SERMON SNAPSHOT: Sunday, February 22, 2026

Dear Friends in Jesus –

We preachers are often accused of filling the air with “should,” “ought,” and “must”—preaching everything in the imperative mood. Sunday I have the opportunity to speak more in the manner of Jesus. I get to speak in the indicative mood. In Sunday’s Gospel Jesus doesn’t say, “you ought to be like light to the world.” Rather he says, “you are the light of the world.” He doesn’t say, “go out and try to add some savor to a bland, tasteless world.” Rather, Jesus boldly asserts, “you are the salt of the earth.”

Why do we spend time together in church? On most Sundays we’re in church listening, singing, sometimes breaking bread to bolster our faith. But, based on this Sunday’s Gospel from Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, maybe we are here to strengthen our faith in each other and ourselves. Or more accurately, to recognize and awaken ourselves to the faith that Jesus has in us!

It's SPK Sunday and we welcome our preschool children and parents into worship. Jasmine Crowder will sing for Gospel Sunday, accompanied by Bill Gesin. And we'll enjoy good eats and fellowship after worship.

Get a start on 100% attendance for Lent :)

In anticipation –