In this message, we reflect upon one of Jesus’ most precious sayings, an invitation to the weak, weary, wounded, and burdened to “yoke up” with Jesus, so that he may both help in carrying the load as well as teach us how to learn the gentleness and humility to help others with their burdens. Opening Hymn: Oh, For a Thousand Tongues to…
What we do with our painful feelings, frustrations with circumstances, or disappointments with God? The people of Israel possessed a worship manual full of prayers and hymns – the book of Psalms – that guided them in embracing and expressing all of their feelings to God, both good and bad, despairing and hopeful, protesting and praising. The reason: It is impossible to…
In this story, believers behave badly and the collateral damage of their actions harms others. Yet, God remains committed to bless all – those within the Abrahamic covenant, and those outside of it. In this story, God blesses the outsider who is rejected by the believers, thus demonstrating God’s love for all. We may be recipients of God’s gracious covenant, but there…
In today’s lectionary reading, Jesus sends out the Twelve to expand his ministry. He gives them instructions that remain relevant for all of us who are “sent out” into the world to join the risen Christ in his mission. It is Jesus’s heart that drives the mission, for he looks upon the “harassed and helpless” crowds and refuses to condemn or berate,…