This past Sunday, I was honored to preach at Duke University Chapel as part of the alumni preaching series celebrating the university’s 100th anniversary.
It was amazing sharing from the great pulpit in this grand, cathedral-like space! Years ago, I sat in the pews when a student and listened to some of the greatest preachers in the United States.
I confess: my knees were quaking a bit as I stepped into place.
I shared a written version of the sermon on Sunday Musings two days ago. But this is the spoken version (click on the blue box above). It is a bit different — because the Spirit takes over when you preach!
Thanks to the dozen or so Cottage readers who came and introduced themselves when coming through the line afterward. So good to shake hands and see you face to face.
I hope these words will encourage you. And I hope you’ll share the sermon with your friends.
Mark 10:46-52
Jesus and his disciples came to Jericho. As he and his disciples and a large crowd were leaving Jericho, Bartimaeus son of Timaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the roadside.
When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
Many sternly ordered him to be quiet, but he cried out even more loudly, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”
Jesus stood still and said, “Call him here.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; get up, he is calling you.” So throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus.
Then Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “My teacher, let me see again.”
Jesus said to him, “Go; your faith has made you well.” Immediately he regained his sight and followed him on the way.
SOUTHERN LIGHTS ELECTION WEEK SPECIAL
Come to St Simons Island, Georgia in January for an event hosted by me and Brian McLaren — we’re going to continue the conversation about faith and democracy no matter what happens on November 5.
When We Can't See What's Coming