Drew Downs

Make a New Normal

Jesus

  • Out of love

    a homily for Proper 17C Text: Luke 14:1,7-14     The rude one We have all had the common experience of the cell phone conversation at the checkout. We are patiently waiting in line for our turn, while the person in front of us is yacking away about somebody named Tiffany and how her daughter…

  • a homily for Proper 16C Text: Luke 13:10-17   The third time’s a charm Let me start with a conceit. As is so often the case, what Jesus says and does is not heard the same way by everyone. Jesus is breaking the law. For those who benefit from the lawbreaking, particularly the woman in…

  • In tomorrow’s gospel from Luke (12:49-56), we get a most striking vision of a pissed off Jesus complaining about His burdens and claiming (in my 21st Century voice) You think I’m the bringer of peace! Idiots! I bring conflict! It is a hard enough gospel to take, and my (very different) homily will go up…

  • No Worries

    a homily for Proper 14C Text: Luke 12:32-40 Hoard Thinking all the way back to last week, Jesus was asked to settle a property dispute. Two brothers were arguing over property and invite Jesus, the holy man, to help them settle it. Seems natural enough. Let’s call on the guy who can help us settle on…

  • When We Pray

    a homily for Proper 12C Text: Luke 11:1-13 The Lord Praying They have left the house of Mary and Martha and it says  Jesus was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” Jesus was praying,…

  • a homily for Proper 11C Text: Luke 10:38-42 Dividing Each Other Before we get into the meat of this week’s gospel story, I want us to acknowledge something. This is a divisive gospel. There are many among us that feel recognized and justified. They feel like Mary. They love to be reminded that they are…