Proper 25C + Living the Qs - Faith on earth + 10.26.25

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M. Campbell-Langdell
All Santos, Oxnard

(Joel 2:23-32

Psalm 65
2 Timothy 4:6-8,16-18
Luke 18:9-14)

 

Some of you will recall that last month, we tried out an occasional conversation and meditation style of group sermon that included meditating on a question of Jesus. We will address this question from last week’s gospel, which immediately precedes this week’s gospel reading:

“And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” Luke 18:8)

And our first question will be simple. You will be asked to imagine Jesus is personally asking you this question. Why is he saying this? And how might you answer? You will be given a few minutes to reflect individually in your pews on this question and write down some things, if you choose, on the back of the insert with the questions. Then I will tell you when it is time to turn to the folks next to you in the pew, and in small groups of 3-5, speak to each other about the second question, which I will also announce. Then you will discuss that question for a bit shy of 5 minutes, and we will come together to discuss the last two questions on the sheet. At that point, I will invite you to share your own personal reflections if you feel so led. Try not to share your neighbor’s thoughts in case they were not meant for the whole group.
Lastly, I will tie it together briefly.

Now take 4 minutes to reflect on the first question. If Jesus said this to you: “And yet, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” (Luke 18:8) Ask yourself, why is he saying this? And how might you answer?

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Now let’s discuss the second in small groups: What other questions, images, thoughts, feelings, or spiritual ideas does this question bring up for you?

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Now let’s come back together and discuss these questions:

  • How does this question speak to the life of All Santos, Oxnard?
  • This question is asked by Jesus in between last week’s story of the persistent widow and the unjust judge and this week’s story that compares the prayers of the Pharisee and the tax collector. How might this context change your interpretation of this question?


Remember, limit sharing to your own experience!

(after sharing has concluded, briefly tie it together and thank everyone).

(For those reading this but not participating in person, please journal about your thoughts on these questions, and feel free to email me any thoughts you wish to share, or share them on the WhatsApp group for the church. Thank you!)

 

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