Aretha Franklin took a song by Otis Reading and transformed it into a feminist anthem of self-respect and affirmation. Grounded in gospel and the church, Franklin’s life and career testify to the power of resilience and demanding to be treated with respect. We’ll begin our … read more.
Centuries ago, a group of mostly self-educated people in New England came to a startling realization. They read their Bible and found no evidence of eternal punishment for sins. They considered what it meant to believe in a loving God and rejected the idea of … read more.
For human relationships to thrive – friendships, family, colleagues, and lovers – they must have mercy in them. When we care about each other enough to take care of each other’s wounds and to notice and respond to our hurts and hopes then our love … read more.
“Just Mercy” is the title of Bryan Stevenson’s book on his experiences as a death-penalty lawyer, working to stop executions and death-in-prison sentences. It’s also the name of the movie based on the book. And it is a theological call – to lead with mercy … read more.
We conclude our series on Isaiah with words from Isaiah 55. Words of hope, joy, and celebration. Let us name what is good, and remember what is worth working for.
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On this Dr. King weekend, when our democracy and the idea of justice is under threat, we turn to one of his favorite passages, Isaiah 40, to explore what it means to believe in holy justice and to give our spirit, our time, and our … read more.
In the sixth chapter of Isaiah, the Lord asks “who will I send” to tell people to live with justice and mercy. Isaiah replies, “Here I am, send me” – even though he is terrified, imperfect, and unsure. What does it mean to answer the … read more.
This week, we begin a four-sermon series on the Book of Isaiah. Isaiah (and his followers) write almost 3000 years ago, but their reflections on tragedy, justice, the prophetic task, healing, and hope resonate today as much as they ever had. In the first chapter, … read more.
Kindness is a gift we give and receive when we treat others, and when are treated, with love and care. In this hard year, kindness is a blessing we all need. Who and what has given you kindness this year? What would it mean to … read more.
Matthew will consider the results or status of today’s election (VOTE!). What must we do now to protect, extend, and amplify our values? What spiritual work is now before us, as people and as a nation?
