March 27th Virtual Worship
Music Ministry Team: Kristin Petty, Dwight Huntley, Jenna Crafts
Worship Team: Sarah Haas, Marc Hayden
Technology Team: Michael Kendall, Mark Raker, Jerry Weissinger
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Key Notes from the reading & sermon:
Luke Poses Questions to Ponder: Why Am I So Dissatisfied?
But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.”’ So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate.
[Reading above - Luke 15: 17-2]
Last Sunday we noticed the way Jesus’ offered a peaceful presence rather than an explanation for the dilemma of the co-existence of suffering and a loving and powerful God. This Sunday we look at a parable that shows what can go wrong when we get ourselves lost from the Divine presence. I do not take an allegorical approach to the Parable of the Prodigal. I do not interpret the parable to mean that the father in the story is God and that we are one of the two sons. Jesus’ story reveals the way all three of the main characters are lost and dissatisfied. The story is about the way the peaceful and healing presence of God is a path to true satisfaction and the reconciliation of relationships. Much like our own lives and relationships the parable ends without resolution
Questions for Reflection:
Despite his welcome of the return of the younger son, the father is not a consistent model of loving parenting. He seems to favor the younger son. He has taken for granted the older son. He foolishly gave an immature son too much money and he failed to invite a slighted and overlooked older son to the welcome home party. In what ways do you relate to this imperfect parent? What are the complexities in your family that cause misunderstanding and separation?
The younger son brings to mind the ancient story of the two brothers, Jacob and Esau (Genesis 25:29-34 and Genesis 27). Jacob manipulates his older brother Esau out of the birthright and blessing, and as a result the two become estranged. In each case, the father is manipulated and makes mistakes. What can we learn from these two fathers so we can avoid similar problems in our families?
The older son feels slighted. Despite remaining at home and contributing to the family’s well-being, the father forgot to invite him to the welcome home party of his kid brother who had squandered half of the family resources. What is a healthier way to acknowledge the elder child’s responsibility and the younger child’s irresponsibility? How could the dad do a better job of reconciling the two brothers and his relationship with each one?
A Practice to Focus on Discipleship
We are using an ancient spiritual practice called Lectio Divina. This is a prayerful way of reading a scripture passage with mindfulness of Christ’s Living Spirit in the words. Try this practice with today’s scripture lesson. At the beginning of the week please slowly read through these verses a few times in an attitude of prayer. Pay attention to a word or phrase that stands out. Then apply this word or phrase to the challenges and opportunities of each day in the week. At the end of the week look back and give thanks for the way Christ has helped you live as a more faithful disciple. If you need help or guidance, you may reach me at pastormarc.friedensucc@outlook.com.
Sermon title and text for April 3rd:
Luke 18:18-27 | What Must I Do To Be Accepted?