8/11/19 :: Encounters with Christ
This sermon discusses the various ways in which we encounter Christ in our daily lives. It emphasizes that Christ is present in our midst, in our gatherings, in those who are different from us, and in our strengths and weaknesses. The sermon also explores the theme of service, urging us to make Christ present in the lives of others.
8/4/19 :: The Extravagance of Mercy
Kevin's sermon reflects on the concept of mercy as an extravagant, gracious act that goes beyond justice, drawing from the story of a mother's plea to Napoleon for her son and the biblical texts from Hosea and the Psalms. It emphasizes God's enduring love and mercy, the steadfast love (chesed) that persists despite human disobedience. The sermon connects this Old Testament theme to the New Covenant through Jesus' incarnation, highlighting the transformative power of God's love and the call for believers to embody this love in the world.
7/28/19 :: The Essence of Prayer
Kevin explores the concept of prayer as more than just talking to oneself. He delves into the expectations and feelings associated with unanswered prayers and the idea of 'thinking things through before God.' He discusses the different levels of thinking in prayer—passionate, compassionate, and responsible—and how these lead to action and a life aligned with God's purposes.
7/28/19 :: The Image of the Invisible
Kevin delves into the profound relationship between Jesus and God, as expressed in the Letter to the Colossians. He explores the concepts of visibility and invisibility in the divine context, illustrating how Jesus serves as the 'image of the invisible God' and a window to the heavenly world. The sermon emphasizes the mystery of God revealed in Christ and the calling for believers to be windows through which others can experience Christ.
7/27/19 :: Memorial Service for Christopher Wren
This sermon is a memorial service for Christopher Wren, who passed away from cancer. The sermon reflects on Christopher's life, his journey from England to Australia, and his zest for life. It also discusses the importance of remembering the good and true in a person's life, and the peace that can be found in God's love.
7/14/19 :: The First Step of Faith
Kevin's sermon explores the challenge of taking the first step in faith, drawing parallels with everyday life's hesitations. He reflects on St. Augustine's struggle for chastity and the universal fear of change, emphasizing the Christian belief that we are not meant to face life's trials alone. The sermon reassures us that God's presence and the guidance of the Holy Spirit empower us to embark on our faith journey, despite our fears and failures.
7/14/19 :: The Good Samaritan
Kevin explores the question 'Who is my neighbour?' through the lens of the Parable of the Good Samaritan. He challenges us to extend our understanding of neighbor beyond family and community to all humanity. The sermon calls for an embrace of a common humanity that transcends differences, urging us to act in love and concern, reflecting Christ's teachings in our lives.
7/7/19 :: Telling the Timeless Tale
Kevin reflects on the importance of storytelling within the church and society, particularly in the context of baptism and the changing landscape of journalism. He draws parallels between the early Church adapting to new cultures and the modern Church's need to engage with contemporary forms of communication. The sermon emphasizes the enduring story of God's love and the Church's role in sharing this narrative in a world of isolation and fear.