SJLC Sermons SJLC

In this episode, we explore the power of transformation and resurrection as paralleled in the story of Jesus's resurrection and the transformation of caterpillars into butterflies. Using the biblical narration about the resurrection of Jesus as the foundational base, the lessons reach out to the wider context of life's constantly faced struggles and adversities.Mary Magdalene's visit to the tomb reveals a rolled stone and an empty tomb that sets off a series of events of disbelief. As the narration moves on with Mary's encounters with the believed gardener whom she eventually identifies as Jesus, an intense exploration into the concept of resurrection is undertaken. Drawing a parallel with the miraculous change from an earth-bound caterpillar into a beautiful, free-flying butterfly, we delve into the symbology of resurrection. This transformation from a restrictive existence to an enlightened and ascended state resonates with the biblical telling of Jesus's resurrection.The episode also emphasizes the human resistance to change and the disbelief often associated with miraculous transformations, just as disbelieving caterpillars might question the possibility of being reborn as a butterfly. Drawing many such parallels, the podcast inspires listeners to see, believe, and embrace the transformative powers that exist within the realms of faith and religion.In the backdrop of conflicts, wars, sickness, and hardships, this episode instills faith and hope by reciting a poem etched on the walls of a cellar in Cologne, Germany during World War II. The poetic lines - "I believe in the sun, even when it isn't shining. I believe in love, even when I do not feel it. I believe in God, even when God is silent" - reverberate with the theme of unyielding belief and faith, even in the face of adversities. With stories, parallels, biblical references, and even scientific exploration into the transformative journey of a caterpillar into a butterfly, this episode leaves the listener with deep reflections about the miraculous powers of transformation and resurrection that lie embedded within God's creation.This Easter episode is a heartfelt reminder of the enduring power of faith and the miraculous possibilities it holds. It not only uplifts the spirit but also affirms faith, providing a fitting tribute in observance of the resurrection of Christ.

This week, Guest Pastor Drew Yoos joins us from Lutheridge camps based in Arden, NC.

In this powerful sermon, we talk about faith and the redemption of mankind through Jesus as highlighted in the Gospel. When Jesus proclaimed "Just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up...," he was emphasizing the salvation of humanity. This sermon transcends from Jesus's teachings to a real life illustration that shows how easily we are plunged into the abyss of life, leaving us under the mercy of our faith, and bringing the critical question, "Am I going to be okay?" to bare.Much akin to life's precipices, this sermon delves into our human vulnerability, fear and existential anxiety. It accentuates the never-ending challenges of life and the uncontrollability of our world. Our world and our lives are often marked by suffering and brokenness, warped by the influence and power of sin. However, hearteningly enough, the sermon throws light on how struggle is only the start; redemption awaits beyond.While we might be dead through our trespasses and sins, as Paul affirms in his epistles, God in his rich mercy, renews us, breathing life into us through Christ. As we tread along with Christ during the season of Lent, contemplating his trials and sufferings, we start understanding our brokenness and the redemption awaiting us through Christ's resurrection. This sermon sheds light on how Jesus, through his love, healing, and sacrifice on the cross, restores not only us but our world.Throughout our journey of faith, we learn to put our trust in Jesus, the one who breathes life into us when we are entrapped in sin. Through this sermon, we embrace the divine conjunction of the cross and resurrection, understanding their significance in fostering our faith. Our faith saves us, providing a firm foundation against life's tribulations, and reveals the true and present reality of Jesus's resurrection.In this sermon, may you find peace, faith, and hope. Know that you are not alone in this journey. In all our life's precipices, let us look up to Jesus, who ushers in redemption when we are on the edge.