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Something Better Than Jesus?
a Homily for Pentecost, year B Text: John 15:26-16:15, Acts 2:1-21 The Confused Followers Our gospel pericope from John continues our theme from the last few weeks: Jesus is leaving His disciples, but don’t worry; they will have what they need: ‘When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the…
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Why I Don’t Preach Daily Living Sermons
If you’ve been around the church, you know there are many different genres of sermons. With names like “biblical” and “narrative,” we are often asked to classify and name our preaching style. My own style falls into several categories, but I’m pretty sure there is one it does not: the “daily living” sermon. I’ve been…
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Must We Preach John 3:16?
Those that know me generally understand that I don’t like to write sermons on Saturday. Today is Saturday and I’m writing a sermon for tomorrow. And tomorrow’s text includes the ubiquitous John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish…
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Tebow and the (All)Mighty
1) Tebow and Faith The theology of GOD on our side against other people who claim GOD is on their side is the height of insanity. And to see strange coincidence as proof of that is ridiculous. GOD sends signs rather than proofs of already held beliefs. If anything, I’m willing to see that as a sign,…
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When GOD Gives Conflicting Instructions
On her blog yesterday, the Rev. Susan Russell announced a Celebration of Equality. It is a really special event in the life of her Pasadena congregation and I’m sure is going to be an awesome sight. In the midst of this celebration is a “sneak preview” of a new documentary about the Rt. Rev. V.…
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It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
My friend Penny brings new light to Christmas through a discovery of a missing verse from the classic hymn: “It Came Upon the Midnight Clear”. I’ve always loved this evocative hymn, with its angels and their unfurled wings coming to us through a mysterious door from heaven to bring God’s news to us in splendid…
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A Humble Beginning
My Christmas Message Christmas isn’t just some story about family. It isn’t about shopping or gift-giving. It isn’t about all the hoopla. And even “putting Christ back into Christmas” is to make Christmas something it isn’t. It is way more than that. Have a very Merry Christmas!