Rev. Zach

Sermon Delivered on September 30, 2012  Psalm 19:7-14 James 5:13-20 Mark 9:38-50 For the past few weeks the book of James has been dispensing some practical theology. We’ve been told that all good things come from God, and that we have the opportunity to participate in the actions of God. We’ve been told that we discover our true identity when see others as equally valuable in the eyes of God. We’ve been told that we cannot see others this way and still deny their basic needs. And we’ve been told that we must not spend time judging the performance of others and instead put our energy toward doing the will of God. Today this wisdom continues. Are you suffering? Pray. Are you happy? Praise! Are you sick, don’t keep it to yourself. Go to the congregation and the church Elders. Get them to anoint you and pray for you! Whoa. That’s not what we do. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard of individuals and families leaving Church X because they had a health crisis and no one fr...

Sermon Delivered August 26, 2012  Psalm 34:15-22 Ephesians 6:10-20 John 6:56-69 Some things in life are simply unacceptable. People all have their thresholds, though. For example, there are some people who will send back an overcooked steak in a restaurant and some who will not. Everyone has his own reason. Maybe you feel that you should get what you are paying for. Maybe you don’t want to cause trouble. Maybe you want to be helpful by making sure the management and kitchen know the quality of their product. Maybe you’re with a group and you don’t want to hold anyone up. As for me, I used to be a lot more picky about it than I am now. Part of me hopes that I am not jinxing myself or the lunch bunch [group that meets monthly in local restaurants]  today, but I do believe that in this context coincidence is easier to justify theologically than instant karma. God’s love and activity is both bigger and more particular than my sandwich. I am certain that God’s influence is in...

Leigh Peterson is a phenomenal young woman who runs a non-profit without pay and works for another one to pay the bills.  She takes in strays (people - not cats), and has been recognized in the community for her hard work.  She lives her faith, albeit imperfectly, as intentionally as she is able to.  Leigh has been suffering from something they can't define for a few months now.  She becomes dizzy and disoriented and has other neurological symptoms.  They have ruled out most of the major stuff (cancer, tumor, etc.).  They have monitored her heart to check for arrhythmia, and she is currently undergoing a sleep study.  Please pray that God will offer clarity.  Not because Leigh is so good - which she is even though she would deny it.  Pray for her because God is good.  Please pray that God's sustaining presence will be evident, that a diagnosis will be achieved, and that a treatment plan will be developed.  Oh, and that she has sweet...