Ash Wednesday at CMM

2025 03 05 Ash Wednesday

Sikawu Makubalo
[Isaiah 58:1-12; Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21]

The trumpet of the Lord sound, calling us to examine our souls,
For we have not only met temptation, we have felt its grip.

The trumpet of the Lord sounds, calling us to mend our ways,
For we have not only committed sin, we have felt its sting.

The trumpet of the Lord sounds, calling us to rend our hearts,
For we have not only witnessed forgiveness, we have felt its power.

Redefining Blessed as an Alternative Community

Sunday Sermon

2025 02 16 Sikawu Makubalo: Redefining Blessed as an Alternative Community
[Jeremiah 17:5-10; Luke 6:17-26]

A prayer in closing:

Blessed are the poor, for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Teach us, O God, to let go of our attachments and trust in your abundance.

Blessed are those who hunger now, for they will be satisfied.
Fill us, O God, with a deeper hunger for your presence, that we may be nourished by your love.

Blessed are those who weep now, for they will laugh.
Open our hearts to grief and compassion, that we may know the joy of true healing.

Blessed are those who are hated, excluded, and rejected because of the  Son of Man.
Give us the courage to walk the path of love, even when it leads to sacrifice.

Rejoice and be glad as you walk the path of love, for great is your reward in heaven.
Awaken us to the eternal now, where your kingdom is already breaking through.

Go forth in the blessing of God, trusting in the deeper reality beyond fear and division.
We go in peace, ready to live in the flow of divine grace.
Amen.