By Pastor Tracey Leslie
Scripture: John 20:19-23 What is sin? Many of us, if we attended Sunday School as children, learned the Ten Commandments and they greatly shaped our understanding of sin. It was an interpretation very focused on morals and rules. So, certain words, whether they contained any reference to God or not, were considered “dirty words” or sinful words. I grew up in a part of the country where the Woman’s Christian Temperance Union still put up billboards. So, I was taught that any amount of alcohol for any reason was a sin. And I’m guessing lots of parents have appealed to the “honor your father and mother” commandment when warning their children about cleaning their rooms.
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By Pastor Tracey Leslie
Scripture: John 20:1-18 I’m holding a box this Easter morning. We live in a shipping culture. We do even more online ordering in these days of social distancing. If you’re curious, here’s what Americans are seeking the most during this pandemic: online grocery orders have skyrocketed. In 2nd place are survival supplies – masks, disinfectants, water and air purifiers, etc. In 3rd place is what they categorize as “backyard betterment.” I found that one interesting. Apparently, we’re investing a lot more in our backyards since that’s likely going to be our vacation destination this spring. Suppose a box were to magically appear at your front door right now and all the tracking information would tell you is that it contained what you’ve been seeking most. What would be in that box? Would it be a big wad of money? World peace? A forever love? A cure for COVID-19? What are you seeking most? By Pastor Tracey Leslie
Scripture: Matthew 27:15-50; Psalm 22 YouTube: https://youtu.be/ekYw0PN-Ag4 and https://youtu.be/dQWdjf6wVBI When my husband and I were in seminary, Britt worked part-time as a nurse. He worked the 3-11 shifts. One evening while Britt was working, I decided I’d go out to dinner. I didn’t go anywhere fancy; the Ground Round. When I walked in the hostess asked me, “how many?” and it sounded odd when I said, “Table for one, please.” I looked around at the other tables; all couples or families. I enjoyed my meal and I didn’t feel insecure. It just felt a little odd. Now, don’t get me wrong. I’m not one of those people who can’t stand to be alone. I once did a six-day retreat in an eremitical community in a remote area of Texas. I didn’t speak for six days… I know; hard to believe. And, aside from the dining room and morning prayers, I didn’t see anyone either. |
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Pastor Tracey
On a lifelong journey of seeking to live out God's call on my life and to reflect His grace. 10 Minute SermonsCategories
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