Sermon 19th October 2026 – 19th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Luke 18:1-8 = Persistent Prayer

 Sermon 19^th October 2026 – 19^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Luke 18:1-8 = Persistent Prayer

Prayer is a fundamental part of the Christian faith. It serves as a means of communication with God, seeking guidance, expressing gratitude, and requesting help. Among the various forms of prayer, persistent prayer holds a special place due to its emphasis on unwavering faith and perseverance.  

There are many examples of persistent prayer: St Paul praying 3 times for the removal of his thorn in the flesh – receiving his answer – “my Grace is all you need” And so Paul urges us in 1 Thessalonians to: Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Prayer is continuous communication with our God – our Heavenly Father – our Creator. And, like Paul, even when the answer seems to be “NO” we don’t give up – like the Canaanite woman praying to Jesus to heal her daughter: A Canaanite woman came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.”  Jesus did not answer a word. His disciples urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” Jesus answered this time, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said. He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” She said, again. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.

Even Jesus prayed persistently – like Paul, 3 times, in the Garden of Gethsemane, not getting his will done: “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.” He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” He went away once more and prayed the third time, saying the same thing. Persistent prayer refers to the continual and unwavering act of praying, regardless of immediate answers or circumstances.  It involves maintaining faith and trust in God's timing and sovereignty, even when prayers seem unanswered or delayed.

Persistent prayer is characterized by perseverance, consistency, and a deep desire to connect with God. Even Jesus, himself God, would find time to go off and pray in solitude – uninterrupted. No phone, no emails, no internet.. Jesus emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer and to not give in when he says: Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you," highlighting the importance of persistent seeking. Some might ask – why pray if God already knows what we need and what he’s going to give us – isn’t he all knowing and all powerful?

Persistent prayer reinforces our trust in God's rule and goodness. It reminds us that God's timing is perfect and that He cares deeply about our needs. Consistent prayer fosters a closer relationship with God, allowing us to experience His presence more intimately and develop a deeper understanding of His will – which is not always equal to OUR will. Persisting in prayer teaches patience and resilience, helping us to endure trials and uncertainties with hope and confidence of God’s presence with us and his knowledge of what we are going through. Persistent prayer encourages us to seek God's will actively, aligning our desires with His divine plan rather than the other way around. And this is what Jesus teaches today when Luke says - Jesus told his disciples a parable about their need to pray always and not to lose heart.

The parable was about a persistent widow seeking justice. The judge initially refused but her persistence won out for her. It teaches us that persistent prayer can lead to divine intervention, miracles, and breakthroughs. As I constantly  hear and also experience personally, prayer is not easy. It requires discipline.. Like Jesus did, we can set aside dedicated time daily for prayer and reflection. No phone, no email, no internet or TV. Keep a pen and paper handy to write down prayers that seem to pop into your head, even in the middle of the night that wake you from your sleep.

Jesus teaches us that persistent prayer is not just a spiritual discipline—it’s an act of faith that refuses to give up, even when justice seems delayed. Jesus begins this parable with a clear purpose: “to show them that they should always pray and not give up.”  Don’t misunderstand Jesus’ analogy though. This is not suggesting God is like the unjust judge.  It’s a contrast: If even an unjust judge can be moved by persistence, how much more will a loving and just God respond to His people who cry out day and night?

Jesus is not just teaching us to pray—He’s teaching us to keep praying. Why? Because prayer is an act of trust.  When we continue to pray, even when answers seem delayed, we’re saying, “God, I still believe You’re listening.” Because prayer shapes our hearts.  The widow’s persistence wasn’t just about getting justice—it was about refusing to be silenced. Persistent prayer keeps our hearts aligned with God’s justice and mercy. Because God is not indifferent.

Unlike the judge, God is deeply invested in our lives. Jesus assures us: “Will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones who cry out to Him day and night?” This parable is about justice. The widow represents those who are vulnerable, overlooked, without a voice and powerless.  Her voice matters—and Jesus affirms that God hears such cries.

In a world where injustice often seems to prevail, this parable reminds us that God’s justice is sure, even if not immediate.

And it challenges us to be advocates for justice, just as the widow was—relentless, courageous, and faithful. Sometimes not taking “NO” for an answer. Jesus ends with a strange and haunting question:  “When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Will He find people still praying, still hoping, still trusting, even when the world seems silent? Or will we give up – I pray we don’t.

Faith and prayer are active, persistent, and sometimes stubborn. Faith is not just believing in God’s existence; no, James says that even the demons have that level of faith. You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe  that—and shudder.

True faith is believing in God’s goodness, even when life is hard. So how do we live this out? Pray boldly.  Don’t be afraid to bring your deepest needs to God again and again. Advocate for justice.  Be a voice for the voiceless, like the widow. We call that Intercessory Prayer – one of the most powerful forms of prayer we have. As we heard last week in the Jeremiah passage where Israel were asked to pray for their captors: But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.

And, finally, hold on to faith.  Even when answers are slow, or “no”, trust that God is working. God is not like the unjust judge.  He is our Father, our Advocate, our Redeemer.  He hears every cry, sees every tear, and responds—not out of weariness, but out of love. So keep praying.  Keep believing.  Keep showing faith. Because the God who hears will answer—and He will not delay forever.

Sermon 12th October 2025 – 18th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 – being a blessing to others

 Sermon 12^th October 2025 – 18^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 – being a blessing to others

 

We often are reminded that as Christians we live in a world that can be quite hostile to our beliefs. St Paul makes it quite clear in Ephesians that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. So we often refer to this hostility as Spiritual Warfare. Perhaps you’ve witnessed it or maybe even experienced it in your own life. Maybe you’ve seen or experienced the mockery for believing in Jesus Christ.

 

I was watching recently the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, the American who was assassinated during a rally at Utah University. During the memorial a host of speakers got up to pay tribute including the Vice President of America, JD Vance who spoke about his Christian faith. He said: I always felt a little uncomfortable talking about my faith in public,” he said. “As much as I love the Lord, and as much as it was an important part of my life, I have talked more about Jesus Christ in the past two weeks than I have my entire time in public life.”

 

Let’s be honest, sharing our Christian faith can be uncomfortable especially if we are in a situation where people don’t appreciate or accept what Christians believe. It can be at school, university, the work place, sporting activity, a family gathering or a party. Some people even find it hard to talk about their faith at church or in their home. In our Old Testament reading we have the situation where Jeremiah is speaking to God’s people who were taken from their homeland by force and now living in a land hostile to what they believed about God. They were often taunted – where is your God? If you recall last week’s Psalm where we heard the lament of the Israelites in a strange land where they sang: By the waters of Babylon we sat down and wept, when we remembered you, O Zion. For those who led us away captive asked us for a song, and our oppressors called for mirth: "Sing us one of the songs of Zion." How shall we sing the Lord's song upon an alien soil.

 

But God’s message to them is to not give up hope in God even when it seems hopeless, but to use this opportunity to strengthen their faith in God and also be a witness to their oppressors. God says to them: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat what they produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.

 

Interesting that not only does God say to them to not stop living their lives but also to pray for their oppressors. Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. Legend has a similar outlook from Martin Luther: As legend has it, when Martin Luther was asked what he would do if the world were to end tomorrow, he answered, “I would plant an apple tree today.” It reminds me of what St Peter says to his fellow Jews who were cast out of their homeland into hostile territories: He says that even if they mistreat you - even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander

 

I often get criticised become I don’t encourage people to react against attacks on the church. But I remind people – what did Jesus ask us to do? Turn the other cheek. What did Jesus do? He asked his Father to forgive those who were crucifying him. Despite the exile, God reminds the Israelites that He is in control.  Their circumstances are not accidental but part of His divine plan. It’s not to say that God directs evil but he does not allow evil to succeed – as we see in the story of Joseph.

Sold as a slave to Egypt by his jealous brothers he does not take revenge when he has opportunity because he says –

It was not you who sent me here, but God. He made me father to Pharaoh, lord of his entire household and ruler of all Egypt.  You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.

In today’s reading, God instructs his people to build homes, plant gardens, marry, and multiply. This is a call to live fully and purposefully, even in difficult situations. Instead of despair or evil thoughts against their oppressors, God urges them to pray for the well-being of Babylon. God assures them that their exile is temporary and that He has plans to bring them back, giving them hope amid hardship. In our own lives, we may face times of difficulty or uncertainty.  Like the Israelites, we are called to trust God's plan and to actively seek His purpose. We are encouraged to pray for our communities and nations, understanding that our well-being is a witness to our neighbour, including those who oppose us. God encourages us to embrace our current circumstances with faith, knowing God has a plan for your future.

 

Let us remember that God's plans are for our good, even when we cannot see the full picture.  By trusting Him and actively engaging in our communities, we participate in His divine purpose. This passage challenges us that when life feels like exile—when we’re in places we didn’t choose, facing circumstances we didn’t want—God’s call is not to escape, but to live our lives. This is a radical act of faith. It means trusting that God is present even in unfamiliar places. While Israel lived for 70 years in exile it meant that some never got to experience God’s deliverance. Trusting in God requires patience, care, and hope.  And even though Babylon was the enemy, God calls His people to pray for its welfare. This is a call to love as God loves us: And if we think that’s unfair, let us remember what is truly unfair - St Paul said - God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. And he died because we demanded his death – and yet God still loves us.

 

So we are called to be agents of peace. To work for justice, healing, and hope in the places we live—even if they feel foreign or broken. We are ambassadors of God’s peace. So wherever you find yourself today—whether it feels like exile or the Garden of Eden—remember: God is there. And He’s calling you to bloom where you’re planted.

Sermon 5th October 2025 – 17th Sunday after Pentecost Text - Luke 17:5-10 – A little faith

 Sermon 5^th October 2025 – 17th Sunday after Pentecost

Text - Luke 17:5-10 – A little faith

 

Jesus says, "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."  This powerful statement highlights the incredible potential of faith. Notice carefully though what this statement was in response to. The apostles said to Jesus, “Increase our faith! One might have thought Jesus would respond with ways that they could increase their faith but he doesn’t. Instead he explains that it’s not about increasing faith but about using the faith that God has given us. You either have faith or you don’t.

 

How do we measure faith? Do we sometimes have a lot of faith and some days less faith? Faith is a gift from God – given to us by the Holy Spirit that enables us to believe in Jesus Christ as our Lord. As Luther says in his Small Catechism - I believe that I cannot by my own reason or strength believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to Him; but the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel, enlightened me with His gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.  So too - St Paul, in Romans, says - if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. He doesn’t say “if you greatly believe” – but simply believe. Anything more than that leads us into danger of doubt. Not only do we start to judge others about their faith but we can even create doubt in our own faith.

 

We judge others by how often they come to church. We judge others by standards we set. But Jesus comforts us when he says - A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, Instead of judging others by our standards we need to encourage and pray that seeds of faith that have been sown in Baptism may germinate. Paul himself says that in First Corinthians when they were arguing amongst themselves who had the better Baptism. He says - I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.

 

Jesus was teaching His disciples about the importance of faith and humility. The mustard seed, one of the smallest seeds, represents the potential within even the tiniest amount of faith. Faith is trust in God's promises and His power. It is not merely believing that God can do something but trusting that He will do what is best according to His will. When we have faith as small as a mustard seed, we tap into divine power that can accomplish the impossible. When Jesus was trying to explain that salvation was not about our achievements the disciples were quite concerned and said: “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

 

Moving mulberry trees signifies overcoming great difficulties—be it personal struggles, health issues, financial hardships, or spiritual battles. Genuine faith empowers Christians to face these challenges with confidence, knowing that God's power is at work within them. Most Christians probably feel their faith is too weak to make a difference. Jesus assures us that even a tiny amount of faith can produce extraordinary results. The key is sincerity and trust in God's ability and not doubt what God can do through us. I find it interesting when Peter sees Jesus walking on the water asks to be able to do likewise. “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” There we already start to see doubt – Lord if it’s you. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Now we see faith by Peter – Lord, save me. Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and saves him.  And listen to what Jesus says:  You of little faith, why did you doubt?” He didn’t rebuke that Peter had little faith but that with his “little faith” – why did you doubt?

 

It’s not about how much faith we have – but that we have faith. Faith is not passive; it involves action and obedience.

This is James’s argument – faith without deeds is dead. He’s not promoting salvation by good works but if God has gifted us with faith then we should use it for the purposes that God provides it for. When Jesus says to speak to the mulberry tree, it implies taking steps of faith—praying, trusting, and obeying God's Word. A relationship with Jesus is what strengthens our faith.  Regular prayer, reading Scripture, worship and fellowship build our trust in God's promises and His power to move mulberry trees or, as in Mark’s Gospel when he says we can move mountains in our lives. It’s not about increasing our faith but strengthening the faith that God has given us and knows that we need. Through faith we can pray with confidence and persistence:

Continually seeking God's help and trust in His timing. Meditating on God's Word and remembering his promises and faithfulness. Trusting God's Commands  that they are there for our blessing. through obedience and action. Surrounding yourself with other Christians in worship and fellowship, encouraging one another as the book of Hebrews says: Do not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. This encouragement was so we don’t lose our faith.

 

Jesus answer to his disciples request is a rich and encouraging verse that speaks to the power of faith, even when it seems small or fragile.  Jesus disciples were overwhelmed by the demands of forgiveness, humility, and spiritual responsibility and felt they couldn’t do it by themselves – and they were right It was only with faith in God’s help that they could achieve what was called of them. Jesus wants to shift their focus from quantity to quality. From measuring faith to trusting their faith.

The mustard seed is tiny—barely visible between your fingers. But it’s alive. It contains within it the potential for growth, transformation, and fruitfulness as do all of God’s children.

 

Jesus isn’t asking for mountain sized faith but faith that can move a mountain. He’s asking for living faith—faith that trusts, acts, and grows. Even the smallest act of trust in God can unleash divine power.  It’s not about how much faith you have. It’s about where you place it. Mulberry trees were known for their deep, stubborn roots. They were hard to move, hard to kill.  Jesus uses this image deliberately because there are many stubborn roots in our lives. What are the “mulberry trees” in your life? Bitterness? Fear? Anger - situations that feel immovable? Jesus says: even these can be uprooted by faith.  Not because you’re strong—but because God is. To thrown a mulberry tree or mountain into the sea defies logic, nature, and expectation.  But that’s the point of Jesus’ imagery. God’s demands of us may seem absurd, defying logic and our expectations. But nothing is impossible with God.

 

Faith doesn’t just remove obstacles, it redefines what’s possible through faith in God. God’s kingdom isn’t bound by earthly limitations.  God created the world from nothing. God’s Word became flesh. God’s son was born of a virgin. All things that defy logic and explanation – so imagine what he can do with “a little faith”. As the book of Hebrews reminds us - faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.Faith invites us to dream beyond what we can see, and to act even when the outcome seems impossible – for nothing is impossible with God.

Sermon 31st August 2025 – 12th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Luke 16:19-31 – humble hospitality

 Sermon 31^st August 2025 – 12^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Luke 16:19-31 – humble hospitality

 

Imagine walking into a banquet. The room is buzzing, the table is set, and you spot the best seat in the house.

Do you rush to claim it—or wait to be invited? Jesus tells a parable about a wedding feast and teaches a lesson about the nature of our hearts and the nature of God’s Kingdom. Jesus is at a meal at the house of a prominent Pharisee, where Jesus uses the opportunity to teach valuable lessons about social status, humility, and the nature of God’s kingdom.

He observes the guests scrambling for seats and notices how the guests choose the places of honour at the table. He sees their behavior as an indication of their hearts—hearts that seek prominence and recognition rather than true fellowship and humility.

 

This desire for self importance can be alluring.  It tempts us to seek our worth by what people think of us.  But what does Jesus teach here? Jesus isn’t just talking about dinner parties.  He’s revealing the heart of God—a God who invites us, though we have nothing to offer in return. When we place ourselves in the highest seat, we risk being humiliated if we’re moved down.

 

The truth is that a heart filled with pride is in danger of distancing itself from God. In contrast, Jesus suggests taking the lowest seat and, in doing so, allowing the host to elevate us.  This reflects God’s heart towards humility.  James 4:10 reminds us, "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up."  As we consider our lives, are there areas where pride sneaks in?  Do we seek the spotlight instead of serving behind the scenes? It’s an easy attitude to creep in and can also lead us to hoping people fail in order to make us feel better about ourselves.

 

Jesus says that all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." This is a timeless principle in the kingdom of God that has been repeated many times. James and John certainly felt that rebuke when they asked for one of them to sit at Jesus left and one at his right when he came in glory. Humility opens the door to God’s blessings. It allows us to see others as God sees them, without a sense of superiority.  Remember, the sin of pride was the sin of Satan as Isaiah 14 tells us: How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You said in your heart, “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights  I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.” But you are brought down to the realm of the dead, to the depths of the pit.

 

Remember how God’s love was shown to us – that while we were yet sinners Christ gave his life for us. Christ humbled himself and came to serve, not to be served and God gave him the name that is above all names. As we serve rather than seek to be served, we align ourselves with the heart of Christ. Consider how Jesus exemplified this; He, the King of kings, washed the feet of His disciples; he forgave the unforgiveable; he touched the untouchables; he ate with sinners.

 

Our calling is to follow His example.  How do we serve the ‘least of these’ in our communities?  When we turn our focus from ourselves to others, we participate in the very mission of Christ. In the closing verses, Jesus shifts the focus from the behavior at the table to the heart behind our giving and inviting. He challenges his host to invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind—those who cannot repay him. When we extend our table, our love, and our resources to those forgotten and neglected by society, we reflect the nature of Christ.

 

God’s grace is not about doing things to see what we get out of it. We are reminded that genuine generosity bears no expectation of return. In doing so, Jesus promises that our reward will come at the resurrection of the righteous. This eternal gift reminds us that our actions are not for earthly recognition but in thankfulness to God for all that he has done for us. So as we reflect on this teaching from our Lord, may we examine our hearts today. Are we living in humility, ready to elevate others and serve generously?

 

In embracing humility, we discover the true essence of the Christian life—a life rooted in love, service, and self-giving. Jesus invites us to bring nothing and feast at His table, and we are called to extend that invitation to all, regardless of their status or ability to repay us.  And so it invites us to ask, who is missing from our tables—our churches, our homes, our hearts?  And let us remember what the writer to the Hebrews says about showing humble hospitality: Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.

It’s not about entertaining friends because it’s our turn to be hosts: It’s about embracing the stranger, the outsider, the one who cannot repay.

 

Jesus himself said, “I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Matthew 25:35).  To welcome the stranger is to welcome Christ. It challenges us to see every person we encounter as someone who might be divinely appointed; sent by God; Someone who could change our lives or the lives of others in unimaginable ways. This was how Jesus modelled his ministry—inviting sinners to dine with Him, welcoming children when others pushed them away, letting a woman of ill-repute touch him – washing his feet with her tears and drying them with her hair. His life was a testament that everyone is worthy of love and kindness.  When we extend hospitality, we reflect Christ’s love to the world. God may be at work in ways we cannot see.  Each encounter we have can be an opportunity for a divine encounter.  Each stranger has a story; each person carries with them the image of God.  What if, by showing kindness to someone, we are participating in something far greater than ourselves that we cannot even imagine?

 

Consider Abraham, who welcomed three mysterious visitors into his home (Genesis 18). He did not realize he was entertaining angels until they revealed their divine mission. His hospitality led to the fulfillment of God’s promise. So often, our acts of kindness can become the means through which God’s grace is unveiled in unexpected ways and places

The divine doesn’t always come with trumpets and glory. Sometimes, it comes in the form of a refugee, a neighbor in need, a child with questions. Hospitality opens the door not just to people, but to possibility—to grace, to transformation, to encounter.

 

In a world of locked doors and guarded hearts, the church is called to be a place of welcome.  Not because it’s easy, but because it’s holy – where the sacred often hides in the ordinary. Just as God’s holiness hides in water – in bread and wine.

Let us strive to live out the values of God’s kingdom as we humbly serve and love one another. Let us live as people who welcome—not just with our homes, but with our hearts. And in doing so, we might just entertain angels. And even if we don’t, we will reflect the heart of the One who welcomes us all.

 

Sermon 24th August 2025 – 11th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Luke 13:10-17

 Sermon 24^th August 2025 – 11^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Luke 13:10-17

Imagine living 18 years bent over in suffering. That was the reality for the woman in today’s Gospel. But what we learn is that she wasn’t just physically bent; she was socially and spiritually weighed down. Jesus said -  Satan bound for eighteen long years. And in her culture, illness was often seen as punishment. Remember the question Jesus was once asked about a man born blind? Who sinned that this man was born blind? And not only that but as a WOMAN who was suffering she likely felt invisible, judged, and forgotten. Much like the woman who had a bleeding condition for 12 years and had to sneak up behind Jesus to touch his cloak. But then—Jesus sees her.

Luke tells us Jesus was teaching in the synagogue.  He wasn’t interrupted. The woman didn’t cry out. She didn’t even ask for healing or think about creeping up behind Jesus.. But Jesus *saw* her. “When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, ‘Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.’”  This is pure grace. Jesus doesn’t wait for her to prove her worth or that she has faith to be healed or if she needs to cease sinning first. He doesn’t ask her to explain her suffering. He simply acts. He touches her and heals her. And she stands up straight—for the first time in nearly two decades.

But not everyone rejoices. The synagogue leader is furious. Not because healing is wrong—but because it happened on the Sabbath. “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.” (v.14) Sabbath was seen as work – Jesus saw it as love and compassion – grace. This is the voice of religion without compassion. Rules without relationship.  The leader sees a broken law; Jesus sees a broken woman. Jesus responds with love against legalism. In fact he points out the hypocrisy of their legalism: “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you untie your ox or donkey on the Sabbath and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman… be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?” (vv.15–16)

Jesus reinterprets the Sabbath—not as a day of restriction, but as a day of restoration and reconciliation. And wasn’t that God’s intent on creating a Sabbath Day rest? What better day to heal than the day meant for wholeness? We may not be physically bent over, but many of us carry invisible burdens that we bear: - Shame, anxiety, grief, guilt. Or perhaps it is a religious legalism that tells us we’re not good enough Jesus sees those burdens. And He calls us forward. He speaks freedom. He lays hands on us—through Word and Sacrament, through community, through grace.

The question is: will we let Him straighten us? The woman didn’t just stand up physically.  She stood up spiritually.

She praised God. She became a living testimony to the compassion of Jesus Christ. And the crowd rejoiced as perhaps they too have felt the release of legalism that had kept them bent over. And this is our challenge. To see where legalism and human constraints are keeping people feeling like they are weighed down with burden. Let’s be a church that sees the bent and broken among us and says, “Come forward. You are set free.” In much the same way that Jesus says – come to me all you who are weary and burdened and find rest for your souls.

Notice that Jesus didn’t need to accuse or point the finger at the Pharisees. No, his act of compassion that did all the work. Much like St Paul says in Romans – Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.  By Jesus’ act of compassion his opponents were humiliated and the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.

What a profound act of compassion by Jesus. But why, for 18 years, had no one reached out to her? In the crowds of our lives, how many people remain invisible to us?  Jesus’s compassion is unbelievable.  He sees her.  While everyone else may have rushed to find their seats Jesus notices a woman in pain.  Much like the man at Bethesda healing pool – ignored by everyone rushing to be first in the water but seen by Jesus. Jesus saw her not just as a sick individual but as a beloved daughter of Abraham.

When we are bent low by the burdens of life, it can be easy to feel unseen. But Jesus sees us. When we are suffering it is easy to feel as if we don’t have much worth – like this woman – 18 years. Jesus teaches us that everyone has value and worth in the eyes of God.

Each of us is a beloved child created in His image. Our calling as the image of God – as the body of Christ, is to reflect that same compassion especially to those whom society has cast to one side. Who can we reach out to this week who feels unseen—maybe a neighbor, a coworker, or a friend?  Maybe someone we haven’t seen at church for a while. Jesus calls us to see the forgotten.

Legalism is a powerful and active force in the church which masquerades as righteousness. The Synagogue ruler were the “righteous one” but represents the resistance to change and the clinging to tradition even when human suffering is present.  It highlights a crucial aspect of our faith: when tradition begins to overshadow compassion, we risk missing the heart of God. Many in our churches today grapple with similar conflicts.  Our Parish has some challenges in the coming 12 months – ageing buildings – ageing demographics – decline finances – the need for new leadership. And when that happens we can become focused on survival rather than mission and soon we find ourselves bent over.

We cannot and must not forget our mission. Jesus reminds us that love and compassion is how we can best do mission. When the woman is healed, she praises God.  Her joy becomes a powerful testimony to those around her.  What joy are we reflecting? How often do we share God’s goodness with others rather than hiding our light under a bowl?  Do we rejoice in answered prayers. The miracle is not just in the physical healing but in the restoration of her dignity and identity and faith in God.  Jesus called her forward, confronting her isolation and reaffirming her place within the community of faith.

In a world where many feel bent over and forgotten by life's pressures—burdened by sin, sorrow, and struggles—our mission is to share the freeing power of the Gospel. So as we leave today and venture back into our daily communities, let us carry with us the heart of Jesus who sees, who heals, and who liberates.  Let us be instruments of His healing, extending our hands to lift others up who feel weighed down. Let’s create a community where compassion is what we become known for rather than legalism and tradition, where every voice is heard, and every life is valued. Let us not overlook those who are suffering or cross to the other side.  Let us not get caught up in our daily routines where it becomes easy to ignore the cries of those who are bent over in pain. Let us be a people who joyfully continue the work of Jesus, bringing freedom and praise to those who need it most.

 

Sermon 17th August 2025 – 10th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Luke 12:49-56 -Baptism unites and divides

 Sermon 17^th August 2025 – 10^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Luke 12:49-56 -Baptism unites and divides

 

There are many terms used in society that come from biblical situations that the general public might be surprised to learn.

A Good Samaritan is a very popular term. The Prodigal Son is another. But terms such as – going the extra mile or to take the shirt off one’s back are also terms commonly used that come from the teachings of Jesus. Another one that is used often and it comes from today’s Gospel reading is to undergo a “baptism of fire”. It’s used when someone is thrown into the deep end and undergoes a sharp learning curve. Jesus said, "I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! I have a baptism with which to be baptized, and what stress I am under until it is completed! Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division!

 

John the Baptist prophesied this when he was preparing the people for Jesus’ arrival: “I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me comes one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not worthy to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.

 

We don’t often see baptism in such harsh ways. We often consider baptism as a sweet event where an innocent child is brought to the font to be made a child of God. But what is really happening? Our Baptism rite suggests there is much more happening – something much deeper. We are familiar with the first question asked of parents and Godparents on behalf of the child being baptized: Do you renounce the devil and all his works and all his ways. Have you stopped to consider that?

Some find that question quite confronting – naming the devil when baptizing a baby. The devil being the enemy of God and his children who has come to kill, steal and destroy – what’s he doing here as we baptize this sweet innocent child. We are asking for this child to renounce the devil revealing that the devil has had influence in this child’s life.

 

Another part of the Baptism rite which is seldom used because of the same concern that it has brought to parents is when the Pastor says over the child: “Until Christ claims us in baptism through is Holy Spirit we are under the power of the devil. Therefore I say – depart from this child you unclean spirit and make way for the Holy Spirit in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Effectively, it is an exorcism of a baby. Does that confuse you about Baptism? Is that what you thought was happening in Baptism.

 

Many see it just as a sweet thing you do when a child is born that doesn’t really mean that much. Yes it makes them a child of God but do we realise the spiritual dimensions that Baptism has? St Paul certainly did when he said that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual powers of darkness in the heavenly realm If you look at Jesus’ own Baptism we begin to see what the effects of Baptism are: In Matthew, Mark and Luke, as soon as Jesus is Baptised the Holy Spirit sends Jesus into the wilderness where he is tempted, unsuccessfully, by the devil. This helps us to understand what Jesus says next when he says - Do you think that I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division! But what division? I thought Jesus was the “prince of peace” and has come to bring a peace the world cannot give. Yes he has come to bring peace to those who look to him for the assurance of Salvation. But in bringing us peace he brings division between us and the enemies of God. He casts out anything that may disrupt or interfere with his peace. And that means creating a division between God’s perfect peace and everything that might disrupt it.

 

So what we see really happening in Baptism is that Jesus is taking us out of all things that are against God and placing us into his loving care. It’s what Jesus said last week when he said – have no fear little flock for it is the Father’s pleasure to give you the Kingdom. And as we pray in the Lord’s Prayer that kingdom has begun for us in our Baptism as Paul says in Romans 6 – all who have been baptised have been baptised into Christ’s death and raised with him. John’s Gospel doesn’t have the temptation of Jesus after his baptism but John describes the work of Baptism when he says –  The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.  Yet to all who did receive him – and here’s the Baptism promise - to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

So, our baptism, divides the world’s darkness from God’s light and we are called, in our Baptism, to let God’s light shine in our lives. We see that division in our Hebrews reading that reflects on the Egyptians and Israelites. There before Israel was an impenetrable wall as they fled from Egypt – the Red Sea. The Israelites panicked and abused Moses: “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness?  (note the wilderness) Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness. But then God intervenes and makes a path for Israel to walk through – but that very same path becomes destruction the Egyptians – the enemies of God through water.

 

And that’s what our Baptism does for us. It divides – and makes a safe path for us to journey through but destroys the enemy chasing after us. And not only do we have the example of faith in Moses but also Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets. And we know some of them faced insurmountable obstacles – even death. But even in death the path was opened for them to escape this world and enter the next. And so the writer of Hebrews says - we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses. In particular - Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith.

 

Maybe you’ve never seen Baptism this in depth. But it is the true line in the sand that divides us from Satan and all his works and all his ways that we renounce. Baptism is more than just something we do to recognise the birth of a child. It is a rescuing of that child by taking that child away from everything that is against God and placing that child firmly and safely into God’s Kingdom. But we know that those forces against God don’t give up but Jesus has promised us that nothing can snatch us out of his hands.

 

Jesus Baptism began a journey of wilderness, of suffering of betrayal and ultimately his death. But he rose from that death to eternal life and promises all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his.  So let us go in the peace of the Lord and the assurance of our Baptism.

Sermon 10th August 2025 – 9th Sunday after Pentecost Text: Luke 12:32-40 – Don’t be afraid

 Sermon 10^th August 2025 – 9^th Sunday after Pentecost

Text: Luke 12:32-40 – Don’t be afraid

 

Fear is a difficult emotion that can deeply disturb us.  Fear comes in many different ways. Fear of the present. Fear of the future. Fear of the unknown. We are not at peace when filled with fear. We become agitated, anxious, apprehensive maybe even paranoid waiting for the next feared event to occur.  And so often we hear Jesus say in the Gospels – don’t be afraid.

In today’s reading we hear that repeated with a lovely sentiment: “Do not be afraid little flock, for it is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”  The relieving of our fear comes from Jesus giving us the Kingdom of heaven. Something that he has in his power and authority to do. Unlike Satan who promised Jesus all the kingdoms of the world if he would bow down and worship him.

In the world at present, there is much need for this relief because there is so much fear. So many situations and dangers associated that fill our news cycles. Fear is everywhere and troubling people in so many ways. Fear has been used as a weapon since the beginning of creation. Satan used fear to lure Adam and Eve to disobey God so THEY could take control of their destiny and become like God. It was fear that Luther fought against in the church of his time that used fear to extort money from those who could least afford it for fear of themselves and loved ones spending years and years in purgatory.

The fear of what we do not know or control can make us retreat to what we do know where we feel more secure. Fear is stressful and it takes its toll on the body, mind and spirit. It doesn’t take much to trigger the feelings of panic and worry about what might happen in the present or future. All kinds of catastrophes have been happening around the world.  Floods, fires, and droughts.  There are the continuing issues around violence in homes, on the streets, in schools, and in the world.  These cause us to feel unsafe and unsure about venturing into our daily world.

One of our greatest fears is fear of the unknown. There is much that is unknown in our world at this point in history. But Jesus comforts us by removing the only fear that has real dread – the fear of eternal life or rather uncertainty about eternal life. But Jesus urges us not to fear because it is the pleasure of the Father to give us the kingdom of heaven. Instead of fear our heavenly Father replaces fear with pleasure in giving us the treasure of the kingdom even in the midst of the world so troubled by fears. God has taken action to provide for us in the face of what we fear. The unknown. God has made the unknown – certain. It’s hard because the future is hidden from us. But by faith in Jesus Christ we have certainty. Which is what the writer to the Hebrews says: Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

Even though we can’t visibly see our future we have assurance because of the promise of Jesus Christ that all who believe in him will not perish but receive eternal life. If we didn’t have that certainty then we could never have comfort because we would always be wondering if I have done enough to enter heaven. We would fear our Lord’s return rather than looking forward to it with eager anticipation. Jesus says: Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit; be like those who are waiting for their master to return from the wedding banquet, so that they may open the door for him as soon as he comes and knocks. Being dressed is a reference to our Baptism as Paul says in Galatians: In Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.

Jesus begins with a reassuring command: “Do not be afraid, little flock.”  This call to courage gives us insight into the heart of God, who desires that we live without fear, trusting fully in His provision and care.  The way Jesus addresses us, “little flock” is tender and recognises our vulnerability. And we are not just individual sheep; we are a community, a flock, a family under God’s watchful eye. And if we look at the verses that come before our reading, Jesus spoke these words to those who were anxious about their needs and uncertain about their future.

We all carry some level of burden. The pressures of life—jobs, finances, family concerns which often lead to fear and anxiety rather than opportunity for prayer to our Heavenly Father. Jesus reminds us that our Father is pleased to give us the kingdom and invites us to speak to him as our Heavenly Father.

This is so we can remove our fear and replace it with confidence in approaching the throne of God in our time of need (as we hear in Hebrews Chapter 4). We belong to a kingdom that is not shaken by the circumstances of this world.  As Jesus said to Peter – not even the gates of hell can overcome God’s church. We live under the reign of a King who loves us and is seated at the right had of God making his enemy his footstool – as King David says in Psalm 110 - Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.

Jesus urges us to “sell your possessions and give to the poor.” This doesn’t necessarily mean literally but a call to us to reflect on what it is that gives us security for the future – our possessions or God. This radical call is about prioritizing our treasures. Where we invest our resources reflects where our hearts truly lie, as Jesus says in the sermon on the mount in Matthew 6 and repeats here - For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Jesus invites us to store up treasures in heaven. And the reason that Jesus emphasises that is because of our need for readiness for his return because the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. The good news is that Jesus keeps us ready for his return through our faith in him. But there are ways we can be comforted in times where the worry does seem to take over.

Prayer: Staying connected to God through prayer keeps our hearts attuned to Him. We allow His Spirit to guide us and in those times when we just don’t know what to pray the Holy Spirit intercedes for us.

Word of God: Regularly immersing ourselves in the bible gives us wisdom and understanding and reminds us to keep focused on the things above where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

Community: We cannot walk this journey alone. We are part of a faith community, a flock where the body of Christ supports each other. As Paul says – when one part of the body hurts the entire body hurts. We encourage each other as the book of Hebrews chapter 10 says – let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

So as we await our Lord’s return, whether it’s in our lifetime or after we have been called from this life – we are ready. Jesus has made us ready the day he cried out from the cross – it is finished. So, as Jesus “little flock” let us not fear but embrace the truth that we are children of the kingdom, called to live without fear.  As we do so, may we also remember that our Master is coming back—not as a thief in the night for those who are his little flock but as our Good Shepherd bringing us home.