Walking into the pulpit to ask our congregation to give while assuming that people do not want to give is a bit like a young man beginning his proposal of marriage with the words “I know you’ll say no, but….” Here are some tips that can help you to ask boldly, from MinistryMatters. (Photo by […]
Most pastors would rather preach on almost anything other than finances and stewardship. But as the preaching pastor, you are the chief development officer for your church. This is part of the job. From Ministry Matters. (Photo by Fallonyates, used by Creative Commons license)
Lectionary Reflection for the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
Put on your literary hat and dive right in the midst of five parables that enable us to see what the kingdom of heaven is like and how we are a part of it. Photo by odysseus-thevoyager used under Creative Commons License. Thanks.
Lectionary Reflection, 15th Sunday after Pentecost, September 5, 2010
Hey, Jesus, you really want me to stand up in front of a congregation and preach this text? Are you kidding me? Most people will hear this text with enough law-lensed baggage to stop their ears. As preachers and teachers, we need to lift up the grace and hope that comes with living “cross-wise” in the world.
By the Rev. Dr. Susan K. Hedahl
Before public proclamation, it is necessary to ask: Where have we been? As a congregation, what gifts do we already employ for ourselves and others? Where do we hope to be in the months, the years ahead? Which resources do we need to consider, expand, develop?
Susan K. Hedahl, professor of homiletics, Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, offers tips for sermons and temple talks. “Ask what the stewardship profile of your congregation is — Before public proclamation, it is necessary to ask: Where have we been? As a congregation, what gifts do we already employ for ourselves and others? Where do we hope to be in the months, the years ahead? Which resources do we need to consider, expand, develop?
