With heightened anticipation, we wait for Love to be born, and reflect on ways our waiting might be active in reshaping, reclaiming and remembering. (Isaiah 64:1-9 & Mark 13:34-37)

On this final Sunday of the church year – just one week before the start of Advent – we pause to give thanks. United States Thanksgiving Day is not rooted in the history of the church, nevertheless it has become an appropriate time for Christians to reflect on the blessings of a loving and compassionate God.

While Pastor Rob is away this week, we welcome back Rev. Patty King Bilyeu, Associate Executive Minister of the American Baptist Churches – Great Rivers Region.

Rejecting Fear, Embracing Joy – Investing ourselves spiritually, emotionally, and physically in sharing God’s love and embracing the joy found in trusting the one to whom we lift our eyes, we move toward the fullness of God’s presence in our lives. (Matthew 25:14-30) 

Door Shut or Open? – A story about lamps that are maintained reminds us that there is nothing casual about living as a witness to God’s liberation and justice. (Matthew 25:1-13).

On the Right Road – In a “campaign” between Jesus and the Pharisees, we notice the stark differences between two ways of being “holy.”  And the disciples are left to discern whose way to follow. (Matthew 23:1-12)

A Prophetic Vision’s Power – A vision of freedom and promise, rather than a life turning out exactly as expected, gives Moses hope and inspires us with a vision of life and a new beginning that was intended as a blessing for all. (Deuteronomy 34:1-12)

Known by Goodness and Mercy – Moses experiences the profound afterglow of God’s presence, and we are comforted in the assurance that God is at the core of our being and we are known by the Holy Mystery that is at the heart of everything. (Exodus 33:12-23)

Living as a Liberation Community – We gather around readings that reveal conflict between fear and faith… between impatience and peace. And we, like the people who assembled around a golden calf, are called to consider when we miss the mark. (Exodus 32:1-14 & Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23)

Words for Living – Today in worship, ten words from Moses give us a glimpse into a world where all patterns of human living are grounded in the rule of love. (Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20) Preacher: Rev. Rob Kirbach

Our Season of Creation celebration culminates today with “Water Sunday”. We witness God’s interaction with creation through water and are challenged to take seriously the need to respect the power of water and to preserve its ability to offer life.