“He was bright as the lightning on the mountain and became more luminous than the sun, initiating us into the mystery of the future” (Gregory of Nazianzus, 329- 390 A.D.). So an ancient preacher described the transfiguration that we celebrate today, in which Jesus reveals more than the glory of God: He shows the future glory of mankind, when all who believe in Him are resurrected in the flesh to inherit a new creation. With this vision in mind, we prepare for the celebration of His suffering and death in the coming season of Lent.
The Veil Gets Torn
The Transfiguration of Our Lord
January 21, 2024 • Pastor Gjerde • Matthew 17:1–9, Exodus 34:29–35, Psalm 2, 2 Peter 1:16–21
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For This Is the Will of God
April 21, 2024 • Pastor Gjerde • Isaiah 40:25–31, Psalm 147:1–11, 1 Peter 2:11–20, John 16:16–22
For a little while, the disciples did not see the Lord. When they saw Him again on that first day of the week, they rejoiced with a joy the world could not take away. Their joy is ours on this day. We also cannot see the Lord as we see each other, for we see Him even more clearly! In the proclamation of His Word and the breaking of the bread, He makes Himself known to us with crystal clarity as the font of all mercy and kindness for sinners, welcoming them into the kingdom of God.
Sheep in Wolve's Clothing
April 14, 2024 • Pastor Johnson • Ezekiel 34:11–16, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:21–25, John 10:11–16
Who are the “other sheep” to which Jesus refers in today’s Gospel? We know that Jesus had previously warned about false prophets, men who were likened to “ferocious wolves” in sheep’s clothing (Matthew 7:15). And prior to sending out the Twelve Apostles, a foretaste of later missionary ventures, Jesus likened their calling as being sent out “like sheep among wolves” (Matthew 10:16). If Jesus has come to reconcile all sinners to the Father by his blood and resurrection, could some of those very “wolves,” in fact, be “sheep”?
Witnesses Aplenty
April 7, 2024 • Pastor Gjerde • 1 John 5:4–10, John 20:19–31, Ezekiel 37:1–14, Psalm 33
Someone once described the difference between a dead and living person in this way: a living person can still surprise us. Jesus surprised the disciples following His death, confirming the truth of His resurrection. Still today He surprises the world, forgiving sins where the world would hold a grudge, reconciling enemies, giving hope to the dying, comforting the grieving, unleashing charity and acts of love, and nourishing countless souls in faith. Alleluia! Christ is risen!