Human beings need joy. Joy can result from the positive circumstances in our lives, but if positive circumstances are required, then joy will be elusive. No life escapes disappointment. No life escapes suffering. Yet, Christ teaches us that aided by courage and some practice, joy can find us even in hard times. To be in Christ is to learn to be in joy. Rev. Tom Are preaches this sermon series.
July 2 |
The Source |
July 9 |
The Practice |
July 16 |
The Community |
July 23 |
The Secret |
The Secret
July 23, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
July 23, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
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We conclude our series “In Joy” with some closing words from the most joyful letter in the Bible. Paul’s letter to the Philippians ends less with a spirit of exuberance, and more with a sense of contentment. Perhaps, contentment is the soil in which joy blossoms. Our scripture reading is Philippians 4:4-7, 10-14.
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The Community
July 16, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
July 16, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
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Internationally renowned poet and author David Whyte has described joy as “a deep form of love...the fleeting presence of those we love understood as a gift.” Joy is not a solo act. Joy lives in me, but it is rooted in us. Our scripture reading is 2 Timothy 4:9-18.
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The Practice
July 9, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
July 9, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
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Joy is not limited to an experience. The deepest joy is the result of spiritual practice. There are many spiritual practices, and one practice is sabbath observance. When we remember what time is for, we remember what our lives are for. When we remember the purpose of each day, joy is easier to experience. Our scripture reading is Exodus 20:8-11.
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The Source
July 2, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
July 2, 2023 - Rev. Tom Are
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In these parables Jesus repeats himself. It’s really the same story using different metaphors... one of a shepherd searching for his sheep, the other of a woman searching for her coin. The point of the story is rejoicing. The surprise is that we are the source of God’s joy. Our scripture reading is Luke 15:3-10.
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