04/21/2025
The Loss of a Great Christian Leader
The death today of Pope Francis was particularly poignant, falling as it did on the day after Easter. As Protestant Christians we have a once removed interest in the leader of the Roman Catholic church. Yet the pope is the authoritative leader of 1.4 billion women and men around the world. It is worth our time to pause and consider what kind of man and what kind of legacy Pope Francis left behind.
You will find all kinds of eulogies and commentaries being written by those who know much more than I.* All I wanted to do was express my appreciation for a pastor who practiced what he preached. From living simply, acting humbly, and giving generously, this was a man who understood the importance of both faith and works, and was committed to keeping them in sync with each other. Whatever will be said of his positions on theology or social issues—liberal or conservative—his integrity and authenticity will be what is remembered.
I’m always looking for teachable moments for my faith and for the faith of my flock and I think the humility I’ve witnessed in Francis has been a call to me to practice what I preach—to live what I believe. A week or so ago, I saw this comic and I thought it might be a fun way to drive this point home.
By the way, it was a wonderful and triumphant day of worship here yesterday. I want to thank all the women and men who provided the planning, the coordination, the music, the audio and visual
technology, the prayers and the sharing of the word for that worship.
We are so greatly blessed here at Carmel UMC.
We are so greatly blessed as followers of the risen Christ.
He is risen indeed!
*[Quoted from Wikipedia]
“As pope, Francis's manner was less formal than that of his immediate predecessors, a style that news coverage referred to as "no frills", noting that it is "his common touch and accessibility that is proving the greatest inspiration". On the night of his election, he took a bus back to his hotel with the cardinals rather than being driven in the papal car. The next day, he visited Cardinal Jorge María Mejía in the hospital and chatted with patients and staff.…
Archived Posts
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What Jacob Marley Would Do,
If He Could Do It…
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A Confirming Word on Old King Herod
I just want to echo what Rick said in his fine sermon yesterday (Nov. 23). Herod was a ruthless tyrant and skilled politician. When the Magi don’t report back to him, he decides to kill all the male children of Bethlehem under the age of 2. That’s one paranoid dude.
Power Without Conscience?
I ran out of room for this vignette in Sunday’s sermon. Remember the quote that could be the headline for Ahab and Naboth: “All that’s needed for evil to triumph is for good people to do nothing.” The following reinforces that truth.
The Cars Are Looking for A King
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The Lost Benediction
Depending on the length of the sermon, I try to add a little something extra in my benedictions. This week I wrote up a benediction but then realized we’d be singing and waving our umbrellas to some New Orleans jazz.
Change of Focus This Week
Instead of sharing with you about yesterday’s sermon I’d like to invite you to do some background reading for next Sunday’s “Only Murders in the Bible.” Seeing that it is All Saints Day this Sunday, we are going to look at the very first Christian martyr, Stephen.