Easter is a busy time. For those entrusted with leading the people of God, the season of Lent may serve to focus deep attention on spiritual reality, but the celebration of Easter is often filled with dramatic intensity, layered worship services, heightened expectations, emotional proclamation, and a desire to do justice to the mystery of the cross and the resurrection of our Lord Jesus. When it is over, many …
Origin of the classic Easter greeting, “Christ is risen!”
Upon arrival at my place of worship this Easter Sunday, I was greeted by the declaration, “Christ is risen!” And, aware of liturgical protocol, I replied, “He is risen indeed!” When I stood before my congregation to preach the Easter sermon, I spoke the declaration, and the people replied, with joy, “He is risen indeed!” …
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The crux of history
A sermon for Easter Sunday Christ is risen. He is risen indeed! I have great good news to share with you: The resurrection of Jesus is confirmation that God loves us; that God is for us, and not against us. The resurrection of Jesus is the crux of history. It is the most profound truth the …
Why are there so many breeds of dog?
The extraordinary diversity of dog breeds in the modern world, from the towering Irish Wolfhound to the compact Chihuahua, is the result of a long and intricate partnership between humans and animals. Unlike most domesticated species, dogs exhibit an extraordinary level of variation. This diversity reflects not only biological potential but also human culture and labour. Moreover, dogs …
The death of God
A sermon for Good Friday Can reading a book change your life? Harvard University Professor David Damrosch tells this story from his young adulthood: Early in the fall semester, I saw a sign for an audition that night for a production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operetta Trial by Jury, and I wanted to try out for the …
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