This week's sermon

 

August 7, 2022—“Don’t worry, be happy…”

        I really wish the lectionary folks had added the passage left out between last Sunday’s Gospel lesson and this Sunday’s. Listen: (read from Bible)

        Isn’t that wonderful! Don’t worry—strive for the Kingdom of God.

        Reminds me of that pop song by Bobby McFerrin—“Don’t worry, be happy”. I watched the original video on YouTube and it made me very happy….

        It was even on Bumper Stickers for a while. If Luke’s Jesus had had a car, he would have had that bumper sticker.

        Then he continues by saying, “do not be afraid, little flock”. Jesus, the Good Shepherd calls his followers, “little flock. Isn’t that great.

        As you may know, Luke’s Jesus is my favorite of the four. Luke’s Jesus is compassion personified.

        There are only 7 miracles in John’s Gospel—Luke has miracles—healings—by the dozens. Compassion personified.

        He goes on to tell them to be generous to those in need and they will have purses that do not wear out in the heavenly Kingdom. “And where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” So, don’t worry, be happy to serve the Lord.

        He then talks of servants waiting up for their master and how when the master finds them like that, he will feed them himself.

        We too are members of Jesus’ little flock.

        He asks the same of us as he asks of them: worry not, neither be afraid: be vigilant and aware. Serve those in need and wait for the Master to return.

        Lovely sentiments. An oh, so true.

        In my time here at Trinity, I have witnessed your generosity to those in need. Your willingness to strive for the Kingdom. Your compassion and understanding for others in your church.

        So, be not afraid, Little Flock. All you need will be given you by God.

        So, please, please—don’t worry be happy.

(Let us end with a time of silence to reflect on God’s promises to us.)

Be still and know God’s goodness.

Shalom and Amen.