Sermons

One of our deepest desires is to belong. And most of us have at some point have felt the pain of not belonging. Before I went to seminary, I studied in Chicago for a master’s degree in literature and religion. It was one of the most difficult periods in my life. The academics were fine, … read

“There is a truth past knowing.  There is a joy past hope.”—Tracey Miller (my dad) It’s hard to believe that twenty-one years ago, during Advent, I was newly pregnant with the person we came to know as Alex Vischer.  The happiness was made brighter and sweeter by Christmas lights and candles, the fresh scent of … read

This morning I told my colleague Melissa Olmsted that this sermon feels like it should come with a warning label.It feels like it may be too heavy.She paraphrased Mr. Rogers. Instead of looking for the helpers, perhaps what we need in this time is to look for the light.Look for the light.  At 11 a.m. … read

It happens so quickly. In anger, you text and push send. Immediately, you wonder if you should have waited. Now, you can’t take it back. Or, the words tumbled from your tongue. And you wish you’d had the patience to count to ten before speaking. “How great a forest is set ablaze by a small … read

The comic strip “Momma” by Mell Lazarus shows Momma’s youngest son, Francis, dropping by her house and saying, “Momma, I’m bringing my new girlfriend in to meet you. Now, will you keep an open mind?” Momma replies, “Yes, dear.” “Remember, Momma, an open mind! Open!” She waits, smiling to herself, and in the last frame, … read

“Love. . . the Gospel in a word is ‘love.’ Love your neighbor as yourself, for God loves all.” One of the many things I love about Westminster is the caring that you have extended to me over the years. I know that for many people coming into a large church, it can take a … read