10-29-17: Tough Love | Neighborhood Congregational Church

10-29-17: Tough Love

https://soundcloud.com/ncclaguna/tough-love-by-reverend-rodrick-echols

My brothers and sisters, this weekend, we have the opportunity to share in some fun and excitement for our church. It's our Halloween Sunday worship service! After a refreshing and illuminating Progressive Christianity series, I would say we've earned our treats! As most of you know, I believe love is the Way Jesus taught and preached about centuries ago, but the haunting question persists: did his commandments really extend to all - even our "enemies"? As difficult as it might be to appreciate, Spirit responds with an resounding "Yes, even them!" It is an eternal reminder to a power-drunk generation that love is the only Way. It is an eternal reminder to a generation depending on nuclear and atomic energy, a generation depending on physical violence, that love is the only creative, redemptive, transforming power in the universe.

Author of this post

Reverend Rodrick Echols Pastor "Reverend (Rod)rick Echols is originally from Memphis, graduated from Brown University, and holds a Master of Divinity from Boston University. In his professional life, he has held development roles with several prominent institutions, including UC San Diego, Brown University, United Way, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His specialties include pastoral care, leadership development, communication, fundraising, and counseling. Reverend Rod has served in various capacities in a number of churches, including Youth Pastor, Interim Minister, and most recently Pastor of Congregational Development before joining us here at NCC! His faith is strong. He listens and communicates well. He is a quality preacher and brings a passion for social justice. He also seeks to provide space for young people to gather and connect. Rev. Rod is a young, spirited pastor who speaks from the heart."