I‘ll confess: I’m much more of a Universalist than I am a Unitarian. For those attending historically Unitarian churches (like Hope), the voices of Universalism may rarely be heard. But if we’re going to be true Unitarian Universalists, we need to hear both sides of our lively story. Indeed, after hearing the good news of … Continue reading Universalism: For Such a Time as This!
We conclude this sermon series by reviewing what we’ve learned about the so-called seven deadly sins and consider its application to our daily lives. In the end, does it really matter to names the “sins” that are holding us back as a religious community? This is at the heart of interim ministry.
Is there any hope for the eradication of anger in our lives, either individually or corporately? Is it possible to manage anger in a world that models anger as “the way, the truth, and the life?” Anger loves to control us. So long as we are angry at another person, that person is controlling the … Continue reading Deadly “Sins” for Lively Liberals: Anger
I’m too lazy to write a blurb about this sermon. You’ll just have to wait and see what I have to say. Or not. It really doesn’t matter. You see, I am being a good sloth already!
“More, more, more! My possessions define who I am as a person and serve to illustrate my success. Without all my toys, I’m nothing. Too much of everything is never enough! So I savor the security that accumulation brings.” Does this sound like you? I know it sometimes applies to me. The wisdom of Epicurus … Continue reading Deadly “Sins” for Lively Liberals: Greed
All ages are invited to worship as we celebrate Easter with words and music, flowers and bells, and candles and praise. The sermon is surround by seasonal hymns and soaring music. Together we’ll celebrate the coming of spring and new life. Renewal—personal, corporate—is the rite of spring that challenges us to grow—intellectually, spiritually—just as the … Continue reading Throw Yourself Like a Seed
I think that this so-called sin gets a bad rap. After all, what’s a little lust among friends? But whereas a bit of lust for the one I love can fuel desire and intimacy, a big lust for everyone in sight can cripple my ability to be in right relations with anyone. Moreover, those who lust … Continue reading Deadly ‘Sins’ for Lively Liberals: Lust
How are those New Year’s resolutions working out for you? The gyms and health clubs always report an uptick in membership in January followed by a downturn come Feb. 1. The mind begins rationalizing, “I’m going to eat that because I deserve it. I’ve worked so hard on this diet that’s time for a diet-free … Continue reading Deadly Sins for Lively Liberals: Gluttony
It is quoted too often: “Pride goeth before a fall.” Yet we begin with pride because it is the source of the other six deadly sins. Gluttony, anger, greed, envy, lust and sloth all spring from the garden of pride we cultivate in our souls. Pride left unchecked keeps us from knowing who we really … Continue reading Deadly Sins for Lively Liberals: Pride
Now what, a series on sin? Yes, if we understand sin as separation. Specifically, sin is the intentional division of that which has been declared whole. It is a dualism gone wild. It opposes the “Out of Many, One” worldview of the Oglala Sioux we considered last month. Is there room for sin in the … Continue reading Deadly Sins for Lively Liberals: Introduction
