In our worship today as we continued our Lenten journey, we were reminded that the power we have is not our own but comes solely from God. And that our prayers can help us navigate the temptations which are there to trip us up. Our reading from Hebrew scripture in Exodus was the story first accounting of the 10 Commandments and a definition of the law which God sets forth for all humanity and all creation. Our psalmist sang a song which recounts the blessings that comes from God’s teaching (the Torah – the Law). Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth recounts the power that comes from God that saves us is not wise by human standards nor completely in line with what we expect. The Gospel from John told the story of Jesus turning over tables and evicting the merchants from the temple. The sermon for today remembered the reason for the law given by God, to help define and a properly functioning community. Part of the challenge of following God in Christ is remembering that God wants relationships not blind worship. How can you remind yourself that we are called to authentic worship and practice of faith?
Note, there are two different sermons below. The first was offered at St. Mark’s during worship and the second was offered at Rogue Valley Manor retirement community for their Vespers service.
I invite your comments,
Les+
Readings: Exodus 20:1-17; Psalm 19; 1 Corinthians 1:18-25; John 2:13-22
St. Mark's Sermon
Rogue Valley Manor Sermon
