In our liturgical calendar we have taken a leap forward in the life of Jesus. Just 8 days ago we were celebrating the Epiphany and the baby was still in the manger. Last Sunday we saw that baby, now grown, being baptized and commissioned for adult ministry, and today, Jesus is recruiting. Some of John … READ MORE…
Our Lord’s Baptism B St. Paul’s San Diego Mark 1:4-11 There is a great family movie that came out about 10 or so years ago. It’s called The Lion King. If you haven’t seen it or haven’t seen it recently I really commend it to you. It is layered with spiritual and religious themes. In … READ MORE…
Alleluia, unto us a child is born. Come let us adore him, Alleluia. Today is the day. It’s finally here. This is the morning that our children and grandchildren have been waiting for, the morning when the mystery of all those enticing packages under the tree will be revealed. Maybe you’ve already opened your gifts … READ MORE…
The Rev. Canon Jeff Martinhauk Advent 4B, December 24, 2017 St. Paul’s Cathedral, San Diego 2 Sam 7:1-11,16; Luke 1:26-38 The story from second Samuel this morning is one of great hope and anticipation. As the text says, the Lord has just helped King David defeat all of his enemies, and Israel is now at … READ MORE…
Christmas preparations have a way of bringing to mind old family traditions and conversations. When I think of the Christmases of my childhood I envision the special, handpainted china that we used at Christmas dinner, and recalling the festive table, I immediately hear my mother’s voice, saying things like, “Children are to be seen and … READ MORE…
It’s Advent. Advent means chocolate calendars, silly animated videos of Hershey’s kisses and dancing reindeer, premature Christmas carols, lights in the window, happy conspiracies over gifts, sparkly clothes, holiday sweets. And now, this, courtesy of Scripture: Grim confessions. Apocalyptic prophecies. Human sin and divine anger. The Psalmist’s desperate plea for rescue: “Restore us, O Lord … READ MORE…
Lutheran pastor Nadia Bolz Weber says that anytime we draw a line between us and others, Jesus is on the other side of that line. It’s the main point of the gospel lesson today, but it’s not been an easy lesson for the church, or I would imagine any of us, to learn. We are … READ MORE…
All summer and fall, in our Old Testament readings, we have been hearing an outline of the beginnings of the people of God, a whistle-stop tour through the first books of the Bible, starting with Genesis back in June on Trinity Sunday with the creation story and racing through the highlights of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, … READ MORE…
A couple of weeks ago I returned to Yale Divinity School to celebrate the 20th reunion of the class of ‘97. It was a joyful time of reconnecting with old friends, worshiping together, and witnessing how, thanks to many generous gifts, the YDS campus has been transformed from the derelict state it was in when … READ MORE…
Soli Deo Gloria! Today, our past, present and future meet, as we commemorate the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, that began in earnest when a young Augustinian monk, Dr. Martin Luther, posted 95 theological points that he wanted to dispute, within the Catholic Church that he served –points on which he thought the church … READ MORE…