November 9, 2025: This House of Splendor
Haggai 1: 15b - 2:9

Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching

Many challenges confront us today, both globally and nationally: wars, poverty, homelessness, and a decline in trust toward political leaders and institutions. This week, we reflect on the ancient words of Haggai, a prophet who addressed a community struggling with disappointment, longing, and the difficult task of rebuilding their world. The passage before us, Haggai 1 15b - 2:9, is not just a historical record — it's a living call to consider what it means to build, to hope, and to embody divine presence in our lives today.

The exiled community of Judah returned to Jerusalem filled with hope and the blessing of a foreign king only to see their rebuilt temple a faint echo of Solomon's former splendor. Their aspirations clashed with reality, elders wept upon seeing the new temple, recalling what once was. Yet, amid their discouragement, God speaks through Haggai: "Take courage. Keep working. I am with you."

This message is not about comparing the past to the present nor about measuring our worth by material splendor. Instead, it is a radical affirmation: God is with us not because of what we build but because of who we are and how we strive together.

Let's think about how the challenges we face personally, politically, economically, and spiritually are opportunities for God's love and justice to prevail.

The way we worship is the way we live.

Worship is the work of the people, bringing together our fullest selves in a communal act of love and gratitude.  Each voice is important; each person is valued as the Spirit draws out our authentic gifts and talents, shared in the ever-widening circle of God’s people.  We hope you’ll join us this week as we gather to worship the God of extravagant welcome.