Preach – Page 40

Gathered at the Table of Grace

September 1, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

Narrative Lectionary Reflection for the Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year Three, September 3, 2017
In approaching the Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion from a stewardship perspective it is always helpful to remember that Jesus is Lord and host. We are simply servers and guests at the table. Whether the meal resembles fine dining or the family table is not so much the point. Instead, we might do well to ask whether we are setting a table that is welcoming and worthy of the Lord of Life. What is our motivation? Who is this feast for? What is its purpose? (Photo: Randy OHC, Creative Commons)

Getting ‘Crossways’ with Jesus

August 31, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

RCL reflection for the 13th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 17, Year A, September 3, 2017
Human nature is not naturally inclined toward denial of self. In fact, our culture teaches us to seek satisfaction and take care of our own needs first. Jesus preaches a different way, one that will most certainly include suffering, self-denial, AND full investment. In fact, Jesus calls us to get “crossways” with him by losing our lives for his sake. Doing so comes with the promise that we will find life. Are you ready? (Photo: Tim Green, Creative Commons. Thanks!)

Come to Christ’s Table!

August 25, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard 2 Comments

Narrative Lectionary Reflection for the Twelfth Sunday after Pentecost, Year Three, August 27, 2017
Holy Communion is the great equalizer. All are welcome. All are fed. We all come as beggars. We are sinners in need, yet forgiven beloved indeed. If that’s not reason to celebrate and give thanks, I don’t know what is. Come to the feast!

Your Life: Both Offering and Sermon

August 25, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

RCL Reflection, 12th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, August 27, 2017
Each one of us is called to present ourselves to God. Our lives are an offering, a witness, a confession–a 24/7 sermon. We are stewards of the gospel, called to live it, breathe it, and to embody it. God gave everything for you; in return God wants all of you. God doesn’t require 10% or 25% or 80% of you, God desires 100%, or every fiber of your being, every hour of your day, every laugh, smile, and tear. (Photo: Sharon Pruitt, Creative Commons. Thanks!)

Rising to New Life

August 17, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

Narrative Lectionary, 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Year 3, August 20, 2017
We belong to Christ, and as part of Christ’s body, we “walk wet” in this world, living out our baptismal covenant in tangible, visible, and countercultural ways. It means that we confront that which is counter to the way of Christ and provide opportunities and ways to work for justice, equity, and peace. (Photo: Dmitry Kichenko, Creative Commons)

Time for a Crumby Gospel

August 17, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

RCL Reflection, 11th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 15, Year A, August 20, 2017
Even in the midst of this rather crummy situation, the Canaanite woman will not be deterred from holding out her hand for a crumb from Jesus. She instinctively knows she belongs at the table. That is great faith, my friends. And, this too, is great stewardship. This outsider woman gets it. She understands that you don’t hoard grace and that you aren’t stingy with love and healing. A crumb from Jesus makes all the difference in the world. (Photo: Simon James, Creative Commons)

Stay in the Boat, Steward!

August 10, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

RCL Reflection for the 10th Sunday after Pentecost, Year A, August 13, 2017
God’s faithful and generous people recognize that good stewardship is possible only when we keep our eyes on Jesus, trusting him to guide and direct us through life’s storms and trials. It may be better to stay in the boat than to try to walk on water. We can leave THAT to Jesus! (Photo: Foto Guy 49057, Creative Commons)

A Spectacular Splash of Stewardship

August 10, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

Narrative Lectionary Reflection for the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost, Year Three, August 13, 2017
Go ahead! Make a big splash this week as you recall your baptism and give thanks for the gift of water. We are stewards of this gift of Baptism insomuch as we embrace—however imperfectly and haltingly—the life of discipleship that is walked by faith. We don’t take our baptism lightly or for granted, and we remember it daily and desire this gift for others. (Photo: Paul Varuni, Creative Commons)

Stand Strong

August 3, 2017 By Sharron R. Blezard Leave a Comment

Narrative Lectionary Reflection, 9th Sunday after Pentecost, Year Three, August 6, 2017
When the world is too much with you, be of good cheer, friend in the faith. Gather with your community of faith this week to hear the word of God proclaimed, to be strengthened by the bread and wine of communion, and to offer God your very best in gifts of praise, time, and resources. You will be strengthened and equipped to be sent back into the world, fully decked out in some mighty fine armor. (Photo: Michael Coghlan, Creative Commons)

Feed and be Fed