Embracing Action and Authenticity in Faith Today

Today’s sermon by Pastor Cristina delves into the profound themes of action and authenticity in Christian life, as highlighted in the readings from James 1:17-27 and Mark 7:1-8, 14-15. She emphasizes the necessity of being “doers of the word,” particularly in caring for the vulnerable such as orphans and widows, reflecting true Christian compassion and duty. Additionally, she addresses the pitfalls of blindly following traditions, illustrated through a discussion on the sartorial convention of not wearing white after Labor Day and the Pharisees’ focus on ritual cleanliness, pointing out how these can foster exclusion and distract from more substantive spiritual commitments.

The sermon also includes a narrative on family traditions, using a lighthearted anecdote about preparing ham during holidays to explore how practices are passed down and sometimes persist without practical reason. This segues into a broader discussion about the personal experiences and expectations of churchgoers, where Pastor Cristina advocates for a focus on the essence of Christ’s teachings rather than external rituals or appearances. She underscores that the church should be a haven for receiving God’s grace freely, not a place bound by rigid traditions or superficial judgments.

Through stories, scripture, and songs like “God of Brilliant Lights” and “Greater,” the service invites attendees to a deeper understanding and practice of faith—highlighting that true adherence involves active engagement with God’s word and an inclusive, compassionate community.