Matthew

The Heart of the City

June 30, 2019

After Jesus called his followers, he went into the cities. What did he do? He taught and shared the good news of God’s love and promises. He healed people and he fed them. He showed compassion. He commissioned others and sent them into the towns to do the same work. “The harvest is plentiful!” This is good news! There’s so much we learn and gain when we care for others and serve right here in our city. We do it because Jesus is the one who has served all of us. All that we do, we do because of Jesus.

The Main Thing

March 31, 2019

This strange parable of Jesus may prompt some questions. Like, “Why didn’t five of the young women bring enough oil?” “Where could they buy more in the middle of the night?” “Couldn’t they have shared lamps with the other five?” “Might they have just stayed close and huddled under the five lamps that were lit?” “Isn’t this a missed opportunity for some trail angels to show up with some oil?” Seems like a good idea. The five were foolish to leave – since it was at that moment the bridegroom showed up. They missed out. They’re off getting oil, and not focused on the main thing.

God Extends an Invitation

March 24, 2019

God’s invitation is to something more than entertaining. God extends an invitation to come and die, to give our lives, to live for others, to serve the least and the last, the dirty and disturbing, hurt, angry, and broken creations all around us. God extends an invitation to visit hospitals, clean toilets, do taxes, bake bread, teach children, buy diapers, listen more, give more, and sometimes take on more than we think we can bear because it lifts up someone else.

Gratitude and Generosity

March 17, 2019

If we are like those workers in the parable who show up all day, working in the hot sun, we might grumble – we might feel entitled to a little extra thanks, maybe even some bonus pay, something that says we are just a little more appreciated than those who showed up late to finish the job. Just like how those of us who have grown up in the church our whole lives, who have been faithful and supportive of the church might be offended by the awful sinner who on his deathbed longs for the love and grace of Jesus in their last moments. God welcomes each one home. Does God’s generosity offend us?