The passage emphasizes Jesus' radical command to "love your enemies," countering societal tendencies to condemn opponents. It stresses that mercy transcends convenience and fairness, encouraging unconditional kindness even amidst deep divisions. Dr. King's sermon reinforces this message, highlighting love's redemptive power as essential to overcoming hate and fostering unity.
1 Corinthians 15:12-20 (Sixth Sunday after Epiphany) – February 16, 2025
Paul addresses the Corinthians' doubts about the resurrection by exploring their cultural context, where concepts of afterlife and salvation differ from Christian beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of living a Christ-like life now, arguing that grace shouldn't lead to complacency. Ultimately, he advocates for a commitment to costly grace over cheap grace in Christian faith.
Luke 6:17-26 (6th Sunday After Epiphany) – February 16, 2025
Luke's Gospel emphasizes God's kingdom where the marginalized are prioritized, contrasting with societal structures. Jesus' teachings, particularly in the Sermon on the Plain, challenge complacency among the wealthy, advocating for justice and communal support. This calls believers to recognize their responsibilities in aiding those in need, fostering a spirit of generosity and community.
Luke 5:1-11 (5th Sunday after Epiphany) – February 9, 2025
The passage explores the calling of Simon Peter, James, and John in Luke’s Gospel, emphasizing their transformation from fishermen to "catchers of people." Unlike Matthew and Mark, Luke highlights the miracle of abundance after frustration. The concept of being “captured alive” in faith signifies a shift in perspective, inviting others to experience God’s grace and love.
Luke 2:22-40 (Presentation of our Lord) – February 2, 2025
The commentary reflects on the Presentation of the Lord, focusing on the faithful waiting of Simeon and Anna as they recognize Jesus as the Messiah. Their anticipation embodies active trust in God’s promises and serves as a reminder that the Gospel challenges the status quo. The church must reflect this light of reconciliation while preparing congregants for hard truths amid joy and stability.
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (Fourth Sunday after Epiphany) – February 2, 2025
The text discusses the appropriateness of using a community-focused biblical passage in wedding ceremonies, emphasizing love as integral to spiritual gifts. Paul argues that without love, actions and gifts are meaningless. He challenges the Corinthian Church’s divisive behavior, presenting sacrificial love as the solution, relevant to today’s societal issues.
Luke 4:21-30 & 1st Corinthians 13:1-13 (4th Sunday after Epiphany) – February 2, 2025
The content contrasts two biblical passages: Paul's message on love to the Corinthians and Jesus' confrontation with his hometown. It emphasizes how community is crucial in embodying love and accountability. Both passages challenge their respective communities to embrace truth and kindness, highlighting transformation through humility and courage in relationships.
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a (Third Sunday after Epiphany) – January 26, 2025
The text explores Paul's teachings to the Corinthian church about unity and equality among believers. He challenges hierarchical views based on backgrounds or spiritual gifts, emphasizing that all members are vital to the Body of Christ. Ultimately, Paul encourages seeking faith, hope, and love as the highest pursuits over competition and status.
Luke 4:14-21 (3rd Sunday after Epiphany) – January 26, 2025
The text explores the complexities surrounding Luke’s account of Jesus, addressing debates about Jesus' literacy and interpretation of scripture. It argues that Luke emphasizes Jesus’s mission of liberation and salvation through the phrase "today." This reiterates the relevance of Jesus's message for contemporary readers, inviting them to engage with scripture meaningfully.
John 2:1-11 (2nd Sunday after Epiphany) – January 19, 2025
The author, an alcoholic in recovery, reflects on the challenge of preaching about Jesus turning water into wine, especially in the context of addiction. Emphasizing Mary’s faith, and the servant's actions, the piece illustrates the importance of trusting Jesus in moments of scarcity. It encourages believers to act in faith, allowing God’s transformation to manifest.
Micah Krey 