Today’s Sermon in a Nutshell:

Today’s Sermon in a Nutshell:

When a parent tells a bedtime story, it usually starts with, “Once upon a time...” When someone tells a joke, it is generally preface by a scenario, “A priest, a pastor, and a rabbi walk into a restaurant...” And when a priest gives a homily, he often introduces it by saying, “In today’s gospel lesson...” This is because the Scriptures are based on teachings, lessons for spiritual advancement.  

Contrary to what many believe, the Gospels are not about the life of Christ, the travels of Christ, the miracles of Christ, or even people’s interactions with Christ; they are a collection of Jesus Christ’s teachings; teachings by word and example, and meant to inspire, reinforce, and embolden our faith. Anything other which the evangelists include simply adds context and color to those teachings and displays God’s power and authority.

Thus, the lesson for today is about faith: “According to your faith let it be done to you” (Matthew 9:29). Everything in one’s life is inextricably connected to their faith, and the blessings we receive are in direct proportion to our faith. Therefore, the depth or “measure” of our faith denotes the importance and degree of one’s confidence that our Lord has the ability and power to bestow grace and healing, as well as the forgiveness of sins. Our faith is not the power behind God’s grace, but the conduit by which it flows.

Fr. John