What does it mean to say "all are welcome"? Do we really mean it? Or do we put conditions and qualifications on it. Sometimes, in fact, it's necessary to accept that welcoming all will mean that some have to be told to leave because their behavior is hateful or intolerant of others. Jesus provides an example of this in his repeated attendance at parties with "sinners and tax collectors" where he draws the ire of religious conservatives for mingling with an unclean crowd. But in order to show grace to one group, he had to accept rejection from his fellow religious leaders.

The second in the sermon series on "Things We Value" that explores ideas and beliefs the ELCA and Lord of Grace take seriously and want the world to know.

By Pastor Lars Hammar.

Office Administrator

February 17, 2022

sermon

Thinking - from the "Things We Value" series

Office Administrator

February 17, 2022

sermon

First in the sermon series for Epiphany titled, "Things We Value," Pastor Lars Hammar explores what it means to be a Christian who thinks critically and asks questions that may take you to places the may initial unnerve you and create uncertainty, but that ultimately allow you to know God and scriptures better and deeper than before. January 16, 2022 at Lord of Grace Lutheran Church in Marana, Arizona.