Sermons on Matthew
Holy Silence
My son Andrew and I headed up the mountain together, or at least the hill, in Castine, Maine many times. With Phillip safely tucked in for his afternoon nap, and his grandparents watching over him, Andrew and I would make our daily trek toward Dyce’s Head Lighthouse, where we would rediscover the path leading to the boulders, where we could sit and read the afternoon away. We listened to the waves crashing on the shore, while breathing in the fresh,…
Compassionate Welcome – beyond superficial hospitality
To read the sermon preached on Sunday morning at the in-person worship, please click below.
Transfigured
Over twenty years ago, in a parenting book I’ve long since given away, I remember reading an account of the Transfiguration story and strongly identifying with Peter. I can’t help feeling a little sorry for Peter because I completely understand why he responded the way he did, a reluctant character in this scene that goes from comical to monumental in just a few words. Taken high up this mountain by Jesus, with only James and John for companions, the physical…
See the Light. Be the Light.
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. “Blessed are the merciful, for they…
Beloved
Beloved First Sunday after the Epiphany: The Baptism of our Lord January 12, 2020 RCL readings, Year A, Isaiah 42:1-9; Psalm 29; Acts 10:34-43; Matthew 3:13-17 Dina Carter Ishler; St. Andrew’s, Shippensburg Baptize us with your Spirit, Lord, your cross on us be signed, that, likewise in God’s service we may perfect freedom find. In the name of God who calls us all beloved, Amen. I am certain I am not the only person here who does not clearly remember…
JOURNEY ON WINGS OF THE HEART
Second Sunday of Christmas, January 5, 2020 RCL readings Jeremiah 31:7-14; Psalm 84; Ephesians 1:3-6, 15-19a; Matthew 2:1-2 Here is the little door-lift up your hands, O lift! We need not wander more but enter with our gift. In the name of God who loves us, sustains us and guides us on our way, Amen. Today’s Gospel- actually, all of today’s readings-tell us the story of pilgrimage. They took the journey first- Joseph, Mary on the patient donkey, the shepherds,…