As we gather on Mardi-Gras Sunday, it is also Transfiguration Sunday. As we look at the Apostle's Creed, Jesus' life is reduced to a comma, focusing on his birth and death but not his life. But, in one of the stories that is about his life we look at Mark 9:2-8. Jesus takes some of his disciples on top of a mountain and transfigures in front of them. This divine moment must have seemed unreal but could not have been clear. We are asked to consider how our own mountain-top moments can be serene but also messy.

As we gather on this Sunday, we look at political idolatry in the Bible. We are are asked to consider how we can cultivate community with each other, including "the least of these" and not leave everything up to the government. We remember the Holocaust this Sunday and think about how idolatry had an effect on Germany.

As we enter our second week of our series on confronting Christian Nationalism, we look at Matthew 22:34-40 which asks us to love God and love your neighbor as you love yourself. Looking at the state of our country, these teachings have fallen to the side. During these troubling times, we are invited to learn how to better love ourselves, neighbors, God, and live out the teachings of Jesus.

This Christmas Eve, we remember Jesus's birth. We are asked to consider how this day was probably far from quiet and perfect, but loud and messy. There was probably a lot of fear in Mary and Joseph as Mary was giving birth in a random city in the middle of their journey home. But, even though it was a scary time, they still had hope for their newborn child.

45% of Americans believe that America should be a Christian nation. This week, we consider how Christian Nationalism has shaped our country, and what we can do to help fix it. As we enter the second week of epiphany, Reverend Josh asks us to pray for an epiphany for our nation.

As we remember our own and Christ's baptism, we are asked to re-consider what we stand for. Baptism is both private and communal, and we are reminded that we are all part of something much bigger.

This week we are asked to consider what Jesus did in his day to day to create peace and hope, and what we do everyday to cultivate his message of love. This season can be difficult for some, but we are here to remind you that you are not alone. God is there with us, in small, quiet ways. We are invited to continue showing up, and loving, even in the difficult times.

This Sunday we had the gift of having Laura, our Pastoral Intern, preach the sermon. During the start of this Advent season, we are invited to consider where we find hope. Advent is a season of waiting and unknowing, how might you find God's presence in the anticipation?