Pastor Jim Clark-Moore delivers a poignant sermon, weaving the messages from James and Mark into a narrative on wisdom, peace, and societal roles. He begins with the epistle of James, emphasizing the contrast between earthly wisdom marked by envy and selfish ambition, and divine wisdom characterized by purity, peace, and mercy. The pastor vividly illustrates how true wisdom cultivates peace and bears fruits of righteousness, rather than sowing seeds of conflict and destruction.
Moving to the Gospel of Mark, Pastor Clark-Moore explores the humility and servant leadership of Jesus. He uses the narrative of Jesus teaching his disciples about true greatness, encapsulated in the act of welcoming a child, to underline the Christian call to servanthood and humility. This act symbolizes welcoming Jesus himself and, by extension, God. The pastor enhances his message with a practical demonstration involving children and candy, illustrating Jesus’ teaching that the last shall be first, thereby making the gospel’s lessons tangible for the congregation.
To ground his sermon in contemporary relevance, Pastor Clark-Moore shares a personal story about his friend “Land” and their evolving conversations over years, touching on themes of acceptance and change. This story, along with biblical teachings, urges the congregation to reflect on their own interactions and the power of words and actions in shaping relationships and societal norms. The sermon concludes with a call to embrace the wisdom that comes from above—leading to a life marked by peace and gentleness, profoundly needed in today’s world.
- Opening Song: Come Now is the Time to Worship
- Sermon Song: My Hope is in You
- Communion Song: Amazing Grace
- Sending Song: Give Me Love