Sermons@FLC

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching It is possible to hear in Jesus' high priestly prayer, a prayer he offered shortly before his death, the petitions of the ascended Christ for his own throughout history—to our day—and beyond. Jesus prays for us. In holy baptism we become believers in God, have our robes washed in the flood of Christ's forgiveness, and receive the gift of life forever with all the saints. Acts 16:16-34 While in prison, Paul speaks to the jailer, who is then baptized Psalm 97 Rejoice in the Lord, you righteous. (Ps. 97:12) Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 Blessed are those who wash their robes John 17:20-26 Jesus prays that the disciples will be one and abide in his love

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Visions abound in the readings for the sixth Sunday of Easter. Paul has a vision about what to do. John has a vision of what will be. Jesus provides visions of peace that surpasses human understanding and power beyond human imagination. Acts 16:9-15 Lydia and her household are baptized by Paul Psalm 67 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy. (Ps. 67:4) Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 The Lamb is the light of the city of God John 14:23-29 The Father will send the Holy Spirit

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Easter initiates a new day. It anticipates a new heaven and a new earth. The risen Christ is making all things new. In the mystery of holy baptism God has made new people of us. Today Jesus invites us to see everyone in a new light—through the lens of love. Acts 11:1-18 Peter's vision: God give the Gentiles repentance that leads to life Psalm 148 The splendor of the Lord is over earth and heaven. (Ps. 148:13) Revelation 21:1-6 New heaven, new earth: springs of living water in the new Jerusalem John 13:31-35 Jesus gives a new commandment: Love one another as I have loved you

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The disciples make a big splash and eat breakfast with the risen Jesus. Wading in the water (remembering baptism) and eating with Jesus (celebrating holy communion) is our weekly encounter with the risen Christ. Jesus asks us again and again: Do you love me? And Jesus invites us, again and again, to follow him, bringing the Easter life to others. Acts 9:1-6 Paul's conversion, baptism, and preaching Psalm 30 You have turned my wailing into dancing. (Ps. 30:11) Revelation 5:11-14 The song of the living creatures to the Lamb John 21:1-19 Jesus appears to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching In spite of all we have heard and all we have seen, it is often hard to believe. Because it is hard to believe, we will invest ourselves in the Easter mystery for fifty days (a week of weeks). Because it is hard to believe, John the evangelist will provide sign after sign celebrating Jesus' victory over death. Because it is hard to believe, the risen Jesus will return to us again and again in the mystery of holy communion, inviting us to touch and taste his presence, and offering us his peace. Acts 5:27-32 The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus Psalm 118:14-29 You are my God, and I will exalt you. (Ps. 118:28) Psalm 150 (alternate) Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. (Ps. 150:6) Revelation 1:4-8 Jesus Christ, the firstborn of the dead, is coming John 20:19-31 Beholding the wounds of the risen Christ

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching “The last enemy to be destroyed is death,” Paul writes. Today Christ is risen, and we gather together with astonishment and joy. Christ is risen, and we have been set free from the bonds of death. Christ is risen, and we are forgiven. Christ is risen, and with the women at the tomb and Peter, we are amazed. Let us rejoice: Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia! Isaiah 65:17-25 New heavens and a new earth Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. (Ps. 118:24) Acts 10:34-43 God raised Jesus on the third day Luke 24:1-12 The women proclaim the resurrection

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching This evening our Lenten observance comes to an end, and we gather with Christians around the world to celebrate the Three Days of Jesus' death and resurrection. Tonight we remember Christ's last meal with his disciples, but the central focus is his commandment that we live out the promise embodied in this meal. As Jesus washed his disciples' feet, so we are called to give and receive love in humble service to one another. Formed into a new body in Christ through this holy meal, we are transformed by the mercy we have received and carry it into the world. Departing worship in solemn silence, we anticipate the coming days. Exodus 12:1-4 [5-10] 11-14 The passover of the Lord Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 I will lift the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. (Ps. 116:13) 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Proclaim the Lord's death until he comes John 13:1-17, 31b-35 The service of Christ: footwashing and meal

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Today we follow Christ from triumphal entry to the cross, each waypoint of the journey marked by Jesus' compassion for those who would betray, mock, accuse, or do violence to him. Though persecuted and beaten, Jesus the Son of God is not disgraced; instead, he asks forgiveness for those who put him to death. We have walked the Lenten pathway these forty days, each of us invited through baptism to “let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus.” We enter this holy week accompanying Jesus to the cross with both grief and thanksgiving in our hearts, trusting in God's redeeming love. Luke 19:28-40 Entrance into the final days Isaiah 50:4-9a The servant of the Lord submits to suffering Philippians 2:5-11 Humbled to the point of death on a cross Luke 22:14--23:56 The passion of the Lord

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Our God makes all things new. In the first reading God promises it. In the gospel Mary anticipates it, anointing Jesus' feet with costly perfume in preparation for the day of his burial. In the second reading Paul recalls his transformation from the persecutor Saul into an apostle. In baptism, God's new person (you!) rises daily from the deadly mire of trespasses and sins. Isaiah 43:16-21 The Lord gives water in the wilderness to the chosen people Psalm 126 Those who sowed with tears will reap with songs of joy. (Ps. 126:5) Philippians 3:4b-14 To know Christ and his resurrection, to share in his sufferings John 12:1-8 Mary anoints Jesus for his burial

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The warnings are plentiful and blunt on the third Sunday in Lent. Cut it out or get cut down! The warnings are accompanied by God's invitation to attentiveness: “Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live.” The landowner's ultimatum is forestalled by the gardener's readiness to till the ground one more year. That is good news for all of us. Thanks be to God! Isaiah 55:1-9 Everyone who thirsts, come to the water; seek the Lord Psalm 63:1-8 O God, eagerly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you. (Ps. 63:1) 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 Israel, baptized in cloud and seas, ate the same spiritual food as Christians Luke 13:1-9 Unless you repent, you will perish: parable of the fig tree

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Though we sometimes doubt and often resist God's desire to protect and save us, our God persists. In holy baptism, God's people have been called and gathered into a God-initiated relationship that will endure. Lent provides the church with a time and a tradition in which to seek God's face again. Lent provides another occasion to behold the God of our salvation in the face of the Blessed One who “comes in the name of the Lord.” Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 The covenant with Abram and his descendants Psalm 27 In the day of trouble, God will give me shelter. (Ps. 27:5) Philippians 3:17--4:1 Our citizenship is in heaven from where we expect a Savior Luke 13:31-35 I have desired to gather Jerusalem as a hen gathers her brood

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching These forty days called Lent are like no other. It is our opportune time to return to the God who rescues, to receive the gifts of God's grace, to believe with the heart and confess with the mouth the wonder of God's love in Jesus, and to resist temptation at every turn. This is no small pilgrimage on which we have just embarked. It is a struggle Jesus knew. It is a struggle Jesus shares. The nearness of the Lord, in bread and wine, water and word, will uphold and sustain us. Deuteronomy 26:1-11 The Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 God will give the angels charge over you, to guard you in all your ways. (Ps. 91:11) Romans 10:8b-13 If you confess that Jesus is Lord, you will be saved Luke 4:1-13 The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness for forty days

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching On Ash Wednesday we begin our forty-day journey toward Easter with a day of fasting and repentance. Marking our foreheads with dust, we acknowledge that we die and return to the earth. At the same time, the dust traces the life-giving cross indelibly marked on our foreheads at baptism. While we journey through Lent to return to God, we have already been reconciled to God through Christ. We humbly pray for God to make our hearts clean while we rejoice that “now is the day of salvation.” Returning to our baptismal call, we more intentionally bear the fruits of mercy and justice in the world. Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 Return to the Lord, your God Psalm 51:1-17 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love. (Ps. 51:1) 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10 Now is the day of salvation Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 The practice of faith

Pr. Sara Anderson, preaching Witnesses to the glory of God in the face of Jesus reflect that glory in the world. It was true for Moses. It was doubtless true for Peter, James, and John. We pray that it will be true of all of us who see God's glory in the word and in the supper and who are being “transformed into the same image” by God's Spirit. Exodus 34:29-35 Coming down from Mount Sinai, Moses' face shone Psalm 99 Proclaim the greatness of the Lord; worship upon God's holy hill. (Ps. 99:9) 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2 With unveiled faces we see the Lord's glory as we are transformed Luke 9:28-36 Jesus is transfigured on the mountain

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Mercy. Mercy. Mercy. Joseph lives it in Egypt. Jesus preaches it in the gospel. The Spirit guides us into merciful lives with the power of forgiveness to reconcile what is fractured and divided. Such merciful living is the baptismal blessing of having put on Christ. It is the gift of the life-giving Spirit. It is a reflection of God's glory revealed in Christ. Genesis 45:3-11, 15 Joseph forgives his brothers Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40 The lowly shall possess the land; they will delight in abundance of peace. (Ps. 37:11) 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 The mystery of the resurrection of the body Luke 6:27-38 Love your enemies

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Blessings and curses abound on the sixth Sunday after Epiphany. We would do well to listen closely to whom the “blessed ares” and the “woe tos” are directed and to find our place in the crowd among those who desire to touch Jesus. The risen Christ stands among us in the mystery of the holy supper with an invitation to live in him, and offers power to heal us all. Jeremiah 17:5-10 Blessed are those who trust the Lord, they are like trees by water Psalm 1 They are like trees planted by streams of water. (Ps. 1:3) 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 Christ has been raised, the first fruits of those who have died Luke 6:17-26 Jesus speaks blessings on the poor and hungry; woes on the rich and full

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The fifth Sunday after Epiphany continues to highlight unlikely instruments and circumstances appointed to reveal God's glory. “Who will go for us?” God asks. A person of unclean lips, a former persecutor of the church of God, and three fishermen who couldn't catch a thing. More surprising still, perhaps, is that we are also called. Isaiah 6:1-8 [9-13] Isaiah says, Here am I; send me Psalm 138 I will bow down toward your holy temple. (Ps. 138:2) 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 I am the least of the apostles Luke 5:1-11 Jesus calls the disciples to fish for people

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The glory of God is often revealed when and where it is least expected. God uses our lips to declare that glory, inexperienced and hesitant though they may be. God uses our love to demonstrate that glory and so urges us to exercise it. God uses Jesus of Nazareth, water and the word, bread and wine, to reveal God's glory where and when God chooses. Take heed, lest the glory of God slip through our midst unnoticed. Jeremiah 1:4-10 I appointed you a prophet to the nations Psalm 71:1-6 From my mother's womb you have been my strength. (Ps. 71:6) 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 If I speak without love, I am a noisy gong Luke 4:21-30 Jesus says a prophet is not accepted in his hometown

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching God's glory is revealed in the reading of scripture. People stand at attention. People weep. People prostrate themselves in prayer. The unity of the church is another reflection of God's glory. Most gloriously, the promises of God are fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Gather round. Listen up. Glimpse the glory of God. Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 Ezra reads the law of Moses before the people Psalm 19 The teaching of the Lord revives the soul. (Ps. 19:7) 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a You are the body of Christ Luke 4:14-21 Jesus reads from the scroll of the prophet Isaiah

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The Sundays after Epiphany continue to celebrate the revelation of God's glory to us as it was made known to the magi and to those on Jordan's banks at Jesus' baptism—today using wedding imagery. Our God rejoices over God's people as those being married rejoice over one another. By the power of the Spirit there are gifts galore for everyone. In Christ Jesus the best wine is saved for last. Taste and see. Isaiah 62:1-5 As bridegroom and bride rejoice, so shall God rejoice over you Psalm 36:5-10 We feast upon the abundance of your house, O Lord. (Ps. 36:8) 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 There are a variety of gifts but the same Spirit John 2:1-11 The wedding at Cana

Sermon: Seeing Things Clearly -- Epiphany and Baptism of Our Lord (C) by Pr. Jon Niketh

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching On the first Sunday of Christmas we find the boy Samuel and the boy Jesus, both in the temple, both growing in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and humankind. We too have returned to the house of God “to sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God,” who has gifted us with a savior. As the festival continues, “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” It is Christmas, still. 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 The boy Samuel grew in favor with the Lord and the people Psalm 148 The splendor of the Lord is over earth and heaven. (Ps. 148:13) Colossians 3:12-17 Clothe yourselves in love; let the peace of Christ rule your hearts Luke 2:41-52 The boy Jesus increased in wisdom, and in divine and human favor

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching In winter's deepest night, we welcome the light of the Christ child. Isaiah declares that the light of the long-promised king will illumine the world and bring endless peace and justice. Paul reminds us that the grace of God through Jesus Christ brings salvation to all people. The angels declare that Jesus' birth is good and joyful news for everyone, including lowly shepherds. Filled with the light that shines in our lives, we go forth to share the light of Christ with the whole world. Isaiah 9:2-7 Light shines: a child is born for us Psalm 96 Let the heavens rejoice and the earth be glad. (Ps. 96:11) Titus 2:11-14 The grace of God has appeared Luke 2:1-14 [15-20] God with us

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Cradle and cross are inextricably connected on the fourth Sunday of Advent. Between a lovely tribute to the little town of Bethlehem and Mary's magnificent song of praise, the letter to the Hebrews reminds us in no uncertain terms that Christ's advent is for “the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” It is the kind of tension in which the church always lives as when in holy communion—with high delight—“we proclaim the Lord's death.” Micah 5:2-5a From Bethlehem comes a ruler Luke 1:46b-55 You, Lord, have lifted up the lowly. (Lk. 1:52) Hebrews 10:5-10 I have come to do your will Luke 1:39-45 [46-55] Blessed are you among women / My soul magnifies the Lord

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Forerunners and messengers advance the advent of our God. While John the baptizer's voice in the wilderness may be the principal focus of the day, Malachi's prophecy could as easily herald the coming Christ as forerunner of the Lord of hosts. Finally all the baptized are called to participate in the sharing of the gospel. In so doing we prepare the way for the coming of Jesus and assist all people in capturing a vision of the “salvation of God.” Baruch 5:1-9 The return of scattered Israel Luke 1:68-79 In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us. (Lk. 1:78) Philippians 1:3-11 A harvest of righteousness on the day of Jesus Christ Luke 3:1-6 Prepare the way of the Lord

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Advent is about the “coming days.” God's people have always lived in great expectation, but that expectation finds specific, repeated enunciation in the texts appointed for these four weeks. The ancients anticipated a “righteous Branch to spring up for David.” The Thessalonians awaited “the coming of our Lord Jesus with all the saints.” Jesus' contemporaries hoped for the time “to stand before the Son of Man.” With them we eagerly await the coming days: another Christmas celebration, a second coming, and the advent of Christ in word and supper. Jeremiah 33:14-16 A righteous branch springing up from David Psalm 25:1-10 To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul. (Ps. 25:1) 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 Strengthen hearts of holiness for the coming of the Lord Luke 21:25-36 Be alert for the coming of the Son of Man

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Even after Israel had experienced the vagaries of kings, the people still longed for a true king to set things right. He would have the king's title of Anointed One (Messiah); he would be the “one like a human being” (Son of Man) given dominion in Daniel's vision. Jesus is given these titles, even though he is nothing like an earthly king. His authority comes from the truth to which he bears witness, and those who recognize the truth voluntarily listen to him. We look forward to the day he is given dominion, knowing his victory will be the nonviolent victory of love. Daniel 7:9-10, 13-14 The one coming with the clouds rules over all Psalm 93 Ever since the world began, your throne has been established. (Ps. 93:2) Revelation 1:4b-8 Glory to the one who made us a kingdom John 18:33-37 The kingdom of Christ

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching November begins with All Saints Day and ends in or near Advent, when we anticipate Christ's coming again. It is fitting, then, that the readings today tell of the final resurrection and the end time. In the turmoil of hope, fear, and disbelief that these predictions provoke in us, Hebrews sounds a note of confident trust. Christ makes a way for us where there is no way, and we walk it confidently, our hearts and bodies washed in baptismal water, trusting the one who has promised forgiveness. The more we see the last day approaching, the more important it is to meet together to provoke one another to love. Daniel 12:1-3 The deliverance of God's people at the end Psalm 16 My heart is glad and my spirit rejoices; my body shall rest in hope. (Ps. 16:9) Hebrews 10:11-14 [15-18] 19-25 The way to God opened through Christ's death Mark 13:1-8 The end and the coming of the Son

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Of all three years of the lectionary cycle, this year's All Saints readings have the most tears. Isaiah and Revelation look forward to the day when God will wipe away all tears; in John's gospel, Jesus weeps along with Mary and all the gathered mourners before he demonstrates his power over death. On All Saints Day we celebrate the victory won for all the faithful dead, but we grieve for our beloved dead as well, knowing that God honors our tears. We bring our grief to the table and find there a foretaste of Isaiah's feast to come. Isaiah 25:6-9 The banquet of the Lord Psalm 24 They shall receive blessing from the God of their salvation. (Ps. 24:5) Revelation 21:1-6a A new heaven and a new earth John 11:32-44 The raising of Lazarus

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Rooted in the past and growing into the future, the church must always be reformed in order to live out the love of Christ in an ever-changing world. We celebrate the good news of God's grace, that Jesus Christ sets us free every day to do this life-transforming work. Trusting in the freedom given to us in baptism, we pray for the church, that Christians will unite more fully in worship and mission. Jeremiah 31:31-34 I will write my law in their hearts, says the Lord Psalm 46 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. Romans 3:19-28 Justified by God's grace as a gift John 8:31-36 Jesus says, Continue in my word and you will know the truth

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Can we pray the way Bartimaeus prays? People try to hush him up because by addressing Jesus as “Son of David” he is making a politically dangerous claim that Jesus is the rightful king. Could our prayers ever be heard as a threat to unjust powers that be? Bartimaeus won't give up or go away quietly, but repeats his call for help more loudly. Do we ask so boldly? And are our prayers an honest answer to Jesus' question, “What do you want me to do for you?” Jeremiah 31:7-9 The Lord gathers the remnant of Israel Psalm 126 Those who sowed with tears will reap with songs of joy. (Ps. 126:5) Hebrews 7:23-28 Christ the merciful high priest Mark 10:46-52 Christ healing the blind man Bartimaeus

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Today's gospel starts with disciples obsessing over who will be closest to Jesus, leading to Jesus teaching his followers about God's take on importance and power. Here Jesus makes it explicit that the reversal of values in God's community is a direct challenge to the values of the dominant culture, where wielding power over others is what makes you great. When we pray “your kingdom come” we are praying for an end to tyranny and oppression. We pray this gathered around the cross, a sign of great shame transformed to be the sign of great honor and service. Isaiah 53:4-12 The suffering servant Psalm 91:9-16 You have made the Lord your refuge, and the Most High your habitation. (Ps. 91:9) Hebrews 5:1-10 Through suffering Christ becomes the source of salvation Mark 10:35-45 Warnings to ambitious disciples

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The rich man who comes to ask Jesus what he should do to inherit eternal life is a good man, sincere in his asking. Mark's gospel is alone in saying that Jesus looked on him and loved him. Out of love, not as judgment, Jesus offers him an open door to life: sell all you own and give it to the poor. Our culture bombards us with the message that we will find life by consuming. Our assemblies counter this message with the invitation to find life by divesting for the sake of the other. Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 Turn from injustice to the poor, that you may live Psalm 90:12-17 So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts to wisdom. (Ps. 90:12) Hebrews 4:12-16 Approach the throne of grace with boldness Mark 10:17-31 Teaching on wealth and reward

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Today's gospel combines a saying that makes many of us uncomfortable with a story we find comforting. Jesus' saying on divorce is another of his rejections of human legislation in favor of the original intent of God's law. Jesus' rebuke of the disciples who are fending off the children should challenge us as well. What does it mean to receive the kingdom of God as a child does? Genesis 2:18-24 Created for relationship Psalm 8 You crown us with glory and honor. (Ps. 8:5) Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 God has spoken by a Son Mark 10:2-16 Teaching on marriage

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Someone who isn't part of Jesus' own circle is casting out demons in Jesus' name, and the disciples want him stopped. They appeal to Jesus, as Joshua did to Moses about the elders who prophesied without official authorization. Like Moses, Jesus refuses to see this as a threat. Jesus welcomes good being done in his name, even when it is not under his control. The circle we form around Jesus' word must be able to value good being done in ways we wouldn't do it, by people we can't keep tabs on. Genesis 2:18-24 Created for relationship Psalm 8 You crown us with glory and honor. (Ps. 8:5) Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 God has spoken by a Son Mark 10:2-16 Teaching on marriage

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Today we hear James warn against selfish ambition, while the disciples quarrel over which one of them is the greatest. Jesus tells them the way to be great is to serve. Then, to make it concrete, he puts in front of them a flesh-and-blood child. We are called to welcome the children God puts in front of us, to make room for them in daily interaction, and to give them a place of honor in the assembly. Jeremiah 11:18-20 The prophet led like a lamb to slaughter Psalm 54 God is my helper; it is the Lord who sustains my life. (Ps. 54:4) James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a The wisdom from above Mark 9:30-37 Prediction of the passion

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Three weeks ago we heard Peter's confession of faith as told in John's gospel. This week we hear Mark's version, when Peter says, “You are the Messiah.” In John, the stumbling block is Jesus' invitation to eat his flesh, given for the life of the world. In Mark too the scandal has to do with Jesus' words about his own coming death, and here Peter himself stumbles over Jesus' words. But Jesus is anointed (the meaning of messiah) in Mark only on the way to the cross (14:3); so we are anointed in baptism with the sign of the cross. Isaiah 50:4-9a The servant is vindicated by God Psalm 116:1-9 I will walk in the presence of the Lord. (Ps. 116:9) James 3:1-12 Dangers of the unbridled tongue Mark 8:27-38 Peter's confession of faith

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching James tells us to stop showing favoritism in the assembly, treating the rich visitor with more honor than the poor one. Jesus himself seems to show partiality in his first response to the Syrophoenician woman in today's gospel. Was he testing her faith in saying Gentiles don't deserve the goods meant for God's children? Or was he speaking out of his human worldview, but transcended those limits when she took him by surprise with her reply? Either way, the story tells us that God shows no partiality. Everyone who brings a need to Jesus is received with equal honor as a child and heir. Isaiah 35:4-7a Like streams in the desert, God comes with healing Psalm 146 I will praise the Lord as long as I live. (Ps. 146:2) James 2:1-10 [11-13] 14-17 Faith without works is dead Mark 7:24-37 Christ healing a little girl and a deaf man

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Jesus protests against human customs being given the weight of divine law, while the essence of God's law is ignored. True uncleanness comes not from external things, but from the intentions of the human heart. Last week Jesus told us “the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life” (John 6:63). Now James says God has given us birth by the word of truth. We who were washed in the word when we were born in the font return to it every Sunday to ask God to create in us clean hearts. Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9 God's law: a sign of a great nation Psalm 15 Lord, who may dwell in your tabernacle? (Ps. 15:1) James 1:17-27 Be doers of the word, not hearers only Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 Authentic religion

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching In today's gospel many people take offense at Jesus' invitation to eat his flesh and drink his blood; even many of Jesus' disciples peel off. This is the backdrop in John's gospel for Peter's confession of faith. “To whom can we go?” asks Peter, in words we sometimes sing just before the gospel is read. “You have the words of eternal life.” In order to take such a stand, as Peter and Joshua did, Paul tells us to arm ourselves with the word of God. We pray in the Spirit that we might be bold ambassadors of the gospel. Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18 Joshua calls all Israel to serve the Lord Psalm 34:15-22 The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous. (Ps. 34:15) Ephesians 6:10-20 Put on the armor of God John 6:56-69 The bread of eternal life

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Mary's role is not limited to giving birth to Jesus and mothering him in his childhood. In John's gospel, she is among the women standing near the cross; in Acts, she is among the disciples awaiting the gift of the Spirit. Through all that happened she continued to see how God was at work through her son, keeping the ancient promises to her ancestors, brushing aside the rich and powerful, and focusing on those as poor and powerless as Mary herself. Isaiah 61:7-11 God will cause righteousness and praise to spring up before all nations Psalm 34:1-9 Proclaim with me the greatness of the Lord. (Ps. 34:3) Galatians 4:4-7 We are no longer slaves, but children Luke 1:46-55 Mary exults in the Lord

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Jesus says that the bread he gives for the life of the world is his flesh, and whoever eats this bread has eternal life now and will be raised on the last day. In Ephesians Paul tells us what this life Jesus gives us looks like, this life we live as those marked with the seal of the Holy Spirit in baptism. We live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us. The whole purpose of life is giving yourself for the other. 1 Kings 19:4-8 Elijah given bread for his journey Psalm 34:1-8 Taste and see that the Lord is good. (Ps. 34:8) Ephesians 4:25--5:2 Put away evil, live in love John 6:35, 41-51 Christ, the bread of life

Pr. Bill Barter, preaching Today is the first of five Sundays with gospel readings from John 6, the first four of which focus on Jesus as bread of life. Today Jesus feeds thousands of people with five loaves and two fish. What we have, what we bring to Jesus' table, seems like it is not nearly enough to meet all the needs we see around us. But it is not the adequacy of our supplies or our skills that finally makes the difference: it is the power of Jesus working in the littlest and least to transform this world into the world God desires, a world where all the hungry are satisfied. 2 Kings 4:42-44 Elisha feeding a hundred people Psalm 145:10-18 You open wide your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. (Ps. 145:16) Ephesians 3:14-21 Prayer for wisdom, strength, and Christ's indwelling John 6:1-21 Christ feeding the five thousand

Pr. Anne Deneen, preaching Apparently not satisfied by Jesus' feeding of thousands, some who were there press him for a sign of his power; perhaps it is daily manna they want. As always in John's gospel when people want a sign, Jesus offers himself. He is the bread come from heaven to give life to the world. He calls us to come to him and believe in him, and through that relationship to know the one who sent him. Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15 The Lord gives manna in the wilderness Psalm 78:23-29 God rained down manna from heaven; so mortals ate the bread of angels. (Ps. 78:24, 25) Ephesians 4:1-16 Maintain the unity of the faith John 6:24-35 Christ the bread of life

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Mark's gospel makes clear how great is the press of the crowd, with its countless needs to be met, on Jesus and his disciples. Yet in today's gospel Jesus advises his disciples to get away and rest, to take care of themselves. Sometimes we think that when others are in great need we shouldn't think of ourselves at all; but Jesus also honors the caregivers' need. We are sent from Christ's table to care for others and for ourselves. Jeremiah 23:1-6 From David's line, a righteous shepherd for Israel Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not be in want. (Ps. 23:1) Ephesians 2:11-22 Reconciled to God through Christ, our peace Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 Christ healing the multitudes

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching When Amos reports his vision of God judging Israel for its mistreatment of the poor, he becomes a threat to the power of the priests and the king. John the Baptist also speaks truth to power, and Herod has him killed. In Herod's fear that Jesus is John returned from the dead, we may hear hope for the oppressed: all the prophets killed through the ages are alive in Jesus. We are called to witness to justice in company with them, and to proclaim God's saving love. Amos 7:7-15 The sign of the plumb line: God's judgment on Israel Psalm 85:8-13 I will listen to what the Lord God is saying. (Ps. 85:8) Ephesians 1:3-14 Chosen in Christ to live to the praise of God's glory Mark 6:14-29 The death of John the Baptist

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Jesus does great deeds of power and gives his disciples authority over demons. Yet none of this power is unilateral; it all must be received by faith. Jesus asks his disciples to go out without money or supplies, so that they will be dependent on how others receive them. When we are sent from the assembly to witness and to heal, we are asked to be vulnerable, to be dependent on the reception of others. The Spirit always operates in the “between”: between Jesus and his Abba, between Jesus and us, between you and me, between us and those to whom we are sent. Ezekiel 2:1-5 The call of Ezekiel Psalm 123 Our eyes look to you, O God, until you show us your mercy. (Ps. 123:2) 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 God's power made perfect in weakness Mark 6:1-13 Sending of the Twelve to preach and heal

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching A woman finds healing by touching Jesus' cloak, and a girl is restored to life when he takes her by the hand. In both cases a boundary is crossed: in Jesus' time the hemorrhaging woman was considered ritually unclean, polluting others by her touch, and anyone who touched a corpse also became unclean. In Mark's gospel Jesus breaks down barriers, from his first meal at a tax collector's house to his last breath on the cross as the temple curtain is torn in two. We dare to touch Jesus in our “uncleanness” and to live as a community that defines no one as an outsider. Lamentations 3:22-33 Great is the Lord's faithfulness Psalm 30 I will exalt you, O Lord, because you have lifted me up. (Ps. 30:1) 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 Excel in generosity, following the Lord Jesus Mark 5:21-43 Christ healing a woman and Jairus's daughter

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching Now is the acceptable time; now is the day of salvation! Now we are in the storm, the boat almost swamped; but Jesus is here now, and when we call him, he will calm the storm. Even the wind and waves listen to him as they would to their creator. We also listen to him and are called to believe in the power of God's word in him, a power greater than all that we fear. Job 38:1-11 The creator of earth and sea Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32 You stilled the storm and silenced the waves of the sea. (Ps. 107:29) 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 Paul's defense of his ministry Mark 4:35-41 Christ calming the sea

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching The mustard seed becomes a great shrub that shelters the birds, recalling ancient images of the tree of life. We'd expect a cedar or a sequoia, but Jesus finds the power of God better imaged in a tiny, no-account seed. It's not the way we expect divine activity to look. Yet the tree of life is here, in the cross around which we gather, the tree into which we are grafted through baptism, the true vine that nourishes us with its fruit in the cup we share. It may not appear all that impressive, but while nobody's looking it grows with a power beyond our understanding. Ezekiel 17:22-24 The sign of the cedar, planted on the mountain of Israel Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 The righteous shall spread abroad like a cedar of Lebanon. (Ps. 92:12) 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 [11-13] 14-17 In Christ, a new creation Mark 4:26-34 The parable of the mustard seed

Pr. Jon Niketh, preaching A house divided against itself cannot stand. Jesus makes this observation in light of charges that he is possessed. He is possessed, not by a demon, but by the Holy Spirit. We who have received the Holy Spirit through baptism have been joined to Christ's death and resurrection and knit together in the body of Christ. Those with whom we sing and pray this day are Jesus' family. With them we go forth in peace to do the will of God. Genesis 3:8-15 God confronts Adam and Eve in the garden Psalm 130 Wait for the Lord, for with the Lord there is steadfast love. (Ps. 130:7) 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 Renewed in the inner nature Mark 3:20-35 Doing the work of God as brothers and sisters of Christ