Given by Rev. Madison Shockley March 13, 2022 We begin this Lenten season with the story of Jesus's baptism and journey into the wilderness. It is there that Jesus confronts the "devil". The devil represents the power that always opposes humanity's desire to please the Divine. Humans have been dealing with the devil since the [...]
Given by Rev. Madison Shockley March 1, 2020 Lent is a time of somber reflection. Standing in God's love allows us to confess and be transformed. The human condition is both a curse and a blessing. Our consciousness tells us what is going on in this world. There is a lot of tragedy happening. This [...]
Given By Rev. Madison Shockley March 10, 2019 On this first Sunday of Lent, we recount the story of Jesus's time in the wilderness. He was tempted several times by the force which vies for our allegiance. Temptation distracts us from the primary purpose that God has for our lives. If we are not careful, [...]
Matthew's story of Jesus in the wilderness is sandwiched between his baptism and the official start of his ministry in the Bible. It is similar to a coming-of-age story. It humanizes Jesus and connects us to him. This story is a metaphor. This is a spiritual journey where Jesus searches for meaning and a purpose in life.
