Scriptures: Acts 1: 15-17, 21-26; John 17: 6-19; Psalm 1; 1 John 5: 9-13.
Fulfilling the scriptures, following the law of God, and abiding in God unite these readings. In Acts, Judas fulfilled the scriptures through his part in Jesus’ arrest, and now another apostle must be chosen to take his place. The psalmist proclaims that those who delight in God’s law are like trees planted by streams of water. The epistle warns us that God’s testimony is greater than human testimony: we find eternal life in God’s Son. In the Gospel, Jesus prays that his followers may all be one, and that by becoming so, may find joy. This is possible only by abiding in Christ as Christ abides in God. The early Christian community was not complete without a faithful apostle to replace Judas, and we are not complete until we are one in Christ.
(No Children’s Message)
May 6, 2018 (No sermon video due to technical issues)
Jesus is the one who fulfills the promises: we are beloved children of God who sin no more. Where do we find ourselves? Where do we find peace and healing? These questions help us find our way.
Scriptures: Acts 4: 5-12; Psalm 23; 1 John 3: 16-24; and John 10: 11-18.
The good shepherd and the shepherding love of Christ is the focus of today’s readings. While Acts focuses on the unique saving ability of Jesus, John adds that other sheep are part of God’s fold. The familiar words of Psalm 23 become fresh when interwoven with the words from John 10 and 1 John 3. Though not in today’s readings, 1 Peter 2 adds rich imagery for the shepherding power of Christ.
Scriptures: Acts 4: 32-35; Psalm 133;1 John 1: 1 – 2:2; and John 20: 19-31.
These readings focus on the fullness of life experienced by believers. In Acts, followers of Christ share everything in common. In Psalm 133, everlasting life is a blessing from God. In the epistle, eternal life is found in God through Jesus Christ when we reject the works of darkness and live in the light. In the Gospel of John, Thomas needs to see in order to believe and proclaim his faith, even as we are told that it is in believing that we have life in Christ’s name. This is a day to embrace life and touch eternity in the here and now.
Scriptures: Acts 10: 34-43; Psalm 118: 1-2, 14-24; 1 Corinthians 15: 1-11; and John 20: 1-18.
Evil may prevail for a day, but the life and the power of God are stronger than death; indeed, death has lost its sting. The steadfast love of God, spoken of by the psalmist, has raised Jesus from the dead. How ill we recognize our risen Savior? Jesus calls us each by name – a call to discipleship and service. The hymn “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today” says it all. Everything else is commentary.
Scriptures: Psalm 118: 1-2, 14-24 and John 20: 1-18
Despite appearances, death does not have the last word. The truth of God’s love is revealed in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus; in the life of the Church ;and in our lives today.