We all want peace, we say; but what kind of peace are we talking about? What is the peace that really matters? [Organ/Choir - Advent 2]

When Pope Francis addressed a joint sitting of the US Congress last September, he spoke truth into the bastion of power, both right and left. The church has not always been good at avoiding the lure of power. But in his trial, Jesus also spoke truth to those in power, who really didn't understand anything about him. In place of power, Jesus shows us servanthood; in place of violence, compassion. His topsy-turvy world calls us to be citizens of another kingdom, one that has our first allegiance. (This sermon followed a performance of cantata BWV 117 "Sei Lob und Ehr dem hoechsten Gut" (Praise and honour be to the highest good).) [Organ/choir - Christ the King Sunday]

The story of the impoverished widow giving all she had to the temple treasury is a hard one for us to hear. Because this is not just about giving more money. This is about giving our entire lives in service to God. [Organ/Choir - Pentecost 24]

Recently the national Synod brought our church family together for serious talk about difficult issues, on which we do not all agree. Because we stand united around the Cross, the discussions were conducted in a palpable atmosphere of respect and mutual support. [Organ/Choir - Reformation Sunday]

Human nature makes it hard to enter the Kingdom of God. First, it's hard to avoid thinking we're "pretty good" and don't really need saving (we prefer a celestial Santa Claus who grants wishes). Then it's hard to avoid thinking we can save ourselves with some kind of self-improvement programme. As the saying goes,we need to let go, and let God. But, as the rich young man found to his sorrow, it's hard when in truth we have money or other gods ahead of Jesus. [Organ/choir - Pentecost 20]