Rev. Parker

Scripture: John 15:1-8 Jesus invites us into connection with one another as “branches of a vine.” How do nourish our connections with one another? What things might be “pruned” to give more life? Download text here: 2019-10-20

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 The church in Corinth experiences differences in its teaching, and falls into disputes with one another. Indeed, we all have a diversity of roots that have nourished us, and some that have not been life-giving. How can we build a strong, deep, and wide collection of experiences to ground us when we … Read more

Scripture: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1 The prophet Jeremiah laments at the pain of his people, and cries out for a cure for what ails them… a “Balm in Gilead.” To often, we are tempted to wish for magical cures to suffering and pain, rather than by being present… by offering care and time for healing. How are we … Read more

Scripture: Luke 15:1-10 What is the cost of “being found?” What is it compared to the priceless joy of God? Jesus tells two parables that invite us to welcome all and resist those divisions which diminish the value of one another.

Scripture: Philemon 1:1-21 We gather in our many gifts, talents, and skills for service and ministry together. However, an ancient letter—and our sad history of slavery and abuse in treating others as instruments of our own self-fulfillment—remind us to look for the fullness of the image of God that we are above what any of us can do. … Read more