Rev'd Up for Sunday

St. Mark's New Canaan
  • 5.0 (14)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Listen along as the priests of St. Mark's, New Canaan (Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy) gear up for Sunday. Each week the preacher will lead a discussion of the scriptures of the day. Sometimes irreverent, often witty, always filled with love for our Lord: don’t miss these conversations about the questions, mysteries, and hope these three find in the Bible. 

  1. 2D AGO

    "Salt of the Earth/A Light of the World" Matthew 5:13-20 | Episode 243

    This week, Jesus gives a lesson on salt, light, and fulfillment. Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy expand on what it means to be the salt of the earth and a light of the world, how we live into being God's image-bearers, and how Jesus isn't presenting a conflict with the Torah but an evolution of it. Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application Jesus declares, “You are the salt of the earth” and “You are the light of the world.” What stands out to you about Jesus using identity language (“you are”) rather than commands (“you must”)?Salt and light were precious and not easily replaced in Jesus’ time. How does that historical context change the way you hear these metaphors today?Light is meant to be visible, yet later in Matthew Jesus warns against public displays of piety. How do you navigate the tension between letting your light shine and practicing humility? Personal Reflection Where do you feel most “salty” right now—adding flavor, preservation, or wisdom to the world around you? Where do you feel you’ve gone a bit bland or blended in?The conversation emphasizes that salt and light exist for others, not for themselves. Who benefits from your faith when you’re living it well?Jesus raises the bar beyond rule-following to heart transformation. Where do you notice Jesus inviting you beyond mere “compliance” toward deeper love, mercy, or reconciliation? Broader Spiritual Considerations Matthew emphasizes earth as the arena of God’s mission, not something to escape. How does this shape a Christian response to creation care, justice, and embodied faith?The clergy frame Jesus’ teaching as part of an inner Jewish conversation about the law. How might this awareness deepen Christian humility and resist anti-Jewish readings of Scripture?The discussion highlights both encouragement and judgment in Jesus’ words. How do you hear this passage as both promise and challenge?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    47 min

  2. JAN 27

    "The Culture of a New Kingdom" Matthew 5:1-12 | Episode 242

    This week, we open the Sermon on the Mount by lingering with the Beatitudes, not as a checklist or virtue chart, but as an immersion into the inner life of Jesus and the culture of the Kingdom of Heaven. Peter Walsh and John Kennedy explore Jesus as the new Moses and the radical reorientation of values that disciples are invited to inhabit. Plus, how does this teaching challenge our concept of happiness? Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application The Beatitudes are presented as a description of Jesus himself. How does that change the way you hear or read them?Which Beatitude feels most countercultural in our current climate?How does viewing the Beatitudes as an “initiation guide for new residents of the Kingdom” affect how you imagine Christian identity? Personal Reflection Which Beatitude feels most unsettling or challenging to you right now, and why?Can you recall a moment when an experience of God changed how you saw the world or cared about it?How do you respond to the idea that discipleship shapes who you are before what you do? Broader Spiritual Considerations How might the Church lose its witness when it blesses the culture instead of embodying the Kingdom Jesus describes? In what ways do the Beatitudes redefine happiness, success, and strength?What practices might help individuals and congregations “live from the inside” of Jesus’ teaching rather than analyzing it from the outside?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    39 min

  3. JAN 20

    "Follow Me" Matthew 4:12-23 | Episode 241

    This week, we find Jesus calling his first disciples. Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy dive into just how much these fishermen were leaving behind, why they would follow Jesus, and what life they were taking on by putting aside another. Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application The clergy describe this passage as a “hinge” in Matthew’s Gospel. What feels like it is turning or shifting here in Jesus’ story, and why might that matter for how we read what comes next?The episode spends time unpacking the idea that “geography is theology.” Where Jesus goes carries meaning. Where do you notice God showing up in unexpected or overlooked places today?The call of the disciples is immediate and costly. What do you think Matthew wants his original audience to hear in the disciples’ willingness to leave work, family, and stability? Personal Reflection The fishermen are ordinary people, not religious elites. How does that shape your understanding of who Jesus calls and equips for meaningful work?“Follow me” is not just an invitation to believe, but to reorient one’s entire life. What would following Jesus look like as a concrete reorientation in your current season?The discussion explores Jesus as deeply rooted in vocation rather than driven by self-protection. How do you discern the difference between vocation and self-preservation in your own decisions? Broader Spiritual Considerations Fish and fishing are explored as rich, layered symbols, connected to chaos, depth, and drawing hidden life into the light. How does this imagery expand your understanding of what it means to be “fishers of people”?Jesus proclaims the kingdom as already near and then demonstrates it through healing, teaching, and compassion. Why might lived mercy be essential before deep transformation can take root?If Matthew’s Gospel is helping people rebuild their faith without a physical temple, what practices today help us recognize God dwelling among us and within us?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    43 min

  4. JAN 13

    "What's in a Name?" John 1:29-42 | Episode 240

    In this week's Gospel text, Jesus is named "The Lamb of God" and Simon becomes Cephas/Peter. Elizabeth Garnsey and John Kennedy dive into these different names and the symbolism found in their stories. Plus, John offers a hot take on Anselm's theory of atonement and how it might've been misunderstood all along. Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application Names matter deeply in this passage: Jesus is named, Simon is renamed Peter, and John the Baptizer points away from himself. How do names and labels shape identity, vocation, and calling in our own lives?Jesus does not explain, persuade, or argue. He invites. How does “come and see” challenge modern expectations that faith should be fully explained or defended upfront?Discipleship in John is deeply imitative. We become who we follow. Who or what do you notice shaping your habits, values, and imagination right now? Personal Reflection Which title for Jesus in this passage resonates most with you right now, and why? Lamb of God, Rabbi, Messiah, Son of God, Light, Word?What does “abiding” mean in your daily life? Where do you sense yourself truly dwelling, spiritually or emotionally?Can you recall a moment when being “seen” or “named” by someone changed how you understood yourself? Broader Spiritual Considerations How does rethinking sacrifice reshape our image of God? What might it mean to say God absorbs violence rather than demands it?The discussion frames sin less as rule-breaking and more as separation, division, and “us vs. them.” How does this understanding change repentance or reconciliation?If Jesus shows us what true humanity looks like, what habits, assumptions, or behaviors might need to be unlearned to follow him more fully?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    39 min

  5. JAN 6

    "Jesus and John at the Jordan" Matthew 3:13-17 | Episode 239

    If John the Baptist was calling for a baptism of repentance, why did Jesus insist on being baptized? This week, Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy focus on the purpose of Jesus' baptism, the importance of it being in the Jordan River, and how this is a story about doing things outside of the establishment. Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application The clergy describe Jesus’ baptism as both continuity with John’s movement and a decisive shift away from it. Where do you see that continuity, and where do you see the break?In what ways does this baptism scene function as the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, vocation, or “handing over” of authority from John to Jesus?How does the idea of baptism as participation in God’s larger salvific plan challenge more individualistic understandings of faith? Personal Reflection Which image from the episode resonates most with you right now: water, Spirit, voice, wilderness, or new creation? Why?How do you respond to the idea that becoming faithful is an ongoing process of “becoming and becoming,” rather than a completed state?When you hear the words “beloved” and “well pleased,” do they feel earned, aspirational, or freely given? How does that shape your understanding of God? Broader Spiritual Considerations Fr. John raises concerns about how religious movements can become institutionalized and lose their radical edge. Where do you see this risk in the church today?What does Jesus’ baptism suggest about leadership, especially spiritual leadership, in contrast to power rooted in authority, violence, or control?How might this passage challenge churches to rethink baptism not just as initiation, but as vocation, solidarity, and mission?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    30 min

  6. 12/31/2025

    "We Three Kings" Matthew 2:1-12 | Episode 238

    How could one small baby threaten a king? This week, Peter Walsh and John Kennedy read about the wise men, Herod, and the baby who changed their lives. What can we learn from Jesus' humble beginnings, how do scholars try to explain the Christmas star, and how does the beginning of Jesus' life foreshadow the end of it? Questions for Further Discussion: Themes and Application Peter and John describe the story of the Magi as subversive and radical, not merely sweet or sentimental. What makes this story politically and spiritually disruptive rather than cozy or nostalgic?The Magi are Gentiles who recognize Jesus before many of his own people do. Why might Matthew highlight outsiders as the first to honor Jesus, and what does this suggest about who “belongs” in God’s story?Geography is described as theology. Bethlehem, Nazareth, Egypt, Jerusalem. How does place matter in this story, and what do these locations communicate about power, humility, and God’s purposes? Personal Reflection The Magi are attentive both to external signs (the star) and internal guidance (dreams). In your own life, which is easier for you to notice: outer signs or inner promptings? Why?The phrase “they were overwhelmed with joy” stands out in a violent and fearful context. What does joy look like when the world is still dangerous or unjust?The Magi literally change direction, returning home “by another road.” Have you ever experienced an encounter with God that sent you back into your life changed, even subtly? Broader Spiritual Considerations This story sets empire and kingdom in contrast. How does Matthew challenge conventional ideas of power, authority, and success?The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh echo kingship, worship, and burial. How does holding Christmas and the cross together deepen or complicate Christian faith?Epiphany is about revelation. What does this story suggest about where and how God chooses to be revealed in the world today?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    35 min

  7. 12/23/2025

    "Captivated By the Mystery" John 1:1-18 | Episode 237

    Let's begin at the beginning! Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy journey through the prologue of John's Gospel. They discuss the importance of space and place for John's community after the temple fell, how this text helps us look higher to God while also seeing the ways God is here with us, and what it means to be children of God. Questions for Further Discussion: Themes & Application The clergy describe John’s Prologue as poetry, theology, and cosmic vision rather than narrative. How does this shape the way you hear or preach this text compared to the Christmas stories in Matthew or Luke?Elizabeth highlights the Prologue’s roots in Jewish wisdom literature and Genesis, especially in the context of Jewish Christians facing displacement and exclusion. How does this historical lens deepen or complicate the message of “the Word made flesh”?John emphasizes Jesus as the new “dwelling place” of God’s glory, replacing the temple and tabernacle imagery. What does it mean to understand Jesus as the locus of God’s presence rather than a place? Personal Reflection The clergy repeatedly name a sense of awe, mystery, and even silence as appropriate responses to this text. When was the last time Scripture left you feeling undone or speechless?Peter speaks about a “divine deficit disorder” in modern spirituality. Do you resonate more with transcendence (God is beyond everything) or immanence (God is here with us) in your spiritual life? Which do you feel you may be neglecting?John raises the question of what it means to “become” children of God if we already belong to God. What practices or choices help you live more fully into that identity? Broader Spiritual Considerations  The conversation explores logos as a counter-logic to violence, division, and domination. How does John’s vision of the Word challenge cultural narratives built on power, fear, or exclusion?The clergy discuss enlightenment as both seeing and participating in divine life. How does this understanding of spiritual “illumination” compare with other religious or cultural views of enlightenment?Many spiritual traditions wrestle with the relationship between spirit and matter. How does this text speak into that question?Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    38 min

  8. 12/19/2025

    "Enrollments, and Shepherds, and Angels. Oh My!" Luke 2:1-20 | Episode 236 (Christmas)

    Another dive into the Christmas story from Luke's Gospel highlights some important details we sometimes miss. Peter Walsh and Elizabeth Garnsey reflect on the historical accuracy of the enrollment, the importance of Bethlehem as the city of David, the symbolism of the swaddling cloths, and the powerful statement made by including the shepherds. Plus, does this story prove we need more Mary in the Advent lectionary? Themes & Application  Unexpected Signs and Places of Salvation: A manger rather than palace; shepherds rather than priests or rulers. Where might God be breaking in where we least expect today?Witness and Response: How might we imitate the shepherds’ movement from encounter to proclamation?Cosmic significance within everyday life: The “heavenly host” meets ordinary shepherds. What implications does this have for how we view our most ordinary contexts? Personal Reflection Pondering Like Mary: Mary “treasured and pondered” the events in her heart. Where in your life do you sense God inviting you to ponder rather than act quickly?Signs and Confirmation: Elizabeth notes Mary needed confirmation from others. Have you ever received reassurance that strengthened faith? What form did it take?Powerlessness and Vulnerability: The conversation reflects on vulnerability symbolized in the infant Christ. Where is vulnerability present in your own relationships or community, and how do you respond? Broader Spiritual Considerations  Mary as theologian and first interpreter: Peter proposes the infancy narratives may be rooted in Mary’s memory and theological reflection. How does imagining Mary as interpreter rather than passive mother expand how we read Scripture?Divine orchestration vs. human agency: Caesar’s decree unwittingly serves God’s purposes. How should Christians understand history where divine purpose transcends human intent?The hiddenness of God’s action: Why might God choose to act in humility rather than spectacle? What does this reveal about divine character and holiness? Want to have your question or comment featured on the podcast? Leave a voicemail on our Rev'd Up hotline! Call (203) 442-5002. Learn more about St. Mark's at https://www.stmarksnewcanaan.org

    39 min
See All (245)

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Listen along as the priests of St. Mark's, New Canaan (Peter Walsh, Elizabeth Garnsey, and John Kennedy) gear up for Sunday. Each week the preacher will lead a discussion of the scriptures of the day. Sometimes irreverent, often witty, always filled with love for our Lord: don’t miss these conversations about the questions, mysteries, and hope these three find in the Bible. 

Information

  • Creator
    St. Mark's New Canaan
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    245
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Rev'd Up for Sunday
  • Show Website
    Rev'd Up for Sunday

You Might Also Like