Fellowship With God CW - Suicide is not a Sin

There are so many things going on in this sermon!  Here's some background for you.  The text was Mark 3:20-35.  Although historically some have believed that this text was about suicide being the unforgivable sin, I preach that the unforgivable sin is really labeling something that brings healing, restoration, and love as from the Devil instead of God.  Shout out to Matt Skinner at Working Preacher.  

Also, the congregation I preached at, Fellowship Lutheran Church in Tulsa, OK, is working on their Mission, Vision, and Values this summer.  Pastor Alan Fox preached last week that Mission is who we are, and my part for this week was Fellowship with God.  Plus, there's this cool intro video to the Mission Possible summer theme.

Finally, I've also included my welcome to communion on this recording if you wait a few seconds after the end of the sermon.

I want everyone to know that they are loved, valued, and included by God no matter what, even if you come to church suicidal.  I have training in being with people who are suicidal, so if you want to reach out to me, send me a message here and we can talk.  Also, you can check out the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 or text the word CONNECT to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. Also, especially for LGBTQIA+ Youth, there's the Trevor Project and a crisis intervention and suicide prevention phone service is available 24/7 at 1-866-488-7386.  Since the church also often has something to do with people in that community feeling suicidal, we need to start helping instead of hurting. Church, let's communicate love above all else.  

Unfortunately, being welcoming to everyone doesn't pay the bills or help me find a full time call, and Supply Preaching doesn't pay all the bills, either, so you can help support this blog and sermon podcast here.