In this sermon, Mother Susan delves into the concept of resurrection through a critical analysis of a gospel reading, focusing on a confrontation between Jesus and the Sadducees as depicted in Luke. She asks the question, 'are we a resurrection people,' exploring the theological viewpoints of the Sadducees and Pharisees, and discusses Jesus' responses to their queries. She encourages believers to expand their understanding of the resurrection beyond earthly concerns and emphasizes the power of faith to transform how we live our lives. Mother Susan concludes with reflections on eternal life and a call to live courageously and lovingly as children of the resurrection, punctuated by the words to Isaac Watts' hymn, 'Oh God, Our Help in Ages Past.'

00:00 Introduction and Provocative Gospel

01:05 The Backstory of Luke's Gospel

01:57 Sadducees and Their Beliefs

06:04 Jesus' Response to the Sadducees

07:11 Implications of Resurrection for Christians

09:56 A Light-Hearted Reflection

12:34 Imagining the Future Beyond Death

14:25 Living as Children of the Resurrection

15:26 Conclusion

This sermon, delivered on All Saints' Day, addresses the cognitive dissonance we experience when reciting challenging biblical texts like Psalm 145. With her customary wit and humor, Mother Paige discusses the duality of human existence, acknowledging that individuals are both blessed and broken. She draws on the gospel of Luke, particularly the Sermon on the Plain, highlighting Jesus’ call for comprehensive love and mutual salvation, and encourages us to love our enemies, support those who are suffering, remembering that Jesus has demonstrated these actions first. 00:00 Opening Prayer and Introduction00:08 Reflecting on the Psalm and Human Dissonance01:45 Understanding the Concept of Saints03:50 The Gospel of Luke: Blessings and Woes05:40 Comprehensive Nature of Beatitudes and Woes09:11 Jesus' Teachings on Love and Compassion10:50 Embracing Love and Saintliness

In this sermon, you're invited to place yourself amid a parable exploring humility and self-righteousness. Our Lay Associate, Madeline Polhill contrasts the Pharisee, who trusts in his own piety, with the humble tax collector, illustrating that true righteousness comes from recognizing our dependence on God. Drawing on biblical passages and theologians like Carl Bart and Rowan Williams, she emphasizes the importance of humility, warning against the dangers of pride. Learn how embracing humility allows you to lean into God's grace, rather than relying on your own strength. This message encourages a shift from self-reliance to trusting in God's greater wisdom and love.

00:00 Opening Prayer and Introduction

00:16 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

02:08 The Issue of Pride and Self-Righteousness

03:23 Invitation to Humility

04:03 Dependence on God

06:17 The Consequences of Pride

07:19 Following Jesus' Example of Humility

09:04 Conclusion and Final Blessing