Metropolitan AME Church Sermons

This week Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of conjuring hope, legacy, and resilience through biblical stories and personal reflections. He emphasizes the importance of passing the spirit of activism and faith to future generations, highlighting that someone else is always coming to carry the torch.This week's text - Matthew 17:1-9Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.9 As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus ordered them, “Tell no one about the vision until after the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.”Ket TopicsThe biblical story of Elijah and Elisha as a metaphor for passing the torchThe importance of imagination and conjuring in faith and activismThe legacy of prophets and leaders in confronting injusticeThe fleeting nature of human strength and the eternal coming of othersThe call to prepare the next generation of leaders and prophetsChapters00:00 Conjuring Conversations with Ancestors02:11 The Importance of Imagination in Faith05:31 The Legacy of Elijah and the Call to Action16:14 Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders25:34 The Double Portion of Spirit

In this week's sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the power of imagination in faith, the significance of ancestral conversations, and the symbolism of biblical stories like Moses in the basket and the burning bush. It encourages listeners to see God's presence in everyday life and to trust in divine guidance through challenges.Key TopicsThe role of imagination in understanding scripture and divine actsThe significance of ancestral conversations and spiritual guidanceBiblical stories as metaphors for resilience and divine interventionTakeawaysImagination is a holy and potent force that helps us understand and connect with God.Biblical stories are products of human imagination inspired by the Spirit, not just historical records.In challenging times, we are in a 'basket' but God will draw us out and show us the fire of the Spirit.This week's text - Matthew 17:1-3Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. Chapters00:00 The Power of Generosity and Community00:33 Conversations with Ancestors02:17 The Role of Imagination in Faith15:13 Baskets and Bushes: Lessons from Moses

In this week's sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the significance of ancestral connections and the importance of engaging with our ancestors for guidance and empowerment. He reflects on the transfiguration of Jesus, the politics of naming in Washington, D.C., and a concept used a means of creating a permanent underclass. Through personal anecdotes and historical references, he emphasizes the need for community and collective action in climbing the metaphorical mountains of life, urging listeners to seek wisdom from their ancestors to navigate contemporary challenges.This week's Scripture text: Matthew 17:1-8 Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. 2 And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became bright as light. 3 Suddenly there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will set up three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!” 6 When the disciples heard this, they fell to the ground and were overcome by fear. 7 But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Get up and do not be afraid.” 8 And when they raised their eyes, they saw no one except Jesus himself alone.Chapters00:00 Community and Generosity05:24 The Illusion of Freedom and Historical Figures09:13 Ancestral Energy and Its Impact12:51 Niggerization and the Creation of a Permanent Underclass15:29 Climbing Mountains Together19:48 Conversations with Ancestors24:41 The Power of Ancestral Guidance

This week Rev. Brandon Cox delivers a powerful message centered around the biblical story of a widow in need, drawing parallels to contemporary issues of economic injustice and the importance of community support. He emphasizes the need to cut through the noise of modern life to hear the voice of faith and the call to action. The sermon highlights the significance of recognizing our resources, the role of prophets in society, and the power of collective action in overcoming systemic challenges. Ultimately, it is a call to celebrate resilience and the borrowed vessels that have supported us in our journeys.This week's scripture - 2 Kings 4:1-7Now the wife of a member of the company of prophets cried to Elisha, “Your servant my husband is dead, and you know that your servant feared the Lord, but a creditor has come to take my two children as slaves.” 2 Elisha said to her, “What shall I do for you? Tell me, what do you have in the house?” She answered, “Your servant has nothing in the house except a jar of oil.” 3 He said, “Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels—and not just a few. 4 Then go in, shut the door behind you and your children, and start pouring into all these vessels; when each is full, set it aside.” 5 So she left him and shut the door behind her and her children; they kept bringing vessels to her, and she kept pouring. 6 When the vessels were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another vessel.” But he said to her, “There are no more.” Then the oil stopped flowing. 7 She came and told the man of God, and he said, “Go sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your children can live on the rest.”Chapters00:00 Generosity and Giving00:02 The Power of Scripture and Community02:52 Borrowed Vessels and Broken Systems08:49 Desperation and Faith in Crisis15:07 The Role of the Prophet20:04 Divine Math and Community Support23:55 Celebrating Resilience and Hope

In this powerful sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV emphasizes the present nature of God, asserting that 'God is' rather than 'God was' or 'God will be.' He explores the significance of memory in faith, the importance of recognizing God as our refuge and strength in times of trouble, and the idea that God is our ally in life's challenges. His message encourages listeners to find comfort and strength in the present reality of God's presence and support.This week's text - Psalm 46:1-5:God is our refuge and strength,    a very present help in trouble.2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change,    though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea,3 though its waters roar and foam,    though the mountains tremble with its tumult. Selah4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,    the holy habitation of the Most High.5 God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be movedChapters00:00 Honoring History and Social Justice02:01 God Is: Present Tense Theology22:08 God as Our Ally and Strength

This week Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of worship, community, and the ongoing act of creation by God. He reflects on the importance of revisiting the creation story, emphasizing that God is not finished creating and that we are called to be co-creators in the world. Rev. Lamar addresses the chaos present in society and personal lives, reminding listeners that God hovers over chaos, bringing order and hope. He encourages active participation in God's creation, urging individuals to embrace their roles in shaping a better world.This week's scripture - Genesis 1:1-5When God began to create the heavens and the earth, 2 the earth was complete chaos, and darkness covered the face of the deep, while a wind from God swept over the face of the waters. 3 Then God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. 4 And God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. 5 God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day.Chapters00:00 The Power of Worship and Community59:01 Reflecting on Creation and Our Place in It01:02:12 The Creation Story: A Different Narrative01:03:40 God's Ongoing Creation: A Call to Action01:12:34 Riding the Chaos: God’s Presence in Turmoil01:24:15 Embracing Our Role as Co-Creators with God

This week Rev. Kendal McBroom explores the Beatitudes and their radical implications for justice, community, and faith. He emphasizes the importance of truth-telling, the power of resilience, and the call to build a new world rooted in love and dignity. Through the lens of the blues tradition, he highlights the significance of honesty in the face of suffering and the transformative power of God's presence in our lives.This week's scripture: Matthew 5:1-12When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. 2 And he began to speak and taught them, saying:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.5 “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.11 “Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.Chapters00:00 Scripture Reading and Sermon Introduction00:29 Sermon: The Beatitudes and Spiritual Poverty04:48 The Power of Blues and Restraint07:27 Threshold Moments and Honesty08:38 Blessings in Brokenness10:08 Truth-Telling and Resistance12:24 Building a New World13:25 Radical Intent of the Beatitudes15:16 Reversing the Narrative17:50 Interdependence and Mourning20:27 Mercy and Peacemaking21:57 The Cost of Faithfulness23:56 The Presence of God in Suffering25:43 Healing Through Honesty27:21 The Table of Grace29:22 Invitation to Participate in Change

This week Rev. Cozette Thomas explores the themes of calling, faith, and the Kingdom of Heaven as presented in the book of Matthew. She emphasizes the importance of remembering God's promises, the role of Jesus as a light in darkness, and the call to action for individuals to respond to their own callings in the context of community and faith. The message is one of hope, urging listeners to recognize their skills and purpose in the face of current challenges.This week's scripture - Matthew 4:12-23:12 Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. 13 He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, 14 so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled:15 “Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali,    on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the gentiles—16 the people who sat in darkness    have seen a great light,and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death    light has dawned.”17 From that time Jesus began to proclaim, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”18 As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishers. 19 And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of people.” 20 Immediately they left their nets and followed him. 21 As he went from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John, in the boat with their father Zebedee, mending their nets, and he called them. 22 Immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him.23 Jesus went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.Chapters00:00 Scripture Reading and Sermon Introduction00:05 The Call of Jesus and Its Implications15:01 Responding to the Call in Today's Context19:23 Conclusion and Sending Forth

This week guest preacher, Rev. Thomas A. Brackeen, Jr. draws from the biblical story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to address contemporary issues of oppression and resistance. He emphasizes the importance of standing firm in one's beliefs, especially in the face of societal pressures that demand conformity. The sermon highlights how empires use various sounds and messages to control individuals, urging listeners to recognize and resist these influences. Rev. Brackeen calls for solidarity among communities, stressing that true liberation comes from collective action and remembrance of one's identity and heritage.Rev. Brackeen's message resonates deeply with the struggles faced by marginalized communities today, as he connects historical injustices to modern-day challenges. He encourages the audience to remember their roots and to stand together against oppressive systems, asserting that faith is not merely about seeking personal safety but about communal resilience and courage. The sermon culminates in a powerful declaration: "We will not bow," reinforcing the call to resist injustice and uphold dignity in the face of adversity.This week's text - Daniel 3:13-2313 Then Nebuchadnezzar in furious rage commanded that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be brought in, so they brought those men before the king. 14 Nebuchadnezzar said to them, “Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods and you do not worship the golden statue that I have set up? 15 Now if you are ready, when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, drum, and entire musical ensemble, you should fall down and worship the statue that I have made. But if you do not worship, you shall immediately be thrown into a furnace of blazing fire, and who is the god who will deliver you out of my hands?”16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to present a defense to you in this matter. 17 If our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire and out of your hand, O king, let him deliver us. 18 But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods and we will not worship the golden statue that you have set up.”19 Then Nebuchadnezzar was so filled with rage against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego that his face was distorted. He ordered the furnace heated up seven times more than was customary 20 and ordered some of the strongest guards in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and to throw them into the furnace of blazing fire. 21 So the men were bound, still wearing their tunics, their trousers, their hats, and their other garments, and they were thrown into the furnace of blazing fire. 22 Because the king’s command was urgent and the furnace was so overheated, the raging flames killed the men who lifted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. 23 But the three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down, bound, into the furnace of blazing fire.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:09 Scripture Reading: Daniel 304:06 We Will Not Bow: The Message Begins05:43 The Sound of the Empire07:51 Living Under Pressure12:07 Resistance and Identity14:17 The Role of Community17:50 Faith and Liberation22:11 God in the Fire24:36 Building Fire-Tested Communities26:08 Conclusion and Call to Action

This week guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Cassandra Gould emphasizes the importance of faith, community, and remembrance. She reflects on personal testimony and the collective journey of the church, urging listeners to 'go back and get' the stories, memories, and legacies that shape their identity. Drawing on the concept of Sankofa, she highlights the need to reclaim narratives and build a future rooted in the wisdom of the past. The message serves as a call to action for individuals to engage with their communities and ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten.This week's text - Joshua 3:14-1714 When the people set out from their tents to cross over the Jordan, the priests bearing the ark of the covenant were in front of the people. 15 Now the Jordan overflows all its banks throughout the time of harvest. So when those who bore the ark had come to the Jordan and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the edge of the water, 16 the waters flowing from above stood still, rising up in a single heap far off at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan, while those flowing toward the sea of the Arabah, the Dead Sea, were wholly cut off. Then the people crossed over opposite Jericho. 17 While all Israel were crossing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firmly on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan, until the entire nation finished crossing over the Jordan.

In this Epiphany sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the profound themes of the Word of God, the necessity for a larger narrative in 2026, and the importance of songs in expressing grief and hope. He emphasizes that God is not only a distant figure but is present in our lives, embodying flesh and living among us. The message calls for a recognition of God's glory amidst the struggles of life and encourages individuals to sing their own songs of faith and resilience. "This Little Light of Mine!"This week's text - John 1:1-18:In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.14 The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.15 (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’”) 16 Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. 17 For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.Chapters00:00 The Power of Love and Sadness00:03 In the Beginning: The Word and Its Significance03:04 A Song Big Enough for 202608:51 The Need for Songs in Troubling Times17:04 God Becomes Flesh: The Implications19:31 God's Presence in Our Neighborhoods

In this first Sunday after Christmas, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of grace, control, and the enduring light of hope represented by stars. He reflects on the biblical story of Herod and the Magi, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the forces of oppression in our world while also celebrating the grace that sustains us. The message encourages listeners to seek the light of truth and creativity amidst the darkness of control and fear, ultimately reminding them of their own potential to shine as stars in the world.This week's text - Matthew 2:1-12:In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, magi from the east came to Jerusalem, 2 asking, “Where is the child who has been born king of the Jews? For we observed his star in the east and have come to pay him homage.” 3 When King Herod heard this, he was frightened, and all Jerusalem with him, 4 and calling together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. 5 They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea, for so it has been written by the prophet:6 ‘And you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,    are by no means least among the rulers of Judah,for from you shall come a ruler    who is to shepherd my people Israel.’ ”7 Then Herod secretly called for the magi and learned from them the exact time when the star had appeared. 8 Then he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word so that I may also go and pay him homage.” 9 When they had heard the king, they set out, and there, ahead of them, went the star that they had seen in the east, until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. 11 On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasure chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road.Chapters00:00 Worship and Musical Celebration00:28 Celebrating Community and Grace01:39 The Birth of the Messiah: A Reflection on Matthew 203:58 Understanding Herod's Control and Fear07:08 The Nature of Truth and Imagination09:41 Herod's Legacy: The Many Faces of Oppression14:22 The Fear of the Powerful18:41 Worship: A Double-Edged Sword21:29 The Uncontrollable Star27:42 The Enduring Light of Hope29:45 Becoming Stars: Our Role in the World

In this powerful sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of Christmas, literacy, and the importance of making room for the marginalized in our communities. He emphasizes the need to understand the deeper meanings behind the Christmas story and challenges listeners to reflect on their responsibilities to others. The message calls for a welcoming spirit that embraces all, especially those who are often overlooked or rejected by society.This week's text - Matthew 1:18-2118 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be pregnant from the Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to divorce her quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”Chapters00:00 The Precious Lamb of God00:06 Getting Your Lesson: A Cultural Reflection01:34 Understanding Literacy and Education07:48 The Interruption of Christmas19:28 Making Room for All: The True Meaning of Christmas

In this powerful sermon, Bro. Alex Blocker emphasizes the importance of children in the church and society, advocating for their voices to be heard and their needs to be met. He discusses the current state of childhood in America, the necessity of adult advocacy, and the call for young people to be included in decision-making processes. Drawing parallels to Jesus' teachings, he highlights the need for a community that embraces and empowers children, urging adults to remove barriers that prevent children from accessing the kingdom of God.This week's text - Proverbs 24:3-43 By wisdom a house is built,    and by understanding it is established;4 by knowledge the rooms are filled    with all precious and pleasant riches.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgments36:31 The Importance of Children in the Kingdom39:20 Understanding Childhood in America43:47 The Need for Adult Advocacy49:44 Empowering Young Voices in Decision Making55:00 Jesus and the Embrace of Vulnerability01:00:15 The Call to Action for Children and Youth

This Second Sunday of Advent, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of repentance and the cultural strangeness embodied by John the Baptist. He emphasizes the importance of embracing the unconventional and the transformative nature of true repentance, which extends beyond personal feelings to encompass political and social dimensions. Rev. Lamar calls for a return to the wilderness, where the strange and marginalized voices can be heard, and encourages listeners to welcome the 'strange' in their communities and churches.This week's text Matthew 3:1-6:In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, 2 “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” 3 This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said,“The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:‘Prepare the way of the Lord;    make his paths straight.’ ”4 Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey. 5 Then Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region around the Jordan were going out to him, 6 and they were baptized by him in the River Jordan, confessing their sins.Chapters00:00 The Call of John the Baptist17:55 The Nature of Repentance and Change23:42 Embracing the Strange in Faith

This week Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of Advent, the uncertainty of the coming of the Lord, and the importance of staying awake and prepared for God's presence in our lives. He emphasizes that Advent is not merely a preparation for Christmas but a time to recognize the continuous coming of the Son of Man. Rev. Lamar highlights the interruptions God brings into our lives, the necessity of being ready for both joy and pain, and the assurance that God will always come to us, even in our darkest moments.This week's text Matthew 24:36-4436 “But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 37 For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. 38 For as in the days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, 39 and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so, too, will be the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Then two will be in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken, and one will be left. 42 Keep awake, therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. 43 But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. 44 Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.Chapters00:00 Scripture Reading: The Coming of the Lord01:56 The Call to Be Ready08:47 God's Interruptions in Our Lives15:46 Witnessing the Coming of the Lord

In this week's sermon, Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of gratitude, God's goodness, and the complexities of mercy through the lens of the Prodigal Son parable. He challenges the audience to reflect on their relationship with God, especially when faced with feelings of anger or resentment towards divine mercy. The sermon emphasizes the importance of embracing God's love and the need to let go of judgment towards others, highlighting that God's grace is available to all, regardless of their past actions.This week's text Luke 15:11-32:11 Then Jesus said, “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the wealth that will belong to me.’ So he divided his assets between them. 13 A few days later the younger son gathered all he had and traveled to a distant region, and there he squandered his wealth in dissolute living. 14 When he had spent everything, a severe famine took place throughout that region, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to one of the citizens of that region, who sent him to his fields to feed the pigs. 16 He would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, and no one gave him anything. 17 But when he came to his senses he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have bread enough and to spare, but here I am dying of hunger! 18 I will get up and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired hands.” ’ 20 So he set off and went to his father. But while he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him. 21 Then the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his slaves, ‘Quickly, bring out a robe—the best one—and put it on him; put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 And get the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate, 24 for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ And they began to celebrate.25 “Now his elder son was in the field, and as he came and approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the slaves and asked what was going on. 27 He replied, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf because he has got him back safe and sound.’ 28 Then he became angry and refused to go in. His father came out and began to plead with him. 29 But he answered his father, ‘Listen! For all these years I have been working like a slave for you, and I have never disobeyed your command, yet you have never given me even a young goat so that I might celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came back, who has devoured your assets with prostitutes, you killed the fatted calf for him!’ 31 Then the father said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and has come to life; he was lost and has been found.’ ”Chapters00:00 Sounds of Gratitude01:04:08 Lessons from the Prodigal Son01:08:09 When God's Goodness Makes You Mad01:15:33 The Prodigal Sons and a Prodigal God01:22:31 Embracing God's Love01:28:04 Exorcising the Eldest Son's Anger

Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the themes of oppression, community, and liberation through the lens of biblical parables. He draws parallels between the sharecroppers in the vineyard and sheepdogs, emphasizing the need for unity and the rejection of divisive mentalities that perpetuate systemic oppression. The sermon calls for a collective awakening to the shared struggles of marginalized communities and a commitment to mutual support and liberation.This week's scripture: Mark 12:1-12Then he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a fence around it, dug a pit for the winepress, and built a watchtower; then he leased it to tenants and went away. 2 When the season came, he sent a slave to the tenants to collect from them his share of the produce of the vineyard. 3 But they seized him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4 And again he sent another slave to them; this one they beat over the head and insulted. 5 Then he sent another, and that one they killed. And so it was with many others; some they beat, and others they killed. 6 He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7 But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ 8 So they seized him, killed him, and threw him out of the vineyard. 9 What then will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not read this scripture:‘The stone that the builders rejected    has become the cornerstone;11 this was the Lord’s doing,    and it is amazing in our eyes’?”12 When they realized that he had told this parable against them, they wanted to arrest him, but they feared the crowd. So they left him and went awayChapters00:00 The Parable of the Vineyard02:23 The Sheepdog Analogy05:33 The Dynamics of Oppression08:21 The Role of the Sharecroppers11:29 The Call for Unity14:32 Rejecting the Sheepdog Mentality17:43 The Rejected Stone20:41 Building a New Reality23:34 The Power of Community

This week Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the identity of Jesus through the lens of his mother, Miriam. He emphasizes the importance of understanding Jesus' context and the rebellious nature of Miriam, who defies societal norms. Rev. Lamar discusses the significance of the 'womb song' as a metaphor for the nurturing and rebellious spirit that shapes identity and faith. He calls for social upheaval and liberation, urging listeners to remember their ancestral roots and the promises made to them. The conversation culminates in a call to action, encouraging individuals to embrace their identity and participate in the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom.This week's text, Luke 1:46-5546 And Mary said,“My soul magnifies the Lord,47     and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,48 for he has looked with favor on the lowly state of his servant.    Surely from now on all generations will call me blessed,49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,    and holy is his name;50 indeed, his mercy is for those who fear him    from generation to generation.51 He has shown strength with his arm;    he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.52 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones    and lifted up the lowly;53 he has filled the hungry with good things    and sent the rich away empty.54 He has come to the aid of his child Israel,    in remembrance of his mercy,55 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,    to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”Chapters00:00 Faith and Trust in God00:07 Contextualizing Jesus03:02 The Significance of Mary06:58 Miriam: The Rebel Mother15:04 The Womb Song of Humanity21:36 Social Upheaval and Jesus' Message

This week Rev. William H. Lamar IV explores the profound significance of dreams in the context of spirituality, community, and liberation. He emphasizes the importance of gratitude, understanding Jesus' purpose, and the role of dreams in guiding individuals and communities toward freedom. Rev. Lamar highlights the biblical figure Joseph as a dreamer who played a crucial role in protecting Jesus, and he calls for a church that nurtures and cultivates dreams for a better future.This week's scripture - Matthew 2:1313 Now after they had left, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there until I tell you, for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.”Chapters00:00 Support for the Vulnerable01:07 Jesus and the Table of Provision03:21 The Power of Dreams06:50 Breaking Free from Western Epistemology10:08 Dreams in Times of Crisis14:06 The Dream of Constantine20:20 Liberation from Constantinian Captivity22:14 Joseph: A Dreamer in the Lineage of Dreams29:08 Cultivating a Dreaming Community