St. Alban's Sermons w/FatherJohn

St. Alban's Episcopal Church
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the weekly sermon podcast of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Harlingen, Texas. Each episode features thoughtful, scripture-centered preaching from Father John, along with occasional guest preachers who bring fresh insight and perspective. Whether you’re part of our parish family or listening from afar, we hope these sermons inspire, encourage, and draw you closer to the heart of God throughout your week.

  1. 18h ago

    Sermon: The Rev. Mike Evers (I Can’t Save Myself [Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26])

    In this sermon, the Rev. Mike Evers explores the profound moment when we reach the end of our own resources and realize we cannot save ourselves [05:37]. Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, he reflects on the stories of J Jairus and the hemorrhaging woman [00:14]—two desperate individuals who placed their absolute trust in Jesus. Connecting these ancient accounts to modern-day stories of recovery and grace at the Wyoming Rescue Mission [04:00], Rev. Evers highlights how Jesus looks past our illnesses, addictions, and burdens to restore our true identity as children of God [08:45]. He offers a comforting reminder that when we reach the end of our rope, we discover Jesus has been holding the other end all along [13:37].

    14 min

  2. May 31

    The Gift of Sabbath (Genesis 1:1-2:4a)

    In this sermon Father John gives us a new way to think about the Sabbath. It is a gift from God and was the only thing God blessed in the creation story. He didn't bless it for Him but for us, to allow us to rest and recharge our lives.

    14 min

  3. May 24

    The Holy Spirit in Everyday life (Acts 2:1-21)

    Father John preaches on the day of Pentecost, on how the Holy Spirit works in our everyday lives. Through truth, courage, and change. These may not be supernatural things but rather the Holy Spirit encouraging us.

    17 min

  4. May 18

    Sermon: Be a Witness (Acts 1:6-14)

    In this message from St. Alban's Episcopal Church, we dive deep into one of the most pivotal moments in biblical history: Jesus' final words before his Ascension (Acts 1:6-14). The disciples thought they were getting a new political kingdom, but Jesus gave them something far greater—a global mission and the promise of ultimate power. In this sermon, "Be a Witness," you'll discover: The Shift: Why Jesus told his closest followers to stop worrying about timelines and start focusing on truth. The Promise: The true meaning behind the "power" of the Holy Spirit and how it applies to your life today. The Mission: How to identify your personal "circles of influence" to make a real impact in your community—starting exactly where you are. The Call to Action: Why the angels had to tell the disciples to stop staring at the sky and get to work! If you're feeling stuck, wondering how to live out your faith boldly, or simply need a reminder that you have a vital purpose, this message is exactly what you need to hear. Stop standing and gazing, and start stepping into your calling. Hit play to find your purpose and power today!

    18 min

  5. May 12

    Sermon: Mother's Day

    In this Mother's Day reflection, the sermon moves beyond traditional readings to offer four guiding themes for wherever you may find yourself this Mother's Day: Celebrate and Honor: For those who can still talk to or spend time with their mother, the message highlights the significance of the fifth commandment—the only one with a promise—and the importance of expressing gratitude. Remember and Give Thanks: For those whose mothers have passed away, the sermon explores the "communion of saints" and the enduring hope that while they are not here, they are not gone. Forgive and Let Go: Acknowledging that not every childhood is ideal, this reflection offers a path for those carrying wounds or baggage, encouraging them to seek God’s help in finding healing and peace. Hope for the Heavy-Hearted: For anyone struggling with family difficulties or concerns for their children, the sermon draws on the story of Hagar and "the God who sees me," offering the comforting reminder that if things aren't okay right now, it’s simply because the story isn't over yet. Rooted in the idea that a mother is often the first person to model God’s love, this message provides a thoughtful perspective on motherhood as a significant calling and a source of lasting impact.

    14 min

  6. May 3

    Sermon: The Way, The Truth, & The Life (John 14:1-14)

    In this episode, we explore one of the most comforting and profound passages in the Gospel of John. Journey with us through John 14:1-14 as we reflect on Jesus' reassuring words to His disciples: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life." This sermon from St. Alban's Episcopal Church dives into the promises of Christ, offering hope, direction, and a deeper understanding of what it means to truly know the Father through the Son. Tune in to discover how this timeless truth anchors our faith and applies to our lives today.

    19 min

  7. Apr 26

    Sermon: “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23)

    When reading the famous words of Psalm 23, we often glaze over the phrase, "Your rod and your staff, they comfort me." But what exactly are these tools, and why would a shepherd's equipment bring us comfort in our darkest valleys? In this episode, Rev. John Inserra dives into Good Shepherd Sunday to explore the fascinating difference between a shepherd's rod and staff. Far from just being ancient props, these tools perfectly illustrate God’s "corrective love" and how He actively works to keep us on the right path. Join us as we break down the four ways God acts as our Good Shepherd to protect us from external dangers—and from ourselves. Main Points & Teachings: The Tools of the Shepherd: * The Staff (Crook): A functional tool with a hooked end used to reach over and pull a wandering, distracted sheep back into the safety of the flock. The Rod: A blunt weapon used to fend off wild animals and external predators. The Comfort of Correction: David writes that these tools brought him comfort because they proved God was protecting him from both outside threats and his own tendency to wander astray. The 4 Stages of God's Corrective Love: When we start to wander, God uses a progression of methods to shepherd us back to safety: Conscience: That internal conviction or immediate regret after a heated moment, reminding us that we are off track. Indirect Address: When a random sermon, a song on the radio, or an overheard conversation seemingly speaks directly to our specific, private struggle. Direct Address (Rebuke): A difficult but necessary intervention from someone who loves us enough to look us in the eye and tell us we are wrong. Closed Doors: When God abruptly slams the door on a job, a relationship, or a plan to protect us from walking down a path we were never meant to take. Whether you are facing closed doors, feeling the gentle tug of conviction, or just needing a reminder that you are being looked after, this message will help you recognize the loving guidance of the Good Shepherd in your life.

    18 min

  8. Apr 19

    Sermon: 2 Words that “Cut to the Heart” Acts (2:14a, 36-41)

    This week sermon Father John dives into the concluding moments of Peter’s powerful Pentecost sermon in the book of Acts [00:31]. When Peter finished speaking, the crowd wasn’t cheering; instead, the scripture says they were "cut to the heart." But what exactly did Peter say to provoke such a visceral reaction? The answer lies in two culturally explosive words: Lord and Messiah. We explore the profound historical and personal implications of these titles, breaking down what they meant to a first-century Jewish audience living under the shadow of the Roman Empire, and what they mean for us today. Main Points & Teachings: The True Meaning of "Lord": In the first century, the title of "Lord and Savior" belonged exclusively to Caesar [01:55]. By declaring Jesus as Lord, Peter made a radical statement: God is entirely in charge, and His authority doesn't rely on dethroning earthly powers [04:23]. The Unexpected "Messiah": For generations, the people awaited an anointed king from the bloodline of David who would conquer Rome and fix their earthly problems [06:16]. Jesus’s resurrection proved that God’s plan wasn't just to replace a flawed human government, but to establish an eternal, perfect reign [08:23]. Changing Our Thinking (Repentance): The crowd was devastated realizing they missed the truth, but Peter offered a comforting promise: change your direction, and the gift of the Holy Spirit is yours [09:53]. Modern Day Applications: * Checking Our Anxiety: Do our fears and worries betray a secret belief that Jesus isn't actually in charge? [10:48] Releasing the Weight of the World: Recognizing Jesus as the sole Messiah frees us from the temptation of looking for salvation in modern human leaders [12:16]. Retiring Our Savior Complex: We are relieved of the crushing burden of trying to be the "Messiah" who fixes and saves the people around us [12:41]. Whether you are carrying wounds, battling anxiety about the future, or feeling the heavy burden of trying to save someone you love, this message is a powerful reminder to turn around and rest in the One who is truly in charge.

    16 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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About

Welcome to the weekly sermon podcast of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Harlingen, Texas. Each episode features thoughtful, scripture-centered preaching from Father John, along with occasional guest preachers who bring fresh insight and perspective. Whether you’re part of our parish family or listening from afar, we hope these sermons inspire, encourage, and draw you closer to the heart of God throughout your week.

Information

  • Creator
    St. Alban's Episcopal Church
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © St. Alban's Episcopal Church
  • Show Website
    St. Alban's Sermons w/FatherJohn