"A Place at the Table" (Ps. 26) - Pastor Lynn Miller-Jackson 10/04/2015

Summary

The sermon explores Psalm 26, highlighting David's plea for justice and self-declared righteousness. It challenges the congregation to move beyond self-righteousness and exclusivity, urging them to embrace inclusivity and share with others. The preacher emphasizes the need to see God's glory in all creation and to recognize our own imperfections, calling for a change in mindset from self-preservation to sharing and understanding, mirroring Christ's radical hospitality.

Takeaways

• 📜 The sermon is based on Psalm 26, where David pleads for justice and asserts his integrity.
• 🙏 David requests God to test him, indicating a desire for purification and validation of his faith.
• 🤔 The preacher suggests that David's strong declaration of innocence might be a sign of self-righteousness.
• 🧐 The sermon challenges the notion of self-promotion and self-preservation, urging introspection on one's actions.
• 🤝 It emphasizes the need to move beyond self-interest to a place of abundance where sharing is possible without ulterior motives.
• 🌟 The preacher calls for an open and inclusive mindset, contrasting with the exclusivity suggested in the psalm.
• 👥 The sermon discusses the importance of not judging others and the negative impact of 'othering' on community and faith.
• 👶 Jesus' example of inclusivity and engagement with marginalized groups is highlighted as a model for believers.
• 🌱 The preacher encourages embracing a childlike innocence and openness to understand the diversity within the kingdom of God.
• ✝️ The sermon concludes with a call to action to be like Christ, to engage in dialogue, and to have an open table for all.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the sermon based on Psalm 26?

The main theme of the sermon is a plea for justice and a declaration of personal righteousness, with a deeper exploration of self-righteousness, judgment, and the importance of inclusivity and recognizing God's glory in all of creation.

How does the preacher relate the psalmist's words to the idea of self-promotion?

The preacher suggests that the psalmist's strong declaration of innocence and avoidance of the wicked might indicate self-promotion and self-preservation, akin to the phrase 'methinks thou dost protest too much,' implying an overly forceful claim of virtue.

What does the preacher imply about the psalmist's claim of never having done anything wrong?

The preacher implies that the psalmist's claim is questionable and potentially hypocritical, especially considering the historical context of David's life, which included significant moral failings such as his affair with Bathsheba and the plot to kill her husband.

What is the preacher's perspective on the idea of God's presence being limited to a specific place?

The preacher emphasizes that God's presence is not confined to a specific place like a temple, but is omnipresent, existing in and through all of creation, challenging the听众 to embrace a more expansive understanding of God.

How does the preacher connect the concept of 'othering' to the psalmist's behavior?

The preacher connects 'othering' to the psalmist's behavior by pointing out that the psalmist judges and distances himself from those he deems as liars, evildoers, and wicked, which is a form of exclusion that contradicts the inclusive nature of God's love.

What does the preacher suggest as a way to overcome self-righteousness and judgment of others?

The preacher suggests that to overcome self-righteousness and judgment, one should seek God's examination and revelation for a changed life, embracing an open table and inclusivity, and recognizing the inherent worth and sacredness of all people.

How does the preacher relate the story of Dr. James to the sermon's theme?

The preacher relates the story of Dr. James, who practices medicine among the homeless, to the sermon's theme by illustrating the importance of engaging with and valuing the marginalized, embodying Christ's radical hospitality and inclusivity.

What does the preacher mean when he encourages the congregation to be 'altars in the world'?

The preacher means that as disciples of Christ, they should carry the spirit of Christ's love and inclusivity into the world, being a welcoming presence for all, much like an altar is a central place of worship and communion within a church.

What is the preacher's view on the role of dialogue in Christian community?

The preacher views dialogue as essential in the Christian community, encouraging open and loving communication, avoiding conflict, and seeking understanding and encounter with others, including those with differing views.

How does the preacher interpret Jesus's interactions with the Pharisees and children in the context of inclusivity?

The preacher interprets Jesus's interactions as examples of radical hospitality and inclusivity, highlighting that Jesus engaged with those who were testing him and welcomed children, who represent purity and openness, as symbols of the kingdom of God's inclusive nature.