What I Learned

Celebrating my first year in ministry, I give thanks to God for this church. In the past two years I learned two things more clearly than ever before: The power of Sin but moreover, the power of God, especially as it comes to us through the communion of Saints, in my case, this congregation.

Compassion Fatigue

The disciples are tired -- tired of working, tired of other people's problems. When they see a huge crowd, they want Jesus to send everyone away. But instead Jesus asks them "What do you have," and then multiples what they do have to feed the 5,000. God multiplies what we have to help the world, even amid our compassion fatigue. Based on Mark 6 and the feeding of the 5,000.

Don't stop believing

We conclude a three week look at the power of Jesus and the power of faith. Today, though, we look at the difficulties in having and sustaining faith. In the words of Jesus (and the rock group Journey): "Don't stop believin'!" The story is from Mark 5.

Sufficient Grace

Saint Paul, as mighty in faith as he was, is struggling in today's passage (2 Corinthians 12:2-10). Many are criticizing his authenticity as an apostle. He himself wonders why he cannot heal himself from the thorn in his side. Instead of a "healing" he receives the powerful words from God: "My grace is sufficient for you; in weakness my power is revealed." This is not just true for Saint Paul, but also for us.

The power of Faith

The Gospel of Mark tells of Jesus' power; but it also speaks about how this divine power is available to us through faith. The ill woman of Mark 5 and her interaction with Jesus has much to teach us about faith.