Doing Advent

December 15, 2024

Gary Willis

 Luke 3:7-18

John was baptizing in the Jordan preaching repentance. Persons from all walks of life came to be baptized, and each one asked, “What must we do?” It is a good question for those who have been baptized and are looking for the kingdom of God. John provides some good answers for us all.

Introducing Jesus

December 8, 2024

Gary Willis

 Luke 3:1-6

We have seen many introductions given for keynote speakers or personalities, some of which have been done well, and some not so well. John the Baptizer has the role of introducing Jesus, and yet most of us find John’s words and style to be more of an assault than an invitation to the One who is coming. Does John get it wrong, or does he know what we really need?

Room for Only One

December 1, 2024

Gary Willis

 Luke 21:25-36

In this apocalyptic description in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus refers to his return and final judgment. It is a warning and encouragement for the faithful to remain so, even to the end. It is clear that God’s coming will bring a new world, but not until the old one is gone.

Coronation

November 24, 2024

Gary Willis

 John 18:33-37

Historically, peoples and nations have more often preferred kings to other forms of government. Israel also became swept up in such desire. When Jesus arrives he is heralded as the Lord of Lords and King of Kings, but the world rejected his kingship. How about you? Who will be your king?

Be Ye Kind

November 10, 2024

Donna Greene

 Galatians 5:22-26

No More Questions

November 3, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 12:28-34

The Scribe who encounters Jesus seems impressed by Jesus. In fact, he expresses his agreement with Jesus, whose wisdom has silenced all his questioners. Jesus says this scribe is “not far from the kingdom,” which leaves us with one question: “What gets us all the way there?”

Blind Injustice

October 27, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 10:46-52

The story of blind Bartimaeus is certainly a story of healing, but it doesn’t begin that way. It starts as an occasion for social oppression. While attempts are made to hush the blind man, Jesus responds in a wonderfully intimate way, making this so much more than a mere healing story.

On Our Behalf

October 20, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Hebrews 4:14-5:1-10

The writer of Hebrews uses the metaphor of “priest” to define the role of Christ. He is our divine advocate. We are modern people of faith who have evolved from animal sacrifices to a “priesthood of all believers,” in which we have direct access to God. Do we really still need a priest?

Upright Living

October 13, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 10:17-36

The rich, young man seemed to be genuinely seeking assurance of his upright living, and Jesus genuinely loved him. However, the blameless man went away sadly – his fallen countenance becoming a contrasting image to the unfettered, upright life Jesus was offering him.

Married and Children

October 6, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 10:2-16

When Jesus is confronted by the religious leaders regarding his position on divorce, he has some harsh words. Then, in a seemingly unrelated act, Jesus takes children in his arms to bless them, explaining that becoming like a child is the only way to the kingdom. Obviously, there is something adults can learn from a child. 

Stumbling Blocks

September 29, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 9:38-50

The disciples encounter a stranger performing healing actions in the name of Jesus, and they are confused. Up until then they assumed they had a monopoly on this Jesus movement. Jesus sets them straight, and then he points out real obstacles that should concern us all.

Value Judgment

September 22, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 9:30-37

The disciples are caught debating what place each of them deserves in the hierarchy of Christ’s kingdom, and we assume this involves their perceived value each has or will provide to Jesus. Jesus reveals a different measure of value altogether. 

Cross Road

September 15, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 8:27-38

Most of the time Jesus speaks in parables in the gospels. Even though his stories were often an indictment to us and to the first hearers, the pithy stories seemed more palatable. Not today. Jesus speaks plainly and forcefully to define the requirements of following him. There is a cross involved.

Opened Ears and Loosened Tongues

September 8, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 7:24-37

It is somewhat ironic that Jesus often healed persons and then told them to keep it quiet. No one seemed to listen to Jesus, though, as news of his miraculous deeds spread beyond his control. It seems that we do a better job today of keeping the good news to ourselves.

Cleanliness Next to Godliness

September 1, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 7:1-23

We’ve always heard the phrase, “cleanliness is next to Godliness.” Although the religious leaders seem to be echoing that sentiment as they chastise Jesus and his disciples for not ritually cleansing properly before meals, Jesus reveals the errors in their notions of Godliness.

God Armor

August 25, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Ephesians 6:10-20

The Apostle Paul urges followers of Christ to put on the armor of God, preparing themselves for life as a battle against evil. Paul writes these words from prison, so the conflict is real for him. Whether it seems real to us or not, being clothed with God is essential.

Signs

August 18, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 6:24-35

The crowd, whom Jesus miraculously fed by multiplying the meager supply, has followed Jesus across the sea. Jesus knows they are following him for the free lunch. They ask for a sign like Moses have given the Hebrews in the wilderness, but Jesus offers them a very different manna.

There Must Be a Better Way

August 11, 2024

Charlotte Birdwell

 Ephesians 4:25 - 5:2

How Were You Born?

August 4, 2024

Rev. Willis Dear

 John 3:1-10

Nicodemus, a Pharisee, and teacher of Hebrew Scriptures and leader in the Hebrew Sanhedrin, the Hebrew ruling body, wanted to know why Jesus said, “You must be born again” to describe the changes that a person of faith must experience to be a follower of Jesus, not just a believer. What kind of changes need to be made? What is the difference between believing and following Jesus?

A King's Ransom

July 28, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 2 Samuel 11:1-15

David is thought to be Israel’s greatest king, but he commits a sin that is worthy of the greatest condemnation. How is David redeemed? The cost of sin may be great, but God’s grace proves to be greater still.

An Inside-out Job

July 21, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 6:30-44

Returning from being sent out on a mission by Jesus, the disciples are then invited to go apart for rest. They could not, however, escape the hungry crowd of human need that pursued them. This scripture reveals a movement back and forth between active service and faithful replenishing.

Butting Heads

July 14, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 6:14-29

The story of John the Baptist having been beheaded by Herod provides two images that stand in stark contrast: corrupt power and unwavering righteousness. The two opposing forces inevitably meet in conflict and even violence. Such a clash is a call to choose whom we will serve.

Dusty Feet

July 7, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 6:1-13

At the beginning of his ministry, Jesus returns home to Nazareth where he is well known. This fact becomes an obstacle to those in his hometown, who struggle to believe his message. The visit provides an occasion for his disciples to receive a teaching moment learned from an apparent failure.

About Face in a Crowd

June 30, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 5:21-43

Two more healing stories are shared here in the Gospel of Mark – one is on the agenda, and one is not. Jesus is on his way to heal the daughter of a desperate leader of the synagogue, but an equally desperate woman emerges from the crowd and causes a diversion. She is a face in the crowd no more.

Storm Questions

June 23, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 4:35-41

Like the disciples sailing on the Galilean Sea, storms will come to every life bringing fear. There are also times in our lives when it seems God is absent or sleeping, causing us to wonder about God’s care. In our gospel story, it is the storm that is silent in the end.

Inefficient Sufficiency

June 16, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 4:26-34

Jesus compares the kingdom of God to seeds being planted and sprouting. Gardening is a process that involves both predictable nurturing and mysterious nature. Jesus says an abundant harvest comes from very small beginnings, and growth happens with time apart from our control. Still, we are called to plant.

Why Settle for a King?

June 9, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 1 Samuel 8:1-22

A series of “Judges” had provided leadership for the Hebrews from the time they emerged from the wilderness, but there came a time when the people requested a king to reign over them. While they were warned about their preference, they wanted to be like other nations. God, however, had set Israel apart to be different.

Shepherd in Pursuit

June 2, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Psalm 23

The beloved 23rd Psalm has been a companion to countless individuals who draw comfort from scripture, and a welcome partner to those who grieve. This shepherd’s song is, however, much more than a passive warm blanket for our souls. There is an active confidence being offered in Psalm 23.

High Winds Aloft

May 26, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 3:1-17

We may spend much energy trying to avoid unpredictability. We have narrowed down the few surprises we actually enjoy in life and are much more comfortable knowing in advance. Jesus tells Nicodemus that the Spirit is like the wind, so our efforts at security may impede the unpredictable work of God.

GASA

May 19, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15

Before Jesus ascended, He promised to send an advocate, the Holy Spirit, to be the supporting, divine presence in our lives. Pentecost Sunday marks the arrival of that God Appointed Special Advocate. In our daily lives there are times when we acknowledge our need for a mediator. Most assuredly, we need the intercession God provides through the work of the Holy Spirit as well.

The Land of Misfit Mothers

May 12, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 1 John 4:7-21

Love is a messy and sacrificial endeavor that no human can ever expect to always “get right.” The perfect love of Jesus is our example, but it is lived out in relationship to imperfect people. Even great mothers don’t always do everything right. Today we celebrate those who faithfully strive to love, even if it means bending a lot.

Winning the War of the Worlds

May 5, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 1 John 5:1-6

There is no greater victory than that of Jesus defeating death. We who trust him can celebrate that we need not fear the end, for we have eternal life. That is fantastic, but our greatest fears tend to be experienced here in this life. How can we live victorious in the here and now?

Faith Without the Fruit

April 28, 2024

Nicholaus Cummins

 Matthew 21:18-22

Followers of Jesus believe that there is power in faith, and we would all love the power to move mountains. Jesus promised us that if we believe we can accomplish anything, but our doubt gets in the way at times. Perhaps there is a way through doubt that even enhances our faith.

Sheep Guardians

April 21, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 10:11-18

Jesus describes himself as the Good Shepherd, who unlike the hireling will lay down his life to protect the sheep. For the Church to be the Body of Christ means that we must consider how we will address the threats to God’s flock, for the wolves of evil certainly still endanger Christ’s sheep.

The Resurrection

After-path

April 14, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Acts 2:32-42

With the celebration of Easter Sunday’s passing, we are left to grapple with how our lives should be conformed to a new reality. The Apostles had to go through this conversion process after encountering the risen Jesus. At Pentecost those who had not witnessed his rising were invited to participate in the resurrection existence. That same path to life in Christ is offered to us.

Deep Breathing

April 7, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 20:19-23

Although later in May we will celebrate Pentecost as the coming of the Spirit upon the church, John’s gospel records how Jesus breathed his spirit upon the disciples earlier. John’s encounter bears little resemblance to the Pentecostal experience reported in Acts 2, but in that single breath of the resurrected Lord we are re-created and offered the promise of new life.

Is That Your Final Answer?

March 31, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 16:1-8

The Gospel of Mark’s treatment of the resurrection is a bit different from the other gospels. The earliest known manuscripts ended before Jesus appeared to the disciples. We are given a glimpse, a snapshot of a moment in time, where we see a very human, authentic reaction to the empty tomb – fear.

Embracing the Unexpected

March 24, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 11:1-11

The Sunday before Easter has always been shared by the emphases on the triumphant entry into Jerusalem and the passion week that is to come. The cross is certainly not what is expected when Jesus rides into Jerusalem to cheers. Yet, it is the cross that has endured as the ultimate blessing.

Good Things In Heavy Packages

March 17, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 12:20-33

When Philip and Andrew approach Jesus on behalf of some Greeks who want to meet Jesus, the disciples find Jesus has weightier matters on his mind. Jesus signals the urgency of the great destiny before him, but he is also burdened by it. A voice from heaven leaves no doubt that the struggle ahead will be worth it.

Groping in the Dark

March 10, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 3:14-21

In this encounter between Nicodemus and Jesus, we notice the darkness, both literal and figuratively. Jesus is the Light, and yet Nicodemus fumbles his way in the darkness. Is this just one man’s search, or is it a potential ray of light aimed at a people of darkness?

Beyond Rules

March 3, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Exodus 20:1-17

For the Hebrew children of God, the Ten Commandments formed the foundation for community life for centuries. They have instructed our values and shaped our own laws. But how relevant are they now? Maybe our answer is dependent on why they were given and what we understand about the God who gives us commands.

The Way of the Cross

February 25, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 8:31-38

Even though Peter understands Jesus is the Messiah, he clearly misunderstands the road Jesus must take. Maybe it is because Peter understands who Jesus is that he cannot comprehend such a path. As Peter discovers, following Jesus means we don’t get to choose the road and it does involve a cross.

Building Up Our Immunity

February 18, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 1:9-15

The writer of the Gospel of Mark doesn’t go into detail about the temptations Jesus endured following his baptism by John. We can find greater detail in the other gospels, but it is clear in all of them that this is a time of preparation on Jesus’ part. Like Jesus, we would do well to prepare as well, which is what Lent is all about.

Preserving the Passed

February 11, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 9:2-9

This is a mountaintop experience we celebrate each year. We like capturing the high moments of our lives and our world, and we’ve been doing just that ever since video recording devices have been invented. In an age when we seem to record everything, are we really preserving and transmitting what matters in our faith lives.

Whose Side Is God on Anyway?

February 4, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Jonah 3:1-5, 10

Jonah is chosen by God to deliver a prophetic call to repentance to the people of Nineveh. Jonah proves to be a rebellious servant with all-too-human characteristics. This is not uncommon for God, to choose flawed vessels, nor is it uncharacteristic of that God to redeem those whom we have written off.

Abundance & Accountability

January 28, 2024

Charlotte Birdwell

 Matthew 13:1-9

Selling Good News

January 21, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

 Mark 1:14-20

Jesus begins his ministry by calling fishermen to follow him and become his disciples. He tells them he will make them “fish for people.” From the beginning Jesus opened a business intended to teach ordinary people to “catch” people with the news of the gospel. In case anyone has forgotten, we are enrolled in this school and our job is sales.

Caller ID

January 14, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

  1 Samuel 3:1-10

Eli is the experienced priest, and Samuel is just a boy apprentice. God is creating a generational shift, not speaking to the older leader, but to the young, unwitting servant. Eli is being bypassed, except it is he who provides some guidance to the boy, preparing him to take his place in God’s story.

The Word Is Getting Out

January 7, 2024

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 2:1-12

A baby’s birth in Bethlehem would have gone unnoticed by the world, but word about Jesus’ birth could not be contained. Shepherds were told by angels; a star stirred foreign astrologists; news was leaked to the king. Word has begun to spread, which is, of course, the intent of God’s message.

God Ads

December 17, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11

This passage was read by Jesus in the synagogue of his hometown, Nazareth, where Jesus proclaimed that he was the fulfillment of the prophet’s words. Originally Isaiah used it to apply to God’s people, and it still has purpose for us. If we are to follow Christ, he must be revealed through us.

John, You're in My Light

December 10, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Mark 1:1-8

John the Baptist does not feature prominently in the birth narrative for most of us. In the “City of Lights” and elsewhere, we’d like to keep our way to Christmas focused on the lights. John seems to get in the way. The scripture will not let us get to the Light without going through John. His preparation is a step we cannot miss.

Waking to God's Dream

December 3, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Mark 13:24-37

Sleeplessness is normally not a good thing, and we could all benefit from peaceful rest as opposed to insomnia. Jesus tells us to “Keep awake!” Clearly, the Lord is indicating that there is something that warrants us keeping alert in this life, and it is not the things that usually keep us up at night. Jesus points to a dream that comes only when we are not sleeping.

Judge Jesus

November 26, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 25:31-46

We love the Jesus we describe as our Savior, Shepherd, Comforter, Healer and Prince of Peace, but how do we feel about Jesus the Judge? The authority over the final judgment is none other than the Lamb, who was slain for our sins. Jesus doesn’t only want to judge us in the end times, but to be the authority who judges our living as well.

Decision Time

November 19, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 25:14-30

The parable of the talents seems to be a tail of testing, and it ends with a harsh judgment against those who fail the test. It is really a story about investment, and it’s not necessarily about the size of the returns. If we agree that we all have received immeasurable blessings from God, then there is a place to find ourselves in this story. 

Decision Time

November 12, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 25:1-13

 Through the parable of the foolish virgins draws a contrast between those who prepared and those who did not. It is a stark contrast which leaves those who did not bring enough oil for their lamps locked out of the bridegroom’s banquet. Is this a parable of unmerciful judgment or simply a truth that none of us can avoid? We can’t put off deciding forever.

People of the Lamb

November 5, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Revelation 7:9-17

Revelation paints a glorious image of the Lamb as Lord upon his throne. It is through suffering that the Lamb has risen to this position, and those who approach have suffered persecution on Christ’s behalf. He will be their shepherd. The Lamb led to slaughter has now become the Great Shepherd, qualified by that very suffering.

Q & A with God

October 29, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 22:34-46

Interaction in the New Testament between Jesus and the religious leaders is almost always contentious. Once again, the Sadducees and the Pharisees are intent on trapping Jesus. Here questions and answers flow both ways, all leading to the conclusion that there is but one authority, and it is not us.

Chosen

October 22, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

The Apostle Paul reminded the early church that they were chosen by God. In our lives, there can be quite a dramatic difference between having been included or excluded, selected or rejected. Such experiences can impact the course of our lives. Paul’s point is that the choosing of God should make such an impact.

Supply Side Christianity

October 15, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  2 Corinthians 9:6-15

It’s been said many times that Jesus spoke more about money than he did about prayer or many other concepts of our faith we consider important. The same may not be said about the Apostle Paul, but when he does speak about money it is not lacking in fervor. It is simply an inescapable fact that our faith involves how we use our resources.

A Question of Ownership

October 8, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 21:33-46

Hardly anyone could argue that we have made a mess out of God’s creation, yet we are very good at blaming “them” instead of taking responsibility ourselves. Jesus tells a parable about a landowner whose tenants did not respect the rightful owner of the vineyard. The comparison is hard to miss. 

Flying on Empty

October 1, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Philippians 2:1-13

In his letter to the church in Phillipi, Paul holds up the example of Jesus as the standard for living in relationship to God. Even Jesus “did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped.” Paul says in chapter 3 that he regarded everything as rubbish to obtain Christ. Clearly, humility is an essential quality for those who would rise in faith.

No Bridge to Nowhere

September 17, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Exodus 14:15-31

One of the most dramatic stories in all of scripture is the parting of the Red Sea. God rescued the Hebrew people from Egypt, allowing them to pass through the waters. This image of water calls to mind our baptism, another symbol of the passage from nowhere to becoming children of God.

Three Strikes

September 10, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 18:15-20

We say in the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Here in our gospel Jesus gives us instruction on how to handle those who have sinned. It seems Jesus is advocating a practical policy of “three strikes and you’re out,” which sounds different from “seventy time seven,” which is the number of times Jesus tells Peter we should forgive. Is there a limit to forgiveness?

Wood-Be Disciples

September 3, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 16:21-28

Peter, the Rock of the disciples, goes from professing Jesus as the Messiah to having Jesus call him “Satan.” All this happens in a matter of a few verses, and it all happens because Peter failed to accept that the way of the Christ was that of sacrifice. How often are we reminded that following Jesus demands a new identity, one who is willing to give up everything for God. This is one of those times.

Personally Speaking

August 27, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 16:13-20

In a candid conversation with his disciples, Jesus inquires as to what people are saying about him. This is not a difficult question to answer. Anyone can be a witness to what they’ve heard and seen. Jesus, however, is just leading up to a much more difficult question: “Who do you say I am?”

Faith Footprints

August 20, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Genesis 45:1-15

The story of Joseph is a lengthy saga filled with twists and turns. Maybe our lives could be described this way as well, and perhaps we have described our journey as filled with chance, luck or destiny. The Bible portrays the story of Joseph as something different, a story in which God seems to be integrally involved, although we may only see it in hindsight.

Lord, If It's You

August 13, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 14:22-33

We know this as the miracle of Jesus walking on the water, but this encounter reveals much more than what we already knew Jesus could do. Peter is not initially certain the figure on the water is Jesus. How Peter gets confirmation of the Lord’s identity is our focus as we re-examine this familiar story.

Is Change Possible?

August 6, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Genesis 32:22-31

Jacob’s name means “grabber,” recalling that he gripped the heel of his twin brother, Esau, as they were being born. He’s been a manipulative scoundrel ever since. Will he ever change? Can any of us really hope to be transformed from our baked-in characteristic dereliction? An intruder has something to say about Jacob’s possibility of change, and God may have something to say about ours.

Priceless

July 30, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

  Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52

The kingdom of God is described as invaluable, something for which one might give everything to obtain. While the value is described graphically, these parables of Jesus do not clearly define how to obtain this kingdom. In the end, for what it’s worth, whether we are willing to pay the price may be all we need to know.

Living with Weeds

July 23, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

Continuing his parables of the kingdom, Jesus also resumes his analogy of farming. This time a farmer’s crop is plagued with weeds, which grew up with the wheat and cannot now be removed without harming the wheat. No one has to tell us there are weeds resident among the people of God. How do we deal with them? Or, are they us?

Wasteful Abundance

July 16, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

An examination of the Parable of the Sower reveals a rather inefficient reality associated with spreading the Word of God. In fact, many of Jesus’ stories seem to indicate that there is a whole lot of waste in the kingdom. This can be difficult to accept for us Western, production-minded people, at least until harvest time.

Human Moments

July 9, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Romans 7:15-25a

In Romans, chapter 7, Paul rather plainly spells out the human predicament. We cannot do what we know we should. Human nature, it seems, is to fight a battle within ourselves, although our better selves seem to be outmatched by our sin. It’s a good thing we have a Savior who won that battle for us.

Conflicting Interests

July 2, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Genesis 22:1-18

The story of Abraham being asked by God to sacrifice his son, Isaac, ends well, but it leaves us with a lot of questions. It is a terrifying narrative for people who dwell on the nature of a God to whom we go for comfort and peace. So often we forget that the way to real peace is frequently through struggle.

God Satisfies

June 25, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Genesis 21:1-21

Life is not always fair, and plans do not always work out the way we desire. When so much is beyond our control, on what can we depend? We can truly count on only one thing. When all else seems to fade and fail, God alone satisfies.

Called to Great Things 

June 18, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Matthew 9:35 - 10:8

 Jesus has poured himself into his disciples, teaching them values and showing them miracles. Now it is their turn. The disciples are turned loose upon the world with motivational instruction, sent forth to change the world. At its heart, this activity seems very close to a model of what church should be.

Sinners, Inc.

June 11, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26

 As Christians we honor the Apostles, including Matthew, for whom this Gospel is named. Although the honor is deserved, perhaps we tend to forget what a sinner he was when Jesus called him to be his follower. Maybe, as Christians, we have forgotten that Jesus only called sinners, and that includes us.

The Interpreter

May 28, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Acts 2:1-21

It seems that in every walk of life we struggle with communication. Interpretation is required for many of the messages we send and receive. The day of Pentecost is a celebration of God sending an interpreter to us, which is how the Holy Spirit is introduced. Our part, of course, is that we must listen.

Pre-Occupation

May 21, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Acts 1:1-14

“Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again.” We say these words each time we celebrate the Lord’s Supper. We treat these statements as “past” and “future,” but what about the present? Both the rising of Christ and the promise of his return must inform our life today.

Thou Shalt Love

May 14, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 14:15-21

Jesus defines love in relationship to us and to God, and it is not merely a feeling. Love is clearly connected to obedience, the keeping of God’s commandments. As we know, Jesus said the greatest commandments are to love God and to love our neighbor. Can love really be mandated? Perhaps it is much more than an obligation.

Ask for Anything

May 7, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 14:1-14

Jesus makes an incredible promise in John 14:14. “If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it,” he says. It’s the kind of bible verse that causes one to do a double take. We don’t doubt that Christ can do anything, but are we confident in whether he will. How might such assurance change our outlook?

The Door

April 30, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 10:1-10

Jesus uses many images in scripture for himself, particularly in the Gospel of John. In chapter 10, Jesus refers to himself as “the door,” or in other bible translations – “the gate.” Using the New King James version, we will explore the image Jesus gives us when he says, “I am the door.”

Heartburn

April 23, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Luke 24:13-35

After the resurrection of Jesus, various sightings and visits of the risen Christ are reported in the gospels. One such visitation happens to traveling disciples on the road to Emmaus. The disciples did not recognize Jesus until he broke bread at a meal, at which point they were amazed. Can we reclaim such amazement?

Believing Is Seeing

April 16, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 20:19-31

The disciples had great difficulty adjusting to the reality of a risen Christ. They were given the opportunity to see Jesus in the flesh post-resurrection. Jesus tells Doubting Thomas, “Blessed are those who did not see, and yet have believed.” Is Jesus talking about us?

So What ?

April 9, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 20:1-18

This is Easter, the Church’s celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the most important day of the Christian year…But why? If this miraculous event does not change us, then is it important? What does Easter mean for us? Jesus should not be the only one raised from the dead because of Easter.

Palm Sunday Test

April 2, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Matthew 21:1-11

Holy Week begins with the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The crowds love him, but we have come to know their fickle nature. Their celebrative voices give way to hypocritical mob condemnation later. Praise upon our lips is not confirmation of devotion in our hearts.

Condemned to Fear

March 26, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 Romans 8:1-17

 Paul’s letter to the church in Rome and his other letters are filled with the message of grace, mercy extended through Christ Jesus as opposed to the futility of the law. “There is, therefore, no condemnation…” he writes in verse 1 of Chapter 8. In real life, however, there is an awful lot of condemnation, and we all have scars as evidence.

Seeing is Believing

March 19, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 9:1-41

Jesus performs another miracle, this time healing a man blind from birth, restoring his sight. While that may seem common in the gospels, in this case we get the full story of the aftermath. The blind man is interrogated by the religious leaders, revealing that there is more than one kind of blindness.

Leave the Jar;

Carry the Water

March 12, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 4:5-42

What seems like a chance, and hardly welcome, encounter with Jesus at a well, becomes the beginning of the beginning of the gospel’s spread beyond its Jewish circle. The woman at the well, coming to draw water, appears to be an inadequate vessel for the Good News. But, then, she was never meant to contain it.

Risking the Impossible

March 5, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

 John 3:1-17

Nicodemus finds Jesus’ talk of new birth impossible. From his worldly perspective it is nonsensical, irrational. He has taken quite a risk coming from his position of power to confer with Jesus. However, Jesus is inviting Nicodemus and us to risk more, if we want to see the impossible happen.

The Deeper Temptation

February 26, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 4:1-11

We are all tempted in many ways each day, so we have confidence that we know what temptation is. We cling to the hope that willpower will prevail, and we can modify our behavior to do right. But what if temptation is not the threat of doing what we know is wrong, but, instead, a more dangerous threat of losing ourselves.

From a Mountain to a Hill

February 19, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 17:1-9

The Transfiguration is a glorious high point in the life of Jesus that we celebrate every year. But we don’t live nor do we stay on the mountain top. In the valley we see God’s purpose fulfilled, and on a hill we see Christ’s glory.

Lagniappe Discipleship

February 12, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 5:38-48

As Jesus continues preaching, his demands get more extreme. We know how difficult it is to “turn the other cheek,” “walk the extra mile,” or “love our enemies,” and yet Jesus commands us to follow this narrow path. This way of the cross seems to leave us powerless, unless we realize how powerful love can be.

The Fullest Extent of the Law

February 5, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 5:21-37

Jesus was a Jew, serving in the context of a Jewish people for whom the law, the Torah, was paramount. It was God’s law, and it guided all religious and civil life. As if the Torah wasn’t tough enough, Jesus seems to strengthen its demands. Jesus knew what we often fail to accept, that the law is powerless to save us.

Jesus, Coming of Age

January 29, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Acts 10:34-43

The Christian Year moves quickly once Jesus begins his public ministry. With very little recorded about Jesus’ childhood, we move rapidly from the manger to God’s actions to change the world. That world change will not happen without changed people.

A Reproductive Following

January 22, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 4:12-23

After John the Baptist was imprisoned, Jesus began to recruit others for his ministry, calling the disciples to follow him. It is this simple, irreplaceable action that every Christian has as a prerogative to duplicate. We must always continue inviting others to follow Jesus.

Where Jesus Lives

January 15, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

John 1:35-42

Disciples of John the Baptist seek out Jesus upon the recommendation of their teacher. The question then becomes what are they seeking? Their awkward way of asking about Jesus may have more meaning than they know.

Obedience Fulfills

January 8, 2023

Rev. Gary Willis

Matthew 3:13-17

Jesus comes to John at the Jordan River to be baptized. We mark this event each year as we begin the season of Epiphany. Those of us who have been baptized should understand the significance. Jesus is trying to teach us something about obedience.