11/08/20

Sermon Notes:

"A merry heart doeth good, like a medicine, but a broken spirit dries up the bones." (Proverbs 17:22)

The sermon this week is on Matthew 25: 1-13 in which Jesus tells the story of the bridesmaids who wait for the bridegroom. The bridegroom is late, so some of the bridesmaids run out of oil for their lamps and go running into the night to find more. The bridesmaids who have plenty of oil go into the wedding feast, and the door is closed behind them. 

This is the stuff of nightmares: those dreams of showing up to work without your clothes on or finding out there is a class on which you will be tested though you have done none of the work (mine was always math class).

The word Jesus uses to describe the maidens who get to go to the wedding is “wise.” In Greek the word is phronesis, meaning “mindful” or “intelligent in a practical way.”

What helps you stay awake as you wait for the bridegroom? What is it to be mindful, wise, or intelligent in a practical way?

Jesus’ parables can be hard to decipher, but we know this: Jesus’ goal for us is to have hearts of light and love, to experience our spirits as strong and whole.

This week has brought record numbers of new infections of covid 19 and a tense presidential election. In times like this it can be hard to be mindful, hard to stay awake, hard to remain practical and wise. Tempers flare and despair threatens our hearts.

The good news for Christians is that God is God no matter what else is true in our lives or in this world. God loves you and works with you, guides you and shows up for you, even if it feels like the bridegroom is never going to show up for the great feast.

You are all in my prayers. I pray God’s good medicine for your life, and a happy heart for you and yours. No matter what happens in this world, we are in the loving, gracious arms of God. 

See you Sunday!