“Idol Worship”

Rev. Kevin Murphy

Kevin demonstrates that congregations are as diverse today as they were in Paul’s day. Paul’s message to the Corinthians was that they not let their differences become divisions. In those days Idols were prevalent and present everywhere. Paul taught that instead of worshiping these many worthless Idols representing every sort of God, they should recognize the one God represented by our Savior, Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

In todays world symbolic Idols stills exist in many forms. In this sermon Kevin explores examples which were once taboos but now accepted practices within our religion. He encourages us to coexist with opinions that we may not understand or ever be ready to accept. We are all on a journey with Christ. Some are just starting to learn the meaning of faith based on the expressed knowledge of others both past and present. Others are absorbing first hand much of this same knowledge which they are now sharing. 

No one has a complete understanding of the infinite knowledge of a total truth of our God and the Universe in which we live. One of our gifts is the intelligence to work independently and in teams from past and present generations to discover more of God’s blessings and the responsibilities they entail. 

Kevin encourages us to accept new information and knowledge as confirmation of our own beliefs. As a child, we instinctively trust our mothers. As a community we should also learn to trust and strengthen our love for all, even those of diverse opinions. Ideology and Idolatry are less important than our loving relationship as Christians.

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https://soundimages.box.com/s/088m39xuh03p9b2n7551

"The Passing of this Present World"

Rev. Kevin Murphy

Did Paul mean for us to literally give up all our present worldly ambitions to succeed and provide ourselves and family a comfortable existence on earth? 

Kevin explores the reality of pledging one’s life to Christ by setting proper priorities exercised in a way that promotes harmony and benefits to all mankind. Christ is our Redeemer. As Christians we can gratefully pledge to assist him in achieving his vision while continuing to contribute to society in various productive ways.

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https://soundimages.box.com/s/4rtjpmkbosatuhu2axqx

“Tingling Ears”

Rev. Kevin Murphy

Preparation Scriptures: 1st Samuel 3: 1-20, Psalm 139: 1-6, & John 1: 43-51

Monday, January 16 is a day commemorating Martin Luther King, Jr. Like Samuel, Martin was a prophet for our time. Most known for his involvement in the Civil Rights Movement, his mission was of much broader scope. He wanted to make an effort to correct the causes for what he considered the three evils... POVERTY, RACISM & MILITARISM. Efforts to do this made conditions uncomfortable for the status-quo. Pursuing this mission was very difficult requiring a brave and determined soul. Staying the course eventually cost Martin his life. 

Although much has been accomplished since his death in 1968, there remains many needs for improvement on all three fronts. Perhaps evil will always exist. In this sermon, Kevin encourages us to recognize injustice, even when we may personally benefit from it. Be willing to listen to God and his purpose and have the courage to express your disagreement with its existence. With God’s help, we can understand and serve his purpose through all things, even when doing so is uncomfortable or unpopular.

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https://soundimages.box.com/s/kklybgiel6dyzjlnuubf

“Where is the Child”

Rev. Kevin Murphy

Preparation Scripture: Isaiah 60: 1-6, Psalm 72: 10-19, Mathew 2: 1-12

As the Christmas Season, with all the decor and music, fades from our daily lives, we are left with the most significant memory of its meaning. The Christ child in the manger with Mary, Joseph, the Angels, Wise Men and farm animals. This Nativity scene signifies the greatest gift of all ... the gift from God of his Son, Jesus Christ.

When the three Kings approached King Herod with the question... “Where is the Child?”, they interrupted a very celebratory time of bountiful good fortune with a potential threat to existing control and power by a new Lord God of Israel.

In this sermon, Kevin explores the significance of minor details while reminding us that Jesus has delivered so much enlightenment to our understanding of our God and the Universe. We can liken this enlightenment to light itself often symbolized by candles. As we become enlightened, it is only natural that we share our understanding. Letting our little light shine effects how we interact each day of our life ... a form of social networking at its best.  

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https://soundimages.box.com/s/ohx4ejnno6uibtdg6yd1

"The Time is Fulfilled"

Rev. Cinda Gorman

J A N U A R Y  1,  2 0 1 2

The first day of the NEW Year, 2012 

... a time for a fresh start ... of promises to be fulfilled.

Cinda reflects on the BIRTH OF JESUS, as promised, in the fullness of time as was set by God. Her eloquent sermon and prayer encourages us to rejoice in the majesty and mystery of this world while coming to know God as we rededicate to fulfilling our promises to him. Click the following:

https://soundimages.box.com/s/ha30p2vvpne9ye34ikhs