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Disruptive Faith In An Organized World: The End Of Nice Christianity

Sermon
Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A
Matthew 10:24-39
Schuyler Rhodes
PENTECOST FIRE
PREACHING COMMUNITY IN SEASONS OF CHANGE
Once, not too long ago, a certain pastor was leaving the grocery store with some supplies for his family's evening meal. Outside in the parking lot he noticed a woman in her car trying to back out of a narrow spot. Pastor set his bag down on the pavement and got the woman's attention by waving and waving. He then proceeded with dramatic arm gestures and directions to assist the woman in backing her car out of the spot. Feeling quite smug and self--satisfied for his good deed he picked up his bag and strode over to the car where the woman had opened her window and was motioning to him.
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 While the Prodigal Son was still far off, his father saw him, ran to him, put his arms around him and kissed him. In our worship today, let us turn to God so that he may run to us, put his arms around and kiss us.

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 Jesus, for the times when we run away from you,

Lord, have mercy.

 Jesus, for the times when we have wasted our inheritance on dissolute living,

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