Time to Get Real
Transfiguration A-26 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago Jesus and the disciples have walked six days, nearly a week. They are moving south from Galilee, through soft, shallow hills that mark the beginning […]
Entries by Pastor Monte
Human is Human is Human is Human
Epiphany 5A-26 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago In 1630, Puritan John Winthrop preached one of the most famous sermons in American history. His words included this oft-quoted line: “For we must consider […]
Love, Love, Love
Epiphany 4A-26 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago “Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly.” Micah 6:8 has long been tattoo fodder for Christians. It shouldn’t be edgy. But it is. In fact, all […]
Now is the Time for Choosing
Epiphany 3A-26 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago ‘When Jesus heard that John had been arrested… he began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 4:12 & 17). […]
For Such a Time as This
Baptism of our Lord-A26 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America…” I remember standing to face the flag in kindergarten, hand over […]
Our Hearts Grow
First Sunday of Christmas- A25 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago When the Grinch stole Christmas, they say his very small heart grew four times that day once he heard the joyful singing […]
God’s Best Gift
Christmas Eve – 25 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago ‘Let the heavens rejoice. Let the earth be glad. ‘The mountains and hills burst into song. ‘The trees of the wood shout for […]
What Kind of Messiah?
Advent 3A-25 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago Last Sunday, we read about John’s preaching in the wilderness beside the River Jordan. He seemed so sure of himself. But now, in his prison […]
Paradise
Christ the King C-25 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43) Today. With me. In paradise. For his coronation, Jesus […]
The Shelter of Friends
Proper 28C-25 Immanuel Lutheran, Chicago Her name is Stefani. She laughs easily with a throaty chuckle. Her eyes sparkle. ‘Bliss,’ could be her nickname. But her words catch us by […]