Taking the Sermon Home

Fourth Sunday in Advent
Sermon Title: Welcome, to the Real World
Scriptural References: Isaiah 7:10-16; Romans 1:1-7; Matthew 1:18-25

This morning we learn the story of Jesus’ birth from the perspective of Joseph, as he hears in a dream the prophecy from Isaiah in our First Reading: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel” which means “God is with us.”

Describe Joseph. How does he react to his predicament with Mary?
In what way is he a model for us and our relationship to God?
What does the notion that “God is with us” mean for your life?

Taking the Sermon Home

Third Sunday in Advent
December 15, 2013  'Tis the Season to Be....
Scriptural References: Isaiah 35:1-10; James 5:7-10; Matthew 11:2-11

Once again this week, a vision of God’s reign from Isaiah is paired up with a text on watchfulness and
readiness.
Describe the vision of Isaiah in your own words. How is all creation transformed and how is humanity transformed? What feelings or emotions are stirred within you as you read the passage?
Jesus does not offer a direct answer to John’s question about his identity; How does he respond, and why is this significant?
How is Jesus revealed…to you, and through you? 

Taking the Sermon Home

Second Sunday in Advent, December 8, 2013

Sermon Title: Self-Portraits

Scriptural References: Isaiah 11:1-10; Romans 15:4-13; Matthew 3:1-12

The journey to the manger on Christmas Eve continues this week. Isaiah describes a Spirit-filled ruler for Israel that will judge with righteousness and bring peace. Then in Matthew, we read about John the Baptist’s ministry in the wilderness, preparing the way of the Lord.

In order to be ready for the coming of Jesus—the one in whom we see ultimate fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecies—John proclaims that we must repent. 

· What does the word repent mean, to you?

· Why is repentance a necessary step to receiving Christ in your life?

· Repentance is an inward journey—it looks at what needs to change within, irrespective of what’s happening around you.  Think of a situation, or a relationship, that is in need of repair.  How might you repent, or change, in order to improve or re-frame it?

Taking the Sermon Home

The First Sunday in Advent

Sermon Title: "In the Din"

Scriptural References: Isaiah 2:1-5; Romans 13:11-14; Matthew 24:36-44

Happy New Year—this is the first Sunday in Advent, and the first Sunday of the liturgical year. Our readings are filled with warning, anticipation and preparation as they direct our eye towards the future.  Isaiah describes a time of universal peace—God’s shalom.  Romans and Matthew refer to an unspecified day when Christ will come again.

· What are some of the things you hope for?

· What are the blessings and challenges you experience from waiting?

· Why do you think Jesus did not provide explicit dates and times for his return?

There are four weeks until Christmas. Make a plan amidst your many activities and obligations to prepare spiritually. Is there room in your heart for his coming? How can you maintain your primary focus on Jesus, the Word made flesh? Align your priorities so there is time for regular worship, prayer and scripture reading.  May your waiting, bring you closer to your Lord!

Taking the Sermon Home

November 24, 2013
Scriptural References: Jeremiah 23:1-6; Colossians 1:11-20; Luke 23:33-43
Sermon Title Thy Kingdom Come

Today is Christ the King Sunday, the last Sunday of the Church Year.

What are some of the images that come to mind when you think of a king? How does Jesus fit with those images…and how does he differ?

In the gospel reading which recounts the crucifixion story, the soldiers mock Jesus by saying, ―If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!‖ How does Jesus respond to this taunt, and what does it say about the nature of his kingship?

What does it mean to be one of Christ’s subjects? What does it imply about the conduct and course of our lives?

Taking the Sermon Home

November 17, 2013

Scriptural References: Malachi 4:1-2a; 

2 Thessalonians 3:6-13; Luke 21:5-19

"Signs of the Season"

 This morning we read about “life in the end times.” 

· Based on the lessons, what can we expect the end times to be like?

· How should we live as we await the end times?

· What are the signs of hope to look for when “the Day of the Lord” comes?

Taking the Sermon Home

November 10, 2013
Scriptural References: Job 19:23-27a; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17; Luke 20:27-38

Today our readings all relate, in one way or another, to resurrection and redemption.

Where do you find words of reassurance in today’s lessons?

In 2 Thessalonians we learn about people who ask questions about life after death out of a
sense of alarm, and in Luke we read about Sadducees who ask questions out of
disbelief. What barriers or questions do you encounter when contemplating death and life
after death?

How does confidence in the resurrection impact your life in the present?

Taking the Sermon Home

All Saints Sunday, November 3, 2013

Scriptural References: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18; Ephesians 1:11-23; Luke 6:20-31

All three Bible readings on this All Saints Sunday relate to the Kingdom of God in one way or another—receiving the kingdom, and adopting kingdom behaviors.

What does the kingdom of God mean to you?  How does participation in this kingdom lead you to live?

Martin Luther said that we are both saints and sinners.  That is to say, left to our own nature we pull away from God; nevertheless, in baptism God claims us, seals us with the Holy Spirit and sets us apart for a purpose.  Today, we thank those saints who now rest from their labors, just as we pray that we might be “saints” and examples of faith for others.

Who is on the list of saints that has nurtured you and helped you deepen your relationship with God?   How did they lead by example?

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Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2013
Text: Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36
A Burden Relieved

Today is the day we celebrate the gift of grace, and the freedom that the gospel gives.

How do you define the word freedom?  What is the difference between freedom, and license?

Jesus says in John's gospel: So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed  

What does Jesus do to make you free?  How does this freedom change your perspective on life?

Taking the Sermon Home

October 20, 2013
The Real Deal
Sermon Text: Luke 18:9-14...the parable of the Pharisee and a tax collector. 

Where do you see yourself in the parable…as a Pharisee, or a tax collector…or, do you see
yourself in both? Why?

Think about your most treasured human relationships. What is it that makes them so
precious, and somehow different from other relationships? How does this relate to how
you nurture your relationship with God?


In what ways can our attitude impede a robust relationship with God?

Taking the Sermon Home

October 13, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Luke 18:1-8—The Parable of the Widow and the Unjust Judge

In the gospel this week, Jesus tells a story about a widow who keeps coming to a judge, seeking justice. The judge dismisses her for a time, but ultimately is worn down by her constant pleas and grants her request. 

Jesus highlights the words pray, justice, and faith in the story. What do you think these words all have to do with each other?

What do you expect to happen when you pray?  What part do you play in making prayer meaningful and fulfilling?

How can God use you to answer the pleas for justice in our world today?

Taking the Sermon Home

September 29, 2013

Taking the Sermon Home

Stories to Tell; Gifts to Share: Cheerful Sacrifice

Scriptural Reference: Luke 19:1-10

Today we complete our sermon series as we read about Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, and his encounter with Jesus.

· The business practices of a tax collector such as Zacchaeus were known to be suspect.  In other words, he was the type of person Jesus would likely have been critical of, and yet, Jesus seeks out Zacchaeus’ hospitality and is warmly received.  What does this say about Zacchaeus?  About Jesus?

· What happens when Zacchaeus is touched by the power of Jesus’ spirit?

· What does it mean in your life to be transformed by grace? 

· In what ways does the gospel make a difference in your life, and inform the choices you make about your giving?

Taking the Sermon Home

“Stories to Tell; Gifts to Share:” Giving to the Church

September 22, 2013

Scripture references: Deuteronomy 24:17-22; Acts 4:32-37; Luke 8:1-3

As we focus on stories, gifts, and giving—that is, stewardship—today we see three lessons in which the key message has to do with sharing.  In the Deuteronomy lesson, the Israelites are instructed to leave crops behind for others to take; in the New Testament lessons, the emphasis is on communal distribution.  Either way, however, the point is that the resources you possess are not to be used solely on the self.

How do you determine, how much is enough when it comes to financial resources?   What benchmarks do you use?

What motivates you to give?

How is your giving to your church an expression of faith?  An expression of gratitude?

What blessings do you receive from your giving?

Taking the Sermon Home

Scripture References: Philippians 4:4-9; Luke 18:18-25

Sermon Series: Stories to Tell; Gifts to Share
Grateful Living

The sermon series on stories and gifts continues this week.  Once again this week in Philippians, we learn how Paul experiences joy in his relationship with God despite 
hardship—and gives thanks. We also read about a rich ruler whose possessions 
keep him from turning his life fully over to the Lord.

How do you express gratitude to God? What do you withhold?
In what ways is gratitude a motivation for giving?
What are you grateful for…and how do you express it?

Taking the Sermon Home

September 8, 2013

Scripture References: Philippians 4:10-13; Luke 15:1-10

Stories to Tell, and Gifts to Share…this is an apt description of our lives as Christians. To begin with this morning, we rejoice that we are part of God’s story. It is through God’s grace that we live, and move and have our being.  Each day is an opportunity for graceful living, in which to give thanks for the promises of God that we are loved, valued and destined for an eternal relationship.

How would you define grace, and what difference does it make in your life?

In what ways does your relationship with God bring joy?

In the two parables we read this morning, something is lost, that is found after relentless searching. 

What does this tell you about the nature of God?

Taking the Sermon Home

September 1, 2013
Today completes the four week look at Hebrews, and our Speaking of Faith series. The first two weeks our focus was on what faith is; the second two weeks the focus has been on what faith does. 
Today’s reading from Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 connects well with the appointed gospel text of Luke 14:1, 7-14. Both passages lift up the fact that living out our faith involves showing hospitality.

How would you define hospitality, and what does it have to do with one’s relationship with God?

When have you experienced an unexpected display of hospitality, and what difference did it 
make? Why might it be described as a “moment of grace?”

Hospitality and selflessness are connected in the gospel reading. What do they have to do with each other?

This week, look for opportunities to offer hospitality in unexpected ways—being kind to a stranger in line in the store; taking extra time to help someone in the office; doing a random act of kindness. Then, say a prayer, giving thanks that you have had the opportunity to be the face of Christ to another.

Taking the Sermon Home

Scripture References: Hebrews 12:18-29, Luke 13:10-17

This is our third week in which the key scripture text comes from Hebrews. We learn about a new covenant, or promise, made real through Christ. In Christ, we see the glory of God.
First, what does God promise us, according to the passage in Hebrews?

In Hebrews, we learn about a new covenant; in the Luke passage, we learn about a woman bent over for eighteen years, whose back was made straight…again, new life! Describe a time when you felt the “fresh wind” of God’s presence in your life. What new things happened as a result?

The Hebrews passage ends with, let us give thanks, by which we offer an acceptable worship with reverence and awe; for indeed our God is a consuming fire. In your prayer life this week, try to start not with your desires and petitions, but rather, with an awareness of the vastness and righteousness of God. Once we recognize that we are in the presence of a power far greater than ourselves, we are better able to utter, thy will, be done, and entrust our lives to our loving, creative God.

Taking the Sermon Home

Sunday, August 18, 2013
The focus continues on the book of Hebrews and its commentary on the nature of faith. 
The Scripture focus is Hebrews 11:29-12:2.

What do you notice about the experiences of the various biblical heroes and what does this have to say about the life of faith?
When has your faith called forth courage from within that you never dreamed you had?
Faith is caught, more than taught. What does this statement mean to you?

This week, give thanks, by name, for the cloud of witnesses that have nurtured you and demonstrated the love of Christ.

Taking the Sermon Home

Today we begin a four week look at the book of Hebrews, concentrating on chapters 11-13.
The series is entitled “Speaking of Faith,” for Chapter 11 begins with the words, Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

How would you define faith? How does it differ from wishful thinking?
How can faith change one’s outlook on the future?
Who has been an example of faith in your life, and why?

Taking the Sermon Home

 Rev. Kathryn Carroll, Christ the King Lutheran Church

Scriptural Reference: Luke 12:13-21  The Parable of the Rich Fool

What gives the man in today’s parable the greatest feeling of security?

What makes you feel secure?

Riches, in and of themselves, are not necessarily wrong; it’s our relationship to them that can give us so much trouble!  What do you feel Jesus is trying to communicate through the story?

Taking the Sermon Home

Rev. Kathryn Carroll, Christ the King Lutheran Church 

July 28, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Luke 11:1-13

This morning’s gospel reading is about prayer.

 

Based on the text, why do you think Jesus feels prayer is important?

How is your life different when you engage in regular prayer?

What are some of the barriers to praying in your day-to-day routine? 

This week, make space for a daily time to pray.  Lay out your prayers, and also, be silent and seek God’s presence.  You might find time in your car before you go to your office; with your morning coffee; or for five-ten minutes in the afternoon or evening.  Set an alarm on your telephone to remind yourself.  

Taking the Sermon Home

Rev. Kathryn Carroll

July 21, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Luke 10:38-42

In this week’s gospel, we meet Jesus having dinner at the home of Mary and Martha.  Martha rushes around and feels taken advantage of; meanwhile, Jesus applauds Mary’s decision to sit at his feet to listen.

With which character do you most identify, Martha, or Mary?

The story of Mary and Martha seems to pit busyness against meditation. What is the value of each of these approaches in a life of faith?

What are some of the things that distract you from your focus on God?

Taking the Sermon Home

July 14, 2013
Sermon delivered by Scott Simmons, Council President

Sermon Text: Luke 10:25-37   The Parable of the Good Samaritan

What is the young lawyer’s underlying motivation when first approaching Jesus with his question about eternal life?

In verse 29 the lawyer asks Jesus, And who is my neighbor? Does Jesus answer this question?  If not, what question does he answer?

What are the elements of surprise in this parable?  How do the characters belie our expectations?

Taking the Sermon Home

July 7, 2013
Rev. Kathryn Carroll

Today the scriptural focus is Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, and the ministry of the seventy.

Jesus commissions seventy people to minister in his name, and warns them that he is sending them out “like lambs into the midst of wolves.”  What do you think this means?  In what ways does doing ministry in Jesus’ name feel like this today?

Why do you think Jesus sent the seventy out in pairs?  What are the blessings of team ministry?

Taking the Sermon Home

June 30, 2013

Rev. Kathryn Carroll

Today the scriptural focus is on Galatians 5:1, 13-25, as we proclaim “Let Freedom Ring!”

How is freedom both a gift and a responsibility?

What does it mean to be “free in Christ?”  What are you “freed for,” or “freed to do?”

Reflect upon Paul’s list of the fruit of the Spirit this week, and in your personal prayers, ask that you might be “guided by the Spirit” to have an abundant harvest of them in your life.

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Elijah: On Fire for the Lord
Week 4: "Catching Fire"
Scriptural Reference: 2 Kings 2:1-17

After the thrill of overcoming tremendous odds and revealing the power and authority of God, Elijah finds himself running for his life. When have you felt that everything was working against you…and where did you find God in the midst of it?

Elijah’s interaction with God is honest and authentic—he does not hold back
feelings. What does this tell you about the nature of his relationship with God?

How would you describe your relationship with God? What things can you do, to develop a deeper connection?

Taking the Sermon Home

Sermon Series, Week III: Elijah: On Fire for the Lord
Scriptural Reference: 1 Kings 19
"A Deafening Silence"

After the thrill of overcoming tremendous odds and revealing the power and authority of God, Elijah finds himself running for his life.

When have you felt that everything was working against you…and where did you find God in the midst of it? Elijah’s interaction with God is honest and authentic—he does not hold back feelings. What does this tell you about the nature of his relationship with God?

How would you describe your relationship with God?

What things can you do, to develop a deeper connection?

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Week Two of Elijah: On Fire for the Lord 

The "Raining" Authority

Rev. Kathryn Carroll

Scriptural Reference: 1 Kings 18:20-46

Today the story of Elijah continues, with a dramatic contest between Elijah, and the prophets of Baal.  How is God’s power and authority demonstrated in the story…and how is God’s power and authority demonstrated in your life?

Elijah challenges the people that assemble at Mount Carmel with the statement, How long will you go limping with two different opinions?  If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.  In what ways do you relate to this challenge?

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June 2, 2013   Sermon Series   "Elijah: On Fire for the Lord"

Week I: "Feast or Famine"

Scripture Reference: 1 Kings 17:8-24; Luke 7:11-17

Rev. Kathryn Carroll, Pastor

Today is the first of four Sundays focusing on the prophet Elijah.  In the first scene, Elijah is both sent by the Lord to the widow in Zarephath, and then, is given the prophecy to share, that her supplies will not be depleted until the rain falls.  What does this story say to you about trust?

Next, Elijah is given power to revive the widow’s son, after his illness leaves “no breath left in him.”  What do Elijah’s extraordinary powers demonstrate to the widow about the nature of Elijah?  About the nature of Elijah’s God?

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May 26, 2013

Scriptural References: Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31; Romans 5:1-5; John 16:12-15

· Trinity Sunday delves into the way Christians understand God in three ways—Creator (Father), Redeemer (Son), and Guide (Holy Spirit).  What do these various images imply about God’s interaction with, and ongoing presence in, our lives?

· When you close your eyes and picture God, what do you see?

· In John, Jesus says to the disciples, I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.  What truths do you think Jesus was speaking about? What truths do you find hard to bear in our contemporary world?

 

· Where do you hear God speaking now…and what is the truth God is speaking?

 Rev. Kathryn Carroll, Christ the King Lutheran Church

Taking the Sermon Home

Scriptural References for May 19, 2013: Acts 2:1-21; John 14:8-17

 Pentecost Sunday

How is the presence of the Holy Spirit evidenced in Acts?  Where do you see evidence of the Holy Spirit today?

How does “God as Spirit” inform your overall understanding of God?  In other words, what does it mean that God comes to us as “Spirit?”

John's gospel assures us that the Spirit's presence is a source of peace.  Reflect upon a time when your fears and worries were relieved by knowing that God was with you-how was the Holy Spirit revealed to you?

Taking the Sermon Home

 May 12, 2013

Scriptural References: Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26

Acts 16 describes some unlikely places for Paul and Silas to witness to their faith.  First, they pray and sing hymns to God while fellow inmates listen; then, after the prison doors are miraculously opened, they share the gospel with the jailer and his household.  When have you had the opportunity to talk your faith in an unlikely place?  What does it take, to recognize and seize upon such opportunities?

In John 17, Jesus is described as praying directly for you and me.  Jesus says to God in verses 20 and 21: I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.  What emotions does that stir within you?

What does it mean for us to be one with believers in the past, present, and future?   In other words, how does God’s word, make us one, so that unity, does not mandate uniformity?  

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Sunday, May 5, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Acts 1:1-11; Luke 24:44-53

For reflection:

The ascension of Jesus marks an ending as he departs into heaven, and yet, it is also a 
story of new opportunities and assurance. 
What changes does the ascension bring, and 
how are the disciples made to know that the Lord will remain with them?
Jesus tells the disciples that they are to be his witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and 
Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. What does it mean to you, to be a witness? 
How do you witness to your faith in your day-to-day life?

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April 28, 2013

Scriptural Reference: Revelation 21:1-6; John 13:31-35

For reflection:

In the book of Revelation, John has visions of a new heaven and a new earth; later, he hears a being that is seated on a throne saying, “See, I am making all things new.”  Then in the gospel of John, Jesus says, “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another.”  What do you feel the word “new” refers to in these contexts?  What, exactly, is “new?”

Think of a time when the power of God’s love created possibilities for you or for someone in your life.  How was that love expressed, both to you and through you?  How does God’s love change things?

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--Reflections for the week ahead

Scriptural References: Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30

For reflection:
What does it mean for your day-to-day life that “the Lord is your Shepherd?” What
changes as a result of this relationship? Be specific.
What are some of the “voices” that tend to distract you from focusing on the Lord’s
voice? How do these voices diminish your trust in God?
The beautiful Psalm 23 begins with the reassuring phrase, “The Lord is my shepherd; I
shall not be in want.” And yet, our lives tend to be overrun with “wants” and desires.
This week, spend time contemplating the ways in which your life is blessed, and be
grateful for the provisions that bring richness to each day.

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--Reflections for the week ahead

April 14, 2013

Scripture Reference: John 21:1-19

Today’s lesson describes yet another resurrection appearance of Jesus to his followers; this time, it’s both at the workplace, and around the breakfast table. 

In what ways do you experience God’s presence in the routine places of life? 

In the second half of the reading, Peter was both questioned (Do you love me?) and commissioned (Feed my sheep.)  How do you demonstrate your love for the Lord, and what does that love compel you to do?

Think of a time when you responded to God’s call, and ventured into a situation where you did not wish to go (verse 18).  What blessings did you receive, and how did you grow in faith?

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Reflections for the week ahead

Scripture Reference for April 7, 2013: John 20:19-31

The sermons this month follow the theme  Living in the Light of the Resurrection. 
Our first topic is Peace...with a purpose.

Each year on the Sunday after Easter, the appointed lectionary text is from John 20.  We read about fearful disciples who are surprised by the presence of the risen Lord who utters, Peace by with you.  The scene is followed by the account of Thomas, who seeks proof of Jesus’ resurrection.

For reflection:

How would you describe the “peace” that Jesus speaks of?  When have you experienced that peace?  Be specific.

What is the connection between peace and forgiveness?

Thomas finds himself questioning the presence of the risen Christ, as he was not with the group on that first night.  What are the doubts that arise in your spirit?  What blessings have you experienced from wrestling with doubt?

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Reflections for the Week Ahead

Palm Sunday, March 24, 2013
Scriptural Reference: Isaiah 40:4-9a; Luke 19: 28-40

We enter Holy Week with a parade on Palm Sunday and end it with joyful celebration the following Sunday.  If we simply move from parade to party, however, we miss some of the essence of Holy Week.  In particular, we miss the suffering of Jesus; his isolation, and his death by crucifixion.  Easter is robbed of its rich meaning if we do not pass by the cross.

For reflection:

Why do you think the crowds were jubilant as Jesus entered Jerusalem? Who wanted to stop Jesus’ ministry, and why?

Why is it important to understand Easter, in light of the cross?

Think of a time you felt a sense of impending doom, or an experience of isolating sorrow.  How can Jesus’ experiences in Holy Week help you through such hard times?

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--Reflections for the week ahead

Sunday, March 17 ends a five week series on “The Lessons of Lent.”  The first two words invited personal assessment, and the next two explored aspects of God’s nature.  The final word, “devotion,” can express both divine initiative and human response.

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 43:16-21, John 12:1-8

In what ways are you made aware of the tenacity (“devotion”) of God towards you—God’s love, patience, and grace that never let us go?

What acts of extravagant love can you make, in response to God’s extravagant love for you?

What changes do you need to make in your life to make worship more central to your weekly rhythm?

This week, start each day with a short prayer, that dedicates it to God—your thoughts, your actions, your work, your conversations. Devote yourself to being a reflection of God’s love!