St. Alban's Sermons w/FatherJohn

The Holy Spirit in Everyday life (Acts 2:1-21)

Father John preaches on the day of Pentecost, on how the Holy Spirit works in our everyday lives. Through truth, courage, and change. These may not be supernatural things but rather the Holy Spirit encouraging us.

Sermon: Be a Witness (Acts 1:6-14)

In this message from St. Alban's Episcopal Church, we dive deep into one of the most pivotal moments in biblical history: Jesus' final words before his Ascension (Acts 1:6-14). The disciples thought they were getting a new political kingdom, but Jesus gave them something far greater—a global mission and the promise of ultimate power. In this sermon, "Be a Witness," you'll discover: * The Shift: Why Jesus told his closest followers to stop worrying about timelines and start focusing on truth. * The Promise: The true meaning behind the "power" of the Holy Spirit and how it applies to your life today. * The Mission: How to identify your personal "circles of influence" to make a real impact in your community—starting exactly where you are. * The Call to Action: Why the angels had to tell the disciples to stop staring at the sky and get to work! If you're feeling stuck, wondering how to live out your faith boldly, or simply need a reminder that you have a vital purpose, this message is exactly what you need to hear. Stop standing and gazing, and start stepping into your calling. Hit play to find your purpose and power today!

Sermon: Mother's Day

In this Mother's Day reflection, the sermon moves beyond traditional readings to offer four guiding themes for wherever you may find yourself this Mother's Day: * Celebrate and Honor: For those who can still talk to or spend time with their mother, the message highlights the significance of the fifth commandment—the only one with a promise—and the importance of expressing gratitude. * Remember and Give Thanks: For those whose mothers have passed away, the sermon explores the "communion of saints" and the enduring hope that while they are not here, they are not gone. * Forgive and Let Go: Acknowledging that not every childhood is ideal, this reflection offers a path for those carrying wounds or baggage, encouraging them to seek God’s help in finding healing and peace. * Hope for the Heavy-Hearted: For anyone struggling with family difficulties or concerns for their children, the sermon draws on the story of Hagar and "the God who sees me," offering the comforting reminder that if things aren't okay right now, it’s simply because the story isn't over yet. Rooted in the idea that a mother is often the first person to model God’s love, this message provides a thoughtful perspective on motherhood as a significant calling and a source of lasting impact.

Sermon: The Way, The Truth, & The Life (John 14:1-14)

In this episode, we explore one of the most comforting and profound passages in the Gospel of John. Journey with us through John 14:1-14 as we reflect on Jesus' reassuring words to His disciples: "I am the way, and the truth, and the life." This sermon from St. Alban's Episcopal Church dives into the promises of Christ, offering hope, direction, and a deeper understanding of what it means to truly know the Father through the Son. Tune in to discover how this timeless truth anchors our faith and applies to our lives today.

Sermon: “Your rod and your staff, they comfort me” (Psalm 23)

When reading the famous words of Psalm 23, we often glaze over the phrase, "Your rod and your staff, they comfort me." But what exactly are these tools, and why would a shepherd's equipment bring us comfort in our darkest valleys? In this episode, Rev. John Inserra dives into Good Shepherd Sunday to explore the fascinating difference between a shepherd's rod and staff. Far from just being ancient props, these tools perfectly illustrate God’s "corrective love" and how He actively works to keep us on the right path. Join us as we break down the four ways God acts as our Good Shepherd to protect us from external dangers—and from ourselves. Main Points & Teachings: * The Tools of the Shepherd: * The Staff (Crook): A functional tool with a hooked end used to reach over and pull a wandering, distracted sheep back into the safety of the flock. * The Rod: A blunt weapon used to fend off wild animals and external predators. * The Comfort of Correction: David writes that these tools brought him comfort because they proved God was protecting him from both outside threats and his own tendency to wander astray. * The 4 Stages of God's Corrective Love: When we start to wander, God uses a progression of methods to shepherd us back to safety: 1. Conscience: That internal conviction or immediate regret after a heated moment, reminding us that we are off track. 2. Indirect Address: When a random sermon, a song on the radio, or an overheard conversation seemingly speaks directly to our specific, private struggle. 3. Direct Address (Rebuke): A difficult but necessary intervention from someone who loves us enough to look us in the eye and tell us we are wrong. 4. Closed Doors: When God abruptly slams the door on a job, a relationship, or a plan to protect us from walking down a path we were never meant to take. Whether you are facing closed doors, feeling the gentle tug of conviction, or just needing a reminder that you are being looked after, this message will help you recognize the loving guidance of the Good Shepherd in your life.