Sermons for a Critical Faith

In this sermon from December 17, 2023, the focus is on the concept of joy during the holiday season. While acknowledging that Christmas isn't a joyful time for everyone, Rev. Dr. Sue Coller encourages individuals to find signs of God's work in the world and to embrace the joy that comes from recognizing these signs, even in the midst of waiting for the fulfillment of God's promises. Th...

In this Sunday sermon by Rev. Dr. Sue Coller, the focus is on the theme of peace during the Advent season. Drawing from biblical passages in Isaiah and Luke, the sermon reflects on the challenges of finding peace in a troubled world, addressing issues such as violence, homelessness, and political divisions. Rev. Coller emphasizes the need to ground oneself in the midst of chaos and highlights the...

In this sermon, Reverend Dr. Sue Coller highlights the presence of chaos and despair in the world, using the examples of the ongoing war in Ukraine and the violence in Gaza. It challenges the notion of hope as a future-oriented concept and suggests that true hope lies in being mindful of God's presence in the midst of chaos and seeking signs of God's abundance in everyday life. The author...

In this sermon, Reverend Dr. Sue Coller challenges conventional beliefs about God's image as king and shepherd. She invites the audience to rethink their childhood image of God, which may no longer work for them, and to explore a wider range of meaningful and relevant descriptions of God for their life. November 26th, 2023 | "Rethinking Our Image of God: Embracing the Mystery and Complexi...

Join us as we listen to a sermon by Pastor Sue that emphasizes the importance of gratitude and shifting our mindset to focus on the abundance of blessings in our lives. She’ll highlight how being thankful can help us overcome self-pity and dissatisfaction and encourages us to recognize our belonging to God's family and the inheritance of God's power working through us to bring hope and mak...

Be the Light of the World! Join us for a thought-provoking sermon that delves into the heart of what it truly means to be a beacon of light. Explore the practical aspects of our calling as we discuss how to shine the light of God's love in our daily lives and everyday moments. Discover how to overcome obstacles that hinder us from shining Christ's light brightly, and uncover meaningful way...

"Join us on this powerful episode as we explore the stories that define our lives, and how we can choose to rewrite them with grace and forgiveness. Discover how to break free from diminishing narratives and create a legacy filled with love and transformation." November 5th, 2023 | "Unveiling the Power of Grace: Rewrite Your Story, Define Your Legacy" | Rev. Sue Coller | First...

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, explore the tension between self-interest and collective care in today's world. Discover how the ancient concept of the Year of Jubilee can inspire us in addressing historic injustices and lifting each other up . October 29th, 2023 | "Breaking the Chains: Embracing the Spirit of Jubilee in a World of Injustice"| Rev. Sue Coller | First Presb...

"Join us for an exploration of the power of letting go. Using DEUTERONOMY 15:1-11 as inspiration, this episode will delve into how debts and financial worries can diminish our lives and affect our relationships with others, and how letting go can create a more positive, uplifting world for all of us." October 22nd, 2023 | "Letting Go: The Power to Transform Lives and Shape Our World...

In light of the current wars in Israel and and other parts of the world, Nancy O'Brien and Sue Coller discuss the role of religion in wars and how we should respond. Have questions? You can email us at info@fpclincoln.org   ---------------   We're so glad you found us!   If you would like more information or to learn about what you watched today please fill out our connection card: https:/...

In this episode, we dive into Romans 12:1-8, where Paul challenges us to be transformed by renewing our minds and offering ourselves as living sacrifices to God. With a focus on unity and utilizing our unique gifts, we explore how this passage calls us to actively engage in the body of Christ and serve one another for the glory of God. October 15th, 2023 | "Betrayal, Redemption, and Divine Lo...

In this episode, we dive into Romans 12:1-8, where Paul challenges us to be transformed by renewing our minds and offering ourselves as living sacrifices to God. With a focus on unity and utilizing our unique gifts, we explore how this passage calls us to actively engage in the body of Christ and serve one another for the glory of God. October 8th, 2023 | "Transformed: Living Sacrifices and t...

For 25 years Minga Peru has been empowering women in the remote Amazon rainforest. Eliana Elias, co-founder and executive director, shares the amazing transformation that has been happening there. We were blessed to have her visit our church in October, 2023, to share the powerful work that God is doing there. For more info on Minga Peru, visit mingaperu.org Check out First Presbyterian Church at...

In this episode, Nancy O'Brien interviews Kara Hillhouse about her sermon "God at Work: The Construction Zone of Our Lives" and they discuss their experiences with hospice care. Want to watch the sermon that birthed this conversation? Here it is: https://youtu.be/2ByumtbpYuU?si=VClFmxe6hg5wnPEH Have questions? You can email us at info@fpclincoln.org --------------- We're so glad you found us! If y...

Join us on this episode as we explore the concept of God's transformative work in our lives. Reflecting on Philippians 2:1-13, we delve into the idea of being a work-in-progress and embracing the construction zone of our hearts, allowing God to refine and shape us into the best version of ourselves. October 1st, 2023 | "God at Work: The Construction Zone of our Lives" | Rev. Kara Hil...

In this episode, Nancy O'Brien interviews Kara Hillhouse about the power of forgiveness that knows no bounds. Want to watch the sermon that birthed this conversation? Here it is: https://youtu.be/cxXoSZxWwPY?si=qniG6H_cZI2Gau42 Have questions? You can email us at info@fpclincoln.org --------------- We're so glad you found us! If you would like more information or to learn about what you wa...

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, explore the powerful message of limitless forgiveness inspired by the story of an unfaithful servant. Discover how forgiveness is not only essential for community and Church life but also for our own spiritual well-being, as we delve into the profound implications of forgiveness without limits. September 24th, 2023 | Limitless Forgiveness: Unlocking the P...

After her sermon on Sunday, Beth Graverholt joined Nancy O'Brien to discuss Justice in Action, a group of faith-based organizations working to solve problems in our community. Those wanting to get involved are encouraged to attend one of the following listening sessions at First Presbyterian Church: Sept. 24, 2023, 11:15 am Oct. 15, 2023, 11:15 am Additionally, Beth encourages listeners who wa...

Join us on this thought-provoking podcast episode as we delve into Matthew 21:23-32, where Jesus challenges societal expectations and reveals the unexpected keys to entering God's kingdom. Explore the powerful message hidden in the parable of two sons and discover the transformative power of genuine obedience and humility. September 17th, 2023 - "The Surprising Path to God's Kingdom:...

In this episode, we dive into the challenging words of Jesus to his disciples in Matthew 16:21-28. We explore the cost of true discipleship and what it means to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. September 10th, 2023 - | From Bondage to Freedom: The Power of the Passover Lamb in Exodus 12:1-14 | Rev. Kara Hillhouse | First Presbyterian Church

In this episode, we dive into the challenging words of Jesus to his disciples in Matthew 16:21-28. We explore the cost of true discipleship and what it means to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Jesus. September 3rd, 2023 - "The Cost of True Discipleship: Denying Ourselves and Taking Up Our Cross" | Rev. Dr. Raymond Meester | First Presbyterian Church

In this week's conversation, Nancy O'Brien interviews Kara Hillhouse about the message of her sermon on Romans 12:1-8 and how we can bring our best selves to truly worship God. Check out the sermon that inspired this conversation here: https://youtu.be/iOvquQI9Bik?feature=shared We're so glad you found us! If you would like more information or to learn about what you watched today plea...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of worship and surrender as we explore Romans 12:1-8. Join us as we discover how offering our whole selves as living sacrifices, renewing our minds, and using our unique gifts can lead to a life of purposeful service within the body of Christ. August 27, 2023 - Transformed | Rev. Kara Hillhouse | First Presbyterian Church

In this discussion, Kara Hillhouse and Nancy O'Brien explore the source and purpose of our struggles and the role of faith and forgiveness as we work to overcome them. You can check out the sermon that inspired this conversation here: https://youtu.be/LPLfdE1Fo14 Have questions? You can email us at info@fpclincoln.org --------------- We're so glad you found us! If you would like more information o...

Join us in this thought-provoking podcast episode as we explore the story of Joseph and delve into deep theological questions about the relationship between good and evil, the role of God in causing bad things to happen, and the power of forgiveness. Discover how Joseph's journey teaches us valuable lessons about finding reconciliation and embracing God's plan even in the midst of life&#39...