November 8, 2026: Show Up, Speak Out, Serve: “Sustaining the Spark”
Matthew 25: 1-13

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

I have often said that Matthew 25 guides my life and ministry. As it happens, the Gospel readings in lectionary for the next three weeks are from Matthew 25. I am calling the series, “Show Up. Speak Out. Serve.”

In this first week, we will focus on Matthew 25:1-13, the familiar parable of the ten young women. They help us understand a perspective on spiritual burnout, community resilience, and keeping our collective oil full for the long haul of justice work. We just held elections and there will be some people who are rejoicing and others who will be disappointed by the outcomes. Let’s think together about how we show up, speak out, and serve while sustaining the spark — the light of Christ within us.

 Music this week:

• Glory, Glory Lord

• Better is One Day

• Protector of My Soul

• My Soul Waits

• Surely the Presence of the Lord

• Pass It On

• When You Do This, Remember Me