Sermons

Introduction:

This morning we will celebrate World Communion Sunday. This is an ecumenical celebration meaning it is a Sunday that is lifted up in many different Christian churches. It serves a reminder that the sacrament of Communion is a unifying experience for the church, especially in the United Methodist Church. We United Methodists have an "open table." This means that non-church members, if they seek Christ first in their lives, are welcome to the table. We can all come to the table with Christ.

Today we return to our examination of the fruit of the Spirit. We will focus on "peace." Tim Riter in his book Deep Down talks about peace. He writes, "An art competition awarded a prize for the best expression of peace. One painting depicted a deer and a fawn grazing at the skirt of a mountain meadow rimmed with pines and cedars stretching heavenward. Another showed a cat curled up in a basket, resting with all its being, as only cats can do.

"But the first prize went to the painting of a tumultuous waterfall. Torrents rushed downward, crashing on the rocks below, sending spray high above. A tree branch extended just above the mist, with a bird's nest in a fork. Safely within were the mother bird and two babies.

"That's tranquility. The ability to relax in the most rushed circumstances. Serene surroundings don't produce peace. The absence of animosity doesn't. If peace depended on the setting, many could never find serenity. Peace is being in harmony, allowing God to fit all the pieces of our lives together. As we cultivate the presence of the Holy Spirit deep down, he brings peace."