Sermons

Jesus Pilots the Boat, so Keep Calm!

As I prepared for today’s sermon, the hymn, “Jesus Savior, Pilot Me,” had burrowed its way into my consciousness and would not leave me alone. We will be singing it soon. It’s an old-...

The Mystery of Planting and Growth

I'm hesitant to even say this, lest I jink it, but the church garden already is growing SO much better than was the case last year, and it's only a few weeks into the season. A year...

We Do Not Lose Heart

“So,” wrote the Apostle Paul, “we do not lose heart.” Are those words on your lips? If they are, what is on the other side of the “so”? In other words, what is the reason that you do...

New Lenses

If you're sitting there thinking, "Sandy looks different," you're right! For as long as I've been at Faith Lutheran Church, you've seen me wearing glasses. Ever since I was in grade...

Praying for Holy Spirit Surprises

Fifty days ago, we celebrated the resurrection of Jesus; 10 days ago was the official observance of the Ascension of our Lord, and today is the Day of Pentecost when we remember the...

Sent to Empty Tombs

For weeks now, you have heard me say that it is still the Easter season; today is the last Sunday of what is sometimes called Eastertide. We celebrate the Ascension of our Lord, which...

Setting Aside for the Sake of Love

A few weeks ago, I watched a movie made in 1941 titled “Sergeant York.” I had not thought of it again until I read today’s Gospel lesson. The movie is, evidently, based on a true story...

Do Not Underestimate the Good News

It is still the Easter season, as amazing as that seems. During this season, the first lessons are from the book of Acts, and often they have been the focus on these Sundays after...