Gathering the Outcasts of Israel

Amy Plantinga Pauw, Henry P. Mobley Professor of Doctrinal Theology

Isaiah 56:1-8

December 1, 2006

This sermon was preached in Caldwell Chapel on World AIDS Day, Dec. 1, 2006. The service was a collaborative effort among members of the Theologies of the Global South class. Isaiah 56:1-8 proclaims that God gathers the outcasts of Israel, and declares them to be the guardians of God's covenant, the loyal servants of the Holy One, the lovers of God's name, and heirs of God's promised future. Likewise, the outcasts of our day, especially those suffering the shame and stigma of HIV/AIDS, are at the head of God's banquet table, and the rest of us are invited to join them. Listen to the homily. Read the homily in PDF format.

“Commanded to Give Thanks”

Garnett Foster, D.Min. Studies, Polity and Director of Field Education and Ministry Placement

“Commanded to Give Thanks”

Psalm 136; I Thessalonians 5:16-18

November 17, 2006

"The writer of I Thessalonians commands us to give thanks. That indicates that thanksgiving is not an emotion, but a discipline, a practice of the Christian faith - and a practice that transforms us." Listen to the sermon. Read the sermon in PDF format.

“God's Politics of Love”

Johnny B. Hill, Assistant Professor of Theology

“God's Politics of Love”

1 John 4:16-21
November 3, 2006

"...the Apostle John offers us a refreshing and radical vision of God's way of ordering human relationships, community, and public life. By grounding love of God in the creative space of relationships with others John provides enormous insight to what it means to live faithfully, courageously, and prophetically today-not just for interpersonal relations but ordering social life as well." Listen to the sermon. Read the sermon in PDF format.

Batya, The Daughter of God

Patricia Kathleen Tull, A. B. Rhodes Professor of Old Testament

Batya, The Daughter of God

Mark 4:21-32 , Exodus 2:1-10
Oct. 27, 2006

The Pharaoh's daughter's immediate action to save the child she found in the reeds set in motion much larger liberation than she could have imagined. We never know how our mustard seeds of faithful action will grow. Listen to the sermon. Read the sermon in PDF format.