Today we continue to journey through Luke’s Gospel. We will be in 11:37-54, where we find Jesus at a meal at the home of a religious leader. The meal quickly becomes awkward when Jesus is criticized and questioned. He responds by pronouncing six “woes” upon the religious leaders. They all centre around the prioritization outward appearance and performance above the practice of receiving and abiding and sharing the love of God. Jesus really cuts to the heart of why we do things: Are they a response to his love and mercy for us, or are we trying to perform for God and others, so that we are accepted and loved? Jesus is inviting us all to live in his love and presence, and then as a response radiate that around us.

This sermon was given by Andy Smith.