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Excessive confidence in humanity's...

Illustration
Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Mark 13:1-8

Excessive confidence in humanity's creations has always posed a theological challenge. On April 14-15, 1912, the British luxury liner R.M.S. Titanic sank while en route from Southampton, England, to New York on its maiden voyage in one of history's most-storied tragedies. The great ship was fabled before its first sailing not only because it was the most luxurious afloat, but also because of its state-of-the-art construction. Built by William Pirrie's Belfast firm, Harland and Wolff, the ship had a double-bottomed hull divided into sixteen watertight compartments.
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Call to Worship:

Jesus warned against with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich towards God. Through our worship today let us pledge ourselves to seek our treasure only in God.

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Jesus, sometimes we envy others because of all they possess.
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Jesus, sometimes we desire all that money can buy.
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For he satisfies the thirsty, and the hungry he fills with good things.... Let those who are wise give heed to these things, and consider the steadfast love of the Lord.
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How do you focus on something unseen? How can we set our minds on that which we can't touch, or taste, or verify scientifically? Most practical people want proof. Abstract propositions are difficult to get our arms around, especially if they are from another time and place.
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This story begins with gift -- with blessed gift -- with miraculous, blessed giftedness. And I will even tell you now the theme of the story: if you keep your eye on the giftedness of everything, then you yourself can be a gift, you can be a giver, rather than a hoarder.
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