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Proper 14A Scripture:
Notes from Fr. Cathie Caimano’s sermon:
Two Scripture stories/one theme - ‘It’s simple, but not easy’
Elijah in the cave (1 Kings).
Elijah is MAD. EVERYONE’s out to get him. He killed 100 prophets of Baal, and now Jezebel is going to get him. He’s trying to be faithful but everyone’s getting mad!
‘still small voice’ or the ‘sound of sheer silence’
God says: ’Get back out there and trust me’
The Gospel story is much more familiar - but easily misunderstood
Jesus walking on water
there’s a boat, they’re afraid, Jesus comes forward to them on the water
Peter decides to try!
Jesus says: ‘Get back in here and trust me’
What is Jesus really saying?
I don’t think Jesus is saying ‘you of little faith’ because Peter failed to walk on water!
He’s saying ‘why did you doubt I was coming to save you?’
‘Lord, if it is you’ - Peter is testing Jesus!
And God says, ‘even when it’s hard, know that I’m there’
A couple of things the stories have in common
A ‘great wind’‘
But God was not in the wind - in the drama (God is there when the drama is over).
Both Elijah and the disciples were in danger while doing their jobs
Sometimes; when things are bad, we have to take action.
and sometimes we’ve got to sit tight. and trust God.
‘I’m God, and you’re not’
That’s the Good News!
Elijah goes back and does what he should (and he never dies)
Peter gets the keys to the kingdom (and his legend never dies)
they both wavered in their faith - but they both, in the end, trusted God
Preachers always preach to themselves - I need to hear this!
I want to give God suggestions, map out a plan. I want a big sign.
But here’s the still, small voice instead:
God does not say - if only you had faith, you could do superhuman feats.
God says: ‘If only you had faith, you would know I am always with you.’
We’re glad you’re here, and we’re already praying for you.
In fact, if you have a prayer request, you can make it right here:
Join us for worship on Sundays at 10:30am: 930 South Main Street Salisbury, NC 28144.
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St. Paul’s is a small town church with a big heart for the Gospel.
Join us for worship - Sundays at 10:30am
We’re located at:
930 South Main Street
Salisbury, NC 28144
(704) 637-9404
stpaulsalisbury.org
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