Aurora Celest: "Grateful for the Hospitality" (Sermon for July 20, 2025)

Jesus replied, “Martha, Martha! You’re anxious and upset about so many things, but only a few things are necessary—really only one. - Luke 10:41-42

Friends,

As I prepare to say goodbye (for now) to this community that has raised me, I’ve been thinking about what makes St. Paul and St. Andrew special. We do hospitality really well, living that radical welcome.

Continuing our Grounded in Gospel and Growing in Grace series, hospitality is an intuitive next step. Radical welcome is how we bring peace to others and say “I see you” in a sincere way. Hospitality is how the Most Moved Mover moves us to do love in action. And yet, in Luke 10, Jesus seems to rebuff Martha’s hospitality. Looking at the story through a new lens of grace, it becomes clear that Martha’s hospitality anxiety is getting in her way. The only hospitality God requires of us in return is to draw closer and listen to the Word.

Can’t wait to see you Sunday,
Aurora