The Table Church DC

A Weary World Rejoices: Hope

As we enter the season of Advent we begin a new series "A Weary World Rejoices".  Looking at the story of Zechariah in Luke, Erin examines how it's possible to acknowledge and honor our feelings in order to find hope and joy. 

Anthony Parrott: Joy in Connection (Advent Week 2)

Sunday, December 10, 2023

This sermon describes the encounters between Mary and Elizabeth, who are both experiencing unusual pregnancies. Elizabeth initially hides herself in seclusion, possibly out of guilt or feelings of unworthiness. Mary, on the other hand, is confused and unsure about the angel's announcement. However, despite their different reactions, both women find joy and connection in each other's presence. The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding joy and connection in the midst of pain and weariness. It also highlights the significance of relationships and community in bringing people out of isolation and into joy. Ultimately, joy is seen as an act of resistance against despair and a way to overcome the challenges and suffering of the world.

Go Swimming While in Exile

During Babylonian exile Ezekiel has a vision of a river flowing from God's temple.  While most of us will never experience physical exile we can relate to Ezekiel on levels of sexual orientation, group oppression, or sense of exile from the church.  Pastor Tonetta examines Ezekiel 47:1-12 and looks at how God can be present in the midst of trauma. 

Topher Anderson: Growing as An Empathetic Church

I. Introduction
- Background information on the church in Ephesus and the reason for Timothy being sent there
- Reflection on the importance of church and the question of why we attend 

II. The Church as Wounded Healers
- Pope Francis' reflection on the church as a field hospital after battle 
- Questioning whether we sometimes forget our role as wounded healers 
- Importance of church being about more than just superficial aspects 

III. Humility in Spiritual and Practical Lives
- Examination of 1 Timothy 6:6-8 emphasizing the call to humility 
- The idea that we enter and leave the world the same way, focusing on our humanity 
- The mantra that having bread on the table and shoes on our feet is enough 

IV. The Road to Ruin and Destruction
- Discussion on the lust for money and its potential consequences 
- Balancing the desire for financial stability with the call to humility 
- Consideration of those who struggle with finding work and financial stability 

V. Jesus' Teachings on Money and Worry
- Connection to the Gospel of Matthew and Jesus' teachings 
- Examination of Matthew 6:24 and the impossibility of serving both God and money 
- Analysis of the Lord's Prayer and the emphasis on daily bread 
- Jesus' teachings on fasting and the dangers of seeking recognition 
- Jesus' words on worry and the importance of trusting in God 

VI. Conclusion
- Reflection on the cultural context of Jesus' teachings and their relevance today 
- Identification of pitfalls to watch out for, such as the lust for money 
- Encouragement to pursue humility and trust in God's provision

Stewardship

November 19, 2023 - Pastor Tonetta takes a fresh look at Luke 16: 1-13, the story of a rich man who has a manager that is squandering his property.

Our Holy Habits: Restorative Play

In the final sermon of the series, Our Holy Habits, Pastor Anthony shows the importance of restorative play. Throughout The Bible rest is set into the rhythms of life. "Learn the unforced rhythms of grace."

Our Holy Habits: Rooted Improvisation

Pastors Anthony and Tonetta welcome Natalie in an interview-style sermon about what it means to be rooted in improvisation. They look at examples of improvisation in The Bible and Jesus' life and how we can embody some basic rules of improv to create a more beloved community. 

Our Holy Habits: Relentless Curiosity

In the third part of the series Pastor Anthony looks at Jesus welcoming little children to come to him and welcomes their curiosity. Explore how relentless curiosity is integral to radical friendship and revolutionary justice.