Going Deeper With Christ Episcopal Church

Kingdom of Love John 18:33-37 On this Feast of Christ the King, Father Mark reflects on the unique nature of Christ’s kingship, contrasting it with earthly kingdoms. In John’s Gospel, Jesus tells Pilate, “My kingdom is not from this world,” emphasizing that his reign is not about dominance but about love, service, and truth. Unlike earthly rulers, who use power for control,

Faith in Midair Mark 13:1-8 In today’s sermon, Father Mark reflects on the transience of worldly things and the importance of a firm spiritual foundation, especially in uncertain times. He draws from Jesus’ prediction of the Temple’s destruction and the tumultuous historical context of Mark’s gospel, written during a period of chaos for early Christians. Just as the Temple

Center in God Mark 12:38-44 Father Mark’s sermon reflects on the recent presidential election and the role of Christians in times of political upheaval. Drawing from the teachings of Jesus, particularly the story of the widow’s offering, he emphasizes the importance of centering one’s heart in God rather than in worldly leaders or institutions. Jesus called his followers to

Fully Human Love Mark 12:28-34 Father Mark’s sermon on the story of Lazarus emphasizes the compassionate, incarnational nature of Jesus, who does not remain distant from human suffering but fully embraces it. In his encounter with Mary and Martha, Jesus is deeply moved, disturbed, and even weeps for Lazarus—showing that God does not stay on the sidelines but enters fully into h

To See Mark 10:46-52 In today’s Gospel, Father Mark reflects on the story of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, who calls out to Jesus, asking for mercy and the ability to see. Bartimaeus's plea is met initially with scorn by the crowd, who view him only as a sinner and an unworthy presence. However, Jesus, who looks beyond labels and sees Bartimaeus as a person of value, calls him forw

Journey of Love Mark 12:28-34 In this Gospel reading from Mark, Jesus emphasizes the two greatest commandments: to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself. A scribe agrees with Jesus, affirming that love is more important than offerings or sacrifices. Jesus praises the scribe’s wisdom, telling him he is close to the kingdom o

Radical Inclusion Mark 10:17-31 Bishop Kym Lucas’s sermon, rooted in the Gospel of Mark (Mark 10:17-31), explores the challenging nature of following Jesus in a world that often prioritizes wealth, comfort, and fitting in over faithfulness. She emphasizes that salvation is not something that can be earned through good deeds or by following societal norms, but rather through God�

Open Hearts Mark 10:2-16 Father Mark’s sermon focuses on Jesus’ teaching that to receive the kingdom of God, one must be like a little child—open-hearted, open-minded, and humble. He explains that children naturally embody these qualities because they are receptive, vulnerable, and willing to learn. Unlike adults, who often grow closed and guarded as they age, children remai

The Messiah We Need Mark 8:27-38 Father Mark’s sermon centers on the profound question Jesus poses to His disciples: “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answers, “You are the Messiah,” but his understanding of the Messiah clashes with the reality of Jesus’ mission. Peter, like many Jews of his time, envisioned a Messiah who would triumph politically, akin to King David.

Jesus Listened Mark 7:24-37 In today’s sermon, Father Mark delves into the challenging gospel passage where Jesus encounters a Syrophoenician woman who pleads for her daughter’s healing. Initially, Jesus responds with a harsh dismissal, referring to the woman as a “dog,” which reflects the prejudices of his time. However, the woman’s persistent faith leads Jesus to recons