SSJE Sermons

Without some degree of compassion in our hearts for other people, all people, we risk becoming the very thing we condemn. By prayerfully contemplating our "enemies" and ourselves through God’s eyes, Br. Curtis Almquist explains that we can tap into the wellspring of divine mercy that transforms our relationships.

What happens when, instead of seeing only failure in the expectations we impose on ourselves, we expect – that is, await with assured hope – the promise of God’s provision? Br. Lain Wilson explores here how the heavy weight of our own and others' expectations can hinder our spiritual lives. He invites us to lay aside these burdens and "wear the boat" of God's grace by trusting in Christ's easy yok...

Jesus declares forgiveness, dismisses shame, and invites moving with freedom. Reflecting on healing a paralyzed friend, Br. Luke Ditewig's sermon explores the persistent faith of those who carry us to Jesus.

The great irony is we can find ourselves feeling the most alive, present, authentic, honest, and real when death is close at hand. Reflecting on the martyrdom of Saints Peter and Paul, Br. Jack Crowley explores how we find God in our own experiences of powerlessness and "everyday martyrdom." He reminds us that difficult situations are crucibles where our faith is formed.

If the church is not involved politically – that is, involved in conversation and action around the principled exercise of power on behalf of the people – then the church is simply a bastion of nostalgia. Exploring the fundamental role of the Hebrew prophets, Br. Curtis Almquist argues that the church must remain politically engaged through the principled exercise of power to support those in need...

God’s invitation for us is to pull up the stakes and make our way to higher ground. Br. Jamie Nelson reflects on Jesus’ image of building on rock and connects it to the ongoing work of discernment in the Christian life.

God comes to us where it doesn't make sense, where we can't imagine what we could do. John the Baptist prepared the way for Christ, yet even he was surprised by how God fulfilled that promise. Br. Luke Ditewig's sermon reflects on the surprising ways God continues to work through unexpected people, circumstances, and grace.

Embracing the purpose for which we have been created is not only the way to abundant life, but also our deepest joy. Br. David Vryhof invites us to live as priests of creation—knowing, loving, and serving God by honoring the world and one another with reverence and care.

A monastery is a place where people with similar flavors of crazy – a craziness for God ‘wiser than human wisdom’ – find they belong to one another because they belong entirely to God. On the Feast of the Visitation, Br. Keith Nelson shares a powerful homily for Br. Jamie Robert Nelson's initial profession, exploring the courage it takes and the profound power of "belonging to God."

Healing can often take a backseat when it feels like catastrophe is driving. Exploring the courage required to "shout out in the dark," Br. Jack Crowley asks how we might orient ourselves toward a posture of healing in a culture often blinded by conflict and catastrophe.