In this powerful message offered by Rev. Dr. Angela Barker-Jackson, we're invited to explore the profound concept of welcoming strangers, rooted in Leviticus 19:34. This scripture challenges us to treat strangers as natives and love them as ourselves, reminding us of our own history as strangers. The sermon beautifully connects this ancient text to Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing that holiness is not just an idea, but an active engagement with the world. We're called to embody God's holy character in all spheres of life, creating ripples of change from the inside out. The message encourages us to start by welcoming the stranger within ourselves, those parts we've yet to fully accept or understand. By doing so, we open ourselves to truly welcoming others, expanding our circles of connection and love. This practice of 'revolutionary love' has the power to transform not just individuals, but entire communities and even nations. As we face the chaos of our world, we're reminded that by holding the center together, rooted in God's love, we can create lasting change and pursue God's shalom.

Today, we delve into the profound teachings of Matthew 6:22-23, exploring the concept of the 'eye as the lamp of the body.' This scripture challenges us to examine our spiritual vision and how it impacts our entire being. Are we seeing the world through eyes of generosity and abundance, or through a lens of scarcity and greed? The passage connects deeply with Jesus' warning that we cannot serve both God and wealth, reminding us that our perspective on material possessions can blind us to spiritual truths. As we reflect on this, we're invited to consider: How might our own privileges or financial status create blind spots in our faith journey? By cultivating a 'healthy eye,' we open ourselves to see God's abundance and the needs of others more clearly, potentially transforming not just our own lives, but the world around us.

Consumerism can be exhilarating, but it can also leave us in a perpetual state of never feeling satisfied, in competition with our neighbors, and a little light in our wallet. The Way of Jesus, however, does the opposite, yielding a rewarding life filled with the fruit of the Spirit of God that never runs out. Choose the Way!

This part of the Lord's Prayer seems quite obvious, right? It's airy out to God to come rescue us from the evil that terrorizes us. Well, no. The Aramaic language and Eastern culture of Jesus indicate a different, much more relevant interpretation.

Temptation is a fact of life. How we think about it makes all the difference. Jesus' temptation story provides a framework for understanding categories of temptation and healthy ways to respond.

Forgiving someone who has wronged us is hard work. Not popular. Not fair. Not just. So why are we supposed to do this again?

Jesus taught his disciples to ask God to forgive our debts, trespasses, sins, and more. Easier said than done when done sincerely. Asking for forgiveness implies awareness of our need for forgiveness. That's when things get difficult for us...

Being aware and grateful for our planet's capacity to provide food, and all the hands involved from planting all the way to our meal will help you live in deeper awe and gratitude. Discovering that the Aramaic word for bread is the same as for understanding and wisdom, this line of the prayer takes on new meaning. The Divine Feminine Wisdom is one that is creative, generative, embodying and fostering possibility. Together, we find ourselves full of both kinds of bread, more able to enter the world with strength and direction, both from "above."