First Presbyterian Church Marietta, OH David Smith

John 9:1-12 Jesus encounters a man born blind. His disciples want to debate
the idea that sin caused the blindness. Jesus reveals their blindness by
instead acting to heal the man. Jesus challenges our own blindness and our
unwillingness to connect with people to provide healing and friendship.

Matthew 4:1-11 Jesus, when faced with the temptation to exercise his
privilege and power, resisted. He did this in the wilderness and at this
arrest, trial and crucifixion. Jesus showed us the example of giving up
privilege and power to help others. God will often call us to do the same.

Matthew 17:1-9 Jesus was transfigured with Moses and Elijah, both figures
who cared deeply for the people and their rights. Both also were flawed
individuals given to responding with violence to injustice. God can show us
where people suffer and God can work with us, even when we sin, just like
God worked with Moses and Elijah. We are able to effect change in the world
when we recognize God is in charge and follow Jesus in obedience by loving
others.

Isaiah 58:1-9a and Matthew 5:13-20 Isaiah and Jesus both challenged the
faithful to put righteousness into practice. To be salt and light disciples
is to make a difference in the lives of those around us.

Matthew 5:1-12 The Beatitudes call us to give up our power and privilege and befriend those who are suffering.

John 1:29-42 Jesus calls us to be fishers of people. We must drop our nets of sin - materialism, hatred, greed, and violence and take up God's nets of love and grace. When we cast those nets, we pull people into God's arms.