Sermons on Peace

There are no winners in war

There are no winners in war – Luke 22:39-45 Today is the Sunday before Veteran’s Day, a time when we give thanks to our soldiers and veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice on our behalf. Thank you! Soldiers and combat veterans know how high the price is we pay when we engage in war. Every war leads to the loss of precious, God-given life on all sides. But sometimes I think, our society takes war too lightly.…

Following Christ Means Compassion

Following Christ Means Compassion Culture and ideology are powerful forces. Humans tend to harmonize their reading of scripture and their understanding of religion with their culture and religion, even if that means severe intellectual contortion. The only way to follow Christ’s call to love is to base all of our actions on compassion with those who will be affected by the things we do and believe. In the face of the other we will recognize Christ. Jesus calls us to…

Mary and Joseph

Mary and Joseph Mary was an unwed, pregnant teen. Joseph was a man in good standing. In their society, violence against women was expected and condoned. What a marvelous miracle that these two, against all odds, and against all expectations, allowed the Holy Spirit to enter into their hearts, and make their relationship work! We have Mary and Joseph both equally to thank for stepping up to their calling, for making a good home for the Christ-child and preparing Jesus…

Do Civilizations Self-Destruct

Do Civilizations Self-Destruct When we point our telescopes toward the stars why don’t we see alien civilizations? Maybe ET destroys himself as soon as he is capable of doing it. If he really destroys the environment on which he depends, do we follow his example? Rev. Olaf Baumann, sermon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Port Angeles WA, 12/11/2016

Beat Hearts Into Ploughshares

Beat Hearts Into Ploughshares The dream to beat swords into ploughshares is as old as human kind. Even if the world is full of war and bloodshed, peace on earth starts with us disarming our hearts, minds and click fingers. The world will follow our lead. Rev. Olaf Baumann, sermon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Port Angeles WA, 11/27/2016

Jesus Quest For Justice Brings Division

True peace means justice. We don’t like change. Even if the status quo means injustice for many people.  Jesus brings division in his ultimate quest for peace. True peace cannot exist without justice. And justice means according to Luke: The poor need more and the rich need less. Jesus path is not easy, but it is true. It is the path which leads to peace. Rev. Kristin Luana Baumann, sermon, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Port Angeles WA, 8/14/2016.