Baaaad shepherds, baaaad sheep? | Mark 6:30-34

Summary

Father Warner's sermon discusses the importance of rest and solitude in ministry, using the biblical account of Jesus and the apostles needing respite. He draws parallels to modern clergy, emphasizing the need for spiritual nourishment over material comforts. The sermon also addresses the urgency of Jesus' ministry, the impact of effective shepherding, and encourages the congregation to seek genuine spiritual growth, especially during Lent, while promoting a mission and a youth retreat at Saint Stephen's.

Takeaways

• 📖 The sermon's theme is 'Bad Shepherds and Bad Sheep', based on Mark 6:32-34, emphasizing the importance of genuine spiritual leadership and guidance.
• ⏰ The scripture reading highlights the urgency and fast-paced nature of Jesus' ministry, as indicated by the Greek word 'eutheos' used frequently in Mark's Gospel.
• 🛶 Jesus invites His apostles to rest after their mission, underscoring the importance of solitude and rest for spiritual leaders.
• 🌳 The upcoming mission and retreats at Saint Stephen's are detailed, encouraging participation for spiritual rejuvenation.
• 📵 The speaker humorously critiques the modern attachment to cell phones, suggesting that retreats should be a time away from such distractions.
• 🙏 The sermon touches on the necessity for priests and religious to engage in prayerful contemplation before taking on significant roles in the church.
• 👥 The success of the apostles' mission is evident in the large crowds seeking Jesus for guidance, contrasting with the ineffective shepherding of Herod.
• 🔍 The speaker calls for self-reflection among clergy on why people seek them out and whether they are truly serving as spiritual guides.
• 💬 The importance of effective communication of the Gospel is stressed, as people are discerning and will 'switch channels' if the message isn't spiritually fulfilling.
• 🕊 The congregation is challenged to consider their own hunger for Jesus and the need to seek Him earnestly, even in the metaphorical 'deserted places'.
• 📅 The speaker encourages planning for Lent in advance, including setting aside specific days for prayer and reflection, and invites the congregation to participate in the announced mission and retreats.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the sermon based on the provided transcript?

The main theme of the sermon is about recognizing the importance of rest and solitude in one's spiritual journey, as exemplified by Jesus and his apostles, and the contrast between 'bad shepherds' and 'bad sheep' in the context of ministry and spiritual leadership.

What biblical text is the sermon based on?

The sermon is based on Mark chapter 6, verses 32-34, where Jesus instructs his apostles to come away to a deserted place to rest and where he teaches the crowds who follow them.

How does the sermon relate the Greek word 'eutheos' to the Gospel of Mark?

The sermon explains that 'eutheos', meaning 'immediately', appears about 40 times in the Greek text of Mark's Gospel, emphasizing the fast-paced and urgent nature of Jesus' ministry.

What is the significance of the 'deserted place' in the context of the sermon?

The 'deserted place' signifies a place of solitude and rest, chosen by Jesus for his apostles to retreat from their ministry and to spend time in prayer and contemplation.

How does the sermon connect the ministry of Jesus and the apostles with the need for rest?

The sermon connects the ministry of Jesus and the apostles with the need for rest by highlighting how Jesus, despite the urgency of his ministry, recognized the importance of rest and solitude for his apostles, and by extension, for all ministers and followers of Christ.

What is the role of the apostles in the narrative according to the sermon?

The apostles, having just returned from their mission, are instructed by Jesus to rest. Their successful ministry is evident in the large crowds that follow them, seeking guidance and spiritual nourishment.

What does the sermon suggest about the importance of setting aside time for spiritual retreats?

The sermon suggests that setting aside time for spiritual retreats is crucial for spiritual growth and rejuvenation, as it allows for deeper communion with God and a break from the demands of daily life.

How does the sermon address the issue of people seeking spiritual guidance?

The sermon addresses the issue by discussing how people seek spiritual guidance for various reasons, such as for prayer, counsel, or because they are drawn to the way a priest celebrates the Eucharist or preaches.

What is the sermon's view on the use of technology, specifically cell phones, during spiritual retreats?

The sermon humorously criticizes the over-reliance on cell phones, suggesting that they can be a distraction during spiritual retreats and should ideally be left behind to foster a deeper connection with God.

What is the sermon's message regarding the role of priests and religious leaders in the context of their congregations?

The sermon emphasizes that priests and religious leaders should focus on their spiritual duties, providing guidance and nourishment to their congregations, rather than being preoccupied with their own needs or the material aspects of worship.

How does the sermon encourage the congregation to prepare for Lent?

The sermon encourages the congregation to prepare for Lent by planning their lenten activities in advance, setting aside specific days for prayer and reflection, and considering sponsoring a meal for a charitable cause during the lenten season.