I had a great time preaching and leading worship at Abiding Presence Lutheran Church in Burke, VA this weekend. I have been a member of this congregation for 21 years, and am so thankful for the faith formation I received with, in, and from this community. Here is a manuscript of the sermon I delivered (more or less). I also chose to use powerpoint, and would love to hear feedback about the images (whether they were a distraction or an enhancement) from anyone who was there. Please share your comments and questions, I'd love to hear from you!.
I was talking with my grandmother at the beginning of the week, and I asked her what her plans were for the weekend. She told me that there were two movies they wanted to go see, “It’s Complicated” and “Avatar”. I could more or less understand wanting to see “It’s Complicated”, because I know they really like Meryl Streep, and I know my grandmother is pretty good at convincing my grandfather to see any movie she wants to see, but I was really surprised to hear that “Avatar” was on their list of movies to see as well. [p] Now, I don’t really follow what’s happening at the movies, or in pop culture at all for that matter…but I know that “Avatar” is the latest 3-D film, and I’ve heard it’s pretty good. But somewhere, somehow, I had gotten the impression that it was more a movie for younger generations. [p] Frankly, I was surprised my grandparents had even heard about it. So, I asked my grandmother why they were interested in seeing it.
My grandmother went on and on about the reviews the movie had received, and about everything her friends had said about it. She reported that her friends said that the special effects were so good that “they make you forget you’re sitting in a movie theatre, and make you feel like you’re right there”. She claims that when a character in the movie is flying around through the air, you feel like you’re flying too. And when someone is galloping through the jungle, you feel as though you’re right there too. [p] Now I’ve heard that the movie also has a great plot, and good actors, but her main draw to the film is the special effects, and the way they promise to pull the viewer into the movie and make you feel like you’re part of the story as well.
The fascination we seem to have with being “present”, or at least feeling like we’re present, in a fantasy world kind of surprises me, but I think it speaks to our acknowledgement of the power that is found in physical presence. We like to feel like we’re part of a story, whatever the story may be, and feeling like we’re physically present in the story seems to make us feel like we’re a part of it. [p] While “Avatar” may be the latest, and perhaps greatest, adventure in 3-D worlds that promise “come alive” to the audience, my grandmother reminded me that we’ve been creating 3-D movies for quite some time. She recalled the 3-D movies of the past, and the cool red-and-blue bi-colored glasses that went with them. A little bit of research revealed that the quest to create films 3-d films, where the audience felt as though they were physically present with the characters in the story began as early as 1890!
From the very first 3-D feature film, the “Power of Love” in 1922 until, and I’m sure beyond, “Avatar”, filmmakers and computer science engineers have strived to perfect the technology necessary to make the audience feel as though they are part of the story, like they are participants in it. [p] I maintain that this quest is powered by our acknowledgement of the power of presence, and our belief that the story is much more interesting if we feel as though we are a part of it.
In today’s text from the Gospel of Luke, we encounter two important examples of the power of presence—and not a virtual or 3-D presence, but real, live, can’t-be-created-by-even-the-most-sophisticated-technology presence. [p] In today’s Gospel, we hear of the power of the presence of Jesus coming to the people to be baptized, and we hear of the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit descending in bodily form, like a dove, upon Jesus.
We are told in today’s Gospel reading that the people were questioning in their hearts whether John could be the long-awaited Messiah. John, knowing their questions, tells the crowds that no, he is not the Messiah, but that one, even more powerful than he, is coming. As John has promised, Jesus does come to be physically present with the people. And not only does Jesus come, but he is also baptized alongside of them.
Remember that John offered and proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins: these crowds had come to John to be baptized because they knew that they were sinners, and they sought forgiveness. Jesus, who was himself without sin, had no need for forgiveness, or for John’s baptism, but chose to be present with these people at their baptism, and chose to be baptized alongside side of them. [p] Jesus’ physical presence with the people at their baptism testifies to Jesus’ commitment and devotion to the people, as well as his desire to physically experience everything—birth, baptism, life, and death—that his people experienced.
We encounter the second example of the power of presence in this text after the baptism of Jesus and the crowds, when, as Jesus “was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove”. [p] The Holy Spirit has certainly been at work in Luke’s Gospel before Jesus’ baptism, but it is not until this moment that the Spirit is said to come directly and specifically to Jesus. [p] The Spirit has helped prepare the way, and the people, for Jesus’ birth and ministry, but this is the first time that the Spirit is made present, in a very physical way, to Jesus.
It is after the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus that a voice from heaven declares “You are my Son, the beloved; with you I am well pleased”. [p] The physical presence of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life affirms Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, and affirms God’s approval of Jesus. Giving Jesus, whom the angels have already declared to be the Messiah and Savior, a stamp of approval may seem a little odd, perhaps a little superfluous. [p] But if Jesus is indeed fully human, and if Jesus shares all of our human desires, as the Scriptures say he does, then we can imagine that some part of Jesus needed to hear that he was pleasing in the eyes of his Father. [p] Isn’t that what we all want to know? In the depths of our hearts, don’t we all want to know that we’re okay, that we count for something, that we are loved? [p] I believe that we do all need to know that we are “okay”, that we are even “good”, and I believe that Jesus needed to hear this message as well. [p]
And Jesus did hear this message. Anointed by the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus hears these words of affirmation and, after receiving this anointing and affirmation, he is able to begin his work of teaching, caring for the sick, welcoming the outcast, and tending to the poor. [p] By the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ identity is affirmed, and he is equipped to carry out his earthly mission.
[p] The affirmation Jesus receives after the Holy Spirit powerfully descends upon him is something which I long to hear. [p] While the idea of the Holy Spirit descending upon me in bodily form like a dove seems strange, and makes me a little uncomfortable, to be honest, I would love to see the heavens open and hear a voice saying “You, Caitlin, are my daughter, my beloved. With you I am well pleased” or even simply “Caitlin, I recognize you! I know who you are, and with you I’m not too upset!” [p] As strong as our faith may be, I believe we would all love to hear God speaking directly to us, calling us by name, and declaring that we are loved, that we are worth something. [p] Hearing this voice would surely remove any doubts we have about God, right? I think we would all love to be pulled into this story in such strong, real way that we could clearly hear the voice from heaven calling to us “You—_________, _________, ________, _________, you are my Child, my beloved, and with you I am well pleased.”
Well, perhaps if technology continues to progress at the rate it’s progressing, in a decade or two, maybe we will be able to put on some special glasses, sit in a movie theatre, and hear God calling to us each individually, or at least feel as though we hear God calling to each of us. If the creators of “Avatar” can make my grandparents feel as though they are galloping through the jungle, or flying around the planet of Pandora, perhaps they can make us all feel as though a voice from heaven is calling out to us, affirming our identity, and our worth in God’s eyes, and inviting us into God’s story. [p]
Of course, I don’t really think that’s going to happen. [p] And the truth of the matter is that it doesn’t need to. [p] The truth of the matter is that God has already provided a way for us to hear God’s voice calling to us, and a way for us to be drawn into the story. [p] God has provided a way for us not only to feel as though we’re part of the plot, part of the God’s promises, but God has provided a way for each of us to actually be a part of the plot, a part of God’s story—and it doesn’t require any special glasses or computer animation.
[p] God invites us into God’s story through the freely and abundantly given gifts of water and Word. Through the sacrament of Holy Baptism, we receive the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, and we receive affirmation of our identity as beloved children of God. [p] As we are baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we are set free from the power of sin and death, and raised up to live in new life with Christ. In baptism, we are made acceptable to God, we are named as a Child of God, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and marked with the cross of Christ forever—in baptism, we receive God’s words of approval for all eternity.
Through the water and the Word, we are able to hear “__________, __________, _________, ___________, you are my Child, my beloved. With you I am well pleased”. Through the water and the Word, we are drawn into Jesus, and standing with Jesus, we, too, receive the gift of the power of the Holy Spirit. And just as the presence of the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus for his ministry, so too does the Spirit empower us for our ministry. As the Spirit provided Jesus with the gifts He needed to bring about healing, provide hope, teach and share God’s love, so too does the Spirit provide us with the gifts we need to share the healing, hope, and love that God has first revealed to each of us in Jesus Christ.
I don’t doubt my grandmother when she says that the new technology, computer animation, and special effects of Avatar are unlike any we have seen before. I believe her when she claims that the animation and visuals are so good that you really feel like you’re present in the story, and I respect her desire, our desire, to feel physically present in these fantasy worlds some times. [p] But I give thanks that, through water and the Word, God has provided each of us with a way to actually be live participants in God’s story, in God’s world, in God’s real world. Through these elements, God has called us by name, God has called us beloved, and God has given us God’s approval.
While the event of baptism is itself a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the gifts God gives to us in our baptism are good for our entire lives, and we are invited and encouraged to remember these gifts each and every day. Every time we encounter water—whether it’s as we wash our faces, get caught in the rain, or clean the dinner dishes—we are invited to remember our baptism and to remember the affirmation we have received from God through our baptism. We are invited to remember God’s promise to be physically present in our lives, and God’s invitation to participate, through the power, calling, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, in God’s story, in God’s world. And that’s an invitation that will never be out-dated, old fashioned, or surpassed by new technology. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Final sermon
Here is a copy of my sermon as delivered in class today. I did end up using a power point (which I had never really considered doing until this morning in class when Dennis reminded us that this class provides opportunities to try new things and see how they work out), which many people said was helpful...so I plan on using it on Saturday and Sunday as well (though then it will be a little more personalized for my congregation).
I appreciate all the feedback I received in class and on the response forms...if you have any other questions, thoughts, or suggestions, please let me know! Thanks, friends.
I was talking with my grandmother a few days ago when I asked her about what she and my grandfather planned to do this week. She told me that there were two movies they wanted to go see, “It’s Complicated” and “Avatar”. I could more or less understand wanting to see “It’s Complicated”, because I know they really like Meryl Streep, and I know my grandmother is pretty good at convincing my grandfather to see any movie she wants to see, but I was really surprised to hear that “Avatar” was on their list of movies to see as well. [p] Now, I don’t know much about movies, or pop culture for that matter, but I knew “Avatar” was the latest 3-D film, and somewhere, somehow, I had gotten the impression that “Avatar” was more a movie for the young adult generation. Frankly, I was surprised my grandparents had even heard about it. So, I asked my grandmother why they were interested in seeing it.
My grandmother went on and on about the reviews the movie had received, and about everything her friends had said about it. She reported that her friends said that the special effects were so good that “they make you forget you’re sitting in a movie theatre, and make you feel like you’re right there”. She claims that when a character in the movie is flying around through the air, you feel like you’re flying too. And when someone is galloping through the jungle, you feel as though you’re right there too. [p] Now I’ve heard that the movie also has a great plot, and good actors, but her main draw to the film is the special effects, and the way they promise to pull the viewer into the movie and make you feel like you’re part of the story as well.
The fascination we seem to have with being “present”, or at least feeling like we’re present, in a fantasy world kind of surprises me, but I think it speaks to our acknowledgment of the power that is found in physical presence. We like feeling like we’re part of a story, whatever the story may be, and feeling like we’re physically present in the story seems to make us feel like we’re a part of it. [p] While “Avatar” may be the latest, and perhaps greatest, adventure in technologically creating fantasy worlds into which real, live people can be drawn, and in which they can feel as though they are truly present, my grandmother reminded me that we’ve been creating these 3-D movies for quite some time. She recalled the 3-D movies of the past, and the cool red-and-blue bi-colored glasses that went with them. A little bit of research revealed to me that, according to some, the quest to create films 3-d films, where the audience felt as though they were physically present with the characters in the story began as early as 1890!
From the very first 3-D feature film, the “Power of Love” in 1922 until, and I’m sure beyond, “Avatar”, filmmakers and computer science engineers have strived to perfect the technology necessary to make the audience feel as though they are part of the story, like they are participants in it. I maintain that this quest is powered by our acknowledgement of the power of presence, and our belief that the story is much more interesting if we feel as though we are a part of it.
In today’s text from the Gospel of Luke, we encounter two important examples of the power of presence—and not a virtual or 3-D presence, but real, live, can’t-be-created-by-even-the-most-sophisticated-technology presence. [p] In today’s Gospel, we hear of the power of the presence of Jesus coming to the people to be baptized, and we hear of the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit descending in bodily form, like a dove, upon Jesus.
We are told in today’s Gospel reading that the people were questioning in their hearts whether John could be the long-awaited Messiah. John, knowing their questions, tells the crowds that no, he is not the Messiah, but that one, even more powerful than he, is coming. As John has promised, Jesus does come to be physically present with the people. And not only does Jesus come , but he is also baptized alongside of them. [p] Remember that John offered and proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins: these crowds had come to John to be baptized because they knew that they were sinners, and they sought forgiveness. Jesus, who was himself without sin, had no need for forgiveness, or for John’s baptism, but chose to be present with these people at their baptism, and chose to be baptized alongside side of them. [p] Jesus’ physical presence with the people at their baptism testifies to Jesus’ commitment and devotion to the people, as well as his desire to physically experience everything—birth, baptism, life, and death—that his people experienced.
We encounter the second example of the power of presence in this text after the baptism of Jesus and the crowds, when, as Jesus “was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove”. [p] The Holy Spirit has certainly been at work in Luke’s Gospel before Jesus’ baptism, but it is not until this moment that the Spirit is said to come directly and specifically to Jesus. The Spirit has helped prepare the way, and the people, for Jesus’ birth and ministry, but this is the first time that the Spirit is made present, in a very physical way, to Jesus.
It is after the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus that a voice from heaven declares “You are my Son, the beloved; with you I am well pleased”. [p] The physical presence of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life affirms Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, and affirms God’s approval of Jesus. Giving Jesus, whom the angels have already declared to be the Messiah and Savior, a stamp of approval may seem a little odd, perhaps a little superfluous. [p] But if Jesus is indeed fully human, and if Jesus shares all human desires, like the Scriptures attest, then we can imagine that some part of Jesus needed to hear that he was pleasing in the eyes of his Father. [p] Isn’t that what we all want to know? In the depths of our hearts, don’t we all want to know that we’re okay, that we count for something, that we are loved [p] I believe that we do all need to know that we are “okay”, that we are even “good”, and I believe that Jesus needed to hear this message as well. [p]
And Jesus did hear this message. Anointed by the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus hears these words of affirmation and, after receiving this anointing and affirmation, he is able to begin his work of caring for the sick, welcoming the outcast, and tending to the poor. [p] By the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ identity is affirmed, and he is equipped to carry out his earthly mission.
The affirmation Jesus receives after the Holy Spirit powerfully descends upon him is something which I long to hear. While the idea of the Holy Spirit descending upon me in bodily form like a dove seems strange, and makes me a little uncomfortable, to be honest, I would love to see the heavens open and hear a voice saying “You, Caitlin, are my child, my beloved. With you I am well pleased” or even simply “Caitlin, I recognize you! I know who you are, and with you I’m not upset!” [p] As strong as our faith may be, I believe we would all love to hear God speaking directly to us, calling us by name, and declaring that we are loved, that we are worth something. [p] Hearing this voice would surely remove any doubts we have about God, right? I think we would all love to be pulled into this story in such strong, real way that we could clearly hear the voice from heaven calling to us “You—Haley, Cassandra, Ryan, Karen—you are my Child, my beloved, and with you I am well pleased.”
Well, perhaps if technology continues to progress at the rate it’s progressing, in a decade or two, maybe we will be able to put on some special glasses, sit in a movie theatre, and hear God calling to us each individually, or at least feel as though we hear God calling to each of us. If the creators of “Avatar” can make my grandparents feel as though they are galloping through the jungle, or flying around the planet of Pandora, perhaps they can make us all feel as though a voice from heaven is calling out to us, affirming our identity, and our worth in God’s eyes. [p]
Of course, I don’t really think that’s going to happen. But, the truth of the matter is that it doesn’t need to. The truth of the matter is that God has already provided a way for us to be drawn into the story. God has provided a way for us not only to feel as though we’re part of the plot, part of the God’s promises, but God has provided a way for each of us to actually be a part of the plot, a part of God’s story—and it doesn’t require any special glasses or computer animation.
For we know that God invites us into God’s story through the freely and abundantly given gifts of water and Word. Through the sacrament of Holy Baptism, we receive the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, and we receive affirmation of our identity as beloved children of God. [p] As we are baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we are set free from the power of sin and death, and raised up to live in new life with Christ. In baptism, we are made acceptable to God, we are named as a Child of God, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and marked with the cross of Christ forever—in baptism, we receive God’s words of approval for all eternity.
Through the water and the Word, we are able to hear “Meheret, Peter, Angela, Dennis, you are my Child, my beloved. With you I am well pleased”. Through the water and the Word, we are drawn into Jesus, and standing with Jesus, we, too, receive the gift of the power of the Holy Spirit. And just as the presence of the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus for his ministry, so too does the Spirit empower us for our ministry. As the Spirit provided Jesus with the gifts He needed to bring about healing, provide hope, teach and share God’s love, so too does the Spirit provide us with the gifts we need to share the healing, hope, and love that God has first revealed to each of us in Jesus Christ.
I don’t doubt my grandmother when she says that the new technology, computer animation, and special effects of Avatar are unlike any we have seen before. I believe her when she claims that the animation and visuals are so good that you really feel like you’re present in the story, and I respect her desire, our desire, to feel physically present in these fantasy worlds. [p] But I give thanks that, through water and the Word, God has provided each of us with a way to actually be live participants in God’s story, in God’s world, in God’s real world. Through these elements, God has called us by name, God has called us beloved, and God has given us God’s approval.
While the event of baptism is itself a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the gifts God gives to us in our baptism are good for our entire lives, and we are invited and encouraged to remember these gifts each and every day. Every time we wash our faces, take a shower, or go for a swim—every time we encounter water, we are invited to remember our baptism and to remember the affirmation we have received from God through our baptism. We are invited to remember God’s promise to be physically present in our lives, and God’s invitation to participate, through the power, calling, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, in God’s story, in God’s world. Thanks be to God. Amen.
I appreciate all the feedback I received in class and on the response forms...if you have any other questions, thoughts, or suggestions, please let me know! Thanks, friends.
I was talking with my grandmother a few days ago when I asked her about what she and my grandfather planned to do this week. She told me that there were two movies they wanted to go see, “It’s Complicated” and “Avatar”. I could more or less understand wanting to see “It’s Complicated”, because I know they really like Meryl Streep, and I know my grandmother is pretty good at convincing my grandfather to see any movie she wants to see, but I was really surprised to hear that “Avatar” was on their list of movies to see as well. [p] Now, I don’t know much about movies, or pop culture for that matter, but I knew “Avatar” was the latest 3-D film, and somewhere, somehow, I had gotten the impression that “Avatar” was more a movie for the young adult generation. Frankly, I was surprised my grandparents had even heard about it. So, I asked my grandmother why they were interested in seeing it.
My grandmother went on and on about the reviews the movie had received, and about everything her friends had said about it. She reported that her friends said that the special effects were so good that “they make you forget you’re sitting in a movie theatre, and make you feel like you’re right there”. She claims that when a character in the movie is flying around through the air, you feel like you’re flying too. And when someone is galloping through the jungle, you feel as though you’re right there too. [p] Now I’ve heard that the movie also has a great plot, and good actors, but her main draw to the film is the special effects, and the way they promise to pull the viewer into the movie and make you feel like you’re part of the story as well.
The fascination we seem to have with being “present”, or at least feeling like we’re present, in a fantasy world kind of surprises me, but I think it speaks to our acknowledgment of the power that is found in physical presence. We like feeling like we’re part of a story, whatever the story may be, and feeling like we’re physically present in the story seems to make us feel like we’re a part of it. [p] While “Avatar” may be the latest, and perhaps greatest, adventure in technologically creating fantasy worlds into which real, live people can be drawn, and in which they can feel as though they are truly present, my grandmother reminded me that we’ve been creating these 3-D movies for quite some time. She recalled the 3-D movies of the past, and the cool red-and-blue bi-colored glasses that went with them. A little bit of research revealed to me that, according to some, the quest to create films 3-d films, where the audience felt as though they were physically present with the characters in the story began as early as 1890!
From the very first 3-D feature film, the “Power of Love” in 1922 until, and I’m sure beyond, “Avatar”, filmmakers and computer science engineers have strived to perfect the technology necessary to make the audience feel as though they are part of the story, like they are participants in it. I maintain that this quest is powered by our acknowledgement of the power of presence, and our belief that the story is much more interesting if we feel as though we are a part of it.
In today’s text from the Gospel of Luke, we encounter two important examples of the power of presence—and not a virtual or 3-D presence, but real, live, can’t-be-created-by-even-the-most-sophisticated-technology presence. [p] In today’s Gospel, we hear of the power of the presence of Jesus coming to the people to be baptized, and we hear of the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit descending in bodily form, like a dove, upon Jesus.
We are told in today’s Gospel reading that the people were questioning in their hearts whether John could be the long-awaited Messiah. John, knowing their questions, tells the crowds that no, he is not the Messiah, but that one, even more powerful than he, is coming. As John has promised, Jesus does come to be physically present with the people. And not only does Jesus come , but he is also baptized alongside of them. [p] Remember that John offered and proclaimed a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins: these crowds had come to John to be baptized because they knew that they were sinners, and they sought forgiveness. Jesus, who was himself without sin, had no need for forgiveness, or for John’s baptism, but chose to be present with these people at their baptism, and chose to be baptized alongside side of them. [p] Jesus’ physical presence with the people at their baptism testifies to Jesus’ commitment and devotion to the people, as well as his desire to physically experience everything—birth, baptism, life, and death—that his people experienced.
We encounter the second example of the power of presence in this text after the baptism of Jesus and the crowds, when, as Jesus “was praying, the heaven was opened, and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove”. [p] The Holy Spirit has certainly been at work in Luke’s Gospel before Jesus’ baptism, but it is not until this moment that the Spirit is said to come directly and specifically to Jesus. The Spirit has helped prepare the way, and the people, for Jesus’ birth and ministry, but this is the first time that the Spirit is made present, in a very physical way, to Jesus.
It is after the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus that a voice from heaven declares “You are my Son, the beloved; with you I am well pleased”. [p] The physical presence of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ life affirms Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, and affirms God’s approval of Jesus. Giving Jesus, whom the angels have already declared to be the Messiah and Savior, a stamp of approval may seem a little odd, perhaps a little superfluous. [p] But if Jesus is indeed fully human, and if Jesus shares all human desires, like the Scriptures attest, then we can imagine that some part of Jesus needed to hear that he was pleasing in the eyes of his Father. [p] Isn’t that what we all want to know? In the depths of our hearts, don’t we all want to know that we’re okay, that we count for something, that we are loved [p] I believe that we do all need to know that we are “okay”, that we are even “good”, and I believe that Jesus needed to hear this message as well. [p]
And Jesus did hear this message. Anointed by the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus hears these words of affirmation and, after receiving this anointing and affirmation, he is able to begin his work of caring for the sick, welcoming the outcast, and tending to the poor. [p] By the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ identity is affirmed, and he is equipped to carry out his earthly mission.
The affirmation Jesus receives after the Holy Spirit powerfully descends upon him is something which I long to hear. While the idea of the Holy Spirit descending upon me in bodily form like a dove seems strange, and makes me a little uncomfortable, to be honest, I would love to see the heavens open and hear a voice saying “You, Caitlin, are my child, my beloved. With you I am well pleased” or even simply “Caitlin, I recognize you! I know who you are, and with you I’m not upset!” [p] As strong as our faith may be, I believe we would all love to hear God speaking directly to us, calling us by name, and declaring that we are loved, that we are worth something. [p] Hearing this voice would surely remove any doubts we have about God, right? I think we would all love to be pulled into this story in such strong, real way that we could clearly hear the voice from heaven calling to us “You—Haley, Cassandra, Ryan, Karen—you are my Child, my beloved, and with you I am well pleased.”
Well, perhaps if technology continues to progress at the rate it’s progressing, in a decade or two, maybe we will be able to put on some special glasses, sit in a movie theatre, and hear God calling to us each individually, or at least feel as though we hear God calling to each of us. If the creators of “Avatar” can make my grandparents feel as though they are galloping through the jungle, or flying around the planet of Pandora, perhaps they can make us all feel as though a voice from heaven is calling out to us, affirming our identity, and our worth in God’s eyes. [p]
Of course, I don’t really think that’s going to happen. But, the truth of the matter is that it doesn’t need to. The truth of the matter is that God has already provided a way for us to be drawn into the story. God has provided a way for us not only to feel as though we’re part of the plot, part of the God’s promises, but God has provided a way for each of us to actually be a part of the plot, a part of God’s story—and it doesn’t require any special glasses or computer animation.
For we know that God invites us into God’s story through the freely and abundantly given gifts of water and Word. Through the sacrament of Holy Baptism, we receive the power of the presence of the Holy Spirit, and we receive affirmation of our identity as beloved children of God. [p] As we are baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, we are set free from the power of sin and death, and raised up to live in new life with Christ. In baptism, we are made acceptable to God, we are named as a Child of God, sealed by the Holy Spirit, and marked with the cross of Christ forever—in baptism, we receive God’s words of approval for all eternity.
Through the water and the Word, we are able to hear “Meheret, Peter, Angela, Dennis, you are my Child, my beloved. With you I am well pleased”. Through the water and the Word, we are drawn into Jesus, and standing with Jesus, we, too, receive the gift of the power of the Holy Spirit. And just as the presence of the Holy Spirit empowered Jesus for his ministry, so too does the Spirit empower us for our ministry. As the Spirit provided Jesus with the gifts He needed to bring about healing, provide hope, teach and share God’s love, so too does the Spirit provide us with the gifts we need to share the healing, hope, and love that God has first revealed to each of us in Jesus Christ.
I don’t doubt my grandmother when she says that the new technology, computer animation, and special effects of Avatar are unlike any we have seen before. I believe her when she claims that the animation and visuals are so good that you really feel like you’re present in the story, and I respect her desire, our desire, to feel physically present in these fantasy worlds. [p] But I give thanks that, through water and the Word, God has provided each of us with a way to actually be live participants in God’s story, in God’s world, in God’s real world. Through these elements, God has called us by name, God has called us beloved, and God has given us God’s approval.
While the event of baptism is itself a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the gifts God gives to us in our baptism are good for our entire lives, and we are invited and encouraged to remember these gifts each and every day. Every time we wash our faces, take a shower, or go for a swim—every time we encounter water, we are invited to remember our baptism and to remember the affirmation we have received from God through our baptism. We are invited to remember God’s promise to be physically present in our lives, and God’s invitation to participate, through the power, calling, and empowerment of the Holy Spirit, in God’s story, in God’s world. Thanks be to God. Amen.
Figured out my illustration!
I'm always amazed at how the focus of my sermon never (or very rarely) ends up being what I think (at the beginning of the week) it's going to be. I guess that proves the fact that God's will WILL be done instead of ours...even though we sometimes try to prevent that from happening? I really wanted to run with the power of the elements, but I just couldn't get it to fit together.
But...I had an interesting conversation with my grandmother yesterday about "Avatar" and its special effects, and I think there might be something there. When I read this text, I'm struck by the super-natural aspects of it--baptism by fire? Holy Spirit descending like a dove? This isn't normal stuff (and, yet, we will systematically reply "Glory to you, O Christ"...like it's normal) Of course, I don't want to suggest that God uses "special effects" to get our attention...so I have to figure that out, but I think I'm going to go with this.
On my run this morning, it all made sense. Problem is always that I can't remember it when I'm not running! So we'll see if it can come together.
In other news, I came across this blog today that I really like. http://revgalblogpals.blogspot.com/ Every Tuesday, there's an open discussion about the lectionary texts...kind of like "This week in preaching..." on Facebook (which I also find helpful)
The Revgalblogpals site led me to this "Progressive Involvement" blog which is written by a Lutheran pastor in Colorado, and which also includes lectionary thoughts/reflections.
I have found that I like to read lots of different ideas/thoughts/reflections and then kind of discern my own...especially as the text applies to my context. In a congregation, I would also love to have a Monday or Tuesday morning Bible study using the lectionary texts, where others could offer their reflections and thoughts, which might also provide fodder for my sermon. Depending on the congregation, a blog might be a nice way to solicit feedback/questions throughout the week--and perhaps keep people interested in what your sermon will be! It would also be a good way to get feedback and further questions AFTER you deliver the sermon. I'm thinking about doing this with my congregation this weekend after I preach the sermon.
But...I had an interesting conversation with my grandmother yesterday about "Avatar" and its special effects, and I think there might be something there. When I read this text, I'm struck by the super-natural aspects of it--baptism by fire? Holy Spirit descending like a dove? This isn't normal stuff (and, yet, we will systematically reply "Glory to you, O Christ"...like it's normal) Of course, I don't want to suggest that God uses "special effects" to get our attention...so I have to figure that out, but I think I'm going to go with this.
On my run this morning, it all made sense. Problem is always that I can't remember it when I'm not running! So we'll see if it can come together.
In other news, I came across this blog today that I really like. http://revgalblogpals.blogspot.com/ Every Tuesday, there's an open discussion about the lectionary texts...kind of like "This week in preaching..." on Facebook (which I also find helpful)
The Revgalblogpals site led me to this "Progressive Involvement" blog which is written by a Lutheran pastor in Colorado, and which also includes lectionary thoughts/reflections.
I have found that I like to read lots of different ideas/thoughts/reflections and then kind of discern my own...especially as the text applies to my context. In a congregation, I would also love to have a Monday or Tuesday morning Bible study using the lectionary texts, where others could offer their reflections and thoughts, which might also provide fodder for my sermon. Depending on the congregation, a blog might be a nice way to solicit feedback/questions throughout the week--and perhaps keep people interested in what your sermon will be! It would also be a good way to get feedback and further questions AFTER you deliver the sermon. I'm thinking about doing this with my congregation this weekend after I preach the sermon.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Soul stealing, together apart, our nomadic life, and the next door enemy
I found chapters 9-12 in Flickering Pixels to be very provocative. I found myself agreeing with much of the information and observations presented, but questioning some of the conclusions Hipps reached.
Here are a few questions for discussion:
Here are a few questions for discussion:
- In chapter 10 ("Together Apart"), Hipps writes about how technology has made the distant seem close by, but the close by seem distant. He argues that "our electronic experience creates a kind of empathy at a distance" (108), because, through technology, we are made aware of needs and people around the globe, and we are able to express empathy for them, and often reach out to them. He then goes on to argue that the human heart isn't designed to bear the full gravity of planetary suffering (109), and so we become so overwhelmed with the needs of the world that we fail to even meet those needs we ARE capable of meeting (especially of those who are, physically, in close proximity to us. Do you agree or disagree? What has your experience revealed to you?
- In chapter 11 ("Our Nomadic Life"), Hipps discusses the ways in which the internet has allowed us (and even encouraged us) to 'broadcast' our lives for those both far and near. Because of the "virtual community" we experience on the internet, he argues that "we no longer feel the need to participate in authentic community" (114) and we no longer have the desire "to be physically present with others in real social networks--networks like a church or a meal at someone's home" (115) Do you agree or disagree? Many studies show that the number one thing 'young adults' crave today is community...has this been your experience? What kind of community do you think they crave? Why?
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Illustration?
I find that when I write sermons, I can't really get going until I have an illustration to work with...and that is where I am stuck right now! I"ve decided to go with the theme of the POWER of the Holy Spirit coming to us while we're in prayer. I might touch on the fact that when we're anointed with the Holy Spirit (as we are in baptism), we are named as children of God and therefore freed from the "unquenchable fire", but my focus is going to be on the POWER of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
I was looking for some illustration inspiration when I came across this comic on the Agnus Day webpage. It caused me to think more about the elements of wind, water, and fire mentioned in this text, and the power of each of these elements. While I tried to run with the idea of "being so wet we can't be burned" (as suggested in the comic), I don't think that will actually lead anywhere. I was intrigued by the comments on this UCC blog about the power of wind, water, and fire. I think this might provide a good opener for the sermon.
I also think it's interesting that we read this text and then reply "Glory to you, O Christ"--we've just been told we're going to be baptized with fire, and that the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the bodily form of a dove--what the heck does this mean? Is it appropriate (or helpful) to name these discrepancies/glaring questions right from the start?
I've got a lot of work to do, but I'm very tired...here's hoping tomorrow morning provides some fresh insights and focus! Here's also hoping that it's warm enough that I can run in the morning without my brain freezing (that would NOT be helpful at this point!)
I was looking for some illustration inspiration when I came across this comic on the Agnus Day webpage. It caused me to think more about the elements of wind, water, and fire mentioned in this text, and the power of each of these elements. While I tried to run with the idea of "being so wet we can't be burned" (as suggested in the comic), I don't think that will actually lead anywhere. I was intrigued by the comments on this UCC blog about the power of wind, water, and fire. I think this might provide a good opener for the sermon.
I also think it's interesting that we read this text and then reply "Glory to you, O Christ"--we've just been told we're going to be baptized with fire, and that the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the bodily form of a dove--what the heck does this mean? Is it appropriate (or helpful) to name these discrepancies/glaring questions right from the start?
I've got a lot of work to do, but I'm very tired...here's hoping tomorrow morning provides some fresh insights and focus! Here's also hoping that it's warm enough that I can run in the morning without my brain freezing (that would NOT be helpful at this point!)
Still Sermonating
www.sarahlaughed.net
We are named children of God in our baptism, and in our baptism, I believe we receive a vocation as well. What are we before baptism?
Other notes
I know I said I would only preach on the Gospel text, but I'm finding that a little hard to stick to. First of all, I love the verses from Isaiah, the visions of God gathering God's people from all the ends of the earth, and I love the Acts text as well. In the Acts text, I'm struck by how the people had been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, but had not yet received the Holy Spirit. I know we believe that, at baptism, individuals receive the Holy Spirit...and yet we still do the laying on of hands as a later ceremony (Confirmation or Affirmation of Baptism) What exactly does this mean?
Brian Stoffregen's notes (www.crossmarks.com/brian)
I think I'm down to deciding between two particular themes. Either:
- Jesus' baptism gives him a vocation--one that places him in conflict with spiritual adversaries (immediately after his baptism, Jesus is led into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil)
- we baptism joyfully--but why? Do we know the "danger" it involves? The author of this blog offers that our joy in baptism comes from being in touch with the "vision of God's dream for humanity, in which we participate" as members of the Body of Christ
- in baptism, we come to participate in God's mission
- we pledge our whole selves in baptism
- Jesus' baptism provided him with clarity about his purpose and his message
- some part of us knows that the world is not as it ought to be--when we realize this, we feel God's baptismal call (to participate in God's work in the world!)
We are named children of God in our baptism, and in our baptism, I believe we receive a vocation as well. What are we before baptism?
Other notes
I know I said I would only preach on the Gospel text, but I'm finding that a little hard to stick to. First of all, I love the verses from Isaiah, the visions of God gathering God's people from all the ends of the earth, and I love the Acts text as well. In the Acts text, I'm struck by how the people had been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, but had not yet received the Holy Spirit. I know we believe that, at baptism, individuals receive the Holy Spirit...and yet we still do the laying on of hands as a later ceremony (Confirmation or Affirmation of Baptism) What exactly does this mean?
Brian Stoffregen's notes (www.crossmarks.com/brian)
- epiphany means "to appear" or "to make known"--at this baptism, the voice from heaven makes it known that Jesus is 'my son'
- in Luke, the purpose of Jesus' baptism is not the baptism itself, but to answer the question of Jesus' identity and highlight the work of the Holy Spirit in anointing people for ministry
- Luke's main point is what happens AFTER the baptism
- in terms of the wheat and the chaff...argues that the primary purpose of the judgment is to save the wheat (not to burn the chaff). In this text the separation of the wheat from the chaff is not even explicitly stated, all that is stated is that the threshing floor must be cleared. The separation of the wheat from the chaff has already happened in the work John did in terms of proclaiming repentance for the forgiveness of sins
- Jesus' baptism identifies him with "all the people" who were also baptized
- bodily descent (in this case, of the Holy Spirit) implies permanence-->the Holy Spirit not only descended on Jesus, but stayed upon Jesus
- the Holy Spirit was an anointing and empowering of Jesus for ministry. The Holy Spirit is not an afterthought, but the very source from which Jesus has power to do his ministry.
I think I'm down to deciding between two particular themes. Either:
- It is very easy in this text to just ignore the wheat/chaff and unquenchable fire details, but I am intrigued by Brian's remarks about the judgment already being completed, and the only thing left to be done being the cleaning of the threshing floor. I like the thought that John's proclamation of repentance for the forgiveness of sins has already separated the wheat from the chaff...but I'm really not too sure of where I would go with this. Workingpreacher.org mentions that baptism itself is not just an initiation rite, but is also a judgment...I wonder how this all fits together.
- I like (and agree with) the various points made about how Luke is not primarily interested in Jesus' baptism, but in what happens after his baptism. I do think that the Holy Spirit is de-emphasized in our churches, and I think we could use to be reminded about the POWER the Holy Spirit provides for ministry. I like that the descent of the Holy Spirit happens AFTER Jesus' baptism, WHILE he is praying. I think this encourages us in the practice of prayer. I need to do some research about the differences the Lutheran church makes between baptism and Confirmation (I know one's a sacrament and the other is not...but I guess I'm in need of a greater clarification of what confirmation is, or what 'happens' at confirmation). I think this also piggy-backs with the text from Acts, where individuals are said to have been baptized, but to not yet have received the Holy Spirit. I think talking about the ministry for which we are baptized can link back to the stuff SarahLaughed.net offered regarding God's vision for the world, and our call in baptism.
Sermonating
Please scroll down to below my post about "Flickering Pixels" to find my texts as well as initial questions and thoughts.
As I continuing researching, I have found these resources helpful:
www.workingpreacher.org
When does the judgment occur?
www.sarahlaughed.net
Thoughts from here coming soon!
As I continuing researching, I have found these resources helpful:
www.workingpreacher.org
- Pastor Harrisville speaks of how Jesus upended people's expectations for a messiah
- John dampens people's expectations and hopes by talking about the wrath that will incur at judgment
- we are reminded that every Christian baptism is a baptism of the Holy Spirit. Baptism is not simply a welcoming rite, but also a judgment
- If Jesus is a common messiah who does what people expect, what need do we have of him? But if he is one who defies expectations and reveals people's need for transformation, then he is someone surprising and filled with meaning
- prayer in important in Luke's account
When does the judgment occur?
www.sarahlaughed.net
Thoughts from here coming soon!
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