourselves and each other as seen and known by God.

]]> Rev. Ashley DeTar Birt Buzzsprout-7613965 Sun, 31 Jan 2021 14:00:00 -0500 1265 Psalm 139 full false Psalm 139 invites us to see ourselves and each other as seen and known by God. "Together We Serve" -- John 1:35-51 (Third Sunday After Epiphany) "Together We Serve" -- John 1:35-51 (Third Sunday After Epiphany) The Word becomes flesh as Jesus calls us into community – and we call each other – “Together We Serve.” The Word becomes flesh not at the centers of power – but in the vibrant pulse of life at the margins – in everyday folk and our everyday lives – in this Jesus of Nazareth, in this community of mutuality.

]]> The Word becomes flesh as Jesus calls us into community – and we call each other – “Together We Serve.” The Word becomes flesh not at the centers of power – but in the vibrant pulse of life at the margins – in everyday folk and our everyday lives – in this Jesus of Nazareth, in this community of mutuality.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7498324 Tue, 26 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500 1248 Community, Mutuality, Amanda Gorman, Together We Serve, Service, Gospel of John, Disciples, Calling full false The Word becomes flesh as Jesus calls us into community – and we call each other – “Together We Serve.” The Word becomes flesh not at the centers of power – but in the vibrant pulse of life at the margins – in everyday folk and our everyday lives – in this Jesus of Nazareth, in this community of mutuality. "Grace Abounds" -- Galatians 1:11-24 (Second Sunday of Epiphany; MLK Sunday) "Grace Abounds" -- Galatians 1:11-24 (Second Sunday of Epiphany; MLK Sunday) Grace is God’s unconditional love for the whole world.  Grace insists that we say true things about systems of oppression and our complicity in those systems, and then calls us to change.  Grace then allows those who have participated in the harm to participate in the healing.

]]> Grace is God’s unconditional love for the whole world.  Grace insists that we say true things about systems of oppression and our complicity in those systems, and then calls us to change.  Grace then allows those who have participated in the harm to participate in the healing.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7339114 Sun, 17 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0500 1327 Grace, Racism, Anti-Racism, MLK, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Letter from Birmingham Jail, Repentance, Whiteness, Systemic Racism full false Grace is God’s unconditional love for the whole world.  Grace insists that we say true things about systems of oppression and our complicity in those systems, and then calls us to change.  Grace then allows those who have participated in the harm to participate in the healing. The Words We Say -- "A Place for You Here" -- Mark 1:1-15 (First Sunday After Epiphany) The Words We Say -- "A Place for You Here" -- Mark 1:1-15 (First Sunday After Epiphany) Claimed as God’s beloved in baptism, Jesus calls us to the work of making manifest in our humanity the life-giving, life-honoring reign of God.

]]> Claimed as God’s beloved in baptism, Jesus calls us to the work of making manifest in our humanity the life-giving, life-honoring reign of God.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7242328 Mon, 11 Jan 2021 14:00:00 -0500 1355 Baptism, Epiphany, Anti-Racism, White Supremacy, Reign of God, Gospel of Mark full false Claimed as God’s beloved in baptism, Jesus calls us to the work of making manifest in our humanity the life-giving, life-honoring reign of God. "This Is the Day" -- John 1:1-14; Psalm 118 (Second Sunday of Christmas & Sunday Before Epiphany) "This Is the Day" -- John 1:1-14; Psalm 118 (Second Sunday of Christmas & Sunday Before Epiphany) On the first Sunday of a new year, we turn to the beginning of the Gospel of John, affirming that God's Word becomes flesh in the midst of us. Always, as we begin again, Christ manifests God’s Word in us.

]]> On the first Sunday of a new year, we turn to the beginning of the Gospel of John, affirming that God's Word becomes flesh in the midst of us. Always, as we begin again, Christ manifests God’s Word in us.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-7117660 Sun, 03 Jan 2021 20:00:00 -0500 1141 Epiphany, Christmas, Incarnation, Embodiment, Spiritual Practice, Practicing the Presence of God, Gospel of John, Psalm 118 full false On the first Sunday of a new year, we turn to the beginning of the Gospel of John, affirming that God's Word becomes flesh in the midst of us. Always, as we begin again, Christ manifests God’s Word in us. Overlooking the Obvious -- 2 Peter 3:9-14 (Rev. Reginald Avant, preaching) (2nd Sunday in Advent) Overlooking the Obvious -- 2 Peter 3:9-14 (Rev. Reginald Avant, preaching) (2nd Sunday in Advent) Advent hope brings with it this question: Who do you want to be when Christ comes?

]]> Advent hope brings with it this question: Who do you want to be when Christ comes?

]]> Rev. Reginald Avant Buzzsprout-6774148 Wed, 09 Dec 2020 15:00:00 -0500 1305 Advent, Hope full false Advent hope brings with it this question: Who do you want to be when Christ comes? "Light Dawns on a Weary World" -- Mark 13:24-37 (First Sunday of Advent) "Light Dawns on a Weary World" -- Mark 13:24-37 (First Sunday of Advent) This Sunday, we begin our Advent theme: "Light Dawns on a Weary World."  In the dawning of Christ’s new day, Jesus invites us to keep on watching – watching out for ourselves and each other, watching for what God is doing in the world, watching for the work that is ours to do.

]]> This Sunday, we begin our Advent theme: "Light Dawns on a Weary World."  In the dawning of Christ’s new day, Jesus invites us to keep on watching – watching out for ourselves and each other, watching for what God is doing in the world, watching for the work that is ours to do.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-6604978 Sun, 29 Nov 2020 18:00:00 -0500 1225 Advent, Kairos, Calendar, Spiritual Practices, Attention, Weary World, Hope, Mark 13 full false This Sunday, we begin our Advent theme: "Light Dawns on a Weary World."  In the dawning of Christ’s new day, Jesus invites us to keep on watching – watching out for ourselves and each other, watching for what God is doing in the world, watching for the work that is ours to do. Where Christ (the King) Stands -- Matthew 25:31-46 (Christ the King Sunday) Where Christ (the King) Stands -- Matthew 25:31-46 (Christ the King Sunday) The kingdom of God is like an ICU nurse.  Christ the King stands in power and tender mercy with those whose backs are up against the wall, and brings about Christ’s reign of justice, healing, and peace. 

]]> The kingdom of God is like an ICU nurse.  Christ the King stands in power and tender mercy with those whose backs are up against the wall, and brings about Christ’s reign of justice, healing, and peace. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-6498532 Sun, 22 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0500 1191 Christ the King, Howard Thurman, COVID-19, ICU Nurses, Reign of Christ full false The kingdom of God is like an ICU nurse.  Christ the King stands in power and tender mercy with those whose backs are up against the wall, and brings about Christ’s reign of justice, healing, and peace.  Stay Woke -- 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (Rev. Ruth T. West, preaching) (24th Sunday After Pentecost) Stay Woke -- 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (Rev. Ruth T. West, preaching) (24th Sunday After Pentecost) In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we hear a call to stay woke, to see what we see, and to be changed for good.

]]> In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we hear a call to stay woke, to see what we see, and to be changed for good.

]]> Rev. Ruth T. West Buzzsprout-6387208 Sun, 15 Nov 2020 18:00:00 -0500 1155 Stay Woke, Thessalonians full false In Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, we hear a call to stay woke, to see what we see, and to be changed for good. Steady On -- Matthew 7:24-29 & Psalm 46 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) Steady On -- Matthew 7:24-29 & Psalm 46 (23rd Sunday After Pentecost) Amid the storm, what we are doing here is building the house of our lives on the sure and steady foundation of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. Hope is what we do every morning when we rise with the day and say, “We can do this.”  

 

]]> Amid the storm, what we are doing here is building the house of our lives on the sure and steady foundation of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. Hope is what we do every morning when we rise with the day and say, “We can do this.”  

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-6278170 Sun, 08 Nov 2020 17:00:00 -0500 1167 Hope, Stewardship, Election, Voter suppression, Voting rights, Stacey Abrams full false Amid the storm, what we are doing here is building the house of our lives on the sure and steady foundation of God’s love for us in Jesus Christ. Hope is what we do every morning when we rise with the day and say, “We can do this.”     The Hope of the Saints -- Deuteronomy 8:6-18 (All Saints Day; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) The Hope of the Saints -- Deuteronomy 8:6-18 (All Saints Day; 22nd Sunday After Pentecost) In the communion of the saints, our memory of life with God yesterday points us to where and how we might find our way to life today and tomorrow – not just for us, but for our children and our grandchildren, and for all the generations yet to come.

]]> In the communion of the saints, our memory of life with God yesterday points us to where and how we might find our way to life today and tomorrow – not just for us, but for our children and our grandchildren, and for all the generations yet to come.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-6172807 Sun, 01 Nov 2020 16:00:00 -0500 1160 Communion of the saints, All Saints' Day, saints, memory, Deuteronomy full false In the communion of the saints, our memory of life with God yesterday points us to where and how we might find our way to life today and tomorrow – not just for us, but for our children and our grandchildren, and for all the generations yet to come. "The World Is Full of Wonderful Things" -- Philippians 4:4-8 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) "The World Is Full of Wonderful Things" -- Philippians 4:4-8 (21st Sunday After Pentecost) Even in the midst of a troublous world, standing in the unshakeoffable love of Jesus Christ, we affirm: "The world is full of wonderful things."

]]> Even in the midst of a troublous world, standing in the unshakeoffable love of Jesus Christ, we affirm: "The world is full of wonderful things."

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-6056785 Sun, 25 Oct 2020 17:00:00 -0400 927 Baptism, Joy, Philippians, Apostle Paul full false Even in the midst of a troublous world, standing in the unshakeoffable love of Jesus Christ, we affirm: "The world is full of wonderful things." Still Amazed -- Matthew 22:15-22 (Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso, preaching) (Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost) Still Amazed -- Matthew 22:15-22 (Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso, preaching) (Twentieth Sunday After Pentecost)  The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to the Emperor. Jesus surprises us with a life-giving both/and when we’re preparing for an artificial yes or no. We follow One who sees the trap coming, unmasks the hypocrisy, and still sends the questioners away with new things to think about.  The Resurrected One has the power to turn our traps and tricks into astonishment and newness.

]]>  The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to the Emperor. Jesus surprises us with a life-giving both/and when we’re preparing for an artificial yes or no. We follow One who sees the trap coming, unmasks the hypocrisy, and still sends the questioners away with new things to think about.  The Resurrected One has the power to turn our traps and tricks into astonishment and newness.

]]> Rev. Dr. Aimee Moiso Buzzsprout-5982226 Tue, 20 Oct 2020 13:00:00 -0400 1059 Amazement, Taxes, Jesus, Pharisees, Questions full false  The Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to the Emperor. Jesus surprises us with a life-giving both/and when we’re preparing for an artificial yes or no. We follow One who sees the trap coming, unmasks the hypocrisy, and still sends the questioners away with new things to think about.  The Resurrected One has the power to turn our traps and tricks into astonishment and newness. What Kings Do -- Why Every Vote Matters -- 1 Samuel 8 (19th Sunday After Pentecost) What Kings Do -- Why Every Vote Matters -- 1 Samuel 8 (19th Sunday After Pentecost) In an election year, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life, and consider the danger of tyranny and systemic racism, the promise of the right to vote, efforts to suppress that right, and our power to make a difference.  In God’s sovereignty, God honors our agency to choose, inviting and empowering us to participate in God’s re-making of the world.

]]> In an election year, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life, and consider the danger of tyranny and systemic racism, the promise of the right to vote, efforts to suppress that right, and our power to make a difference.  In God’s sovereignty, God honors our agency to choose, inviting and empowering us to participate in God’s re-making of the world.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-5856151 Mon, 12 Oct 2020 11:00:00 -0400 1262 Sovereignty of God, voting, right to vote, voter suppression, tyranny, faith and public life, election full false In an election year, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life, and consider the danger of tyranny and systemic racism, the promise of the right to vote, efforts to suppress that right, and our power to make a difference.  In God’s sovereignty, God honors our agency to choose, inviting and empowering us to participate in God’s re-making of the world. How Free People Live -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-17 (The Ten Commandments) (18th Sunday After Pentecost) How Free People Live -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-17 (The Ten Commandments) (18th Sunday After Pentecost) This sermon looks at the Ten Commandments as (1) an expression of how free people live, (2) a trust document, and (3) a law called love. Then, thinking of the Ten Commandments particularly as a trust document (an expression of accountability), we ask, "How have we done by Breonna Taylor and her family?" How can we better live into freedom, trust, and love?

 

]]> This sermon looks at the Ten Commandments as (1) an expression of how free people live, (2) a trust document, and (3) a law called love. Then, thinking of the Ten Commandments particularly as a trust document (an expression of accountability), we ask, "How have we done by Breonna Taylor and her family?" How can we better live into freedom, trust, and love?

 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-5747371 Sun, 04 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1276 Ten Commandments, Breonna Taylor, COVID19, Trust, Love, Anti-Racism, Racism full false This sermon looks at the Ten Commandments as (1) an expression of how free people live, (2) a trust document, and (3) a law called love. Then, thinking of the Ten Commandments particularly as a trust document (an expression of accountability), we ask, "How have we done by Breonna Taylor and her family?" How can we better live into freedom, trust, and love?   Help from Above -- Psalm 121 (Rev. Yolanda Norton, preaching) ( 17th Sunday After Pentecost) Help from Above -- Psalm 121 (Rev. Yolanda Norton, preaching) ( 17th Sunday After Pentecost) Psalm 121 sustains us on the journey with (1) the open possibility of a question, (2) confession of our own reality (the best and the worst of it), and (3) a blessing and a breath. And then, Rev. Yolanda Norton blesses us with this: “Be the muddy river that accumulates all of the things that God has created and shines in the midst of it.”

]]> Psalm 121 sustains us on the journey with (1) the open possibility of a question, (2) confession of our own reality (the best and the worst of it), and (3) a blessing and a breath. And then, Rev. Yolanda Norton blesses us with this: “Be the muddy river that accumulates all of the things that God has created and shines in the midst of it.”

]]> Rev. Yolanda Norton Buzzsprout-5639692 Sun, 27 Sep 2020 11:00:00 -0400 1033 Psalm 121, COVID19, Langston Hughes, Journey full false Psalm 121 sustains us on the journey with (1) the open possibility of a question, (2) confession of our own reality (the best and the worst of it), and (3) a blessing and a breath. And then, Rev. Yolanda Norton blesses us with this: “Be the muddy river that accumulates all of the things that God has created and shines in the midst of it.” Long Haul Living -- Exodus 16:2-15 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) Long Haul Living -- Exodus 16:2-15 (16th Sunday After Pentecost) Freed from Egypt, out in the desert, the Hebrew people grumble because there is no food and they are hungry.  God listens, and provides manna in the morning.  In the long-haul of a wilderness journey, God provides enough, each day, for the living of these days.

]]> Freed from Egypt, out in the desert, the Hebrew people grumble because there is no food and they are hungry.  God listens, and provides manna in the morning.  In the long-haul of a wilderness journey, God provides enough, each day, for the living of these days.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-5522116 Sun, 20 Sep 2020 15:00:00 -0400 1317 Manna, Wilderness, COVID19, Moses, Grumbling full false Freed from Egypt, out in the desert, the Hebrew people grumble because there is no food and they are hungry.  God listens, and provides manna in the morning.  In the long-haul of a wilderness journey, God provides enough, each day, for the living of these days. Sabbath, the Sequel -- Genesis 2:1-2, Mark 2:23-28 (Patrick O'Connor, preaching) (15th Sunday After Pentecost) Sabbath, the Sequel -- Genesis 2:1-2, Mark 2:23-28 (Patrick O'Connor, preaching) (15th Sunday After Pentecost) In the gift of Sabbath, God invites us into the practice of compassion, and to ask, “What is it that my soul craves in this moment?”

]]> In the gift of Sabbath, God invites us into the practice of compassion, and to ask, “What is it that my soul craves in this moment?”

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-5420776 Sun, 13 Sep 2020 15:00:00 -0400 1002 Sabbath, Compassion, Compassion Camp, Family Ministries full false In the gift of Sabbath, God invites us into the practice of compassion, and to ask, “What is it that my soul craves in this moment?” Belonging -- Acts 1:15-26 (Allie Utley, SFTS Interim Chaplain, preaching) (14th Sunday After Pentecost) Belonging -- Acts 1:15-26 (Allie Utley, SFTS Interim Chaplain, preaching) (14th Sunday After Pentecost) In the body of Christ, we find our belonging and our calling.

]]> In the body of Christ, we find our belonging and our calling.

]]> Allie Utley, SFTS Interim Chaplain Buzzsprout-5345116 Tue, 08 Sep 2020 09:00:00 -0400 953 Vocation, Calling, Belonging, Matthias, Acts, Disciples full false In the body of Christ, we find our belonging and our calling. The Life We Create -- Romans 12:1-12 (Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost) The Life We Create -- Romans 12:1-12 (Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost) The love that God has embodied for us in Jesus Christ comes to life now in us – in our bodies – in the life we create.

]]> The love that God has embodied for us in Jesus Christ comes to life now in us – in our bodies – in the life we create.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-5216698 Sun, 30 Aug 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1288 Love, Creation, Romans, Embodiment, Apostle Paul, Bodies full false The love that God has embodied for us in Jesus Christ comes to life now in us – in our bodies – in the life we create. Co-Conspirators -- Exodus 1:8-2:10 (Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost) Co-Conspirators -- Exodus 1:8-2:10 (Twelfth Sunday After Pentecost) God breathes with us and calls us to become co-conspirators to set the whole world free.  Being a "co-conspirator" requires that we listen with humility to those who have been harmed most, and put something at risk for the life and the well-being and the freedom of others.

]]> God breathes with us and calls us to become co-conspirators to set the whole world free.  Being a "co-conspirator" requires that we listen with humility to those who have been harmed most, and put something at risk for the life and the well-being and the freedom of others.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-5128006 Sun, 23 Aug 2020 12:00:00 -0400 1555 Shiphrah, Puah, Exodus, Anti-Racism, Co-Conspirator full false God breathes with us and calls us to become co-conspirators to set the whole world free.  Being a "co-conspirator" requires that we listen with humility to those who have been harmed most, and put something at risk for the life and the well-being and the freedom of others. Reclaiming Sabbath -- Genesis 2:1-3 & Exodus 20:8-11 (Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost) Reclaiming Sabbath -- Genesis 2:1-3 & Exodus 20:8-11 (Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost) In the practice of Sabbath, God invites us to rest in the presence of our Creator, and experience the gifts of balance, time to refocus, and resistance to anxiety and commodity-driven oppression.

]]> In the practice of Sabbath, God invites us to rest in the presence of our Creator, and experience the gifts of balance, time to refocus, and resistance to anxiety and commodity-driven oppression.

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-5034191 Sun, 16 Aug 2020 14:00:00 -0400 1298 Sabbath, Back to School, Creation, Ten Commandments full false In the practice of Sabbath, God invites us to rest in the presence of our Creator, and experience the gifts of balance, time to refocus, and resistance to anxiety and commodity-driven oppression. God's Steadfast Intention for Good -- Genesis 45:1-15 (Tenth Sunday After Pentecost) God's Steadfast Intention for Good -- Genesis 45:1-15 (Tenth Sunday After Pentecost) In the story of Joseph and his brothers, we see God's providential love at work: Beyond the reality of our decisions and misdirected intention, God intends for us our ultimate good, and accompanies us along the way there.

]]> In the story of Joseph and his brothers, we see God's providential love at work: Beyond the reality of our decisions and misdirected intention, God intends for us our ultimate good, and accompanies us along the way there.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4926350 Sun, 09 Aug 2020 19:00:00 -0400 1379 Joseph, Providence, Anti-Racism, Forgiveness, Genesis, Creation full false In the story of Joseph and his brothers, we see God's providential love at work: Beyond the reality of our decisions and misdirected intention, God intends for us our ultimate good, and accompanies us along the way there. That Day When the Basket Came Round -- Matthew 14:13-21 (Ninth Sunday After Pentecost) That Day When the Basket Came Round -- Matthew 14:13-21 (Ninth Sunday After Pentecost) In the much-told story of the miracle of the loaves and fish, when the disciples think there's not enough to feed the crowds, Jesus says: "They don't need to go away.  You give them something to eat." In a world that feels scarce, Jesus empowers us to create capacity in community.

]]> In the much-told story of the miracle of the loaves and fish, when the disciples think there's not enough to feed the crowds, Jesus says: "They don't need to go away.  You give them something to eat." In a world that feels scarce, Jesus empowers us to create capacity in community.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4823840 Sun, 02 Aug 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1409 loaves and fish, miracles, miracle stories, Jesus, John Lewis, scarcity, abundance full false In the much-told story of the miracle of the loaves and fish, when the disciples think there's not enough to feed the crowds, Jesus says: "They don't need to go away.  You give them something to eat." In a world that feels scarce, Jesus empowers us to create capacity in community. God Is Near (Jacob's Dream) -- Genesis 28:10-19 (Seventh Sunday After Pentecost) God Is Near (Jacob's Dream) -- Genesis 28:10-19 (Seventh Sunday After Pentecost)  In a fearful and anxious world, God is near. We consider this "nearness of God," looking to Jacob's dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, our own "pandemic dreams," and Celtic spirituality. 

]]>  In a fearful and anxious world, God is near. We consider this "nearness of God," looking to Jacob's dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, our own "pandemic dreams," and Celtic spirituality. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4630577 Sun, 19 Jul 2020 17:00:00 -0400 1222 Jacob's ladder, dreams, pandemic dreams, Celtic spirituality, blessing, Celtic blessing full false  In a fearful and anxious world, God is near. We consider this "nearness of God," looking to Jacob's dream of a ladder connecting heaven and earth, our own "pandemic dreams," and Celtic spirituality.  Sow Some Seeds -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (Sixth Sunday After Pentecost) Sow Some Seeds -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 (Sixth Sunday After Pentecost) We consider the Parable of the Sower -- the seed, the soil, the sower -- and notice that the parable describes a generative process for a generative season.  God empowers us to create something new together by sowing seeds generously and generatively. Grace abounds!

]]> We consider the Parable of the Sower -- the seed, the soil, the sower -- and notice that the parable describes a generative process for a generative season.  God empowers us to create something new together by sowing seeds generously and generatively. Grace abounds!

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4540775 Sun, 12 Jul 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1432 Parable of the Sower, Creative process, design, Grace Abounds full false We consider the Parable of the Sower -- the seed, the soil, the sower -- and notice that the parable describes a generative process for a generative season.  God empowers us to create something new together by sowing seeds generously and generatively. Grace abounds! For Freedom -- Galatians 5:1, 13-23 (Fifth Sunday After Pentecost) For Freedom -- Galatians 5:1, 13-23 (Fifth Sunday After Pentecost) On this Fourth of July weekend, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life and consider "freedom" -- both Biblical and Constitutional.  What we affirm with the Apostle Paul is this: Christ has set us free for the freedom of others and ourselves.

]]> On this Fourth of July weekend, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life and consider "freedom" -- both Biblical and Constitutional.  What we affirm with the Apostle Paul is this: Christ has set us free for the freedom of others and ourselves.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4451636 Sun, 05 Jul 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1236 Freedom, Justice, Constitution. Bill of Rights, Fourth of July, Anti-Racism, Masks, COVID-19 full false On this Fourth of July weekend, we stand at the intersection of faith and public life and consider "freedom" -- both Biblical and Constitutional.  What we affirm with the Apostle Paul is this: Christ has set us free for the freedom of others and ourselves. Hagar's Lament -- Genesis 21:8-21 (Fourth Sunday After Pentecost) Hagar's Lament -- Genesis 21:8-21 (Fourth Sunday After Pentecost) Exiled into the wilderness, Hagar raises her voice in lament against the powers of slavery and patriarchy. In the power of lament, we summon God into the pain of the world, and God summons us and the world to create something better and new.

]]> Exiled into the wilderness, Hagar raises her voice in lament against the powers of slavery and patriarchy. In the power of lament, we summon God into the pain of the world, and God summons us and the world to create something better and new.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4355444 Sun, 28 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1166 Hagar, Lament, Womanist Theology, Pandemic, Anti-Racism, George Floyd full false Exiled into the wilderness, Hagar raises her voice in lament against the powers of slavery and patriarchy. In the power of lament, we summon God into the pain of the world, and God summons us and the world to create something better and new. "Is Anything Too Wonderful for God?" -- Genesis 18:1-15 (Third Sunday After Pentecost) "Is Anything Too Wonderful for God?" -- Genesis 18:1-15 (Third Sunday After Pentecost) As Sarah laughs at the news that she will have a child so late in life, we listen with her to the question: "Is anything too wonderful for God?"  We consider the events of this week -- Supreme Court decisions and Juneteenth celebrations -- and we wonder, with Sarah, at things that seem too wonderful even after long seasons of hope.

]]> As Sarah laughs at the news that she will have a child so late in life, we listen with her to the question: "Is anything too wonderful for God?"  We consider the events of this week -- Supreme Court decisions and Juneteenth celebrations -- and we wonder, with Sarah, at things that seem too wonderful even after long seasons of hope.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4263545 Sun, 21 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1463 Sarah, Hope, Creation, Imagination, Transgender, Supreme Court, DACA, Dreamers, Juneteenth full false As Sarah laughs at the news that she will have a child so late in life, we listen with her to the question: "Is anything too wonderful for God?"  We consider the events of this week -- Supreme Court decisions and Juneteenth celebrations -- and we wonder, with Sarah, at things that seem too wonderful even after long seasons of hope. Together We Create -- Genesis 1 (Second Sunday After Pentecost) Together We Create -- Genesis 1 (Second Sunday After Pentecost) Made in the image of a creating God, we are invited to become a creating and re-creating community, together with each other and all creation.

]]> Made in the image of a creating God, we are invited to become a creating and re-creating community, together with each other and all creation.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-4173428 Sun, 14 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1740 Creation, Creating, Creativity, Image of God, Genesis 1 full false Made in the image of a creating God, we are invited to become a creating and re-creating community, together with each other and all creation. Rivers and Roads -- Joshua 4:1-8 (Commencement Sunday) Rivers and Roads -- Joshua 4:1-8 (Commencement Sunday) The symbols of our faith journey remind us of God's presence in each chapter in life, and they call us into the future God has ready for us.

]]> The symbols of our faith journey remind us of God's presence in each chapter in life, and they call us into the future God has ready for us.

]]> Patrick O'Connor, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-4173236 Sun, 07 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400 1242 Commencement, Graduation, Symbols, Joshua full false The symbols of our faith journey remind us of God's presence in each chapter in life, and they call us into the future God has ready for us. Pentecost Portents -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost) Pentecost Portents -- Acts 2:1-21 (Pentecost) At Pentecost, the Spirit comes among the people, gathered together, empowering them to see the world plainly, to listen, to speak, to do, and to create with God the new world that is breaking forth, even now. This year, we listen to the Pentecost story in a world that is in flames from the systemic racism that has persisted in this country for far too long. Claiming the Spirit of Pentecost, we look plainly at the world and our role in it, we listen for voices silenced for far too long, and we commit to do the work that is ours to do.

]]> At Pentecost, the Spirit comes among the people, gathered together, empowering them to see the world plainly, to listen, to speak, to do, and to create with God the new world that is breaking forth, even now. This year, we listen to the Pentecost story in a world that is in flames from the systemic racism that has persisted in this country for far too long. Claiming the Spirit of Pentecost, we look plainly at the world and our role in it, we listen for voices silenced for far too long, and we commit to do the work that is ours to do.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3991991 Sun, 31 May 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1324 Pentecost, racism, protest, reparation, anti-racism, pandemic, Holy Spirit full false At Pentecost, the Spirit comes among the people, gathered together, empowering them to see the world plainly, to listen, to speak, to do, and to create with God the new world that is breaking forth, even now. This year, we listen to the Pentecost story in a world that is in flames from the systemic racism that has persisted in this country for far too long. Claiming the Spirit of Pentecost, we look plainly at the world and our role in it, we listen for voices silenced for far too long, and we commit to do the work that is ours to do. The Complexity of Doors -- Acts 12:1-19 (Sixth Sunday in Easter) The Complexity of Doors -- Acts 12:1-19 (Sixth Sunday in Easter) In the closing sermon in our series "Life from Behind Closed Doors," we consider the breadth of ways that folks are living behind close doors during the COVID-a9 pandemic -- not only those who are sheltering, but also those who are incarcerated. During this Easter season we have found that, in Resurrection, God gives us life beyond every separation– life more powerful than any power in the world that keeps us apart.  What matters is how we use that life that we are given to find our wayto yet more life– every day – to create a world that offers more lifeto every human being in every circumstance.

]]> In the closing sermon in our series "Life from Behind Closed Doors," we consider the breadth of ways that folks are living behind close doors during the COVID-a9 pandemic -- not only those who are sheltering, but also those who are incarcerated. During this Easter season we have found that, in Resurrection, God gives us life beyond every separation– life more powerful than any power in the world that keeps us apart.  What matters is how we use that life that we are given to find our wayto yet more life– every day – to create a world that offers more lifeto every human being in every circumstance.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3900857 Sun, 24 May 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1195 Doors, COVID-19, Incarceration, Resurrection, Acts, Peter, Rhoda full false In the closing sermon in our series "Life from Behind Closed Doors," we consider the breadth of ways that folks are living behind close doors during the COVID-a9 pandemic -- not only those who are sheltering, but also those who are incarcerated. During this Easter season we have found that, in Resurrection, God gives us life beyond every separation– life more powerful than any power in the world that keeps us apart.  What matters is how we use that life that we are given to find our wayto yet more life– every day – to create a world that offers more lifeto every human being in every circumstance. Providing Community -- 2 Kings 4:1-7 (Fifth Sunday of Easter) Providing Community -- 2 Kings 4:1-7 (Fifth Sunday of Easter) This sermon considers possibilities for hunger action in this time of pandemic and sheltering, through the lens of our Easter theme: "Life from Behind Closed Doors." This week, we take up an Old Testament text in which Elisha and a widow seek miraculous provision in a time of scarcity, and what we find is this: In the face of dire need, God provides abundance in the collaborative power of community,“with love as the main ingredient.”

]]> This sermon considers possibilities for hunger action in this time of pandemic and sheltering, through the lens of our Easter theme: "Life from Behind Closed Doors." This week, we take up an Old Testament text in which Elisha and a widow seek miraculous provision in a time of scarcity, and what we find is this: In the face of dire need, God provides abundance in the collaborative power of community,“with love as the main ingredient.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3798569 Sun, 17 May 2020 16:00:00 -0400 1245 Hunger, Pandemic, Sheltering, Elisha, Widow full false This sermon considers possibilities for hunger action in this time of pandemic and sheltering, through the lens of our Easter theme: "Life from Behind Closed Doors." This week, we take up an Old Testament text in which Elisha and a widow seek miraculous provision in a time of scarcity, and what we find is this: In the face of dire need, God provides abundance in the collaborative power of community,“with love as the main ingredient.” "Life from Behind Closed Doors," Noah & the Ark -- Genesis 7:24-8:22 (Fifth Sunday in Easter) "Life from Behind Closed Doors," Noah & the Ark -- Genesis 7:24-8:22 (Fifth Sunday in Easter) As we continue in our worship theme -- "Life from Behind Closed Doors" -- guest preacher Allie Utley takes us "behind closed doors" with Noah -- as Noah and family wait in the ark to be able to walk again on dry land.  The sermon names our waiting in this time of pandemic, our longing for what we miss most, and how worship is part of how we survive and thrive.

]]> As we continue in our worship theme -- "Life from Behind Closed Doors" -- guest preacher Allie Utley takes us "behind closed doors" with Noah -- as Noah and family wait in the ark to be able to walk again on dry land.  The sermon names our waiting in this time of pandemic, our longing for what we miss most, and how worship is part of how we survive and thrive.

]]> Allie Utley, PhD Candidate, Vanderbilt University Buzzsprout-3729809 Tue, 12 May 2020 14:00:00 -0400 959 pandemic, Noah, worship full false As we continue in our worship theme -- "Life from Behind Closed Doors" -- guest preacher Allie Utley takes us "behind closed doors" with Noah -- as Noah and family wait in the ark to be able to walk again on dry land.  The sermon names our waiting in this time of pandemic, our longing for what we miss most, and how worship is part of how we survive and thrive. Who We Hope to Be -- Acts 2:42-47 (Fourth Sunday in Easter) Who We Hope to Be -- Acts 2:42-47 (Fourth Sunday in Easter) In Acts 2, we see a snapshot of what life in community was like for the early church -- as they gathered in homes, broke bread together, prayed, held everything in common, and sold what they had to give to those in need.  Stories like this give us a glimpse of who we have been, who we are, and who we hope to be.  In community, the Spirit of the Risen Christ empowers us to say YES to each new day, and with our AND to create something new with God and with each other. 

]]> In Acts 2, we see a snapshot of what life in community was like for the early church -- as they gathered in homes, broke bread together, prayed, held everything in common, and sold what they had to give to those in need.  Stories like this give us a glimpse of who we have been, who we are, and who we hope to be.  In community, the Spirit of the Risen Christ empowers us to say YES to each new day, and with our AND to create something new with God and with each other. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3617098 Sun, 03 May 2020 12:00:00 -0400 1120 Acts, Resurrection, Community, Holy Spirit, Improv, Improvisation, COVID-19, Shelter in Place, Sheltering full false In Acts 2, we see a snapshot of what life in community was like for the early church -- as they gathered in homes, broke bread together, prayed, held everything in common, and sold what they had to give to those in need.  Stories like this give us a glimpse of who we have been, who we are, and who we hope to be.  In community, the Spirit of the Risen Christ empowers us to say YES to each new day, and with our AND to create something new with God and with each other.  Stitch by Stitch -- Acts 9:36-42 (Third Sunday in Easter) Stitch by Stitch -- Acts 9:36-42 (Third Sunday in Easter) This sermon considers the resurrection of Tabitha, the clothes she made to care for a community of widows, the quilters of Gee's Bend, and those who are making masks for others in this time of pandemic.  In this quilting and this sewing, we see that God gathers us at her quilting table, and invites us into acts of tender mercy.

]]> This sermon considers the resurrection of Tabitha, the clothes she made to care for a community of widows, the quilters of Gee's Bend, and those who are making masks for others in this time of pandemic.  In this quilting and this sewing, we see that God gathers us at her quilting table, and invites us into acts of tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3517471 Sun, 26 Apr 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1032 Tabitha, quilt, quilting, Gee's Bend, Masks, pandemic, COVID-19, Resurrection full false This sermon considers the resurrection of Tabitha, the clothes she made to care for a community of widows, the quilters of Gee's Bend, and those who are making masks for others in this time of pandemic.  In this quilting and this sewing, we see that God gathers us at her quilting table, and invites us into acts of tender mercy. The Case for Thomas -- John 20:19-29 (Second Sunday of Easter) The Case for Thomas -- John 20:19-29 (Second Sunday of Easter) For centuries the disciple Thomas has been labeled "Doubting Thomas."  This sermon makes the case FOR Thomas.  Behind closed doors with Thomas and the disciples, what we see in Thomas is someone who -- like us -- is baffled by a bewildering world.  He voices his need for Jesus, and the Risen Christ responds.  In Resurrection, when we reach the limits of our understanding, Jesus takes our hand and says, “I'm still here.”

]]> For centuries the disciple Thomas has been labeled "Doubting Thomas."  This sermon makes the case FOR Thomas.  Behind closed doors with Thomas and the disciples, what we see in Thomas is someone who -- like us -- is baffled by a bewildering world.  He voices his need for Jesus, and the Risen Christ responds.  In Resurrection, when we reach the limits of our understanding, Jesus takes our hand and says, “I'm still here.”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3450391 Sun, 19 Apr 2020 13:00:00 -0400 1110 Resurrection, Thomas, Doubting Thomas, Behind Closed Doors, COVID-19 full false For centuries the disciple Thomas has been labeled "Doubting Thomas."  This sermon makes the case FOR Thomas.  Behind closed doors with Thomas and the disciples, what we see in Thomas is someone who -- like us -- is baffled by a bewildering world.  He voices his need for Jesus, and the Risen Christ responds.  In Resurrection, when we reach the limits of our understanding, Jesus takes our hand and says, “I'm still here.” Yet More Life -- John 20:1-18 (Easter Sunday) Yet More Life -- John 20:1-18 (Easter Sunday) On Easter morning, we go with Mary to the tomb and encounter the Risen Christ.  And what we find there together is yet more life -- yet more life than we ever imagined -- yet more life to live right here, right now, and yet more life to live on into forever.

]]> On Easter morning, we go with Mary to the tomb and encounter the Risen Christ.  And what we find there together is yet more life -- yet more life than we ever imagined -- yet more life to live right here, right now, and yet more life to live on into forever.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3360202 Sun, 12 Apr 2020 14:00:00 -0400 986 full false On Easter morning, we go with Mary to the tomb and encounter the Risen Christ.  And what we find there together is yet more life -- yet more life than we ever imagined -- yet more life to live right here, right now, and yet more life to live on into forever. A Healing, Holy Week -- Matthew 21:1-11; Psalm 31:9-16 (Palm Sunday) A Healing, Holy Week -- Matthew 21:1-11; Psalm 31:9-16 (Palm Sunday) In the hosanna and hope of Palm Sunday and in the suffering and lament of Passion Sunday, we find Christ in the midst of the whole of life.  In communion -- a sacrament as old as our faith and lived anew today in this online worship space -- we experience "the real presence of Christ," embodied in us to bless the world God loves.

]]> In the hosanna and hope of Palm Sunday and in the suffering and lament of Passion Sunday, we find Christ in the midst of the whole of life.  In communion -- a sacrament as old as our faith and lived anew today in this online worship space -- we experience "the real presence of Christ," embodied in us to bless the world God loves.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3249826 Sun, 05 Apr 2020 19:00:00 -0400 1143 Palm Sunday, COVID-19, Communion, Passion Sunday, Holy Week full false In the hosanna and hope of Palm Sunday and in the suffering and lament of Passion Sunday, we find Christ in the midst of the whole of life.  In communion -- a sacrament as old as our faith and lived anew today in this online worship space -- we experience "the real presence of Christ," embodied in us to bless the world God loves. Healing Community -- John 11, the story of the raising of Lazarus (Fifth Sunday in Lent) Healing Community -- John 11, the story of the raising of Lazarus (Fifth Sunday in Lent) The story of Lazarus is a story about the healing presence of Christ embodied in community. In a world full of fear, illness, and death, Jesus stands in the midst of a grieving community, and together they stand against death and everything that does us harm.  In Christ's love, we call each other into life – Christ’s healing touch in our hands.

]]> The story of Lazarus is a story about the healing presence of Christ embodied in community. In a world full of fear, illness, and death, Jesus stands in the midst of a grieving community, and together they stand against death and everything that does us harm.  In Christ's love, we call each other into life – Christ’s healing touch in our hands.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3166951 Sun, 29 Mar 2020 18:00:00 -0400 1229 Lazarus, healing, resurrection, love, life, COVID-19, pandemic full false The story of Lazarus is a story about the healing presence of Christ embodied in community. In a world full of fear, illness, and death, Jesus stands in the midst of a grieving community, and together they stand against death and everything that does us harm.  In Christ's love, we call each other into life – Christ’s healing touch in our hands. Healing Words: Praying in Hard Times -- James 5:13-16 (Fourth Sunday in Lent) Healing Words: Praying in Hard Times -- James 5:13-16 (Fourth Sunday in Lent) In times of epidemic and sheltering in place, we are thinking of new ways of living grounded in and enlivened by Prayer, Care, and Connection. This sermon focuses on prayer, offering specific suggestions as how we might pray in these hard times.  In prayer, God is inviting us to draw near– inviting us into conversation– inviting us into deeper relationship– inviting us into life. When we pray, we say yes to the conversation and yes to God's love.  In prayer, God is at work transforming us into living, embodied Words to bless the world God loves.

]]> In times of epidemic and sheltering in place, we are thinking of new ways of living grounded in and enlivened by Prayer, Care, and Connection. This sermon focuses on prayer, offering specific suggestions as how we might pray in these hard times.  In prayer, God is inviting us to draw near– inviting us into conversation– inviting us into deeper relationship– inviting us into life. When we pray, we say yes to the conversation and yes to God's love.  In prayer, God is at work transforming us into living, embodied Words to bless the world God loves.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3087904 Sun, 22 Mar 2020 19:00:00 -0400 1089 prayer, shelter in place, praying, worship full false In times of epidemic and sheltering in place, we are thinking of new ways of living grounded in and enlivened by Prayer, Care, and Connection. This sermon focuses on prayer, offering specific suggestions as how we might pray in these hard times.  In prayer, God is inviting us to draw near– inviting us into conversation– inviting us into deeper relationship– inviting us into life. When we pray, we say yes to the conversation and yes to God's love.  In prayer, God is at work transforming us into living, embodied Words to bless the world God loves. Healing Relationships -- John 4:5-26 (Third Sunday in Lent) Healing Relationships -- John 4:5-26 (Third Sunday in Lent) In a time of epidemic and social distancing, we look to the story of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman at the well, and how they create entirely new ways of being in relationship -- bridging and transcending separation.  As Jesus and the Samaritan Woman create this new way of being in relationship, they become for each other Living Water.  As we do the same, we are for each other, in the desert, a healing spring.

]]> In a time of epidemic and social distancing, we look to the story of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman at the well, and how they create entirely new ways of being in relationship -- bridging and transcending separation.  As Jesus and the Samaritan Woman create this new way of being in relationship, they become for each other Living Water.  As we do the same, we are for each other, in the desert, a healing spring.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-3016753 Sun, 15 Mar 2020 16:00:00 -0400 1346 Samaritan Woman, Separation, Social Distancing, Relationship, Creativity full false In a time of epidemic and social distancing, we look to the story of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman at the well, and how they create entirely new ways of being in relationship -- bridging and transcending separation.  As Jesus and the Samaritan Woman create this new way of being in relationship, they become for each other Living Water.  As we do the same, we are for each other, in the desert, a healing spring. "Healing Our Image of God" -- John 3:1-17 (Second Sunday in Lent) "Healing Our Image of God" -- John 3:1-17 (Second Sunday in Lent) As we continue in our Lenten sermon series -- "In the Desert, a Healing Spring" -- this sermon turns to the text of John 3:16 for a healing word.  We unpack some of the cultural baggage that follows this familiar text, and specifically the harm that has come from an exclusionary reading.  We then look to the text and affirm that God so loves the whole world that God invites us into the healing life of Christ -- eternal life, right here, right now.

]]> As we continue in our Lenten sermon series -- "In the Desert, a Healing Spring" -- this sermon turns to the text of John 3:16 for a healing word.  We unpack some of the cultural baggage that follows this familiar text, and specifically the harm that has come from an exclusionary reading.  We then look to the text and affirm that God so loves the whole world that God invites us into the healing life of Christ -- eternal life, right here, right now.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2954446 Sun, 08 Mar 2020 21:00:00 -0400 1193 Grace, Love, Healing, John 3:16, Born again, Eternal life full false As we continue in our Lenten sermon series -- "In the Desert, a Healing Spring" -- this sermon turns to the text of John 3:16 for a healing word.  We unpack some of the cultural baggage that follows this familiar text, and specifically the harm that has come from an exclusionary reading.  We then look to the text and affirm that God so loves the whole world that God invites us into the healing life of Christ -- eternal life, right here, right now. In the Desert, a Healing Spring -- Isaiah 58:1-12 (First Sunday in Lent) In the Desert, a Healing Spring -- Isaiah 58:1-12 (First Sunday in Lent) This sermon begins our Lenten series, "In the Desert, a Healing Spring."  Standing in Isaiah 58, we consider our own hurt, the harm we cause in the world, and God's healing power.  Healing is God’s love at work, in us and around us, moving us and the whole world toward wholeness.  

]]> This sermon begins our Lenten series, "In the Desert, a Healing Spring."  Standing in Isaiah 58, we consider our own hurt, the harm we cause in the world, and God's healing power.  Healing is God’s love at work, in us and around us, moving us and the whole world toward wholeness.  

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2886706 Sun, 01 Mar 2020 19:00:00 -0500 1221 Healing, Lent, Tikkun Olam, Isaiah full false This sermon begins our Lenten series, "In the Desert, a Healing Spring."  Standing in Isaiah 58, we consider our own hurt, the harm we cause in the world, and God's healing power.  Healing is God’s love at work, in us and around us, moving us and the whole world toward wholeness.   "Always, We Begin Again" -- Psalm 51 (Ash Wednesday) "Always, We Begin Again" -- Psalm 51 (Ash Wednesday) Psalm 51 takes our lives seriously – the whole of our lives – in all of their complexity.  It acknowledges plainly for us:  The harm we do in the world is real, and so is the hurt that we know in our bodies and our lives – in bones that have been crushed, and hearts that have been broken.  On Ash Wednesday, we say these try things and lean into this truth: In the love and mercy we find in Jesus Christ, "Always, we begin again."

]]> Psalm 51 takes our lives seriously – the whole of our lives – in all of their complexity.  It acknowledges plainly for us:  The harm we do in the world is real, and so is the hurt that we know in our bodies and our lives – in bones that have been crushed, and hearts that have been broken.  On Ash Wednesday, we say these try things and lean into this truth: In the love and mercy we find in Jesus Christ, "Always, we begin again."

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2863567 Wed, 26 Feb 2020 22:00:00 -0500 843 Ash Wednesday, Benedictine, King David, Sin, Forgiveness, Grace, Psalm 51 full false Psalm 51 takes our lives seriously – the whole of our lives – in all of their complexity.  It acknowledges plainly for us:  The harm we do in the world is real, and so is the hurt that we know in our bodies and our lives – in bones that have been crushed, and hearts that have been broken.  On Ash Wednesday, we say these try things and lean into this truth: In the love and mercy we find in Jesus Christ, "Always, we begin again." The Wonder of Wonder -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) The Wonder of Wonder -- Matthew 17:1-9 (Transfiguration Sunday) On Transfiguration Sunday, we journey up a high mountain with Peter, James, and John -- and experience with them an epiphany -- God made manifest in the midst of us.  This sermon considers the experience of wonder -- as the disciples experience the dazzling humanity of Jesus: "God is so very big – God’s love for us so vast – the world so much more than we could ever comprehend.  And God is near.  One writer puts it this way – what we find in Jesus and in each other is 'just as much of God as a hand can hold.'”

]]> On Transfiguration Sunday, we journey up a high mountain with Peter, James, and John -- and experience with them an epiphany -- God made manifest in the midst of us.  This sermon considers the experience of wonder -- as the disciples experience the dazzling humanity of Jesus: "God is so very big – God’s love for us so vast – the world so much more than we could ever comprehend.  And God is near.  One writer puts it this way – what we find in Jesus and in each other is 'just as much of God as a hand can hold.'”

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2822314 Sun, 23 Feb 2020 21:00:00 -0500 1101 Transfiguration, Wonder, Epiphany, Peter full false On Transfiguration Sunday, we journey up a high mountain with Peter, James, and John -- and experience with them an epiphany -- God made manifest in the midst of us.  This sermon considers the experience of wonder -- as the disciples experience the dazzling humanity of Jesus: "God is so very big – God’s love for us so vast – the world so much more than we could ever comprehend.  And God is near.  One writer puts it this way – what we find in Jesus and in each other is 'just as much of God as a hand can hold.'” "Live As If" -- Romans 8:22-27 (on living in a time of climate emergency) "Live As If" -- Romans 8:22-27 (on living in a time of climate emergency) Standing in the midst of our climate emergency, this sermon enters the groaning of Romans 8 -- all creation groaning, our groaning, the Spirit praying with us in groans too deep for words.  In our groaning together, we experience a deeper sense of belonging, we hope, and we enter into God's work of world-healing.  We live as if the world we long for is already here -- a world that is healed and whole.

]]> Standing in the midst of our climate emergency, this sermon enters the groaning of Romans 8 -- all creation groaning, our groaning, the Spirit praying with us in groans too deep for words.  In our groaning together, we experience a deeper sense of belonging, we hope, and we enter into God's work of world-healing.  We live as if the world we long for is already here -- a world that is healed and whole.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2707012 Sun, 09 Feb 2020 13:00:00 -0500 1189 creation, climate emergency, hope, Spirit, Romans full false Standing in the midst of our climate emergency, this sermon enters the groaning of Romans 8 -- all creation groaning, our groaning, the Spirit praying with us in groans too deep for words.  In our groaning together, we experience a deeper sense of belonging, we hope, and we enter into God's work of world-healing.  We live as if the world we long for is already here -- a world that is healed and whole. Get Up and Go -- 1 Kings 19:1-15a Get Up and Go -- 1 Kings 19:1-15a "What we experience with Elijah is this: God shows up in the sheer silence – in the sheer silence that underlies all of our noise.  Not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire – not (always) in big flashy moment – but in the sheer silence that is always with us – that underlies every moment of every day – in a small quiet whisper."

]]> "What we experience with Elijah is this: God shows up in the sheer silence – in the sheer silence that underlies all of our noise.  Not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire – not (always) in big flashy moment – but in the sheer silence that is always with us – that underlies every moment of every day – in a small quiet whisper."

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2646946 Sun, 02 Feb 2020 11:00:00 -0500 1148 Elijah, Presence, Attention, Silence, Examen full false "What we experience with Elijah is this: God shows up in the sheer silence – in the sheer silence that underlies all of our noise.  Not in the wind, not in the earthquake, not in the fire – not (always) in big flashy moment – but in the sheer silence that is always with us – that underlies every moment of every day – in a small quiet whisper." The Work of Dismantling -- Amos 5:18-24 (MLK Day Observance) The Work of Dismantling -- Amos 5:18-24 (MLK Day Observance) This Sunday, we observe Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, as we continue our Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder." This sermon considers the Amos text that Dr. King often quoted, "But let justice roll down like the waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream," and listens to how it announces God's steely determination to dismantle all systems of oppression. We then turn to the persistent systems of American racism, and trace how they flow from the US Constitution as originally written and historic resistance to every attempt to set it right. Then, we think some about how white Americans continue to benefit from those systems, and our responsibility to join the work of dismantling, with a move toward reparation and healing of the continuing harm.

]]> This Sunday, we observe Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, as we continue our Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder." This sermon considers the Amos text that Dr. King often quoted, "But let justice roll down like the waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream," and listens to how it announces God's steely determination to dismantle all systems of oppression. We then turn to the persistent systems of American racism, and trace how they flow from the US Constitution as originally written and historic resistance to every attempt to set it right. Then, we think some about how white Americans continue to benefit from those systems, and our responsibility to join the work of dismantling, with a move toward reparation and healing of the continuing harm.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2530006 Sun, 19 Jan 2020 20:00:00 -0500 1686 MLK, Martin Luther King Jr, Justice, Amos, Prophetic, Prophets, Racial Justice, Anti-Racism, Reparations full false This Sunday, we observe Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, as we continue our Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder." This sermon considers the Amos text that Dr. King often quoted, "But let justice roll down like the waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream," and listens to how it announces God's steely determination to dismantle all systems of oppression. We then turn to the persistent systems of American racism, and trace how they flow from the US Constitution as originally written and historic resistance to every attempt to set it right. Then, we think some about how white Americans continue to benefit from those systems, and our responsibility to join the work of dismantling, with a move toward reparation and healing of the continuing harm. "The 200-Year Present" -- Matthew 1:1-8, 16-17 & 3:13-17 (Baptism of Jesus) "The 200-Year Present" -- Matthew 1:1-8, 16-17 & 3:13-17 (Baptism of Jesus) This sermon continues our Epiphany theme – “The Work of Wonder” – as we consider this week how our lives and work connect to the broad expanse of God’s saving love throughout history, from the beginning of time, down through the generations.  Along the way, we consider sociologist Elise Boulding's notion of a "200-Year Present" -- our lives are held by and touch lives that span a 200-year present.  Listen to explore this a little further!

]]> This sermon continues our Epiphany theme – “The Work of Wonder” – as we consider this week how our lives and work connect to the broad expanse of God’s saving love throughout history, from the beginning of time, down through the generations.  Along the way, we consider sociologist Elise Boulding's notion of a "200-Year Present" -- our lives are held by and touch lives that span a 200-year present.  Listen to explore this a little further!

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2467106 Sun, 12 Jan 2020 19:00:00 -0500 1318 Epiphany, Baptism, Genealogy, Generations full false This sermon continues our Epiphany theme – “The Work of Wonder” – as we consider this week how our lives and work connect to the broad expanse of God’s saving love throughout history, from the beginning of time, down through the generations.  Along the way, we consider sociologist Elise Boulding's notion of a "200-Year Present" -- our lives are held by and touch lives that span a 200-year present.  Listen to explore this a little further! Light for the Next Step -- Matthew 2:1-12 (Epiphany) Light for the Next Step -- Matthew 2:1-12 (Epiphany) This sermon begins an Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder" -- as we explore together the ways that we experience a world so much bigger than us and are called to work with God for its well-being. This Sunday's sermon considers the story of the Magi who follow a star and find their way to an experience of the Christ -- and our curiosity as a gateway to epiphany.

]]> This sermon begins an Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder" -- as we explore together the ways that we experience a world so much bigger than us and are called to work with God for its well-being. This Sunday's sermon considers the story of the Magi who follow a star and find their way to an experience of the Christ -- and our curiosity as a gateway to epiphany.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2416430 Sun, 05 Jan 2020 21:00:00 -0500 1309 Epiphany, Magi, Curiosity, Discernment full false This sermon begins an Epiphany series -- "The Work of Wonder" -- as we explore together the ways that we experience a world so much bigger than us and are called to work with God for its well-being. This Sunday's sermon considers the story of the Magi who follow a star and find their way to an experience of the Christ -- and our curiosity as a gateway to epiphany. The Songs That Set Us Free -- Luke 1:39-56 (Mary's Magnificat) The Songs That Set Us Free -- Luke 1:39-56 (Mary's Magnificat) This week we turn to the song that has inspired our Advent theme, "My Heart Shall Sing."  We look at the revolutionary words that Mary sings in her Magnificat (Luke 1:39-56). Then we think about why we sing, and consider how the songs that God gives us to sing set the whole world free. 

]]> This week we turn to the song that has inspired our Advent theme, "My Heart Shall Sing."  We look at the revolutionary words that Mary sings in her Magnificat (Luke 1:39-56). Then we think about why we sing, and consider how the songs that God gives us to sing set the whole world free. 

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2289674 Sun, 15 Dec 2019 19:00:00 -0500 1170 Advent, Magnificat, Mary, Singing full false This week we turn to the song that has inspired our Advent theme, "My Heart Shall Sing."  We look at the revolutionary words that Mary sings in her Magnificat (Luke 1:39-56). Then we think about why we sing, and consider how the songs that God gives us to sing set the whole world free.  The Silence Before the Song -- Luke 1:68-79 The Silence Before the Song -- Luke 1:68-79 This sermon is the first in our Advent worship series -- "My Heart Shall Sing" -- inspired by Mary's Magnificat -- as we experience Advent's songs of hope, peace, joy, and love. This week's sermon considers the Song of Zechariah -- but first we think some about what Zechariah might have experienced in "The Silence Before the Song" -- as he sat in silence for nine months waiting with his wife Elizabeth for the birth of their son, John (the Baptist). As we listen with Zechariah, we hear this good news: In the coming of Christ, God saves us by God's tender mercy.

]]> This sermon is the first in our Advent worship series -- "My Heart Shall Sing" -- inspired by Mary's Magnificat -- as we experience Advent's songs of hope, peace, joy, and love. This week's sermon considers the Song of Zechariah -- but first we think some about what Zechariah might have experienced in "The Silence Before the Song" -- as he sat in silence for nine months waiting with his wife Elizabeth for the birth of their son, John (the Baptist). As we listen with Zechariah, we hear this good news: In the coming of Christ, God saves us by God's tender mercy.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2206640 Sun, 01 Dec 2019 11:00:00 -0500 1088 Advent, Zechariah, tender mercy full false This sermon is the first in our Advent worship series -- "My Heart Shall Sing" -- inspired by Mary's Magnificat -- as we experience Advent's songs of hope, peace, joy, and love. This week's sermon considers the Song of Zechariah -- but first we think some about what Zechariah might have experienced in "The Silence Before the Song" -- as he sat in silence for nine months waiting with his wife Elizabeth for the birth of their son, John (the Baptist). As we listen with Zechariah, we hear this good news: In the coming of Christ, God saves us by God's tender mercy. How Jesus Is King -- Luke 23:33-43 (Christ the King Sunday) How Jesus Is King -- Luke 23:33-43 (Christ the King Sunday) For Christ the King Sunday, we engage Luke 23:33-43, a glimpse of Jesus on the cross, and his conversation with one of those crucified with him.  This sermon considers (1) how, in our power and privilege, we should take care in how we claim that Christ is king; (2) how, for those whose backs are up against the wall, we affirm that Christ is king over every power in the world; and (3) how Christ the King, on the cross, enters even the deepest ditch of our suffering, and holds us close in the heart of God.

]]> For Christ the King Sunday, we engage Luke 23:33-43, a glimpse of Jesus on the cross, and his conversation with one of those crucified with him.  This sermon considers (1) how, in our power and privilege, we should take care in how we claim that Christ is king; (2) how, for those whose backs are up against the wall, we affirm that Christ is king over every power in the world; and (3) how Christ the King, on the cross, enters even the deepest ditch of our suffering, and holds us close in the heart of God.

]]> Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2159042 Sun, 24 Nov 2019 20:00:00 -0500 1222 full false For Christ the King Sunday, we engage Luke 23:33-43, a glimpse of Jesus on the cross, and his conversation with one of those crucified with him.  This sermon considers (1) how, in our power and privilege, we should take care in how we claim that Christ is king; (2) how, for those whose backs are up against the wall, we affirm that Christ is king over every power in the world; and (3) how Christ the King, on the cross, enters even the deepest ditch of our suffering, and holds us close in the heart of God. Finding Our Voice, Telling Our Story -- Luke 21:5-19 Finding Our Voice, Telling Our Story -- Luke 21:5-19 In Luke 21:5-19, Jesus looks around at all the upheaval in the world, and says, "All this will open up for you the opportunity to testify." In today's sermon, we look at the upheaval in our world, the testimony we have heard (perhaps some even this week), and the power of the stories we tell and the lives we live to turn the world rightside up. 

]]> In Luke 21:5-19, Jesus looks around at all the upheaval in the world, and says, "All this will open up for you the opportunity to testify." In today's sermon, we look at the upheaval in our world, the testimony we have heard (perhaps some even this week), and the power of the stories we tell and the lives we live to turn the world rightside up. 

]]> The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2102295 Sun, 17 Nov 2019 17:00:00 -0500 1402 full false In Luke 21:5-19, Jesus looks around at all the upheaval in the world, and says, "All this will open up for you the opportunity to testify." In today's sermon, we look at the upheaval in our world, the testimony we have heard (perhaps some even this week), and the power of the stories we tell and the lives we live to turn the world rightside up.  No Marriage in the Resurrection No Marriage in the Resurrection Luke 20:27-38
Sermon Theme: Jesus turns the world rightside-up by dismantling every type of "power-over" in the world, setting the whole world free.

]]> Luke 20:27-38
Sermon Theme: Jesus turns the world rightside-up by dismantling every type of "power-over" in the world, setting the whole world free.

]]> The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-2044836 Mon, 11 Nov 2019 19:00:00 -0500 1186 full false Luke 20:27-38 Sermon Theme: Jesus turns the world rightside-up by dismantling every type of "power-over" in the world, setting the whole world free. Crowded Table Crowded Table The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-1992106 Mon, 04 Nov 2019 11:00:00 -0500 1341 full false The Main Thing The Main Thing Isaiah 43:18-21; Colossians 3:12-17:  Stephen Covey says, "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.  In this farewell sermon by First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo's pastor of 14 1/2 years, Paul's advice to "clothe everything with clothe" is the main thing.  And one way the church can love our neighbors is by welcoming the "new thing" that God is doing.

]]> Isaiah 43:18-21; Colossians 3:12-17:  Stephen Covey says, "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.  In this farewell sermon by First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo's pastor of 14 1/2 years, Paul's advice to "clothe everything with clothe" is the main thing.  And one way the church can love our neighbors is by welcoming the "new thing" that God is doing.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1835392 Sun, 06 Oct 2019 12:00:00 -0400 976 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, new thing, clothe everything with love, the main thing, main thing, love, love your neighbor, farewell, cornell west, full false Isaiah 43:18-21; Colossians 3:12-17:  Stephen Covey says, "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.  In this farewell sermon by First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo's pastor of 14 1/2 years, Paul's advice to "clothe everything with clothe" is the main thing.  And one way the church can love our neighbors is by welcoming the "new thing" that God is doing. The Parable and the Planet The Parable and the Planet Luke 16:1-13: The Parable of the Unjust Steward is confusing, but leaves no doubt that the rich owner, who has exploited the peasants through usury, is not the good guy.  In the Luke’s context, if you were rich, it meant you exploited others to get that way.  On the one hand, we might reasonably say that being rich isn’t bad, after all.  It’s exploitation that’s bad.  But it's very easy to ignore the ways our economic system and structures exploit people, and the planet God created.  What would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Luke’s Jesus consistently speaks up for the poor and marginalized.  He consistently calls the wealthy on the carpet.  "You cannot serve both God and Mammon," says Jesus.  So what would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Most importantly, what Jesus does in the Gospels is invite people to change the world by disbelieving, by no longer believing in the stories that we currently allow to shape our lives, the stories that end up destroying people and the planet.  Stories like “Being successful means being rich.”  Stories like, “There isn’t enough to go around so I’d better get what I can.”  Stories like, “If I win, someone else has to lose;” or, “Progress means economic growth;” or “People love me for my car, my house, my clothes, my shoes, my stuff;” or “Corporations can’t be held accountable.”  Instead, Jesus points to a new story, the story he calls the Kingdom of God.  It’s a story about a loving God who, like a benevolent king, calls all people – all people – to live life in a new way, the way of love.   It continues to be our invitation, our calling, and our call to action.

]]> Luke 16:1-13: The Parable of the Unjust Steward is confusing, but leaves no doubt that the rich owner, who has exploited the peasants through usury, is not the good guy.  In the Luke’s context, if you were rich, it meant you exploited others to get that way.  On the one hand, we might reasonably say that being rich isn’t bad, after all.  It’s exploitation that’s bad.  But it's very easy to ignore the ways our economic system and structures exploit people, and the planet God created.  What would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Luke’s Jesus consistently speaks up for the poor and marginalized.  He consistently calls the wealthy on the carpet.  "You cannot serve both God and Mammon," says Jesus.  So what would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Most importantly, what Jesus does in the Gospels is invite people to change the world by disbelieving, by no longer believing in the stories that we currently allow to shape our lives, the stories that end up destroying people and the planet.  Stories like “Being successful means being rich.”  Stories like, “There isn’t enough to go around so I’d better get what I can.”  Stories like, “If I win, someone else has to lose;” or, “Progress means economic growth;” or “People love me for my car, my house, my clothes, my shoes, my stuff;” or “Corporations can’t be held accountable.”  Instead, Jesus points to a new story, the story he calls the Kingdom of God.  It’s a story about a loving God who, like a benevolent king, calls all people – all people – to live life in a new way, the way of love.   It continues to be our invitation, our calling, and our call to action.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1750723 Sun, 22 Sep 2019 20:00:00 -0400 1051 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, dishonest steward, unjust steward, dishonest manager, exploitation, economic systems, mammon, greed, climate change, climate disruption. full false Luke 16:1-13: The Parable of the Unjust Steward is confusing, but leaves no doubt that the rich owner, who has exploited the peasants through usury, is not the good guy.  In the Luke’s context, if you were rich, it meant you exploited others to get that way.  On the one hand, we might reasonably say that being rich isn’t bad, after all.  It’s exploitation that’s bad.  But it's very easy to ignore the ways our economic system and structures exploit people, and the planet God created.  What would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Luke’s Jesus consistently speaks up for the poor and marginalized.  He consistently calls the wealthy on the carpet.  "You cannot serve both God and Mammon," says Jesus.  So what would Jesus do about climate disruption?  Most importantly, what Jesus does in the Gospels is invite people to change the world by disbelieving, by no longer believing in the stories that we currently allow to shape our lives, the stories that end up destroying people and the planet.  Stories like “Being successful means being rich.”  Stories like, “There isn’t enough to go around so I’d better get what I can.”  Stories like, “If I win, someone else has to lose;” or, “Progress means economic growth;” or “People love me for my car, my house, my clothes, my shoes, my stuff;” or “Corporations can’t be held accountable.”  Instead, Jesus points to a new story, the story he calls the Kingdom of God.  It’s a story about a loving God who, like a benevolent king, calls all people – all people – to live life in a new way, the way of love.   It continues to be our invitation, our calling, and our call to action. Loved, Precious, Sought-After Loved, Precious, Sought-After Luke 15:1-10: In the Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin,  Jesus shows the scribes and Pharisees that we are all in the same boat: tax collectors, "sinners," scribes and Pharisees, and we are all represented by the one sheep that God relentlessly pursues.  God loves us all so much that God never stops trying to find us; God never gives up on us, and we are never to give up on each other.

]]> Luke 15:1-10: In the Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin,  Jesus shows the scribes and Pharisees that we are all in the same boat: tax collectors, "sinners," scribes and Pharisees, and we are all represented by the one sheep that God relentlessly pursues.  God loves us all so much that God never stops trying to find us; God never gives up on us, and we are never to give up on each other.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1711339 Sun, 15 Sep 2019 16:00:00 -0400 961 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, lost sheep, lost coin, lost, found, grace, love, Hound of Heaven, God's love for us, God's love full false Luke 15:1-10: In the Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin,  Jesus shows the scribes and Pharisees that we are all in the same boat: tax collectors, "sinners," scribes and Pharisees, and we are all represented by the one sheep that God relentlessly pursues.  God loves us all so much that God never stops trying to find us; God never gives up on us, and we are never to give up on each other. Choose Life Choose Life Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Luke 14:25-33:  Jesus' dire warnings about the cost of discipleship reflect the cost of any and every choice we make in life that involves commitment.  Given that this is the same Jesus who said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John !0:10), the emphasis of our faith should not be sacrifice and suffering but the joy of life lived as though God is the ruler of our hearts and minds here and now. Author Barbara  Ehrenreich was asked what she would give up to live in a more human world.  She answered, “I think we shouldn’t think of what we would give up to have a more human world; we should think of what we would gain.”

]]> Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Luke 14:25-33:  Jesus' dire warnings about the cost of discipleship reflect the cost of any and every choice we make in life that involves commitment.  Given that this is the same Jesus who said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John !0:10), the emphasis of our faith should not be sacrifice and suffering but the joy of life lived as though God is the ruler of our hearts and minds here and now. Author Barbara  Ehrenreich was asked what she would give up to live in a more human world.  She answered, “I think we shouldn’t think of what we would give up to have a more human world; we should think of what we would gain.”

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1680556 Sun, 08 Sep 2019 13:00:00 -0400 767 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, choose life, cross carrying full false Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Luke 14:25-33:  Jesus' dire warnings about the cost of discipleship reflect the cost of any and every choice we make in life that involves commitment.  Given that this is the same Jesus who said, "I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John !0:10), the emphasis of our faith should not be sacrifice and suffering but the joy of life lived as though God is the ruler of our hearts and minds here and now. Author Barbara  Ehrenreich was asked what she would give up to live in a more human world.  She answered, “I think we shouldn’t think of what we would give up to have a more human world; we should think of what we would gain.” My Labor, My Work, My Ministry 2019 My Labor, My Work, My Ministry 2019 Romans 12:4-21: We celebrate Labor Day with three members of the First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo community, who share how they live out their faith in the workplace: The Rev. Christine Francisco, Activity Coordinator, NeuroRestorative; Patrick O’Connor, Director of Family Ministries, First Presbyterian Church; and Lisa Cosby, Public Utilities Regulatory Analyst, California Public Utilities Commission.

]]> Romans 12:4-21: We celebrate Labor Day with three members of the First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo community, who share how they live out their faith in the workplace: The Rev. Christine Francisco, Activity Coordinator, NeuroRestorative; Patrick O’Connor, Director of Family Ministries, First Presbyterian Church; and Lisa Cosby, Public Utilities Regulatory Analyst, California Public Utilities Commission.

]]> Christine Francisco, Patrick O'Connor, Lisa Cosby Buzzsprout-1635610 Sun, 01 Sep 2019 16:00:00 -0400 1210 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Labor Day, called, call, calling, vocation, workplace full false Romans 12:4-21: We celebrate Labor Day with three members of the First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo community, who share how they live out their faith in the workplace: The Rev. Christine Francisco, Activity Coordinator, NeuroRestorative; Patrick O’Connor, Director of Family Ministries, First Presbyterian Church; and Lisa Cosby, Public Utilities Regulatory Analyst, California Public Utilities Commission. Six Great Ends of the Church: 6. The Exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the World Six Great Ends of the Church: 6. The Exhibition of the Kingdom of Heaven to the World Lessons: Acts 1:6-9; Ephesians 4:1-6: This 6th of the Presbyterian "Great Ends of the Church" sums up the other five with, "Go, and let the world know about this."  Let the world know about Jesus' message that the reign of God is already present and active; it is here, available for those who see that everything is holy, everything and everyone is precious to God and belongs to God.  Let the world know about Jesus' radically different approach to power and authority.  Jesus didn’t use power or authority to impress or coerce.  He expressed his power in acts of service: restoring health, raising people to life, breaking down social taboos, providing for people’s needs – in other words, demonstrating the love, justice and goodness of God.  Let the world know about the love, justice and goodness of God.   

]]> Lessons: Acts 1:6-9; Ephesians 4:1-6: This 6th of the Presbyterian "Great Ends of the Church" sums up the other five with, "Go, and let the world know about this."  Let the world know about Jesus' message that the reign of God is already present and active; it is here, available for those who see that everything is holy, everything and everyone is precious to God and belongs to God.  Let the world know about Jesus' radically different approach to power and authority.  Jesus didn’t use power or authority to impress or coerce.  He expressed his power in acts of service: restoring health, raising people to life, breaking down social taboos, providing for people’s needs – in other words, demonstrating the love, justice and goodness of God.  Let the world know about the love, justice and goodness of God.   

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1600330 Sun, 25 Aug 2019 16:00:00 -0400 1024 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Six Great Ends of the Church, Great Ends of the Church, exhibition of the kingdom of heaven to the world, exhibition of the kingdom of heaven, kingdom of heaven, kingdom of God, baptism, demonstrating God's goodness, God full false Lessons: Acts 1:6-9; Ephesians 4:1-6: This 6th of the Presbyterian "Great Ends of the Church" sums up the other five with, "Go, and let the world know about this."  Let the world know about Jesus' message that the reign of God is already present and active; it is here, available for those who see that everything is holy, everything and everyone is precious to God and belongs to God.  Let the world know about Jesus' radically different approach to power and authority.  Jesus didn’t use power or authority to impress or coerce.  He expressed his power in acts of service: restoring health, raising people to life, breaking down social taboos, providing for people’s needs – in other words, demonstrating the love, justice and goodness of God.  Let the world know about the love, justice and goodness of God.    Six Great Ends of the Church: 5. The Promotion of Social Righteousness Six Great Ends of the Church: 5. The Promotion of Social Righteousness Lessons: Amos 5:21-24; Luke 4:14-21: The promotion of social righteousness means that Christians can and should take political action to advance the coming of the kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven, and it looks like this: the hungry are fed, the poor are lifted up, the naked are clothed, those caught in poverty – including the crime, poor health, lack of education and hopelessness that poverty engenders – are freed to live as God intends for us all to live.  The reason the promotion of social righteousness is one of the Great Ends of the Church is that a truly biblical faith demands it. Social  justice - concern for the poor, the condemnation of greed, welcoming the stranger and caring for the vulnerable - is one of the great and most frequent themes of the Bible.



]]> Lessons: Amos 5:21-24; Luke 4:14-21: The promotion of social righteousness means that Christians can and should take political action to advance the coming of the kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven, and it looks like this: the hungry are fed, the poor are lifted up, the naked are clothed, those caught in poverty – including the crime, poor health, lack of education and hopelessness that poverty engenders – are freed to live as God intends for us all to live.  The reason the promotion of social righteousness is one of the Great Ends of the Church is that a truly biblical faith demands it. Social  justice - concern for the poor, the condemnation of greed, welcoming the stranger and caring for the vulnerable - is one of the great and most frequent themes of the Bible.



]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1566370 Sun, 18 Aug 2019 21:00:00 -0400 1226 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Six Great Ends of the Church, Great Ends of the Church, promotion of social righteousness, social righteousness, social justice, justice, Amos, poor, Progressive Era, Social Gospel full false Lessons: Amos 5:21-24; Luke 4:14-21: The promotion of social righteousness means that Christians can and should take political action to advance the coming of the kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven, and it looks like this: the hungry are fed, the poor are lifted up, the naked are clothed, those caught in poverty – including the crime, poor health, lack of education and hopelessness that poverty engenders – are freed to live as God intends for us all to live.  The reason the promotion of social righteousness is one of the Great Ends of the Church is that a truly biblical faith demands it. Social  justice - concern for the poor, the condemnation of greed, welcoming the stranger and caring for the vulnerable - is one of the great and most frequent themes of the Bible. Six Great Ends of the Church: 4. The Preservation of Truth Six Great Ends of the Church: 4. The Preservation of Truth Lessons: John 8:12-16, 31-32; John 18:37-38a: Jesus says if we follow him, we will know the truth and it will set us free.  The truth that is the core of our faith is that Jesus Christ is God’s self-defining Word.  Our tradition also insists on “the sovereignty of God,” which means God can do whatever God wants to do.  If God wants to speak to people through nature, God can do it.  If God wants to speak through art or philosophy or other religions, God can do that, too, simply because God is God, and God’s freedom.  So that means we can follow Jesus wholeheartedly, have faith in him as somehow the truth, and still accept that we don’t corner the market on all of God’s truth.  The truth that we meet in Jesus Christ is that God is love, and calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves.  One way we fulfill this 4th great end of the church,  then, is by resisting our "post truth" culture.


]]> Lessons: John 8:12-16, 31-32; John 18:37-38a: Jesus says if we follow him, we will know the truth and it will set us free.  The truth that is the core of our faith is that Jesus Christ is God’s self-defining Word.  Our tradition also insists on “the sovereignty of God,” which means God can do whatever God wants to do.  If God wants to speak to people through nature, God can do it.  If God wants to speak through art or philosophy or other religions, God can do that, too, simply because God is God, and God’s freedom.  So that means we can follow Jesus wholeheartedly, have faith in him as somehow the truth, and still accept that we don’t corner the market on all of God’s truth.  The truth that we meet in Jesus Christ is that God is love, and calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves.  One way we fulfill this 4th great end of the church,  then, is by resisting our "post truth" culture.


]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1532755 Sun, 11 Aug 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1121 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Six Great Ends of the Church, Great Ends of the Church, preservation of the truth, truth, lies, deceit, post-truth culture, post-truth, assault on truth, the way the truth and the life, truth will make us free, freedom full false Lessons: John 8:12-16, 31-32; John 18:37-38a: Jesus says if we follow him, we will know the truth and it will set us free.  The truth that is the core of our faith is that Jesus Christ is God’s self-defining Word.  Our tradition also insists on “the sovereignty of God,” which means God can do whatever God wants to do.  If God wants to speak to people through nature, God can do it.  If God wants to speak through art or philosophy or other religions, God can do that, too, simply because God is God, and God’s freedom.  So that means we can follow Jesus wholeheartedly, have faith in him as somehow the truth, and still accept that we don’t corner the market on all of God’s truth.  The truth that we meet in Jesus Christ is that God is love, and calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves.  One way we fulfill this 4th great end of the church,  then, is by resisting our "post truth" culture. Six Great Ends of the Church: 3. The Maintenance of Divine Worship Six Great Ends of the Church: 3. The Maintenance of Divine Worship Lessons: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 122: In this third in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the maintenance of divine worship.  The goal of worship is a transforming encounter with God.  "Public worship matters because it is the one time in the week when God’s people gather to acknowledge God’s presence in the world in our lives, to remember our faith, to act out its meaning, to celebrate the good news in Christ, to respond to God’s claim on our lives, and to receive the blessing of God.”[i]  Without community worship, we tend to forget who we are: God’s people, created in God’s image, part of God’s beloved creation.  


[i]  Howard L. Rice, Jr., Maintenance of Divine Worship (Louisville, KY: Witherspoon Press, 2006), 5.

]]> Lessons: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 122: In this third in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the maintenance of divine worship.  The goal of worship is a transforming encounter with God.  "Public worship matters because it is the one time in the week when God’s people gather to acknowledge God’s presence in the world in our lives, to remember our faith, to act out its meaning, to celebrate the good news in Christ, to respond to God’s claim on our lives, and to receive the blessing of God.”[i]  Without community worship, we tend to forget who we are: God’s people, created in God’s image, part of God’s beloved creation.  


[i]  Howard L. Rice, Jr., Maintenance of Divine Worship (Louisville, KY: Witherspoon Press, 2006), 5.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1502992 Sun, 04 Aug 2019 18:00:00 -0400 1211 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Six Great Ends of the Church, Great Ends of the Church, maintenance of divine worship, worship, encounter with God, transformation, worship music full false Lessons: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 122: In this third in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the maintenance of divine worship.  The goal of worship is a transforming encounter with God.  "Public worship matters because it is the one time in the week when God’s people gather to acknowledge God’s presence in the world in our lives, to remember our faith, to act out its meaning, to celebrate the good news in Christ, to respond to God’s claim on our lives, and to receive the blessing of God.”[i]  Without community worship, we tend to forget who we are: God’s people, created in God’s image, part of God’s beloved creation.   [i]  Howard L. Rice, Jr., Maintenance of Divine Worship (Louisville, KY: Witherspoon Press, 2006), 5. A Place in the World A Place in the World As we continue our six-week series called "The Six Great Ends of the Church," our guest preacher The Rev. Scott Clark looks at #2:  The Shelter, Nurture, and Spiritual Fellowship of the Children of God.

]]> As we continue our six-week series called "The Six Great Ends of the Church," our guest preacher The Rev. Scott Clark looks at #2:  The Shelter, Nurture, and Spiritual Fellowship of the Children of God.

]]> The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-1488694 Sun, 28 Jul 2019 19:00:00 -0400 1552 full false As we continue our six-week series called "The Six Great Ends of the Church," our guest preacher The Rev. Scott Clark looks at #2:  The Shelter, Nurture, and Spiritual Fellowship of the Children of God. Six Great Ends of the Church: 1. The Proclamation of the Gospel for the Salvation of Humankind Six Great Ends of the Church: 1. The Proclamation of the Gospel for the Salvation of Humankind Lessons: Mark 1:14-20, Luke 1:46-55: In this first in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the way that the good news of the kingdom of God - God's intention for all of God's creation - can accomplish the salvation of the whole world, not just some individuals, and not just after we die.

]]> Lessons: Mark 1:14-20, Luke 1:46-55: In this first in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the way that the good news of the kingdom of God - God's intention for all of God's creation - can accomplish the salvation of the whole world, not just some individuals, and not just after we die.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1502968 Sun, 21 Jul 2019 18:00:00 -0400 1100 Sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Six Great Ends of the Church, Great Ends of the Church, Proclamation of the Gospel for the Salvation of Humankind, proclamation, gospel, good news, salvation full false Lessons: Mark 1:14-20, Luke 1:46-55: In this first in a series on the Six Great Ends of the Church from the Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (USA), we look at the way that the good news of the kingdom of God - God's intention for all of God's creation - can accomplish the salvation of the whole world, not just some individuals, and not just after we die. The Good Samaritan The Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37: The Samaritan teaches us several important lessons.  First, God comes where we least expect God to be, because God comes for all and to all.  Second, “loving” looks like helping those in need.  And third, the Samaritan, the one who acted as a neighbor, crossed a boundary.  The hatred between Samaritans and Judeans went both ways, and yet this Samaritan stepped outside of his national and ethnic loyalty.  He did not say, “You aren’t my people; I save my compassion for my own people.”  He crossed a boundary that was a hard and fast line to Jesus’ listeners.  When Jesus says, “Go and do likewise,” that’s boundary crossing is part of what he’s telling us to do.  We are to have a higher, broader, deeper loyalty – a loyalty to the well-being of all God’s beloved children, not just to the ones who look and speak and act like us. 

]]> Luke 10:25-37: The Samaritan teaches us several important lessons.  First, God comes where we least expect God to be, because God comes for all and to all.  Second, “loving” looks like helping those in need.  And third, the Samaritan, the one who acted as a neighbor, crossed a boundary.  The hatred between Samaritans and Judeans went both ways, and yet this Samaritan stepped outside of his national and ethnic loyalty.  He did not say, “You aren’t my people; I save my compassion for my own people.”  He crossed a boundary that was a hard and fast line to Jesus’ listeners.  When Jesus says, “Go and do likewise,” that’s boundary crossing is part of what he’s telling us to do.  We are to have a higher, broader, deeper loyalty – a loyalty to the well-being of all God’s beloved children, not just to the ones who look and speak and act like us. 

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1414981 Mon, 15 Jul 2019 19:00:00 -0400 998 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Samaritan, Good Samaritan, Teresa Todd, Nichloas Kristoff, border crisis, migrants, neighbor, neighbors, love your neighbor as yourself, who is my neighbor, being a neighbor full false Luke 10:25-37: The Samaritan teaches us several important lessons.  First, God comes where we least expect God to be, because God comes for all and to all.  Second, “loving” looks like helping those in need.  And third, the Samaritan, the one who acted as a neighbor, crossed a boundary.  The hatred between Samaritans and Judeans went both ways, and yet this Samaritan stepped outside of his national and ethnic loyalty.  He did not say, “You aren’t my people; I save my compassion for my own people.”  He crossed a boundary that was a hard and fast line to Jesus’ listeners.  When Jesus says, “Go and do likewise,” that’s boundary crossing is part of what he’s telling us to do.  We are to have a higher, broader, deeper loyalty – a loyalty to the well-being of all God’s beloved children, not just to the ones who look and speak and act like us.  Pack Light Pack Light Luke 10:1-11: Jesus sends out his disciples as missionaries to proclaim the nearness of the Kingdom of God.  We, as Jesus' disciples, are sent as well.  We are send not to convert, force our culture on others, or save souls, but to rely on the hospitality of others, which means listening to them, meeting them on their turf, and joining with them in the work God is already doing in and through them. 

]]> Luke 10:1-11: Jesus sends out his disciples as missionaries to proclaim the nearness of the Kingdom of God.  We, as Jesus' disciples, are sent as well.  We are send not to convert, force our culture on others, or save souls, but to rely on the hospitality of others, which means listening to them, meeting them on their turf, and joining with them in the work God is already doing in and through them. 

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1377238 Sun, 07 Jul 2019 16:00:00 -0400 970 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, disciples, the seventy, missionaries, pack light, leave your baggage at home, missionary, accepting hospitality, relying on hospitality, meeting God in the neighborhood, seeing God in the othe full false Luke 10:1-11: Jesus sends out his disciples as missionaries to proclaim the nearness of the Kingdom of God.  We, as Jesus' disciples, are sent as well.  We are send not to convert, force our culture on others, or save souls, but to rely on the hospitality of others, which means listening to them, meeting them on their turf, and joining with them in the work God is already doing in and through them.  Picking Up the Mantle Picking Up the Mantle 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14.  God tells Elijah to anoint Elisha to replace him as a prophet to the people of Israel.  When the people of God need a new leader, God is on the job.  God made it clear that as exceptional as Elijah was, God’s plans did not depend solely on Elijah.  Likewise, God’s work doesn’t depend on any one pastor of a church, or on any individual leader within the church.  God continues to raise up new leaders, sometimes even leaders blessed with a double portion of their predecessor’s spirit.  

]]> 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14.  God tells Elijah to anoint Elisha to replace him as a prophet to the people of Israel.  When the people of God need a new leader, God is on the job.  God made it clear that as exceptional as Elijah was, God’s plans did not depend solely on Elijah.  Likewise, God’s work doesn’t depend on any one pastor of a church, or on any individual leader within the church.  God continues to raise up new leaders, sometimes even leaders blessed with a double portion of their predecessor’s spirit.  

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1348150 Sun, 30 Jun 2019 17:00:00 -0400 1131 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Elijah, Elisha, leadership, leadership transition. pastoral transition, intergenerational conversation, passing the mantle of leadership, picking up the mantle full false 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14.  God tells Elijah to anoint Elisha to replace him as a prophet to the people of Israel.  When the people of God need a new leader, God is on the job.  God made it clear that as exceptional as Elijah was, God’s plans did not depend solely on Elijah.  Likewise, God’s work doesn’t depend on any one pastor of a church, or on any individual leader within the church.  God continues to raise up new leaders, sometimes even leaders blessed with a double portion of their predecessor’s spirit.   Our Abode in the Spirit--Rev. Douglas Olds Our Abode in the Spirit--Rev. Douglas Olds Our Abode in the Spirit

Sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds (all rights reserved)

First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo

June 23, 2019

 

Sermon Texts: Lamentations 1.1-4; 11-13

                        Genesis 1.1-4

]]> Our Abode in the Spirit

Sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds (all rights reserved)

First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo

June 23, 2019

 

Sermon Texts: Lamentations 1.1-4; 11-13

                        Genesis 1.1-4

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-1318324 Sun, 23 Jun 2019 14:00:00 -0400 1095 full false Our Abode in the Spirit Sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds (all rights reserved) First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo June 23, 2019   Sermon Texts: Lamentations 1.1-4; 11-13                         Genesis 1.1-4 "Grazing on Ashes" by Rev. Douglas Olds "Grazing on Ashes" by Rev. Douglas Olds "Grazing on Ashes"
A sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds
First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo (CA)
June 16, 2019
Sermon Texts: Galatians 5: 13-18,
                         Isaiah 44: 9-20

]]> "Grazing on Ashes"
A sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds
First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo (CA)
June 16, 2019
Sermon Texts: Galatians 5: 13-18,
                         Isaiah 44: 9-20

]]> First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-1286209 Sun, 16 Jun 2019 17:00:00 -0400 1361 full false "Grazing on Ashes" A sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo (CA) June 16, 2019 Sermon Texts: Galatians 5: 13-18,                          Isaiah 44: 9-20 Feed My Sheep Feed My Sheep John 21:1-19: In this post-resurrection scene on the beach, Jesus offers Peter what many contemporary psychologists contend every one of us needs: a sense of belonging, and a sense of purpose.

]]> John 21:1-19: In this post-resurrection scene on the beach, Jesus offers Peter what many contemporary psychologists contend every one of us needs: a sense of belonging, and a sense of purpose.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1091015 Sun, 05 May 2019 16:00:00 -0400 951 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, feed my sheep, tend my sheep, feed my lambs, tend my lambs, post-resurrection, sense of belong, sense of purpose, belonging and purpose, breakfast on the beach with Jesus full false John 21:1-19: In this post-resurrection scene on the beach, Jesus offers Peter what many contemporary psychologists contend every one of us needs: a sense of belonging, and a sense of purpose. Easter People Easter People John 20:1-18: Easter is not a celebration of something that happened 2,000 ago.  Easter is ongoing.  Easter is God's ongoing work in the world, making us new people.  Easter is not in or about the church, but the church is the fellowship of people who look for, recognize, and point to new life.

]]> John 20:1-18: Easter is not a celebration of something that happened 2,000 ago.  Easter is ongoing.  Easter is God's ongoing work in the world, making us new people.  Easter is not in or about the church, but the church is the fellowship of people who look for, recognize, and point to new life.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1050122 Mon, 22 Apr 2019 15:00:00 -0400 1100 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Easter, resurrection, Mary Magdalene, mu, Derek Black, Matthew Stevenson, new life, Easter people, full false John 20:1-18: Easter is not a celebration of something that happened 2,000 ago.  Easter is ongoing.  Easter is God's ongoing work in the world, making us new people.  Easter is not in or about the church, but the church is the fellowship of people who look for, recognize, and point to new life. Lead Us Not Into Temptation Lead Us Not Into Temptation Luke 19:28-40, Luke 11:1-4: In this final Lenten sermon on the Lord's Prayer, we find that the greatest temptation, at the core of all temptation and every human act of succumbing to temptation, is the temptation faced by Jesus in his 40 days in the wilderness: To doubt that our most important identity is as God's beloveds.

]]> Luke 19:28-40, Luke 11:1-4: In this final Lenten sermon on the Lord's Prayer, we find that the greatest temptation, at the core of all temptation and every human act of succumbing to temptation, is the temptation faced by Jesus in his 40 days in the wilderness: To doubt that our most important identity is as God's beloveds.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1038587 Sun, 14 Apr 2019 16:00:00 -0400 910 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Lent, Lord's Prayer, lead us not into temptation, deliver us from evil, rescue us from the evil one, bring us not to the time of trial, trial, test, temptation, God's beloved, full false Luke 19:28-40, Luke 11:1-4: In this final Lenten sermon on the Lord's Prayer, we find that the greatest temptation, at the core of all temptation and every human act of succumbing to temptation, is the temptation faced by Jesus in his 40 days in the wilderness: To doubt that our most important identity is as God's beloveds. Forgive Us Our What, Now? Forgive Us Our What, Now? Matthew 6:12; Matthew 18:21-35: The fifth in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at forgiveness as a practice.  At times forgiveness doesn't mean reconciliation; it simply means unburdening.

]]> Matthew 6:12; Matthew 18:21-35: The fifth in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at forgiveness as a practice.  At times forgiveness doesn't mean reconciliation; it simply means unburdening.

]]> Heather Gordon, Seminary Intern Buzzsprout-1028842 Sun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 -0400 781 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Lord's Prayer, forgive us our debts, forgive us our trespasses, forgive us our sins, forgiveness, forgiving, full false Matthew 6:12; Matthew 18:21-35: The fifth in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at forgiveness as a practice.  At times forgiveness doesn't mean reconciliation; it simply means unburdening. Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread Matthew 6:7=17: The fourth sermon in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at how the Lord's Prayer prays for sufficiency for today for all people, not just for individuals.

]]> Matthew 6:7=17: The fourth sermon in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at how the Lord's Prayer prays for sufficiency for today for all people, not just for individuals.

]]> The Rev. Dvera Hadden Buzzsprout-1028838 Sun, 31 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0400 1250 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Lord's Prayer, give us this day our daily bread, daily bread, hunger full false Matthew 6:7=17: The fourth sermon in our Lenten series on the Lord's Prayer looks at how the Lord's Prayer prays for sufficiency for today for all people, not just for individuals. Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done on Earth Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done on Earth Lessons: Micah 6:6-8; Matthew 6:9-10: This third in-depth exploration of the Lord's Prayer looks at "the kingdom of God" as Jesus' primary metaphor for what God wants for God's world.  God's kingdom is God's will - it is what we pray for when we pray, "thy will be done on earth."  Jesus intended us to understand the kingdom of God as an alternative to the oppressive kingdoms and empires of this world, not as an escape from this life but as a call to live in this alternative way here and now.  In fact, Jesus said, God’s kingdom is already here; it is at hand, it has arrived.[i]  It’s here – and real – wherever real people who struggle with what it means to be truly human find their own voices and know the gracious, unconditional acceptance of the God who loves all people whoever we are, whatever we are.  And then pass that along.  

[i]  Matthew 3:2, 4:17; Mark 1:5. 

 

]]> Lessons: Micah 6:6-8; Matthew 6:9-10: This third in-depth exploration of the Lord's Prayer looks at "the kingdom of God" as Jesus' primary metaphor for what God wants for God's world.  God's kingdom is God's will - it is what we pray for when we pray, "thy will be done on earth."  Jesus intended us to understand the kingdom of God as an alternative to the oppressive kingdoms and empires of this world, not as an escape from this life but as a call to live in this alternative way here and now.  In fact, Jesus said, God’s kingdom is already here; it is at hand, it has arrived.[i]  It’s here – and real – wherever real people who struggle with what it means to be truly human find their own voices and know the gracious, unconditional acceptance of the God who loves all people whoever we are, whatever we are.  And then pass that along.  

[i]  Matthew 3:2, 4:17; Mark 1:5. 

 

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-1008030 Sun, 24 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0400 1033 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Lord's Prayer, kingdom of God, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven, thy kingdom come on earth, as it is in heaven, full false Lessons: Micah 6:6-8; Matthew 6:9-10: This third in-depth exploration of the Lord's Prayer looks at "the kingdom of God" as Jesus' primary metaphor for what God wants for God's world.  God's kingdom is God's will - it is what we pray for when we pray, "thy will be done on earth."  Jesus intended us to understand the kingdom of God as an alternative to the oppressive kingdoms and empires of this world, not as an escape from this life but as a call to live in this alternative way here and now.  In fact, Jesus said, God’s kingdom is already here; it is at hand, it has arrived.[i]  It’s here – and real – wherever real people who struggle with what it means to be truly human find their own voices and know the gracious, unconditional acceptance of the God who loves all people whoever we are, whatever we are.  And then pass that along.   [i]  Matthew 3:2, 4:17; Mark 1:5.    Changed from Glory into Glory Changed from Glory into Glory Luke 9:28-43: In this highly symbolic story, called the Transfiguration, the disciples see Jesus transformed before their eyes.  Moses and Elijah appear, connecting Jesus with the long history of God’s deliverance and God’s word to a sometimes unfaithful, but always beloved, people.  We’re told they speak about Jesus’ “departure,” which in Greek is literally, “exodus.”  This is not a random word.  It points to the meaning of the cross waiting for Jesus; it is about release and freedom.  In his first sermon in Nazareth, back in Chapter 4, freedom was the overarching theme.  It’s easy to forget that the cross is not simply, or perhaps even primarily, about making forgiveness possible – Jesus has already been doing a lot of forgiving up to this point – much less about paying God off for our sin, which is a traditional and highly problematic way of talking about the cross.  Rather, it is about freedom, release from captivity, the possibility of an open future.  Jesus, Moses and Elijah talk about what Jesus will “accomplish.”  He will fulfill God’s desire that God’s people live in freedom.  When God says, "Listen to him," God means the disciples are to listen to all Jesus says, and, particularly, to the message he proclaims through his accomplishment at Jerusalem: that God desires freedom and life for God’s people.  That God is with us and for us through all things.  That God loves us and all of God’s children more than we can imagine.  That God will do absolutely anything – including dying on the cross – to communicate this love and accomplish our freedom

]]> Luke 9:28-43: In this highly symbolic story, called the Transfiguration, the disciples see Jesus transformed before their eyes.  Moses and Elijah appear, connecting Jesus with the long history of God’s deliverance and God’s word to a sometimes unfaithful, but always beloved, people.  We’re told they speak about Jesus’ “departure,” which in Greek is literally, “exodus.”  This is not a random word.  It points to the meaning of the cross waiting for Jesus; it is about release and freedom.  In his first sermon in Nazareth, back in Chapter 4, freedom was the overarching theme.  It’s easy to forget that the cross is not simply, or perhaps even primarily, about making forgiveness possible – Jesus has already been doing a lot of forgiving up to this point – much less about paying God off for our sin, which is a traditional and highly problematic way of talking about the cross.  Rather, it is about freedom, release from captivity, the possibility of an open future.  Jesus, Moses and Elijah talk about what Jesus will “accomplish.”  He will fulfill God’s desire that God’s people live in freedom.  When God says, "Listen to him," God means the disciples are to listen to all Jesus says, and, particularly, to the message he proclaims through his accomplishment at Jerusalem: that God desires freedom and life for God’s people.  That God is with us and for us through all things.  That God loves us and all of God’s children more than we can imagine.  That God will do absolutely anything – including dying on the cross – to communicate this love and accomplish our freedom

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-979456 Sun, 03 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0500 956 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Transfiguration, transformation, Methodists, LGBTQ, Michelle Obama, Becoming, Lent. full false Luke 9:28-43: In this highly symbolic story, called the Transfiguration, the disciples see Jesus transformed before their eyes.  Moses and Elijah appear, connecting Jesus with the long history of God’s deliverance and God’s word to a sometimes unfaithful, but always beloved, people.  We’re told they speak about Jesus’ “departure,” which in Greek is literally, “exodus.”  This is not a random word.  It points to the meaning of the cross waiting for Jesus; it is about release and freedom.  In his first sermon in Nazareth, back in Chapter 4, freedom was the overarching theme.  It’s easy to forget that the cross is not simply, or perhaps even primarily, about making forgiveness possible – Jesus has already been doing a lot of forgiving up to this point – much less about paying God off for our sin, which is a traditional and highly problematic way of talking about the cross.  Rather, it is about freedom, release from captivity, the possibility of an open future.  Jesus, Moses and Elijah talk about what Jesus will “accomplish.”  He will fulfill God’s desire that God’s people live in freedom.  When God says, "Listen to him," God means the disciples are to listen to all Jesus says, and, particularly, to the message he proclaims through his accomplishment at Jerusalem: that God desires freedom and life for God’s people.  That God is with us and for us through all things.  That God loves us and all of God’s children more than we can imagine.  That God will do absolutely anything – including dying on the cross – to communicate this love and accomplish our freedom Do Unto Others Do Unto Others Luke 6:27-38: The Golden Rule isn’t so much setting up one more rule we have to figure out how to follow correctly, and get just right.  Instead, each of the verses in the passage from Jesus' "sermon on the plain," including the Golden Rule, is not a command or a rule, but a promise.  The promise, essentially, that the world doesn’t have to be the way it is.  That there is another option, an option grounded in active love – in love that does for others.

]]> Luke 6:27-38: The Golden Rule isn’t so much setting up one more rule we have to figure out how to follow correctly, and get just right.  Instead, each of the verses in the passage from Jesus' "sermon on the plain," including the Golden Rule, is not a command or a rule, but a promise.  The promise, essentially, that the world doesn’t have to be the way it is.  That there is another option, an option grounded in active love – in love that does for others.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-979445 Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0500 905 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Golden Rule, do unto others, Planet of Me, there is another way. full false Luke 6:27-38: The Golden Rule isn’t so much setting up one more rule we have to figure out how to follow correctly, and get just right.  Instead, each of the verses in the passage from Jesus' "sermon on the plain," including the Golden Rule, is not a command or a rule, but a promise.  The promise, essentially, that the world doesn’t have to be the way it is.  That there is another option, an option grounded in active love – in love that does for others. The Rule of Love The Rule of Love Scott Clark Dean of Student Life and Chaplain of San Francisco Theological Seminary preached from 1 Corinthians 13: Love is the plumb line and the polestar of our everyday life and all we do.

]]> Scott Clark Dean of Student Life and Chaplain of San Francisco Theological Seminary preached from 1 Corinthians 13: Love is the plumb line and the polestar of our everyday life and all we do.

]]> The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-949428 Sun, 03 Feb 2019 12:00:00 -0500 1414 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, love, First Corinthians full false Scott Clark Dean of Student Life and Chaplain of San Francisco Theological Seminary preached from 1 Corinthians 13: Love is the plumb line and the polestar of our everyday life and all we do. Mission Statement Mission Statement 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31; Luke 4:14-21: When Jesus reads the Isaiah scroll, it is not only a promise and a declaration, but an invitation to us to participate with God in fulfilling the good news of God's kingdom, today, tomorrow, and always.

]]> 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31; Luke 4:14-21: When Jesus reads the Isaiah scroll, it is not only a promise and a declaration, but an invitation to us to participate with God in fulfilling the good news of God's kingdom, today, tomorrow, and always.

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-934281 Sun, 27 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 892 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Luke, mission statement, government shutdown full false 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27-31; Luke 4:14-21: When Jesus reads the Isaiah scroll, it is not only a promise and a declaration, but an invitation to us to participate with God in fulfilling the good news of God's kingdom, today, tomorrow, and always. We Are Beloved We Are Beloved Isaiah 43:1-7;  Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: Seminary intern Heather Gordon explored the way God claims us as God's beloved children. 

]]> Isaiah 43:1-7;  Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: Seminary intern Heather Gordon explored the way God claims us as God's beloved children. 

]]> Heather Gordon Buzzsprout-918151 Sun, 13 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 593 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, baptism, John the Baptist, baptism of Jesus, baptism of the Lord, God's beloveds full false Isaiah 43:1-7;  Luke 3:15-17, 21-22: Seminary intern Heather Gordon explored the way God claims us as God's beloved children.  The Other Christmas Story The Other Christmas Story Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12: Matthew’s Christmas story is the story of two different human communities: Jerusalem, the big city center of the elite, and Bethlehem, with its rural peasants.   In 2019, you don’t have to be from the country to be marginalized, and you don’t have to be from a big city to be arrogant.  So for us, it’s less about urban verses rural, and more about world view.  It is still a choice between two stories.  A choice between the story that leads to death and darkness, and a story that leads to light and life. Political powers still claim to be our savior, our redeemer, and our lord.  This is truly fake news in the worst sense of the word, and it is precisely how political power tempts us.  It is also what the followers of Jesus reject, for if Jesus is Lord, Caesar and Herod are not   

]]> Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12: Matthew’s Christmas story is the story of two different human communities: Jerusalem, the big city center of the elite, and Bethlehem, with its rural peasants.   In 2019, you don’t have to be from the country to be marginalized, and you don’t have to be from a big city to be arrogant.  So for us, it’s less about urban verses rural, and more about world view.  It is still a choice between two stories.  A choice between the story that leads to death and darkness, and a story that leads to light and life. Political powers still claim to be our savior, our redeemer, and our lord.  This is truly fake news in the worst sense of the word, and it is precisely how political power tempts us.  It is also what the followers of Jesus reject, for if Jesus is Lord, Caesar and Herod are not   

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-913660 Tue, 08 Jan 2019 00:00:00 -0500 934 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Epiphany, Christmas story, three kings, three wise men, wise men, magi, Isaiah, Micah full false Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12: Matthew’s Christmas story is the story of two different human communities: Jerusalem, the big city center of the elite, and Bethlehem, with its rural peasants.   In 2019, you don’t have to be from the country to be marginalized, and you don’t have to be from a big city to be arrogant.  So for us, it’s less about urban verses rural, and more about world view.  It is still a choice between two stories.  A choice between the story that leads to death and darkness, and a story that leads to light and life. Political powers still claim to be our savior, our redeemer, and our lord.  This is truly fake news in the worst sense of the word, and it is precisely how political power tempts us.  It is also what the followers of Jesus reject, for if Jesus is Lord, Caesar and Herod are not    "Failing Nature's Trust" 12/30/18 sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds "Failing Nature's Trust" 12/30/18 sermon by Rev. Douglas Olds First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-904093 Sun, 30 Dec 2018 17:00:00 -0500 1489 full false Make Room for the Unexpected (2) Make Room for the Unexpected (2) Luke 1:39-56: The video, "An Unexpected Christmas," [produced in 2012 by St. Paul’s Church in Auckland, New Zealand, a church with a ministry called St. Paul’s Arts and Kids.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TM1XusYVqNY.] captures precisely what Luke intended in the first two chapters of his gospel, in the story of Elizabeth and Mary and in the Christmas story.  “Brilliant!  They won’t be expecting that!”  Luke’s version is much edgier.  Luke gives center stage to these two women, ordinary women chosen by God and unhindered by men.  Luke has God sending the rich away empty, and bringing down the powerful from their thrones; you can imagine how well that goes over.  There have been times and places when the Magnificat was been banned from public reading.   Luke’s Christmas story names Augustus Caesar and Quirinius, governor of Syria,  for a reason.  It’s kind of like one of those long pan shots in a movie.  In the Christmas story, the opening shot includes the whole Roman Empire, and the camera zooms into the little stable in Bethlehem because Luke wants us to see the contrast between the power of the Roman Empire and the power of God through Christ.  What people wanted was a king like David who would unify the nation, rally the troops, and drive out the occupying forces.  That’s what a Messiah is supposed to do, right?  That’s what they were expecting.    But the power of God does not look like the power of Rome.  

]]> Luke 1:39-56: The video, "An Unexpected Christmas," [produced in 2012 by St. Paul’s Church in Auckland, New Zealand, a church with a ministry called St. Paul’s Arts and Kids.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TM1XusYVqNY.] captures precisely what Luke intended in the first two chapters of his gospel, in the story of Elizabeth and Mary and in the Christmas story.  “Brilliant!  They won’t be expecting that!”  Luke’s version is much edgier.  Luke gives center stage to these two women, ordinary women chosen by God and unhindered by men.  Luke has God sending the rich away empty, and bringing down the powerful from their thrones; you can imagine how well that goes over.  There have been times and places when the Magnificat was been banned from public reading.   Luke’s Christmas story names Augustus Caesar and Quirinius, governor of Syria,  for a reason.  It’s kind of like one of those long pan shots in a movie.  In the Christmas story, the opening shot includes the whole Roman Empire, and the camera zooms into the little stable in Bethlehem because Luke wants us to see the contrast between the power of the Roman Empire and the power of God through Christ.  What people wanted was a king like David who would unify the nation, rally the troops, and drive out the occupying forces.  That’s what a Messiah is supposed to do, right?  That’s what they were expecting.    But the power of God does not look like the power of Rome.  

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-979502 Sun, 23 Dec 2018 00:00:00 -0500 334 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, Advent, Magnificat, Bechdel Test, Mary, Elizabeth, Annunciation, Visitation full false Luke 1:39-56: The video, "An Unexpected Christmas," [produced in 2012 by St. Paul’s Church in Auckland, New Zealand, a church with a ministry called St. Paul’s Arts and Kids.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TM1XusYVqNY.] captures precisely what Luke intended in the first two chapters of his gospel, in the story of Elizabeth and Mary and in the Christmas story.  “Brilliant!  They won’t be expecting that!”  Luke’s version is much edgier.  Luke gives center stage to these two women, ordinary women chosen by God and unhindered by men.  Luke has God sending the rich away empty, and bringing down the powerful from their thrones; you can imagine how well that goes over.  There have been times and places when the Magnificat was been banned from public reading.   Luke’s Christmas story names Augustus Caesar and Quirinius, governor of Syria,  for a reason.  It’s kind of like one of those long pan shots in a movie.  In the Christmas story, the opening shot includes the whole Roman Empire, and the camera zooms into the little stable in Bethlehem because Luke wants us to see the contrast between the power of the Roman Empire and the power of God through Christ.  What people wanted was a king like David who would unify the nation, rally the troops, and drive out the occupying forces.  That’s what a Messiah is supposed to do, right?  That’s what they were expecting.    But the power of God does not look like the power of Rome.   Woven Together Woven Together Colossians 2:2-4, Mark 12:38-44: The story of the wdow's mite isn't a "Wow! I should be more like her!" story.  It's a story about connection and the way our lives are interwoven.  Jesus doesn't hold her up as a role model, but as an example of how the brokenness of the institutions and the establishment impact the lives of human beings.  He shows us we need to see people, as he saw the easily ignored widow, and let their lives and situations touch our hearts, so that we change the systems that cause injustice and misery. 

]]> Colossians 2:2-4, Mark 12:38-44: The story of the wdow's mite isn't a "Wow! I should be more like her!" story.  It's a story about connection and the way our lives are interwoven.  Jesus doesn't hold her up as a role model, but as an example of how the brokenness of the institutions and the establishment impact the lives of human beings.  He shows us we need to see people, as he saw the easily ignored widow, and let their lives and situations touch our hearts, so that we change the systems that cause injustice and misery. 

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-857344 Sun, 11 Nov 2018 15:00:00 -0500 1081 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, woven together, eyes of the heart, Veterans' Day, homeless, homelessness, together we serve, see, seeing, full false Colossians 2:2-4, Mark 12:38-44: The story of the wdow's mite isn't a "Wow! I should be more like her!" story.  It's a story about connection and the way our lives are interwoven.  Jesus doesn't hold her up as a role model, but as an example of how the brokenness of the institutions and the establishment impact the lives of human beings.  He shows us we need to see people, as he saw the easily ignored widow, and let their lives and situations touch our hearts, so that we change the systems that cause injustice and misery.  Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Psalm 146, Mark 12:28-34: The Psalm celebrates the lifelong praise of the God who is trustworthy, who stands up for the oppressed and sides with the most vulnerable.  Praising God, which is what we do in worshiping communities, transforms us into people of hope, resilience and resistance to the forces that would worship power, wealth, status or security, turning, "me and my" into "we and our." 

]]> Psalm 146, Mark 12:28-34: The Psalm celebrates the lifelong praise of the God who is trustworthy, who stands up for the oppressed and sides with the most vulnerable.  Praising God, which is what we do in worshiping communities, transforms us into people of hope, resilience and resistance to the forces that would worship power, wealth, status or security, turning, "me and my" into "we and our." 

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-850906 Sun, 04 Nov 2018 00:00:00 -0400 856 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, praise, praise the Lord, Hallelujah, worship, worshiping community, interfaith, vigil, Tree of Life Synagogue, resistance, full false Psalm 146, Mark 12:28-34: The Psalm celebrates the lifelong praise of the God who is trustworthy, who stands up for the oppressed and sides with the most vulnerable.  Praising God, which is what we do in worshiping communities, transforms us into people of hope, resilience and resistance to the forces that would worship power, wealth, status or security, turning, "me and my" into "we and our."  Done Being Quiet Done Being Quiet Mark 10:46-52: Bartimaeus recognizes that his condition as a blind beggar is not normal, and so he cries out.  The crowd attempts to silence him.  The crowd always has a stake in pretending that something that really is abnormal – in this case, blind begging – is normal, because it means no one has to change.  If being a blind beggar is just normal, then the society doesn’t have to ask, “Why are some people forced to beg in order to survive, while others have more than enough?  Why aren’t we taking steps to fix that?"  The Church is constantly challenged to decide whether to sign on with the silencers or the silence breakers.  This story reminds us that breaking the silence has deep roots in the biblical witness.   

]]> Mark 10:46-52: Bartimaeus recognizes that his condition as a blind beggar is not normal, and so he cries out.  The crowd attempts to silence him.  The crowd always has a stake in pretending that something that really is abnormal – in this case, blind begging – is normal, because it means no one has to change.  If being a blind beggar is just normal, then the society doesn’t have to ask, “Why are some people forced to beg in order to survive, while others have more than enough?  Why aren’t we taking steps to fix that?"  The Church is constantly challenged to decide whether to sign on with the silencers or the silence breakers.  This story reminds us that breaking the silence has deep roots in the biblical witness.   

]]> The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-843742 Sun, 28 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1238 Sermon, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, San Anselmo, silence, Bartimaeus, Reformation, break the silence, silencers full false Mark 10:46-52: Bartimaeus recognizes that his condition as a blind beggar is not normal, and so he cries out.  The crowd attempts to silence him.  The crowd always has a stake in pretending that something that really is abnormal – in this case, blind begging – is normal, because it means no one has to change.  If being a blind beggar is just normal, then the society doesn’t have to ask, “Why are some people forced to beg in order to survive, while others have more than enough?  Why aren’t we taking steps to fix that?"  The Church is constantly challenged to decide whether to sign on with the silencers or the silence breakers.  This story reminds us that breaking the silence has deep roots in the biblical witness.    Let Them Come Let Them Come The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-824408 Sun, 07 Oct 2018 00:00:00 -0400 735 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, let them come, divorce, children, patriarchy, grace, God's love, full false Mark 10:2-16: This sermon explains how Jesus' comments about divorce and his welcoming the children are connected. In 1st century Palestine, divorce meant economic and social ruin for the wife. Jesus is saying human beings are not disposable, and a case in point is the children seeking Jesus' blessing. They have no status in the culture, they have no way to "earn" God's love, which is how we are all to receive it: as a gift of grace for all. God's concern is for the hurt, the suffering, the impoverished, the tossed aside. Jesus shows us this by saying, "Let them come," Was God Involved? Was God Involved? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-818514 Sun, 30 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1067 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, God's presence, God's activity, Esther, was God involved, Holy Spirit, Kavanaugh, sexual harassment, sexual assault, boys will be boys, speaking truth to power full false The Book of Esther: God is not mentioned in the Book of Esther. Are we intended to understand that God was involved - that God was a character ion this story, even thought never mentioned? How do we detect God's action and comprehend God's intention when, as someone put it, "God is subtle to a fault?" Borrowing from author Frederick Buechner, we trust that God offers the possibility of new life and healing. God the director conveys to us, somehow, from the wings, “if we have our eyes, ears, hearts open and sometimes even if we don’t, how we can play [our] roles in a way to enrich and ennoble and hallow the whole vast drama of things including our own small but crucial parts in it.” Afraid to Ask Afraid to Ask The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-811337 Sun, 23 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0400 835 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, questions, humility, service, greatness, full false Mark 9:30-37: The disciples are afraid to ask Jesus what he meant when they didn't understand his prediction about betrayal, death and resurrection. They're worried about their image, as is revealed by their subsequent bickering about being the greatest. Jesus shows them a child, vulnerable, with no status, and identifies with the child: those who are great will welcome the vulnerable. Including their questions. The disciples need to already know points to their obsession with greatness. The humility it takes to say, "I don't know" and ask questions is the vulnerability Jesus models, both because it allows us to be open to learn, and because it does not create insiders who believe or know the correct answers. Old Dogs, New Tricks Old Dogs, New Tricks The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-800237 Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1124 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Syrophoenician woman, Jesus, full false Mark 7:25-37: Jesus learned from listening to the religious and ethnic "other." So can we. Created for Community: Their Welfare, Our Welfare Created for Community: Their Welfare, Our Welfare The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-788271 Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1105 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Jeremiah, Babylon, John McCain, Marin Organizing Committee, neighborhood, community, we need each other, bowling alone, social fabric full false Jeremiah 29:4-7, 10-11: This sermon concludes the summer sermon series on the ways we are created for community. Jeremiah told the exiles to Babylon to make a life there, and to pray for the city in which they found themselves, for in its welfare was their welfare. The American church is not in exile, but can feel at odds with the culture. Our mission statement is to seek the welfare of the city, town, location where we are, because just as God was the God of the Babylonians as well as the Jews, God is the God of our neighbors, and already at work in and through them to bring about God's plans. Created for Community: Who Is My Neighbor? Created for Community: Who Is My Neighbor? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-782050 Sun, 19 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1061 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, community, Good Samaritan, parable, religious hostility, prejudice full false Leviticus 19:15-18, Luke 10:25-37: People often assume that the lesson of the Parable of the Good Samaritan is "Anybody could be my neighbor," which is comfortable and doesn't raise our prejudices. But Jesus chose the Samaritan precisely because "A Samaritan is my neighbor" would have stuck in the throats of his listeners. Jesus chose the despised outcast and heretic as the person through whom God is working, while the properly religious people who believe the "right" things failed the test, Created for Community: Be Angry, But Do Not Sin Created for Community: Be Angry, But Do Not Sin The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-774006 Sun, 12 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1085 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, community, anger, Ephesians, be angry, anger as sin, anger as a tool, anger as an alarm, anger about injustice full false Ephesians 4:25-5:2: In a list of ethical instructions about how to live the new life in Christ, the writer acknowledges that feeling anger is not a problem; what we DO with our anger is the issue. Anger alerts us to unfairness, and is a valuable tool when transformed to courage, love, or justice. Created for Community: Speaking the Truth in Love Created for Community: Speaking the Truth in Love The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-768484 Sun, 05 Aug 2018 00:00:00 -0400 892 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, speaking the truth in love, truth, facts, church, unity, community full false Ephesians 4:1-16: In the face of a threat to unity, which is the goal and measure of Christian maturity, the writer's advice to the churches to "speak the truth in love." This is a calling to pursue the truth, even if it is painful, we don't like the source, or it requires us to change. It is also a calling to speak it, to voice the truth, but "in love," which means genuine compassion and caring for the person or group to whom we speak. Working Miracles Working Miracles Rev. Douglas Olds Buzzsprout-762460 Sun, 29 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1424 full false July 29, 2018 sermon on lectionary texts Psalm 14 and Gospel of John 6.1-21 The Unity in Community The Unity in Community The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-758109 Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1386 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Body of Christ, unity, Ephesians 2:11-22, diversity, LGBTQ full false Often churches speak of unity as agreement – a calm and comforting sense that we all get along – that there’s no real difference or dispute – no controversy, no disagreement, no protest. But that works well only if you are in the majority. Whenever there is any power imbalance – which is always – thinking about unity-as-agreement only works for our places of power and privilege – where the status quo is a comfort and a balm. Unity is not a feeling of agreement. It is a location, and that location is Jesus. We find our unity when we come to stand with Jesus who always stands with the poor, the oppressed, and the vulnerable. Created for Community: The Wisdom of Eyes and Feet Created for Community: The Wisdom of Eyes and Feet The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-751181 Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400 950 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Body of Christ, suffering, gifts, diversity, variety of gifts, Paul, Corinthians, one Spirit full false 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a: Paul uses the metaphor of the human body to explain how God's gift to the Church is that people have a variety of skills, gifts and talents to bring to the ministry in Christ's name. He uses the same metaphor to explain how the church are bound together, suffering when one of us suffers and rejoicing when one of us is honored. The challenge in our culture id not that we lack compassion for community members, but that we are reluctant to be vulnerable with each other. We need each other, and we need to need each other to build community. Created for Community: Calculating Privilege, Abusing Power Created for Community: Calculating Privilege, Abusing Power The Rev. Doug Olds Buzzsprout-748688 Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1383 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, community, power, privilege, weakness full false 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 From Fear to Faith From Fear to Faith The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-738421 Sun, 24 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0400 951 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, faith, trust. full false Mark 4:35-43; 2 Corinthians 6:1-13: Mark's story about Jesus' calming the storm shows us how to move from fear to trusting God. Jesus reveals a God who cares passionately for the wellbeing of all God’s people. Jesus invites people to trust in that God, and trust, in the end, is the only thing that overcomes fear. Ultimately, the question isn’t what moves us from fear to trust, but who. The answer Mark offers is Jesus, the one who will not rest until we see and hear and experience and trust and live into God’s passionate love for us and all the world. What Do You Do When the Old No Longer Works and the New Has Not Arrived? What Do You Do When the Old No Longer Works and the New Has Not Arrived? The Rev. Floyd Thompkins Buzzsprout-723670 Sun, 10 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0400 2422 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Daniel, integrity, faith, Floyd Thompkins full false Acts 1:1-11; Daniel 1:1-17; “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” the poem by James Weldon Johnson Guest preacher the Rev. Floyd Thompkins, Director of the Center for Innovation in Ministry at San Francisco Theological Seminary, looks at the story describing Daniel's invitation to compromise his beliefs and his integrity in order to be seen as successful and important, as defined by the king and the dominant culture. Daniel refuses to give up his integrity, not because being himself "works," as the culture defines it, but because God called him to be faithful, regardless of what appears to work. God promises not to make him successful but to sustain him. Faith is not about doing what works, but about who we are and what God is calling us to do and be. REST REST Royce Truex, Joy Snyder, Jo Gross Buzzsprout-699668 Sun, 06 May 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1623 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, homelessness, shelter, homeless shelter, hospitality, REST, Rotating Emergency Shelter Team, serving full false Matthew 11:28-30; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: Three of the church leaders who served in key leadership roles in the congregation's REST program [Rotating Emergency Shelter Team] over the 9 year course of the ministry to people experiencing homelessness in Marin County reflect on their experiences. Here Is the Water Here Is the Water The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-692010 Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1045 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, LGBTQ, Ethiopian Eunuch, Philip, inclusive, church, widening circle, inclusion, welcome full false Acts 8:26-40: Philip converts the Ethiopian Eunuch - but it's Philip who is the one converted. The church needs the stranger, the foreigner, the "other" to convert us again and again to the open-hearted and ever-widening circle of faith in Jesus Christ, and to show us what the church can be. I Shall Not Want I Shall Not Want The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-687248 Sun, 22 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400 979 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Earth Day, Psalm 23, Twenty-third Psalm, consumerism, greed, the Lord is my shepherd full false Psalm 23; 1 John 3:16-24: "I shall not want" doesn't mean we'll have no desires. It means God provides all we need. God provides enough to sustain all life on the planet. The problem is not supply, but distribution. If we trust that "the Lord is our shepherd," as the psalmist proclaims, rather than greed or consumerism, we will trust that there is enough to share, enough to go around, as well as to protect our planet from the destruction that rampant consumerism causes. Breakfast on the Beach Breakfast on the Beach John Lyzenga, Seminary Intern, and Molly Morris, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-682845 Sun, 15 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400 972 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, welcome, hospitality, stranger, Jesus, disciples, post-resurrection, full false John 21:1-14: Interns Molly Morris and John Lyzenga describe the hospitality modeled by Jesus in this post-resurrection appearance, when he invites the disciples to join him for breakfast on the beach. Jesus always welcomed the stranger, and that is our calling as well. Even if, as is sometimes the case, the stranger we need to welcome is someone who looks like the person who hurt or excluded us. The News from San Anselmo 2018 The News from San Anselmo 2018 The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-678431 Sun, 08 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400 629 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Holy Humor, Doubting Thomas, spiritual practices, humor, laughter full false John 20:19-34: This work of fiction serves as the "sermon" on Holy Humor Sunday, culminating a Lenten and Easter series on spiritual practices. In her search for a spiritual practice that fits her, the main character, Jenna, discovers that humor and laughter may be her spiritual practices, healing her when she hurts and fueling her to walk the walk. In the process, she realizes that her humorous take on "Doubting Thomas" helped her grasp its central message: That Jesus shows up for us, whether we doubt or not. The Practice of Resurrection The Practice of Resurrection The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-673807 Sun, 01 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0400 674 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Easter, resurrection, believing, practicing resurrection, the practice of resurrection full false John 20:1-18: When John talks about "believing" in the Resurrection, he is talking about relying on it, trusting it, as though our lives depended on it. There are many paths to "believing" or trusting, as John, Mary and the beloved disciple show us. One path is practicing resurrection, because as Henri Nouwen said, “You don’t think your way into a new kind of living. You live your way into a new kind of thinking.” Practicing resurrection means practicing partnering with God in transforming despair into hope, apathy into compassion, hate into love, and death into new life. The Practice of Journeying The Practice of Journeying The Rev. Sue Fleenor Buzzsprout-668415 Sun, 25 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -0400 1400 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Palm Sunday, spiritual practices, journeying, pilgrimage, journeys, El Camino de Santiago de Compostela, El Camino, the Way full false Guest preacher the Rev. Sue Fleenor shared her experience on El Camino de Santiago de Compostela and compared her journey to the journey of faith and the journey of Jesus to Jerusalem that ended on Palm Sunday. Practicing Storytelling Practicing Storytelling Molly Morris, Director of Family Ministries and Seminary Intern Buzzsprout-658743 Sun, 11 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -0500 733 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, story, stories, Lent storytelling, good Samaritan, single narrative, single story, full false Psalm 25:1-10, Luke 10:25-37: Part of our Lenten sermon series, "Breathe on Me, Breath of God, on faith practices that sustain our faith during turbulent times, Molly Morris, Director of Family Ministries and seminary intern looks at the practice of storytelling. Our stories are part of us and a huge part of the way we interpret the world. When we tell our stories and listen to others' stories, we are given better understanding of the world around us, enter into community and begin to create the Kingdom of God, to which Christ calls us. The Practice of Listening to God in Nature The Practice of Listening to God in Nature First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-654528 Sun, 04 Mar 2018 00:00:00 -0500 1121 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Lent, wilderness, temptation, vision quest, Celtic Christianity, nature, practices, cross-species conversation full false Genesis 1:1-12; Mark 1:9-15: Jesus emerged from his journey into the wilderness of nature, a form of vision quest during which he wrestled with his calling and self-definition, with the conviction that we need to move toward what he called "the kingdom of God," based in the old biblical stories that God created us in love and desires us to be free. The mirror of nature helped Jesus to see the ways competing stories offer only captivity and self-destruction. Nature helps us remember that we are part of the web of life, not separate from it or above it. Praying with Eyes Open Praying with Eyes Open John Lyzenga, Seminary Intern Buzzsprout-653204 Sun, 25 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -0500 1048 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, lament, justice, Black Lives Matter full false This sermon on Amos 5 and Psalm 10 explores communal lament as a faith practice. In scripture, lament is the response to recognizing and confessing that God's people are participants in a broken system or culture. The Practice of Paying Attention The Practice of Paying Attention The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-645475 Sun, 11 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -0500 942 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Transfiguration, pay attention, Lent, Lenten, Lenten practices, practices, transformation full false Mark 9:2-9: In the story of the Transfiguration, God tells the disciples to listen to Jesus, and offers a miraculous, supernatural event to underscore who Jesus is. While we may not see many occurrences as flashy as the one Mark describes, we are surrounded by "supernatural" occurrences in which God invites us to hear, see and notice God. We have only to pay attention. During Lent, we will be exploring Christian practices that help sustain us and inspire us in turbulent times. They all begin with paying attention. A Deserted Place A Deserted Place The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-636729 Sun, 04 Feb 2018 00:00:00 -0500 929 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, prayer, Lent, deserted place, Jesus, spiritual life, prayer life, relationship with God full false Mark 1:29-39: Jesus needed time alone to pray. He needed to spend good, quality, one-on-one time with God in order to keep doing what God called him to do, and to keep being what God called him to be. So do we. Confrontation Confrontation The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-632290 Sun, 28 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500 973 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Mark, unclean spirit, LGBTQ, Pavlovitz, healing, confrontation, church full false Mark 1:21-28: The very first act of Jesus' ministry that Mark describes is confronting an "unclean spirit" that is depriving a man of heath, life, meaning, purpose and joy. This tells us that opposing whatever deprives human beings of health, life, meaning. purpose and joy is at the heart of Jesus' ministry. God opposes whatever stands in the way of our having what Jesus called "abundant life." This took place right in the synagogue on a Sabbath, pointing to the Church's calling to confront brokenness even in church, even when it's caused by the church, as is too often the case for people declared by our culture to be "not normal," including our LGBTQ companions in the faith. God Always Loves Us More God Always Loves Us More The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-628297 Sun, 21 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500 1370 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Jonah, God's love, Nineveh, God changes God's mind full false Jonah 3:1-5, 10: Guest preacher the Rev. Scott Clark retells the story of Jonah, and how God surprised him with the truth that no matter what we think about God or how we imagine God, God always loves us more. Choosing God's Voice Choosing God's Voice The Rev. Douglas Olds Buzzsprout-632278 Sun, 14 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500 1542 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, full false 1 Samuel 3:1-9, John 1:43-51: This sermon by guest preacher Douglas Olds explores how our relationship with God requires communication to make it authentically human. Without communication, there is no relationship. Looking at two readings about the calling by name of God to God’s followers, we learn that we are called by name—and hear God’s voice–in our conscience. God is lord of the conscience, our Presbyterian confessions state. Our sense of rightness and justice can direct us, give us a path in life. God wants us to follow our conscience that is based on knowing the voice of God. Accept That You Are Accepted Accept That You Are Accepted The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-620571 Sun, 07 Jan 2018 00:00:00 -0500 1074 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Baptism, beloved, identity, name, inclusion, bigger table full false Mark 1:4-11: Our most important name, our most important identity, is that we are God's Beloveds. This identity doesn't belong only to a few people, or only to the baptized. It belongs to everybody. The Church's calling is to make space for a greater swath of humanity, recognizing each and every person as God’s beloved, and recognizing the redemptive power of real relationships. Let It Be Let It Be The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-614689 Sun, 24 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0500 900 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Advent, hope, waiting, Mary, Annunciation, saying yes to God, God within us, virgin birth, Fourth Sunday in Advent full false Luke 1:26-38: Mary said "yes" to God. Will we? God approaches us daily, maybe multiple times a day. Can we recognize God within us, asking us to become God-bearers, asking us to bring Christ to a hurting, and broken world? Can we let God grow in us; can we “let it be”? Like Mary, we fear; God reassures us and tells us what will be required. We doubt; God points us to past experiences and helps us to trust. If we say yes, finally we are able to bring into the world, with God’s grace, something new. What Does God Want? What Does God Want? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-611457 Sun, 17 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1164 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, Advent, hope, waiting, Mary, Magnificat, prophets, what does God want, what God wants, full false Luke 1:46b-55: In the tradition of the Old Testament prophets, Mary's song, which we know as the Magnificat, describes the hopes, dreams and visions not only of humanity but of God FOR humanity. It tells us what God wants, not just for some, but for all. The Center Cannot Hold The Center Cannot Hold The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-603547 Sun, 03 Dec 2017 00:00:00 -0500 869 sermon, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, apocalyptic, apocalypse, Advent, Mark 13, the little apocalypse, Niemoller, hope, waiting, keep alert, keep awake, God comes full false Mark 13:24-37: On the first Sunday in Advent, apocalyptic literature wakes us to what is going on in the world around us, invites us to lament, calls us to keep alert and repent - to turn around and move in the direction of God, who comes to us, as we are, where we are. When Did We Welcome You...? When Did We Welcome You...? Molly Morris, Director of Family Ministries Buzzsprout-599965 Sun, 26 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0500 804 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Thanksgiving, hospitality, radical hospitality, refugees, welcome full false Matthew 25:31-46: This sermon explores the radical hospitality to which we are called as followers of Jesus. Sowing Bountifully Sowing Bountifully The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-596858 Sun, 19 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1048 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Thanksgiving, generosity, sowing bountifully, reaping bountifully, you reap what you sow, joy of giving full false 2 Corinthians 9:6-13: Paul desperately wants the Corinthians to contribute to the needs of the Jerusalem church. He seems to promise they will benefit if the give. Is this true? Yes, and no. While "the prosperity gospel" (material rewards for faith) is magical thinking, generosity does in fact give us joy and even a larger sense of health and well-being. How to Wait How to Wait The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-593125 Sun, 12 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1076 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, together we serve, kingdom of God, prepare, keep awake, practices, slow kingdom coming, wait, waiting, bridesmaids, lamps, keep your lamps trimmed and burning, full false Matthew 23:1-12: The parable of the ten bridesmaids reminds us that the Church still waits for the fulfillment of God's kingdom. How shall we wait? The oil points to practices that no one else can do for us that help us prepare for the long haul, the "slow kingdom coming." These practices add up to "Keep awake." At First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo, we also know that the best way to wait is to serve in Christ's name. To Be Human To Be Human The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-589731 Sun, 05 Nov 2017 00:00:00 -0400 915 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, All Saints', cloud of witnesses, story, Beatitudes, memorial service, remembering, funeral, saints full false Matthew 5:1-12, Psalm 34:1-10, 22: The psalmist told his own story of God's activity in his life because we all need that hope and encouragement. This All Saints' Sunday sermon explores the ways our own stories offer that hope and encouragement to others. We are blessed to be a blessing to others whatever our stories. Things that are God's Things that are God's The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-582758 Sun, 22 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -0400 873 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, stewardship, God's image, created in the image of God, render unto Caesar, paying taxes, we belong to God full false Matthew 22:15-22: Jesus silences the religious leaders trying to trick him by reminding them that while it's fine to pay taxes, we bear God's image, we belong to God, and we are to give God nothing less that our whole heart, mind, soul and strength. Tenants Tenants The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-575599 Sun, 08 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -0400 884 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, speak truth to power, Jesus, kingdom of God, gun violence, Las Vegas full false Matthew 21:33-46: Jesus tells this difficult parable to call the religious leaders to account for their failure to care for the people. We, too, are called to speak truth to power when our leaders fail to make the life, liberty, safety and just treatment of the people a priority. 20171008 102810.m4a 20171008 102810.m4a First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-575590 Sun, 08 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -0400 884 full false By What Authority? By What Authority? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-572378 Sun, 01 Oct 2017 00:00:00 -0400 743 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, authority, integrity, World Communion Sunday, acceptance, walk the walk full false Matthew 21:23-32: Jesus tells the parable of the two sons to illustrate that there is no authority without integrity - that in addition to talking the talk, we need to walk the walk. The Church forfeits its authority when it forgets this. What's Fair? What's Fair? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-569496 Sun, 24 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1021 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, grace, laborers in the vineyard, God's economy, fair, fairness full false Matthew 20:1-16: The parable of the workers in the vineyard seems unfair, and Jesus says the Kingdom of God is just like that. What Jesus is doing is introducing a new model: Rather than "That's not fair!" and "I didn't get enough" and "I should get what I deserve," Jesus introduces God's economy: lavish grace for all who deserve it and for all who do not. Forgiving Is Hard (Do It Anyway) Forgiving Is Hard (Do It Anyway) The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-565942 Sun, 17 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0400 975 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, forgiveness, forgiving, forgiving others, as we forgive our debtors, consequence of failing to forgive, refusing to forgive. full false Matthew 18:21-35: Forgiveness is hard, but it is unavoidable if we want to be in relationship, and the refusal to forgive is its own punishment. We are the ones who suffer if we fail to forgive. However, no one can "command" us to forgive; it doesn't work that way, because like love, forgiveness must be chosen. Perhaps what we might do it accept God's forgiveness, and let that unimaginable grace help us turn towards mercy. Where Two or Three Are Gathered Where Two or Three Are Gathered The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-563001 Sun, 10 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0400 779 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, community, church, where two or three are gathered, Christian community, church attendance full false Matthew 18:15-20: Matthew's deep concern is authentic Christian community, which takes work: collaboration, humility, compromise, patience, cooperation and showing up. It is worth it. Christian community promises that Jesus is there in the midst of us, so that we have the strength, spirit and resilience to do God's kingdom work. My Labor, My Work, My Ministry 2017 My Labor, My Work, My Ministry 2017 First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo Buzzsprout-559934 Sun, 03 Sep 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1293 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Labor Day, vocation, calling, Christian Vocation Sunday, work, discipleship, workplace. full false 1 Corinthians 12:4-12, 27: Each year on the Sunday before Labor Day, three church members describe how they live out their calling as Christ's disciples in the workplace or in their "vocation." Our three speakers today were Cheryl Prowell, Senior Water Resource Control Engineer at California Regional Water Quality Control Board; Daniel Ferreira, Baker, M. H. Bread and Butter; Jo Gross, Spiritual Director. The Summer of Love: A Change of Heart The Summer of Love: A Change of Heart Nick Morris Buzzsprout-556798 Sun, 27 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1420 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, summer of love, control, homelessness, stranger in our midst, head, heart full false Proverbs 3:5-6: Through 3 personal encounters, guest preacher Nick Morris illustrates three points: Don't believe everything you think; those you believe you are helping are likely helping you as well; love from the heart, not the head. The Summer of Love: The Broken-Open Heart The Summer of Love: The Broken-Open Heart The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-556793 Sun, 20 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -0400 941 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, summer of love, 1 Corinthians 12, take up your cross, hard work of love, racism, hatred full false Mark 8:34-37 and 1 Corinthians 13: Although 1 Corinthians 13 is often thought to be a romantic passage, read at weddings, it describes the disciplined practice of cross-carrying love to which Jesus calls us. "Take up your cross" means "Do the hard work of love, even when it's painful, and even when hating is easier." The Summer of Love: Home Is Where the Heart Is The Summer of Love: Home Is Where the Heart Is The Rev. Bentley Stewart Buzzsprout-551013 Sun, 13 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -0400 2069 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, blood and soil, economic disparity, racism, homelessness, Standing Rock, oppression, white supremacy full false Luke 4:16-21; Isaiah 5:5-10: The Rev. Bentley Stewart, guest preacher, issues a wake-up call, noting the way the chant of white supremacists in Charlottesville, VA, "Blood and soil!" is both a slogan of the Third Reich and a phrase that points to all our conflicts over the eons. Humanity has fought and shed blood over land and religion for thousands of years. The challenge as God's people is to live into the peace with justice to which God calls us. The Summer of Love: Doing Love The Summer of Love: Doing Love Dr. Royce Truex Buzzsprout-548017 Sun, 06 Aug 2017 00:00:00 -0400 3935 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, Summer of Love, doing love, Body of Christ, farewell discourse, Holy Spirit, Advocate, community of faith, church full false John 14:9-14, 25-27; Philippians 2:5-8: This sermon explores how Jesus' ministry was "doing love." He assured us that not only is it our ministry as well, but that we'd receive the Holy Spirit to help us to live into that ministry. As the Body of Christ, we are tasked with doing his work in the world, which means "doing love." The Summer of Love: Love Your Enemies The Summer of Love: Love Your Enemies The Rev. Scott Clark Buzzsprout-544259 Sun, 30 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1444 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, love your enemies, Jesus, the Sermon on the Mount, summer of love, LGBTQ full false Matthew 5:43-48: This sermon explores the nearly impossible request Jesus made in the Sermon on the Mount: "Love your enemies." The Rev. Scott Clark asks, "Who does that?" The answer is that Jesus does. And while we may never be able to "be perfect" in meeting this challenge, we can move toward it. Clark offers three notions about "the least we can do" in order to move in this direction. The Summer of Love: Crazy in Love The Summer of Love: Crazy in Love The Rev. Ellen Baxter Buzzsprout-534361 Sun, 09 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1074 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Gerosene demoniac, demons, suffering, Jesus, Mark's gospel full false Mark 5:1-20: Jesus' encounter with the Gerosene man afflicted by demons reminds us that God's relentless love and healing addresses us even as we suffer. The Summer of Love: The Love That Pursues Us The Summer of Love: The Love That Pursues Us The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-533111 Sun, 02 Jul 2017 00:00:00 -0400 842 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Psalm 139, The Runaway Bunny, God seeks us, being found by God, conversion stories, Anne Lamott, Kathleen Norris, Frederick Buechner full false Psalm 139: Even though people commonly think it's their task to "find God," Psalm 139 describes a God who never gives up on finding us, being present with us, and loving us. The Summer of Love: Your Neighbor As Yourself The Summer of Love: Your Neighbor As Yourself The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-529150 Sun, 25 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1000 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, Great Commandments, love your neighbor, love your neighbor as yourself, summer of love full false Leviticus 19:13-18; Mark 12:28-34: In the second sermon in our summer sermon series, "The Summer of Love," we explore what Jesus meant by "love" when he said that the second great commandment is to love our neighbors as ourselves. The Summer of Love: Tough Love The Summer of Love: Tough Love The Rev. Yolanda Norton Buzzsprout-526368 Sun, 18 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -0400 529 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, love, Jacob, wrestle with God, tough love, Philando Castile, Black Lives Matter, justice full false Genesis 32:22-32: This summer, we’re exploring Scripture’s prime directive and giving a nod to the 50th anniversary of that summer in Haight-Ashbury that changed American culture with a summer sermon series, “The Summer of Love.” Today, our guest preacher, the Rev. Yolanda Norton, introduced the series with "Tough Love." Jacob gave up his privilege in order to wrestle with God, and he has the scars to prove it. Likewise, when we are to wrestle with love, which is tough, messy, complicated, but our calling through Christ. In the Beginning In the Beginning The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-523714 Sun, 11 Jun 2017 00:00:00 -0400 832 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, creation, Genesis, dominion, subdue, environmental stewardship, care of creation, ecology full false Genesis 1:1-2:4: The key teaching of the first creation story in Genesis is not how or when God created the earth, but that it was God who created it, and that creation belongs to God. The verses which imply that humanity should have "dominion" over creation or "subdue" creation do not mean we are to disrespect or exploit creation, but rather, were written in an ancient context that understood that the wilderness could be hostile to survival. The ancients would have found our pattern of exploiting creation to be blasphemous. A Pause to Prepare A Pause to Prepare The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-518398 Sun, 28 May 2017 00:00:00 -0400 892 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, ascension, vacations, Memorial Day, prepare, Pentecost, pause, interlude full false Acts 1:6-14: The ascension tells us Jesus' ministry is no longer limited in time, space and history. The disciples have a chance to absorb this during the pause or interlude between his ascension and Pentecost, when the promised Holy Spirit arrives. This God-given pause helps to prepare them for what is to come. Likewise, our pauses - breaks, vacations, holidays - are God-given pauses to prepare us for what is to come. Bring Christ Bring Christ The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-515532 Sun, 21 May 2017 00:00:00 -0400 886 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, evangelism, conversion, convert, Paul, the unknown god, Areopagus, interfaith dialogue, Christ, full false Lesson: Acts 17:22-31. The new evangelism seeks not to convert people to our way, but to invite people into a conversation and into collaboration with God and neighbors in the great work of healing the earth, of building the beloved community, and of seeking first the kingdom of God and God's justice for all. Marin's Best Kept Secret Marin's Best Kept Secret The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-515529 Sun, 14 May 2017 00:00:00 -0400 562 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Matthew, let your light shine, you are the light of the world, capital campaign, Marin's best kept secret, full false Lesson: Matthew 5:14-16. As we launch our 2017 Capital campaign, we look at the ways we can expand our welcome and minister to more people if we improve and maintain the buildings with which we are blessed. Day by Day Day by Day The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-509845 Sun, 07 May 2017 00:00:00 -0400 886 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, koinonia, communion, the Lord's Supper, fellowship, breaking bread together, early church, Acts of the Apostles full false Acts 2:42-47. This sermon looks at the ways fellowship and breaking bread together helped build the early Christian community and helped people to grow in faith, day by day. The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper symbolizes this radical welcome and koinonia shared by the early church and by the church today. The News from San Anselmo 2017 The News from San Anselmo 2017 The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-503996 Sun, 23 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0400 713 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Easter, Doubting Thomas, doubts, Ned Flanders, Holy Humor, the News from San Anselmo, A San Anselmo Home Companion, church full false On the Sunday after Easter, we celebrate Holy Humor Sunday, the traditional "Easter laugh." Our worship takes the format of a radio show, "A San Anselmo Home Companion." (Our thanks to Garrison Keillor.) The proclamation of the Word (or sermon) is "The News from San Anselmo," a work of fiction. We Rise We Rise The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-501333 Sun, 16 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0400 846 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, resurrection, Easter, believing, empty tomb, ongoing resurrection, join the resurrection full false Passages: Colossians 3:1-4 (from The Message); Matthew 28:1-10 Many people wonder whether the resurrection really happened. The question is not, "Did it happen?" but "Is it still happening?" The promise of the resurrection is not simply what God has done, but what God is still doing. Easter is not over; it is ongoing. Peace March Peace March The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-498637 Sun, 09 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0400 752 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, Palm Sunday, peace, Kingdom of God, nonviolence, Holy Week full false Matthew 21:1-17: Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem was a demonstration of the Kingdom of God as an alternative to the Empire of Rome: peace, not war; love, not violence; joy, not coercion. We Can Do Hard Things We Can Do Hard Things The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-495912 Sun, 02 Apr 2017 00:00:00 -0400 860 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, Ezekiel, dry bones, hope, Brene Brown, church, post-Christian, we can do hard things, Spirit, breath full false Ezekiel 37:1-4: God's Spirit is still at work in us and in the Church, giving us hope in the struggle to do hard things. That is where hope is born. Fear No Evil Fear No Evil The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-493202 Sun, 26 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1070 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, Psalm 23, God is love, Twenty-third Psalm, the Lord is my shepherd, I will fear no evil, fear, God's presence, for Thou art with me, full false The 23rd Psalm and John's first letter help us to understand how God's companionship transform everything, helping us to affirm, along with the psalmist, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil." O That You Would Listen O That You Would Listen The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-490470 Sun, 19 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0400 1104 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, Exodus, complaining, freedom, freedom from slavery, Exodus 17, Psalm 95 full false This sermon explores how it's easier to get the people out of slavery than to get slavery out of the people. During the Exodus journey, the people forgot that God is the One who delivered them from slavery, who values freedom. With Whom Do You Cry? With Whom Do You Cry? Peter Anderson and Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-487710 Sun, 12 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1410 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, water protectors, Standing Rock, Standing Rock Sioux, Dakota Access Pipeline, Esther, "for such a time as this" full false In a dialogue sermon on Esther 4:10-17, pastor Joanne Whitt and church member Peter Anderson explore Peter Anderson's experiences as a water protector with the Standing Rock Sioux at Cannon Ball, North Dakota, during the winter of late 2016. Trying to Fill a God-Shaped Hole Trying to Fill a God-Shaped Hole The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-485989 Sun, 05 Mar 2017 00:00:00 -0500 942 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Lent, 40 days in the wilderness, temptation, God-shaped hole full false This sermon introduces the season of Lent with Jesus' 40-day journey into the wilderness, where he was tempted, like Adam and Eve, to fill a God-shaped hole with something other other than God, apart from God and apart from his love of God and God's people. How Do We Love Our Enemies? How Do We Love Our Enemies? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-478869 Sun, 19 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1316 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Sermon on the Mount, love your enemies, full false In this final sermon on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matthew's Gospel, we explore whether it is possible to love our enemies, as Jesus admonishes us to do. What might it look like to love our enemies in 2017? It's All About Relationship It's All About Relationship The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-476291 Sun, 12 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -0500 1080 Sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Sermon on the Mount, law, Gehenna, relationship, law of love, love your neighbor as yourself, God cares about our relationships full false This sermon looks at why Jesus intensifies the laws in the Sermon on the Mount. The law is not to be followed for the law's sake, but for our sake. The law was given to help us to live in relationship, to love our neighbors as ourselves. What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus? What Does It Mean to Follow Jesus? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-465115 Sun, 22 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -0500 934 sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, vocation, calling, call of the disciples, discipleship, children of God, beloved community full false Lesson: Matthew 4:12-23: This sermon explores how we are called to "be" - to be beloved children of God and to understand the sacredness of all our fellow human beings and all of God's creation - before we are called to "do" - to act in response to this amazing love. When Only a Sad Song Will Do When Only a Sad Song Will Do The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-462671 Sun, 15 Jan 2017 00:00:00 -0500 982 Church, faith, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo, tears, lamentations, weeping, Martin Luther King. full false Lamentations 2:18-19; 3:22-24; Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. There is indeed a "time to weep." The Book of Lamentations shows us the pattern of healing from grief: Express the pain, move to hope. In Folks Like Us In Folks Like Us The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-462674 Sun, 25 Dec 2016 00:00:00 -0500 912 Church, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin, Christmas, incarnation, spirituality full false Luke 2:1-20: On Christmas Day we celebrate that God is with us, "Emmanuel" - with folks like us, and in folks like us. We All Have Questions: What's the Difference Between God's Forgiveness and Our Forgiveness? We All Have Questions: What's the Difference Between God's Forgiveness and Our Forgiveness? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-442292 Sun, 13 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -0500 1137 forgiveness, God's forgiveness, our forgiveness, presidential election, Matthew, Exodus, Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Marin County full false Continuing a sermon series on questions about the Christian faith, this sermon looks at forgiveness: God's, and ours. Might forgiveness help our nation heal from the stark divisions revealed by the recent political campaigns and the presidential election? The sermon explores what forgiveness is, and what it isn't. It isn't saying everything is OK; it isn't approval; it doesn't require that anyone put up with hurtful behavior. It is freedom to move into a different future. Like love, it cannot be quantified. We All Have Questions: What Is God's Will? We All Have Questions: What Is God's Will? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-440020 Sun, 06 Nov 2016 00:00:00 -0400 996 God's will, God's desire, questions, doubts, Kingdom of God, Marin County, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, full false Continuing our sermon series on questions about our faith, this sermon explores the New Testament use of the term "God's will," using the Lord's Prayer in Matthew's gospel and Paul's letter to the Romans, Chapter 12. "God's will" does not mean that whatever happens is God's will, nor does it mean God has a secret plan for each of us, but rather, that God desires that all things on earth be united in God's plan for the healing and wholeness of the world. We All Have Questions: Should the Church Be "Political"? We All Have Questions: Should the Church Be "Political"? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-435039 Sun, 23 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0400 1170 Church, faith, politics, First Amendment, separation of church and state, Marin County, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, Reformed Tradition, render unto Caesar, kingdom of God full false Continuing our sermon series on questions about faith, this sermon explores whether churches should take positions on controversial or "political" issues affecting human rights, poverty, and human health and well-being. We All Have questions: Why Worship? We All Have questions: Why Worship? Rev. Diana Bell Buzzsprout-432391 Sun, 16 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0400 1335 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, worship full false Lesson Psalm 73. Why might we choose to worship God? Worship is a spiritual discipline, loving people is hard and we come to worship to practice and to be changed by God's love to live more fully. We All Have Questions: What Do We Believe About Other Faiths? We All Have Questions: What Do We Believe About Other Faiths? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-430177 Sun, 09 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0400 1062 Questions, faith, multi-faith, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Brian D. McLaren, San Anselmo, Marin, Presbyterian full false As part of a sermon series about common questions concerning the Christian faith, this sermon takes a look at the way Christians have interpreted Scripture to assume some people are insiders with God while others are outsiders. Jesus practiced the neighborliness he preached, and shows us God loves the whole world, not just part of it; not just some people. We All Have Questions: What Is the Bible? We All Have Questions: What Is the Bible? The Rev. Yolanda Norton Buzzsprout-429706 Fri, 07 Oct 2016 00:00:00 -0400 841 full false Lessons: John 1:1-14; Genesis 1:1-3. Today we welcome guest preacher Yolanda Norton, Assistant Professor of Old Testament at San Francisco Theological Seminary. Ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Rev. Norton is completing her doctorate in the Graduate Department of Religion at Vanderbilt University. We All Have Questions: Where Is the Holy Spirit? We All Have Questions: Where Is the Holy Spirit? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-425550 Sun, 25 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -0400 702 Spirit, Holy Spirit, Trinity, church, San Anselmo, Marin, questions, faith, doubts full false We understand the Holy Spirit to be the way God inspires, fuels, encourages and challenges us, but where IS the Holy Spirit? In the third of our fall sermon series, "We All Have Questions," we explore the ways the Spirit works in, around, through and with us. We All Have Questions: Why Do We Pray? We All Have Questions: Why Do We Pray? The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt Buzzsprout-423786 Sun, 18 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -0400 849 prayer, church, faith, Presbyterian, Marin, questions, San Anselmo, faith full false Lessons: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-26; Philippians 4:4-7. Given that praying "for something" raises so many philosophical, theological and logical questions, what is the purpose of prayer? We All Have Questions: Doubt with a Cherry On Top We All Have Questions: Doubt with a Cherry On Top The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt and the Rev. Diana Bell Buzzsprout-423796 Sun, 11 Sep 2016 00:00:00 -0400 1182 faith, doubts, questions, God, Jesus, heaven, hell, church, San Anselmo, Mari, full false Lessons: Isaiah 55:8-13, 1 Corinthians 13:9-13: To kick off our fall sermon series on, "We All Have Questions," the two pastors of First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo share a dialogue about their own big faith questions. A Conversation with Hina Khan-Mukhtar A Conversation with Hina Khan-Mukhtar Hina Khan-Mukhtar 344403 Sun, 10 Jan 2016 00:00:00 -0500 1463 Presbyterian, Worship, Sermon, Sunday, San Anselmo full false Waiting in Hope Waiting in Hope Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 344114 Sun, 29 Nov 2015 00:00:00 -0500 671 Sermon, Church, Presbyterian, Sunday, Worshiop full false Lesson: Luke 21:25-36. "Life is Advent; life is recognizing the coming of the Lord. Stand up; raise your heads. May it be so for you, and for me. Amen." As Yourself As Yourself Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 326772 Sun, 08 Nov 2015 00:00:00 -0500 1062 presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon, san anselmo, marin full false Lessons: Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Mark 12:28-34. "We are all God’s beloved children. God created us to need each other. God created us to love our neighbors, as ourselves." O Blessed Communion O Blessed Communion Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 321247 Sun, 01 Nov 2015 00:00:00 -0400 880 presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon, san anselmo, marin full false Lesson: Revelation 21:1-6. "All are one in Thee, for all are Thine.” Thanks be to God for all the saints, past, present and future. Amen." Jesus Stood Still Jesus Stood Still Rev. Louise Conant 320326 Sun, 25 Oct 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1032 Sermon, Presbyterian, Sunday, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Mark 10:46-52. "We have a Lord who is always ready to hear and heal, but who leaves us free to name our longing." To Serve To Serve Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 320399 Sun, 18 Oct 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1067 presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon, san anselmo, marin full false Lesson: Mark 10:35-45. "But God is calling you to some need, some need of which you may or may not be aware this morning. Look for it, find it, answer that call. Your life will be richer, more meaningful, more joy-filled. And a small corner of the world will be healed." When God Is Silent When God Is Silent Rev. Diana Bell 318265 Sun, 11 Oct 2015 00:00:00 -0400 733 presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon, san anselmo, marin full false Lesson: Job 23. "Thanks be to God for communities to help us walk through dark valleys and painful silence; who help us cry out, who pray kumbaya with us, and who fill the loving gap when God is silent." The Good Wife The Good Wife Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 318267 Sun, 20 Sep 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1006 presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon, san anselmo, marin full false Lesson: Proverbs 31:10-31. "This morning’s passage in Proverbs hints that even when people’s expectations of marriage were entirely different from ours today, there was still this problem of unrealistic expectations." Why Is This in the Bible? Why Is This in the Bible? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 302730 Sun, 30 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0400 959 Presbyterian, sunday, sermon, san anselmo full false Lessons: Song of Songs 2:8-13; 8:6-7. "Why is the Song of Songs in the Bible? Maybe it ended up here by mistake – by human mistake, anyway. But I am convinced that it is here because God knows we need it. We need it to remind us of the amazing gift of sexuality, and to remind us to treasure that gift, to use it faithfully, to use it to show and increase God’s love." Thin Places Thin Places Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt 302729 Sun, 23 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1101 presbyterian, sunday, sermon, San Anselmo full false Lessons: 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43. "Solomon got one thing right: No sanctuary can contain God. And yet, we celebrate that God is here. Here in you, and here in me. Here, where we are called to gather, and here, where we are sent out to be signs of God’s mysterious and loving presence. If Only If Only Rev. Laurie Garrett-Cobbina http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/297108-if-only.mp3 Sun, 09 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1678 church, presbyterian, sunday, sermon, san anselmo full false Lesson: 2 Samuel 18:5-15, 24-33. Speaking Truth Speaking Truth Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/296757-speaking-truth.mp3 Sun, 02 Aug 2015 00:00:00 -0400 753 presbyterian, church, sermon, sunday, san anselmo full false Lesson: 2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a. "Let us speak truths and listen to truths, for God’s grace extends to all. God rejoices when we repent. God desires us to be in relationship with Her and with each other. May we be so brave as to listen and to respond…together." David's Folly David's Folly Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/293282-david-s-folly.mp3 Sun, 26 Jul 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1011 presbyterian, church, Sunday, San Anselmo, sermon full false Lesson: 2 Samuel 11:1-15. "Practicing gratitude is an antidote to the arrogance that encourages power to corrupt. And power doesn’t corrupt everybody." David's Dance David's Dance Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/289331-david-s-dance.mp3 Sun, 12 Jul 2015 00:00:00 -0400 893 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Church, Sermon, Sunday full false Lesson: 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19. "And I believe with all my heart that what God also wants for us is singing, laughing, and dancing. God gave us these gifts to connect, and to enjoy." "What Will Survive of Us is Love" "What Will Survive of Us is Love" Rev. Scott Clark http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/285527-what-will-survive-of-us-is-love.mp3 Sun, 28 Jun 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1338 Presbyterian, church, Sermon, Sunday, San Anselmo, Clark full false Lessons: 1 Samuel 18:1-9; 2 Samuel 1:17-27 . "We will give ourselves to the work of love that God commands in the world, and we will - with God's help - in our own embodied lives - prove - once and for all - and forever - our almost instinct, absolutely true: what WILL survive of us is love." David & Goliath David & Goliath Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/284254-david-goliath.mp3 Sun, 21 Jun 2015 00:00:00 -0400 879 Presbyterian, church, san anselmo, sunday, sermon full false Lessons: 1 Samuel 17:1a, 4-11, 19-23, 32-49. "Eventually, we shall overcome because it is God who will prevail. With David, we say to this giant, “You come to us with hatred and discrimination and violence; but we come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts.” As God Sees As God Sees Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/284253-as-god-sees.mp3 Sun, 14 Jun 2015 00:00:00 -0400 863 San Anselmo, Presbyterian, church, sunday, sermon full false Lessons: 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13. "As the Lord said to Samuel: “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” Give Us a King Give Us a King Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/279636-give-us-a-king.mp3 Sun, 07 Jun 2015 00:00:00 -0400 626 Presbyterian, church, Sunday, sermon, San Anselmo full false Lessons: 1 Samuel 8:4-20. "...God’s promises don’t cease when we make bad choices. God gives us the freedom to make choices, and that freedom comes with living with the consequences. But whatever we choose, God does not abandon us." Trinity Mystery Trinity Mystery Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/278039-trinity-mystery.mp3 Sun, 31 May 2015 00:00:00 -0400 883 presbyterian, sunday, san anselmo, church, sermon full false Lesson: Romans 8:(12-13)14-18. "Struggle and glory…we live it together as children of God." Dream Dreams Dream Dreams Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/275958-dream-dreams.mp3 Sun, 24 May 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1048 Presbyterian, church, sunday, San Anselmo, sermon full false Lessons: Acts 2:1-21. "And so here is the most important question of all: What, if anything, is getting in the way of our hearing the Spirit roar through this place, empowering us to catch the vision, and dream the dream?" No Partiality No Partiality Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/272316-no-partiality.mp3 Sun, 10 May 2015 00:00:00 -0400 798 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Acts 10:44-48. "And may we trust the heartache; may we wake up, notice when someone is hurting, treat each person like a gift from God, and do something." Bearing Fruit Bearing Fruit Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/270686-bearing-fruit.mp3 Sun, 03 May 2015 00:00:00 -0400 817 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: John 15:1-8. "I want to remind you again that God is the vine grower. We have enough to do as branches! Let us continue to grow together… knowing God’s masterful hands guide us, and trusting Christ to lead our way." Abundant Life Abundant Life Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/268337-abundant-life.mp3 Sun, 26 Apr 2015 00:00:00 -0400 821 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Psalm 23, John 10:10b-18. "As his followers, God is at work in us to continue the work of the good shepherd. “Do for them, as I did for you,”[11] Jesus told his disciples. We Had Hoped... We Had Hoped... Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/268336-we-had-hoped.mp3 Sun, 19 Apr 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1003 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false "We are a resurrection people. Life, death, resurrection, hope. We are a part of that equation, for each other. May it be so for you, and for me." The News from San Anselmo 2015 The News from San Anselmo 2015 Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/268327-the-news-from-san-anselmo-2015.mp3 Sun, 12 Apr 2015 00:00:00 -0400 930 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: John 20:19-34. "And perhaps above all: “I sing because I’m happy. I sing because I’m free. For his eye is on the sparrow. And I know he watches me.” And that’s all the news from San Anselmo, where everyone is spiritual, a few people are religious, and the Presbyterians strive to be holy." Who Will Roll Away the Stone for Us? Who Will Roll Away the Stone for Us? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/260638-who-will-roll-away-the-stone-for-us.mp3 Sun, 05 Apr 2015 00:00:00 -0400 930 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24; Mark 16:1-8. "Where human beings know joy and justice, dignity and delight, the stone is rolled away, and there is the risen Christ, beckoning us into Galilee." Daily Resurrections: Waving Palms Daily Resurrections: Waving Palms Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/260637-daily-resurrections-waving-palms.mp3 Sun, 29 Mar 2015 00:00:00 -0400 914 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Mark 11:1-11 (MSG translation). "We are part of a great parade – a tradition spanning centuries when regular people follow along trying to make sense of Jesus and the path he leads us down: the path towards solidarity, freedom, justice, healing, wholeness, and love with a capital “L.” Daily Resurrection: Seeing Jesus Daily Resurrection: Seeing Jesus Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/257605-daily-resurrection-seeing-jesus.mp3 Sun, 22 Mar 2015 00:00:00 -0400 967 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: John 12:20-36. "It is our calling as the church, as those who call ourselves the body of Christ in the world: to let the world see Jesus, in us. Daily Resurrection: Before and After Daily Resurrection: Before and After Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/257632-daily-resurrection-before-and-after.mp3 Sun, 15 Mar 2015 00:00:00 -0400 1114 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Ephesians 2:1-10. "God has brought us to this moment to tune our hearts to sing God's grace, to live gracefully connected to God and all people ever after. Here I raise my ebenezer." Daily Resurrection: Losing to Find Daily Resurrection: Losing to Find Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/255694-daily-resurrection-losing-to-find.mp3 Sun, 01 Mar 2015 00:00:00 -0500 970 Sunday, Sermon, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Mark 8:31-38. "What good would it do to get everything you want and lose you, the real you? The connected you. The you that remembers God." Daily Resurrection: Time’s Up! Daily Resurrection: Time’s Up! Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/250285-daily-resurrection-time-s-up.mp3 Sun, 22 Feb 2015 00:00:00 -0500 519 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Church, Sunday, Sermon full false Lesson: Mark 1:9-15. "We invite you to take a stone home today. Let it remind you that we are called and then empowered to change – ourselves, and our world. Let it remind you, daily, of daily resurrection, of the stone God rolled away to raise Jesus, and rolls away in our lives as well. Now. And every single day. Transfigure…what? Transfigure…what? Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/250293-transfigure-what.mp3 Sun, 15 Feb 2015 00:00:00 -0500 860 Presbyterian, Church, San Anselmo, Sunday, Sermon full false Lesson: Mark 9:2-9. "However God shows up in your life, however you experience transformation, may your life be enriched by the experience of being present to God’s awesome power and transforming love." Chameleons for Christ? Chameleons for Christ? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/245270-chameleons-for-christ.mp3 Sun, 08 Feb 2015 00:00:00 -0500 935 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Psalm 147:1-11, 20c; 1 Corinthians 9:16-23. "The word for this kind of behavior, for Paul’s behavior, is not marketing, or evangelism, but hospitality." Choosing Community Choosing Community Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/242782-choosing-community.mp3 Sun, 01 Feb 2015 00:00:00 -0500 845 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13. "We are the body of Christ. May we be neither neutral nor detached. May we choose community." What Does It Mean to "Trust God"? What Does It Mean to "Trust God"? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/242786-what-does-it-mean-to-trust-god.mp3 Sun, 25 Jan 2015 00:00:00 -0500 960 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Psalm 62, Mark 1:14-20. "Maybe not tomorrow, my friends, or next year, or in our lifetime, or even in a way that the rest of the world understands it. But brothers and sisters, believe the good news: the kingdom of God is here and we are called to work in it and for it and toward it, and everything’s gonna be all right." Speak, Lord Speak, Lord Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/243290-speak-lord.mp3 Sun, 18 Jan 2015 00:00:00 -0500 787 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: 1 Samuel 3:1-20. "Therefore Eli said to Samuel, ‘Go, lie down; and if he calls you, you shall say, “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” Claim the Grace Claim the Grace Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/237165-claim-the-grace.mp3 Sun, 11 Jan 2015 00:00:00 -0500 997 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Isaiah 43:1-7, Mark 1:4-11. "And we belong to each other. When we are baptized with Christ, we are baptized into his ministry of grace, to love others as we are loved, to stand with everybody whose life is messy and complicated and hard which means: with everybody." The Light Shines in the Darkness The Light Shines in the Darkness Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/235083-the-light-shines-in-the-darkness.mp3 Sun, 04 Jan 2015 00:00:00 -0500 732 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: John 1:1-18. "My New Year's prayer for all of us is that although Christmas is over, we will live a Christmas life, so that the light might continue shining on in even the darkest of places." Adopted as Heirs Adopted as Heirs Sharon LeClaire, M.Div., M.A.T.S. http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/235084-adopted-as-heirs.mp3 Sun, 28 Dec 2014 00:00:00 -0500 732 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Galatians 3:23-4:7. "Our totally true, totally present and unconditionally loving parent has adopted us not because of who we are but because of who God is." Expect Something New: Do Not Be Afraid Expect Something New: Do Not Be Afraid Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/225906-expect-something-new-do-not-be-afraid.mp3 Sun, 30 Nov 2014 00:00:00 -0500 680 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: I Corinthians 1:3-9. "The path of love is the pathway out of the dark and toward the Advent hopes of peace and justice for all. These goals are worth working towards – they are worth the wait." Saints Aren't Perfect Saints Aren't Perfect Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/221250-saints-aren-t-perfect.mp3 Sun, 02 Nov 2014 00:00:00 -0400 808 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Psalm 34:1-10, 22; Matthew 23:1-12. "To be a saint is to be our selves, working together with God in the creation of our own lives; not some perfect or false life but a humble life, a servant life that is in fact an exalted life because of the connection to each other and to God that humility expressed in service makes possible." Be Still... Be Still... Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/221246-be-still.mp3 Sun, 26 Oct 2014 00:00:00 -0400 886 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false "May we practice. May we find time, regularly, to dwell in the presence of our God – the Jacob-wrestling God fights for us, God-of-Angel-Armies protects us. May we be still-enough that the love and peace of God be known in our hearts this morning and always." Bearing Fruit in a Season of Drought Bearing Fruit in a Season of Drought Rev. Kate Taber http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/221234-bearing-fruit-in-a-season-of-drought.mp3 Sun, 19 Oct 2014 00:00:00 -0400 854 Sunday, Sermon, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Jeremiah 17:5-8. "Yet, our faith tells us of a radically different reality–one in which we have access to new life, in which evil and suffering are not the victors, in which we are nourished by God to bear fruit in defiance of the powers of death." A Quiet Mind + A Hopeful Heart = Joy A Quiet Mind + A Hopeful Heart = Joy Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/213305-a-quiet-mind-a-hopeful-heart-joy.mp3 Sun, 12 Oct 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1006 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Philippians 4:1-9. "When was the last time you rejoiced? I saw a New Yorker cartoon with a father and son in a car, and the father, who is driving, says to the son, “If you bring joy and enthusiasm to everything you do, people will think you’re crazy.”[8] No. They will think you’re Christiian. The Purpose of Freedom The Purpose of Freedom Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/213301-the-purpose-of-freedom.mp3 Sun, 05 Oct 2014 00:00:00 -0400 864 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20. "The path to freedom is through a wilderness of uncertainty and hard choices, and it takes a community of encouragement and discernment to help us figure out exactly how to love God and our neighbors, which is the only sure way we all will be free." Forgiveness Forgiveness Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/221260-forgiveness.mp3 Sun, 28 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1120 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: Matthew 18:21-35. "We used to pray debts and debtors; many traditions pray trespasses rather than sins; but it all means the same thing. We are praying that God will forgive us, which Scripture says God does, freely, again and again, and we are praying for the ability and the will to forgive others – which does not come as naturally to us as it does to God and that’s why we need to pray it, week after week after week." fpcsa_20140914_mexicoMission.mp3 fpcsa_20140914_mexicoMission.mp3 First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/206841-fpcsa_20140914_mexicomission-mp3.mp3 Tue, 23 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1027 full false Amazing Grace Amazing Grace Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/206840-amazing-grace.mp3 Sun, 21 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1003 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lessons: Matthew 20:1-16. "Every creature God has made. Every single one, the apple of God's eye. God claims you. Today. That is grace. Reach out and accept the gift. May it be so for you and for me." Where Two or More Are Gathered Where Two or More Are Gathered Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/203910-where-two-or-more-are-gathered.mp3 Sun, 07 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0400 854 sermon, church, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, religion, Sunday full false Lesson: Matthew 18:15-20. "Jesus promises to be with us as two or more of us gather.[1] To “Gather” is not the same thing as to “agree.” When we do the holy work of building community based in God’s inclusive love, God promises to be right there in the midst of our struggles." My Labor, My Work, My Ministry My Labor, My Work, My Ministry David Conant, Annette Schellenberg, Ian Prowell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/201364-my-labor-my-work-my-ministry.mp3 Sun, 31 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1151 Church, Presbyterian, sermon, Sunday, San Anselmo full false Lesson: ! Corinthians 12:12-14, 27 The Keys of the Kingdom The Keys of the Kingdom Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/199952-the-keys-of-the-kingdom.mp3 Sun, 24 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0400 998 presbyterian, san anselmo, church, sermon full false Lesson: Matthew 16:13-20. "Who do you say that Jesus is? This is not a test. You don’t have to have a great answer this morning. The church, the community of Jesus, gathers this morning, and off and on all week, and every year, and every century, so that we can help each other answer that question, and figure out together how it will shape our lives and even our world." Heal Thyself Heal Thyself Mr. David Altshuler http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/198348-heal-thyself.mp3 Sun, 17 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0400 882 Presbyterian, church, sermon, San Anselmo, religion full false Lesson: Matthew 15: 21-28. "John's Gospel says it this way, 'On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you." There seems to be a dwelling within us and if we can hear thyself, we've got to be on the right road." The Kingdom Come Person The Kingdom Come Person Rev. Linda Powers http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/196709-the-kingdom-come-person.mp3 Sun, 10 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1413 presbyterian, church, sermon, religion, san anselmo full false Lesson: Luke 10:25-37. "For Christians, we should walk in the sandals of Jesus. Inside his ministry of love. After all that was what his ministry is all about. We are not meant to be martyrs, but we must filter our actions not through judgment and fear, but through the love and grace as shown us by our Christ. Real Hope Real Hope Sharon LeClaire, M. Div, M.A.T.S http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/196708-real-hope.mp3 Sun, 03 Aug 2014 00:00:00 -0400 686 Presbyterian, sermon, church, religion, San Anselmo full false Lessons: Psalm 62: 1-2, 5-8; Romans 5:1-5. "We can engage in Real Hope because we know that God can be trusted to handle our hope gently and with great compassion." The Pearl of Great Price The Pearl of Great Price Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/192695-the-pearl-of-great-price.mp3 Sun, 27 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1062 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lessons: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52. "We all have shame. We all worry, at one point or another - if not most of the time -- that, "I'm not good enough." So we hide who we really are. But in order for connection to happen -- true connection -- we have to let ourselves be seen." With Unveiled Faces With Unveiled Faces Kathy Kwon http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/190976-with-unveiled-faces.mp3 Sun, 20 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1146 Presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church, Sunday full false Lesson: 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. "In communion with Christ and one another, we see with eyes anew the promise of the glory of God yet redeeming all things around us, and we are called to reveal the glory of God—with unveiled faces ablaze—by participating in this redemptive trajectory ourselves." From Depth of Soil From Depth of Soil Rev. Scott Clark http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/189582-from-depth-of-soil.mp3 Sun, 13 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1114 sermon, sunday, clark, presbyterian, church, san anselmo full false Lessons: Matthew 13:1-9, 16-23. "These parables are subversive – they are about the present and coming reign of God – they are about an end to oppression and violence – and they are about an emerging world of justice and peace. They are prophetic, and they are political." The Go-To Psalm The Go-To Psalm Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/173644-the-go-to-psalm.mp3 Sun, 11 May 2014 00:00:00 -0400 743 sermon, san anselmo, church, presbyterian, sunday full false Lesson: Psalm 23; Acts 2:42-47. "In life and in death, 'Thou art with me' - God is with us. In life and in death, the Lord is our shepherd. Thanks be to God for God's presence with us, spoken so powerfully in the Twenty-third Psalm, this touchstone of our faith." Singing Witnesses Singing Witnesses Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/172371-singing-witnesses.mp3 Sun, 04 May 2014 00:00:00 -0400 944 church, San Anselmo, Presbyterian, sermon full false Lesson: Luke 24:13-35. "Thanks be to God for the village of the community of faith, and for gifts of music, our voices, our tradition of singing hymns, and the mystery of the way they work together to make us signs of the resurrection." The News from San Anselmo 2014 The News from San Anselmo 2014 Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/170126-the-news-from-san-anselmo-2014.mp3 Sun, 27 Apr 2014 00:00:00 -0400 803 humor, holy, presbyterian, sermon, san anselmo, church full false Lesson: Psalm 24:1. "And that’s all the news from San Anselmo, where everyone is spiritual, a few people are religious, and the Presbyterians strive to be holy." Vulnerable Love: Seeing the Lord Vulnerable Love: Seeing the Lord Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/169003-vulnerable-love-seeing-the-lord.mp3 Sun, 20 Apr 2014 00:00:00 -0400 731 Presbyterian, sermon, church, Sunday, Easter, San Anselmo full false Lesson: John 20:1-18. "Through all we do and through our relationships, we, the ekklesia, the called out ones, are called to unbind, set free, release, and renew; to overcome helplessness with hope – one food package at a time, one meal served to a homeless guest at a time, one olive tree planted at a time, one visit to the hospital at a time, one graciously hosted memorial service reception at a time; one child of God welcomed, loved and included at a time. Thanks be to God for this church." The Word Proclaimed The Word Proclaimed FPCSA Chancel Choir and Orchestra http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/166686-the-word-proclaimed.mp3 Sun, 13 Apr 2014 00:00:00 -0400 1170 sermon, sunday, presbyterian, choral music, san anselmo full false Lesson: Mathew 26, 27 "Die Sieben Worte Jesu Christi am Kreuz" - Music conducted by Daniel Canosa, organist John Parfitt. Vulnerable Love: Lazarus Vulnerable Love: Lazarus Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/165022-vulnerable-love-lazarus.mp3 Sun, 06 Apr 2014 00:00:00 -0400 729 church, sermon, san anselmo, presbyterian full false Lesson: John 11:1-45. "Thanks be to God for this church. May God continue to help us all to claim our faith as a present-tense invitation to live our promised salvation now." Vulnerable Love: The Man Born Blind Vulnerable Love: The Man Born Blind Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/162661-vulnerable-love-the-man-born-blind.mp3 Sun, 30 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0400 766 church, sermon, presbyterian, religion, san anselmo full false Lesson: John 4:1-41. "May we learn to live courageously in the face of shame and love ourselves and our neighbors for who they are in this moment standing before us. For to practice love this way may take all that we can do to recognize and respond with grace and love." Vulnerable Love: The Woman at the Well Vulnerable Love: The Woman at the Well Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/161249-vulnerable-love-the-woman-at-the-well.mp3 Sun, 23 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0400 876 presbyterian, church, sermon, sunday, religion, san anselmo full false Lesson: Lesson: John 4:1-30. "May we be such witnesses; may that living water bubble up and pour out through our saturated spirits, so that everyone we come in contact with can’t help but get soaking wet as well." Vulnerable Love: Rend Your Hearts Vulnerable Love: Rend Your Hearts Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/157089-vulnerable-love-rend-your-hearts.mp3 Sun, 09 Mar 2014 00:00:00 -0500 1016 Presbyterian, Sermon, San Anselmo, religion full false Lessons: Joel 2:1-2, 12-13; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21. "Break open your hearts to each other, to the stranger, to the suffering in God’s world, to the healing God offers, to hope and possibility, and especially, to the hope of God’s kingdom on earth as it is in heaven." Loving Your Enemies Loving Your Enemies Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/153489-loving-your-enemies.mp3 Sun, 23 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0500 1026 church, sermon, presbyterian, sunday, religion full false Lesson: Matthew 5:38-48. "Loving the way God loves might sound unrealistic, but there is no shortage of real life stories of people who have been able to love their enemies in creative and constructive ways, from Abraham Lincoln to Martin Luther King to Nelson Mandela to combatants in armed conflict to the victims of racism and oppression to Anne Lamott to ordinary folks, like you and me. Beyond the Law Beyond the Law Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/151576-beyond-the-law.mp3 Sun, 16 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0500 918 sermon, church, presbyterian, san anselmo, sunday full false Lessons: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Matthew 5:21-37. "May God guide each of us in doing the right thing, the holy thing, the Christ-like thing, for the people who need it most. May God help us to choose life." Salt and Light Salt and Light Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/150272-salt-and-light.mp3 Sun, 09 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0500 985 Presbyterian, church, sermon, san anselmo, religion full false Lesson: Matthew 5:13-16. "May we continue to bring out the God-colors in the world around us. May we continue to challenge each other and hold each other up in love, for it is together that we are the light of the world." Do, Love, Walk Do, Love, Walk Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/150268-do-love-walk.mp3 Sun, 02 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0500 1025 presbyterian, church, sermon, san anselmo, religion full false Lesson: Micah 6:1-8. "We celebrate that we rely not only on each other, but on God, whom we meet in worship but also in the world. We celebrate that we are a community that remembers that a small group of people who gather to break bread together in Jesus’ name can change the world." Is the Kingdom Still Near? Is the Kingdom Still Near? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/150264-is-the-kingdom-still-near.mp3 Sun, 26 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0500 975 Presbyterian, church, sermon, religion, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Matthew 4:12-24. "But perhaps this is a place where relationships are such that we can speak up, disagree, and still love each other. That, my friends, is a taste of the kingdom, and I am deeply grateful for it." Worthy Worthy Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/142901-worthy.mp3 Sun, 12 Jan 2014 00:00:00 -0500 1055 presbyterian, sermon, service, Sunday, San Anselmo full false Lessons: Isaiah 42:1-9; Matthew 3:13-17. “This is my child, the Beloved, in whom I am well pleased.”[11] This is already true for each of us; for everyone. May we believe it, and live into it." In the Darkness...Grace In the Darkness...Grace Ms. Sharon LeClaire, M.Div. http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/139826-in-the-darkness-grace.mp3 Sun, 29 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 720 presbyterian, religion, service, spirituality, san anselmo, sermon full false Lesson: Psalm 31:1-22. Be Still and Know...Good News and Great Joy Be Still and Know...Good News and Great Joy Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/139054-be-still-and-know-good-news-and-great-joy.mp3 Tue, 24 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 835 presbyterian, church, san anselmo, service, christmas eve, spirituality, religion full false Lesson: Be Still and Know.. Dreams and Decisions Be Still and Know.. Dreams and Decisions Rev. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/138747-be-still-and-know-dreams-and-decisions.mp3 Sun, 22 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 981 Presbyterian, church, San Anselmo, sermon, spiritual full false Lesson: Matthew 1: 18-25. "We can trust that God is with us. We can trust that God comes through ordinary, mixed-up people in order to save ordinary, mixed-up people, and that God comes through a birth like all the millions of other births in the world to show us that when we act with forgiveness and hope and trust, well then, the world changes." "Be Still and Know...What the Messiah Looks Like" "Be Still and Know...What the Messiah Looks Like" Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/137687-be-still-and-know-what-the-messiah-looks-like.mp3 Sun, 15 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 995 Presbyterian, Church, San Anselmo, sermon, spiritual full false Lessons: Isaiah 35:1-10; Matthew 11:2-11. "In Jesus' footsteps, with the power of the Holy Spirit, we are artisans of the new creation." Magnificat Magnificat Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt w/Daniel Canosa, director, w/orchestra and choir http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/136559-magnificat.mp3 Sun, 08 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 2302 worship, presbyterian, choir, magnificat, church, music full false Lesson: Luke 1:46-55. "The people of God sing. In the Old and New Testaments, people sing in joy and sorrow, praise and lament. Music is God’s gift to us and in our congregation, we have a long history of appreciating the way music can stir us in a way words alone cannot." Be Still and Know...Peace Be Still and Know...Peace Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/134896-be-still-and-know-peace.mp3 Sun, 01 Dec 2013 00:00:00 -0500 680 Presbyterian, worship, sermon, spirituality, San Anselmo full false Lessons: Ps 46:10, Isaiah 2:1-5 . "Advent is about hope. And, waiting. And, knowing God’s love is with and around us. We live into Isaiah’s dream and become part of the peace process as we take time for silence and stillness. We allow God’s refining fire, God’s light, to burn brightly in our hearts and in our lives." First Fruits First Fruits Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/133645-first-fruits.mp3 Sun, 24 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0500 840 Presbyterian, sermon, San Anselmo, spirituality full false Lesson: Deuteronomy 26:1-11; Luke 12:34. " I am passionate about the way we function as a true community center, housing a preschool, a center for adults with special needs, AA, a Wade Thomas Spanish class, Qi Gong, a fitness class, a martial arts group, the barbershop singers, Marin Girls’ Chorus, and on and on." ... "I am passionate about us, a community that includes in this party the vulnerable and anyone and everyone who will join in the journey, and that gives back to God with so much joy and thanksgiving." God's Holy Mountain God's Holy Mountain First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/132253-god-s-holy-mountain.mp3 Fri, 22 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0500 887 Presbyterian, church, San Anselmo, sermon, spirituality full false Lesson: Isaiah 65:17-25. "Isaiah’s message from God is stunning in its simplicity and ability to transcend the ages. God desires us to be fulfilled: So, be glad and rejoice forever in what I (God) am creating." Living the Questions Living the Questions Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/130435-living-the-questions.mp3 Sun, 10 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0500 871 presbyterian, San Anselmo, sermon, church, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 20:27-38. "But together, we can help each other catch the vision of that new life and new world that Jesus described, a life of inclusion and justice and freedom and shalom, and love. Together, working toward that vision, we practice resurrection. Together, we serve. May it continue to be so for at least another 116 years." Saint Zacchaeus Saint Zacchaeus Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/129748-saint-zacchaeus.mp3 Sun, 03 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0400 725 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Lesson: Luke 19:1-10. "Thanks be to God that Jesus follows us home. And thanks be to God for the saints of San Anselmo."' Wow Wow Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/126001-wow.mp3 Sun, 27 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400 850 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, Sunday, Sermon full false Lesson: Psalm 65. "But what I will say is that in our tradition, our giving is the awe-filled and grateful response to the gifts from God our Creator, the Source of all that we are and all that we have, and an important way we partner with God in reforming God’s creation. Why We Start with the "Why" Why We Start with the "Why" Church officers: David Conant, John Cowperthwaite, and Royce Truex http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/124919-why-we-start-with-the-why.mp3 Sun, 20 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1282 Presbyterians, Sunday, sermon, church, San Anselmo, officers full false Royce Truex: "My great desire and hope is that what we do in this congregation proves that we all believe those things, that anyone looking at us will know that we treat everyone as a child of God, love the entire creation, are loyal to Jesus’ teachings, and, as members of the body of Christ, doing our best to be partners with God, doing God’s work in the world." Bloom Where You're Planted Bloom Where You're Planted Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/124918-bloom-where-you-re-planted.mp3 Sun, 13 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1040 Presbyterian, church, sermon, San Anselmo, Sunday full false Lessons: Luke 17:11-19; Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7. “Hope is the ability to hear the music of the future. Faith is the ability to dance to that music now.” Mustard Seed Faith Mustard Seed Faith Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/120630-mustard-seed-faith.mp3 Sun, 06 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0400 699 Presbyterian, church, sermon, sunday, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Psalm 37:1-6; Luke 17:5-10. "You do not get more faith by closing your eyes, trying really hard to feel or to believe something, or by clicking the heels of your ruby slippers together. More faith comes through faithful living. You can do it. We can help. And your faith will be increased, not as a personal achievement, but as a gift of God. Investing in the Future Investing in the Future Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/118745-investing-in-the-future.mp3 Sun, 29 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400 948 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Church, Sermon, Jeremiah, Whitt full false Lesson: Jeremiah 32:1-15. "There's an old Greek proverb which says that a society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they know they shall never sit. I believe we can say the same thing about a great church.Trusting that God owns our tomorrow, may we, the church of Jesus Christ, have the courage and strength and faith to make that investment." Is There a Balm in Gilead? Is There a Balm in Gilead? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/117103-is-there-a-balm-in-gilead.mp3 Sun, 22 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1112 Presbyterian, church, San Anselmo, sermon, Gilead full false Lesson: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1. " I believe if we can cry together, our situation will change. Only to the extent that we remember that what we do to others is what we do to ourselves will we together be well again. Only then is there a balm in Gilead." A Lost Coin A Lost Coin Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/115875-a-lost-coin.mp3 Sun, 15 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400 787 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, sunday full false Lesson: Luke 15:1-10 "God loves ALL the sheep, ALL the coins, ALL the apartment seekers and landlords, children and parents, religious leaders and many more who make up our world and our lives. They are, we are, all precious in God’s sight. May we rejoice as a community of connected, messy, lost and found people, because we are so loved, and so precious in God’s sight." Reworking the Clay Reworking the Clay Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/114211-reworking-the-clay.mp3 Sun, 08 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1013 Presbyterian, church, sunday, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Jeremiah 18:1-4. "One place remains our home, whatever changes the culture blows our way: The love of God in Christ that continues to rework us, to form us into a people at one with God, with God's earth, and with one another." Christian Vocation Sunday Christian Vocation Sunday Peter McConnell, Raquel Nelson, Peter Anderson http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/113145-christian-vocation-sunday.mp3 Sun, 01 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1509 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, labor day, sermon full false Lesson Note: On the Sunday before Labor Day we celebrate Christian Vocation Sunday by hearing from three church members, who talk about how they live out their Christian faith on the job. Set Free Set Free Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/110996-set-free.mp3 Sun, 25 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1004 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, sabbath full false Lesson: Luke 13:10.17. "A modern day sabbatical honors this reality: a person’s productive capacity – our brains, our hearts – will be more productive and life giving if we get a break from the routine every now and then." Triennium's I AM's Triennium's I AM's Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/109656-triennium-s-i-am-s.mp3 Sun, 18 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1087 presyberian, church, sermon, San Anselmo, first, 1st full false Lesson: Exodus 3:7-14 "God came to Moses, a seemingly insignificant shepherd, and asked him to take a risk for the good of all. When I AM calls...I hope we are listening. I am, we are God's children." Hurry Up and Wait! Hurry Up and Wait! Rev. Dr. Leslie Veen http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/108472-hurry-up-and-wait.mp3 Sun, 11 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400 909 Presbyterian full false Lesson: Luke 12:32-40 "Windfall" "Windfall" Rev. Douglas Olds http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/107262-windfall.mp3 Sun, 04 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1247 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 12:13-21. "But for those who choose life and sharing, the blessed saints are accorded a place in the immortal memory and future home of the Living God." Getting What We Want Getting What We Want Mr. Dan Robertson http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/105725-getting-what-we-want.mp3 Sun, 28 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1332 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 11:5-13. "God will keep asking, keep searching, and keep knocking. It is up to us to open that door, it is up to us to say yes." "Of One Thing There Is A Need" "Of One Thing There Is A Need" Rev. Dr. Herman Waetjen http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/104313-of-one-thing-there-is-a-need.mp3 Sun, 21 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1432 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lessons: Isaiah 42:1-9, Luke 10:38-42. "...there is need of only one thing: Freedom!" The Neighbor The Neighbor Mr. Dan Robertson http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/102896-the-neighbor.mp3 Sun, 14 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1368 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 10:29-37 Principle First, Money Afterwards Principle First, Money Afterwards Rev. Douglas Olds http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/101596-principle-first-money-afterwards.mp3 Sun, 30 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1016 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Psalm 5, 1 Kings 21:1–20a. "May the Lord of resurrecting life triumph over dead injustice." Legions of Fear Legions of Fear Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/99849-legions-of-fear.mp3 Sun, 23 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400 680 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 8:26-39 (notes on text). "May we, when we meet change in one another, and within groups, at home, at church, at school, at work, and in our country, may we all be open to God’s presence and let go of the chains that keep us from recognizing healing in our midst." Journey Toward Truth Journey Toward Truth Eunjoo Choi http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/97662-journey-toward-truth.mp3 Sun, 09 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1144 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: John 14:6; 8:31-32 ...for he loves... ...for he loves... First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/97661-for-he-loves.mp3 Sun, 02 Jun 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1447 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 7:1-10. "Whether we are called to serve as students, teachers, deacons, elders or none of the above for now, we are invited to view the world as Jesus might: with an open invitation to respond to God’s love in the world." On This New Day On This New Day Christopher Schilling http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/94718-on-this-new-day.mp3 Sun, 26 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400 964 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Ecclesiastes 3: 1 -13 "And...hope is what our Christian faith is all about. Our faith is not only having hope that not only God comforts us through the seasons we experience in our lives." Reflections: A Cacophony of Voices Reflections: A Cacophony of Voices Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/94505-reflections-a-cacophony-of-voices.mp3 Sun, 19 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400 453 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Acts 2, contemporized. Benedictories Benedictories Rev. Dr. Jana Childers http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/92369-benedictories.mp3 Sun, 12 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1092 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: I John:1. "What the witness of John is telling us today, is there is a miracle at work within and among us." Letting Loose Letting Loose Rev. Scott Clark http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/91571-letting-loose.mp3 Sun, 05 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1314 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Acts 16:9-19. "And the community listens. As Eleutheria speaks.These Resurrection stories let something loose. They call forth speech. They invite us to speak, and to listen for voices long-silenced." By This Everyone Will Know By This Everyone Will Know Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/91577-by-this-everyone-will-know.mp3 Sun, 28 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400 1050 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: 13:31-35. "But this is the opportunity we have today. Today, we are asking you to stand up as Christians and let Jesus show by writing letters to Congress. Royce will say some more about the details in the Moment for Mission. People are watching. Our kids are watching. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” All the Days of My Life All the Days of My Life Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/88954-all-the-days-of-my-life.mp3 Sun, 21 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400 881 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Acts 9:36-43. "The world still belongs to God. God is still at work. The Lord is our shepherd. Thanks be to God." Turn in the Road Turn in the Road Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/87788-turn-in-the-road.mp3 Sun, 14 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400 820 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson.: Acts 9:1-22. "But we can be transformed in the ways Saul was transformed. Relinquishing the violence that seems so natural in people and in our culture, trusting the Christian community to help us do that, is not easy but it is what Jesus, calling to us from his solidarity with the oppressed and persecuted, is asking." The News from San Anselmo The News from San Anselmo Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/86053-the-news-from-san-anselmo.mp3 Sun, 07 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400 709 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false John 20:19-31 "And that's all the news from San Anselmo, where everyone is spiritual, a few people are religious, and the Presbyterians strive to be holy." What Does Easter Mean This Year? What Does Easter Mean This Year? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/84829-what-does-easter-mean-this-year.mp3 Sun, 31 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400 856 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Luke 24:1-12. "This means it is always appropriate for us to ask, “What does Easter mean this year?” What new thing is God doing in our lives and world? What is it, now, that needs the dangerous, confrontational, radical love of God that says yes to life and no to the powers of death and destruction, powers that can just as easily be found in the musty halls of order and tradition and so-called safety as from someone pointing a weapon at us." "Parade of Hope" "Parade of Hope" FiRev. Diana Bellrst Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/84054-parade-of-hope.mp3 Sun, 24 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400 557 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 19:28-40. "This is a vision – a hope, well worth our little palms, our singing and dancing, our love and our actions. For not even death can prevail against this, our King and the mystery and majesty of his love. [3] Not today, not this week, not ever. This is certainly worth celebrating with all of our being—during all of life’s ups and downs.""Be thou our vision, Oh Lord of our hearts."[3] Buechner, Fred. “The Things That Make For Peace” from A Room Called Remember. "Fragrant" "Fragrant" Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/82245-fragrant.mp3 Sun, 17 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0400 638 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: John 12:4-8. "What is the fragrance of God's love?...Whatever God's love feels like to you, it is lavishly abundant." "Steadfast Love" "Steadfast Love" Mr. Daniel Robertson http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/81259-steadfast-love.mp3 Sun, 10 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500 784 Presbyterian full false Lesson: Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 "It doesn't matter where you come from, or who you are. You're welcome, you're loved. God rejoices at the sight of you. God's steadfast love surrounds, each and every one of you." The Quality of Mercy The Quality of Mercy Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/80847-the-quality-of-mercy.mp3 Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500 759 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 13:1-9. "When the gardener asks for just one more year, I don’t believe that’s a threat. It’s just a reminder of the reality that we do not have unlimited time to come to our senses, to turn and move in a new direction, in God’s direction, which is all Jesus means by “repent.” "As a Hen Gathers" "As a Hen Gathers" Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/79696-as-a-hen-gathers.mp3 Sun, 24 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500 811 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 13:31-35. "Lent is the time of year to look deeply, examine ourselves and reaffirm that we will accept and re-accept God’s invitation to be loved, to be gathered, to live into the vision of healing of wholeness for the world." Tested Tested Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/78233-tested.mp3 Sun, 17 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500 886 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 4:9-13. "So this Lent, we are inviting you to explore different opportunities to pray and practice that build our relationship with God, that build our trust in God, that help us see things the way God sees them." Always More Hill Always More Hill Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/77061-always-more-hill.mp3 Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500 1093 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 9: 9:28-43. "There is always another hill – in life, in the life of faith. We do not climb alone. Lent begins this Wednesday, Ash Wednesday. We will meet here, together, to kick off Lent, so to speak, with prayer and singing, communion and ashes. And my prayer for all of us for Lent is that we listen: Be open. Receive. Don’t try to walk to Maine. But stay on the trail; be aware; keep your eyes on Christ. And may our hearts be open to God’s vision." Love: Not Just for Weddings Love: Not Just for Weddings Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/75934-love-not-just-for-weddings.mp3 Sun, 03 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500 914 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: 1 Corinthians 13:8-13. "Then, as now, it is love that will endure. Now faith, hope and love abide, the greatest of these is love." Fulfilled Presently Fulfilled Presently Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/74875-fulfilled-presently.mp3 Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500 772 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 4:14-21. "May we continue, each of us, and together, to follow Jesus' vision of bringing good news to the poor. May we stand in our rich tradition, and draw strength for the journey." Who Did That? Who Did That? Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/73902-who-did-that.mp3 Sun, 20 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500 1068 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: John 2:6-11. "There are miracles of love, and justice, and hope taking place all around us, even in our own lives." Blending with the Crowd Blending with the Crowd Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/72916-blending-with-the-crowd.mp3 Mon, 07 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500 820 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Isaiah 43:1-7; Luke 3:15-17, 21-22. "Jesus was baptized, and it made him part of the crowd, the crowd of broken and hurting people longing for wholeness, longing for life - this life - to be just and peaceful and safe. Our crowd." By Another Road By Another Road Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/72249-by-another-road.mp3 Sun, 06 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500 810 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Mathew 2:1-12. "And that is what is at the heart of Matthew’s darker, more adult-oriented story of Jesus’ birth: the promise that it is precisely into this world that God came.[11] And that like the Magi, we can choose to take another road, the road away from Herod, from all the modern Herods who hold onto their power or profit when our lives are shaped by fear rather than wonder and joy." Our Second Home Our Second Home Dan Robertson, Intern http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/70998-our-second-home.mp3 Sun, 30 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500 882 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 2:41-52. "For every life that God created and put on this earth, is of infinite value. And together we form a home, with enough space for everybody." Christmas Peace: Peace on Earth Christmas Peace: Peace on Earth ‘I know the cares and the anxious thoughts of your hearts.
I know the hard time you often give yourselves.
I know the hopes and ambitions that you have for yourselves and for others.
I know your doubts, too – even while you seek to express your belief.
On this night, I want to find a way of saying to you:
You are deeply, deeply loved,
just as you are, forgiven, loved
and challenged to be the very best you can be.
So I’m speaking to you the only way I know how –
from a stable,
in a child born into poverty
soon to grow to maturity,
born to show you
in a human life,
the love of God.’[6]

[6] John Harvey, “You Are Deeply, Deeply Loved,” in Candles and Conifers, Ruth Burgess, ed. (Glasgow: Wild Goose Publications, 2005), p. 239.]]> ‘I know the cares and the anxious thoughts of your hearts.
I know the hard time you often give yourselves.
I know the hopes and ambitions that you have for yourselves and for others.
I know your doubts, too – even while you seek to express your belief.
On this night, I want to find a way of saying to you:
You are deeply, deeply loved,
just as you are, forgiven, loved
and challenged to be the very best you can be.
So I’m speaking to you the only way I know how –
from a stable,
in a child born into poverty
soon to grow to maturity,
born to show you
in a human life,
the love of God.’[6]

[6] John Harvey, “You Are Deeply, Deeply Loved,” in Candles and Conifers, Ruth Burgess, ed. (Glasgow: Wild Goose Publications, 2005), p. 239.]]> Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/70995-christmas-peace-peace-on-earth.mp3 Mon, 24 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500 698 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Luke 2:1-20 ‘I know the cares and the anxious thoughts of your hearts. I know the hard time you often give yourselves. I know the hopes and ambitions that you have for yourselves and for others. I know your doubts, too – even while you seek to express your belief. On this night, I want to find a way of saying to you: You are deeply, deeply loved, just as you are, forgiven, loved and challenged to be the very best you can be. So I’m speaking to you the only way I know how – from a stable, in a child born into poverty soon to grow to maturity, born to show you in a human life, the love of God.’[6] [6] John Harvey, “You Are Deeply, Deeply Loved,” in Candles and Conifers, Ruth Burgess, ed. (Glasgow: Wild Goose Publications, 2005), p. 239. Misa Criolla (Creole Mass) - Chancel Choir and Folk Ensemble Misa Criolla (Creole Mass) - Chancel Choir and Folk Ensemble Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt, with Daniel Canosa, Conductor http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/70176-misa-criolla-creole-mass-chancel-choir-and-folk-ensemble.mp3 Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500 1537 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality, music full false Lesson: Philippians 4:4-7. "Earlier this past week, someone said to me that music is the best thing human beings do. I think I might agree. It stirs us. It brings us together. It restores our souls. And so today we answer the worst that people can do with the best that people can do." Christmas Peace: Prepare the Way Christmas Peace: Prepare the Way Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/69297-christmas-peace-prepare-the-way.mp3 Sun, 09 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500 1012 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 3:1-6. "Just turning toward and living into the good news that we are loved more than we dared hope and so is everybody else. Others will hear it; others will see it. Kids, our neighbors, our co-workers, the people sitting next to you in the pew this morning. And when other people hear it – and even more – when we see it taking place in our own lives – it changes us along with the world." Christmas Peace: The Days Are Surely Coming Christmas Peace: The Days Are Surely Coming Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/68168-christmas-peace-the-days-are-surely-coming.mp3 Sun, 02 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500 857 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 21:25-36. "Those who hope in Christ can no longer put up with reality as it is. That is the call and the purpose and the prayer of advent." The Reign of Christ The Reign of Christ Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/67760-the-reign-of-christ.mp3 Sun, 25 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500 495 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: John 18:33-38. This sermon was preached during an At Table worship service and recorded later. During At Table services we worship in the tradition of early Christian meals around tables with food and drink to share. The God of Joy and Pleasure The God of Joy and Pleasure Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/67133-the-god-of-joy-and-pleasure.mp3 Sun, 18 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500 946 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Psalm 16: 7-11 "A life that is centered in God, in trust in God and gratitude for God’s gifts, is a life more centered on the world and life, and finding more meaning in them." The Meaning of a Small Act The Meaning of a Small Act Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/66237-the-meaning-of-a-small-act.mp3 Sun, 11 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500 735 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Mark 12: 38-44. "Every situation in which we find ourselves is an opportunity to teach love instead of fear." Not Far Now Not Far Now Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/65589-not-far-now.mp3 Sun, 04 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0400 664 Presbyterian, church, faith, religion, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Mark 12:28-34. God is God* (*and We Are Not) God is God* (*and We Are Not) First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/63967-god-is-god-and-we-are-not.mp3 Sun, 21 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400 894 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Job 38:34-41. "God is God, who sees it all, including us, in exquisite detail; and delights in it." Healing Story Healing Story Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/63177-healing-story.mp3 Sun, 14 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400 807 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Mark 10:17-31. "Jesus invites...each one of us to a life in which we are truly ourselves but also truly aware of our connectedness with God, God’s creation and God’s people, aware that our well-being is intimately tied to the well-being of others – and that is what living in the kingdom of God looks like." A Higher Standard A Higher Standard Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/62077-a-higher-standard.mp3 Sun, 07 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400 925 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Mark 10:2-16. "...and if we exalt freedom, as Christians, we must remember that freedom is grounded in love." For Such a Time as This For Such a Time as This Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/61275-for-such-a-time-as-this.mp3 Sun, 30 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400 690 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: The Story of Esther. "...the purpose of Esther [was] to give good news of God's providence with shattered people..." Arguing with Success Arguing with Success Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/60495-arguing-with-success.mp3 Sun, 23 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1016 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Mark 9:30-37. "We need to value our children, encourage their gifts, and celebrate their successes, but even more, celebrate that they are beloved children of God, regardless of their achievements." Whose Daily Bread Whose Daily Bread Rev. Dr. Virstan Choy http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/59713-whose-daily-bread.mp3 Sun, 16 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400 832 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 11:1-10 "Not for myself, but asking for God to help me to help others" Learning Curve Learning Curve Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/58832-learning-curve.mp3 Sun, 09 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1104 presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Mark 7:24-30. "One thing Jesus knew, and shows us again and again, is that sharing a meal with people is one of the most powerful classrooms that there is." My Labor, My Work, My Ministry My Labor, My Work, My Ministry Dr. Rebecca Conant, Patrick Mitchell CPA http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/58251-my-labor-my-work-my-ministry.mp3 Sun, 02 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0400 762 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: James 1:17-18, 22-27. Two church members describe how they live out their Christian discipleship beyond the doors of the church Sing a New Song: The Doxology Sing a New Song: The Doxology First Presbyterian Church of San Anselmo http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/57539-sing-a-new-song-the-doxology.mp3 Sun, 26 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1138 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false We conclude our summer sermon series on beloved hymns with the Doxology. Our intern, Chris Schilling, completes his internship with reflections on the Doxology..."praise God from whom all blessings flow..." Sing A New Song: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" Sing A New Song: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/56928-sing-a-new-song-great-is-thy-faithfulness.mp3 Sun, 19 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1170 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lamentations 3:22-23. "...to proclaim and praise God with us - yesterday, today, and forever. Great is God's faithfulness." Sing a New Song: "God of Grace and God of Glory Sing a New Song: "God of Grace and God of Glory Rev. Scott Clark http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/56425-sing-a-new-song-god-of-grace-and-god-of-glory.mp3 Sun, 12 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1390 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false ...the story of the church also was – and always has been – the story of God accompanying God’s people – of God empowering us, saving us, freeing us – To do justice. To love kindness. And to walk humbly with God. Sing a New Song: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" Sing a New Song: "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing" The Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/56429-sing-a-new-song-come-thou-fount-of-every-blessing.mp3 Sun, 05 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1017 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Today is the day for which you’ve all been waiting, the day we answer the burning question, “So what is an ebenezer, anyway?” This morning we continue our summer series on beloved hymns and their scriptural foundations and today’s hymn is “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing,” Number 356 in our Presbyterian Hymnal. Sing a New Song: "Here I Am, Lord" Sing a New Song: "Here I Am, Lord" Mr. Dan Robertson http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/55040-sing-a-new-song-here-i-am-lord.mp3 Sun, 29 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400 979 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Luke 9:1-6 Sing a New Song: "Jesus Loves Me" Sing a New Song: "Jesus Loves Me" Rev. Julie Love http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/54627-sing-a-new-song-jesus-loves-me.mp3 Sun, 22 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1047 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, Church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Matthew 19:13-14 "...knowing all about you, Jesus loves you even more, even more." Sing a New Song: "Holy, Holy, Holy" Sing a New Song: "Holy, Holy, Holy" Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/53918-sing-a-new-song-holy-holy-holy.mp3 Sun, 15 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400 947 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Revelation 4: 6b-11. "The community set up by Jesus, a universal community of every nation, every language and every people, created by his witness of nonviolent love, forgiveness, gratitude, inclusion of the outcast, justice for the poor and joy is a community that sings praise to God..." Sing a New Song: "Simple Gifts" Sing a New Song: "Simple Gifts" Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/53619-sing-a-new-song-simple-gifts.mp3 Sun, 08 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400 463 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lesson: Psalm 150. "Tis the gift to be simple, 'tis the gift to be free..." Diana Bell tells the story of this original Shaker tune, later made famous through Aaron Copeland's recording, as we continue to explore our favorite hymns this summer.. Sing a New Song: "Our God, Our Help in Ages Past Sing a New Song: "Our God, Our Help in Ages Past The Rev. Dr. Sam Hamilton-Poore http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/52877-sing-a-new-song-our-god-our-help-in-ages-past.mp3 Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1218 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Psalm 90-11-17. "Oh God our help in ages past, our hope for years to come. Be thou our guide, while life shall last, and our eternal home." Sing a New Song: "Amazing Grace" Sing a New Song: "Amazing Grace" Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/52475-sing-a-new-song-amazing-grace.mp3 Sun, 24 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1234 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Luke 15:1-10. The hymn, "Amazing Grace", produced in the face of sin and desolation, reminds us powerfully, in that healing way that only music can, that God never, ever, ever gives up on us. Sing a New Song: "Now Thank We All Our God Sing a New Song: "Now Thank We All Our God Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/51679-sing-a-new-song-now-thank-we-all-our-god.mp3 Sun, 17 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400 962 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, religion, spirituality full false Lessons: Psalm 147, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. I’ve long had the theory that most Christians get their theology from the hymnal – that people believe what they sing in church. And in fact, hymns are theology. They are words about God. So, taking an in-depth look at the hymns we sing is actually important theological study. And that is the study we’re undertaking this summer. Gabriel Faure's "Requiem" Gabriel Faure's "Requiem" Daniel Canosa - Music Director http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/51384-gabriel-faure-s-requiem.mp3 Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400 2133 Presbyterian, church, sermon, Sunday, religion, Faure, San Anselmo, requiem full false Twice every year, the Choir proclaims the Word of God through music. Instead of a sermon this Sunday, we heard the Requiem as it was originally conceived—with a small chamber orchestra, intended to be performed in a church (as opposed to a large concert hall with a full orchestra) Send Me, Right? Send Me, Right? Rev. Diana Bell http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/50283-send-me-right.mp3 Sun, 03 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1040 Presbyterian, church, sermon, Sunday, religion full false Lessons: Psalm 29: 1-4 and Isaiah 6:1-13. In this familiar and vivid passage, we think about what it means when God asks, "whom shall i send?" "That's the Spirit!" - Pentecost "That's the Spirit!" - Pentecost Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/49692-that-s-the-spirit-pentecost.mp3 Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1128 Presbyterian, San Anselmo, church, sermon, Sunday, religion, spirit full false Lesson Acts 2: 1-21. Today on our 2000th-plus birthday, some might wonder whether we’re beginning to look our age. Maybe we didn’t wear enough sunscreen; maybe we’ve spent too much time being couch potatoes; because in case you hadn’t heard, sitting is the new smoking. "Children and the Kingdom of God" "Children and the Kingdom of God" Eunjoo Choi http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/49109-children-and-the-kingdom-of-god.mp3 Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400 982 faith, church, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo, sermon full false Lessons: Mark 9: 30 -32 and Mark 10: 13 -16. We are called to become like children before God, who is waiting for us! Even on Them, Even on Us Even on Them, Even on Us Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/48536-even-on-them-even-on-us.mp3 Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400 883 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo, Acts full false Lesson: Acts 10:44-48. God's word to Peter: "Every one of you is more the same than you are different." God knows no partiality. No partiality. Peter declares that we cannot withhold the symbols of inclusion in the church from anyone who so obviously shows the gifts of the Holy Spirit. This hits us – the church – where we live right now. Divine Love Divine Love Chris Schilling http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/47766-divine-love.mp3 Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:00 -0400 990 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lesson: John 15: 9-17. Though it may require bumper sticker slogans, silly songs, do what ever you can to remember that God loves you. Even remember the words of Fred Rogers, from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood who once said, “when I tell children at the end of my program they are special, I mean it. Because they made it a special day by just being you. There’s no person in the whole world like you. And God loves you just the way you are.” Good Shepherding Good Shepherding Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/47312-good-shepherding.mp3 Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400 779 church, faith, religion, Presbyterian, Marin, San Anselmo full false Lessons: Psalm 23, John 10:11-18. A reflection on the 23rd Psalm. The Lord is our Shepherd...the Lord gives us shepherds...the Lord makes us shepherds. Getting Real Getting Real Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/46775-getting-real.mp3 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400 1059 church, religion, Presbyterian, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Luke 24:36b-48. During the headlining set by rappers Snoop Dog and Dr. Dre at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival last Sunday, a surprise guest showed up and stole the show--Tupac Shakur. Whatever it was, you can be certain that no one in the audience believed they were seeing and hearing the actual Tupac Shakur, returned from the dead. Holy Humor Sunday Holy Humor Sunday First Presbyterian Church http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/46630-holy-humor-sunday.mp3 Sun, 15 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0400 4643 religion, church, presbyterian, san anselmo full false Holy Humor Sunday is an old Easter custom begun by the Greeks in the early centuries of Christianity celebrating Jesus’ resurrection with joy and laughter. We carry on this tradition with our own unique flair on the Sunday after Easter. Wings Like Eagles Wings Like Eagles Rev. Dr. Joanne Whitt http://www.buzzsprout.com/5748/46636-wings-like-eagles.mp3 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500 1050 church, sermon, Presbyterian, San Anselmo full false Lesson: Isaiah 40:21-31. A colleague once told me he hoped to write a book someday called, “It Isn’t in the Bible.” It would cover those quotations and words of wisdom that people believe are Scripture – but they aren’t. Like, “God helps those who help themselves.” Not in the Bible...