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Matthew 3:1-17

So what was it that attracted Jesus to this wild looking man screaming at crowds of people in the desert alongside the Jordan River? Come to think of it, what was it that attracted anyone? Jesus was clearly not the only one interested in finding out what John was doing. There were people of Jerusalem, people from all over Judea and people from up and down the Jordan River valley who flocked to hear this man calling for change. Fishermen, shepherds, farmers, children, grandparents, soldiers, Jewish leaders, men, women. Maybe they came because they knew something had to change. Maybe they didn’t even need to be told that their lives needed an overhaul. Maybe they were just looking for how. Continue reading “Sermon: Pleasing God” →

Sharing a suggestion from a nine month “journey to the quiet” that I began in September. You might appreciate this opportunity to explore contemplative prayer in the last moments before you sleep on Christmas Eve! Give this a try: “This week, on Christmas Eve, right before you drift to sleep, take a few minutes to be absolutely still.

Breathe deeply. Relax into prayer.

Allow the melody of Silent Night to become a prelude to a spacious place of emptiness where you meet God in the quiet.

Hum the melody slowly. Pause after each line to breathe more deeply and relax more completely.

At the end of the carol, simply let go. Of the music. Of any words. And even, if you can, of any thoughts. Just for a few sacred moments.

Relax into the awareness of Emmanuel, God-with-you.

May you sleep in heavenly peace, and wake into Christmas joy.”

May Christmas joy be yours every day.

– Pastor Deborah