Real Good Courage - The Westwood Podcast https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com The Prayer of Good Courage describes the call that God has made to all believers. This podcast explores how the Prayer of Good Courage is made real in the lives of the staff, members and friends of Westwood Lutheran Church in St. Louis Park, MN. Prayer of Good Courage: O God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us, and your love supporting us, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Mon, 14 Sep 2026 23:52:52 -0500 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2024 All rights reserved. Religion & Spirituality 1440 episodic The Prayer of Good Courage describes the call that God has made to all believers. This podcast explores how the Prayer of Good Courage is made real in the lives of the staff, members and friends of Westwood Lutheran Church in St. Louis Park, MN. Prayer of Good Courage: O God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us, and your love supporting us, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen. Background music written and performed by Kent Gustavson from Mountain Vespers Copyright 2006 Westwood Lutheran Church Westwood Lutheran Church No false https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18351024/Final_Podcast_cover_v5.png Real Good Courage - The Westwood Podcast https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com 144 144 Framing the Call of Community Framing the Call of Community https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/rally-day/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/rally-day/#comments Mon, 14 Sep 2026 23:52:52 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c3e728f4-f554-323c-abf8-f7e25512d01b Martin Luther King's vision of a 'Beloved Community was a society where all people are treated with justice, equality, goodwill and reconciled throught the power of God's Love. Pastor Jim Bear Jacobs asked a prescient question: "What is community when we are a society that is so individualistic?" What do we mean by community? When we use it do we use it in the same way?

Our message today comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson is from Luke, Chapter 10 Verses 25-37.

]]> Martin Luther King's vision of a 'Beloved Community was a society where all people are treated with justice, equality, goodwill and reconciled throught the power of God's Love. Pastor Jim Bear Jacobs asked a prescient question: "What is community when we are a society that is so individualistic?" What do we mean by community? When we use it do we use it in the same way?

Our message today comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson is from Luke, Chapter 10 Verses 25-37.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1297 145 full Labor Day: Food as Sustenance and Mission Labor Day: Food as Sustenance and Mission https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/labor-day-food-as-sustenance-and-mission/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/labor-day-food-as-sustenance-and-mission/#comments Sun, 06 Sep 2026 19:18:29 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/696199f2-2370-3220-8926-6156b9c4bb28 Food is a source of sustenance for all, and a pleasure for many. However, it can be expensive and hard to come by for some in our community, country and world. 

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Today she interviews Todd Western, a local farmer addressing the needs of North Minneapolis, and Andrew Holmberg, a General Manager for a large family owned grocer in the Twin Cities.  Our Gospel message is from Matthew, Chapter 15, verses 32:38. Our scripture lesson is from Psalm 104.

]]> Food is a source of sustenance for all, and a pleasure for many. However, it can be expensive and hard to come by for some in our community, country and world. 

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Today she interviews Todd Western, a local farmer addressing the needs of North Minneapolis, and Andrew Holmberg, a General Manager for a large family owned grocer in the Twin Cities.  Our Gospel message is from Matthew, Chapter 15, verses 32:38. Our scripture lesson is from Psalm 104.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 2184 144 full Apostles' Creed: Conclusion Apostles' Creed: Conclusion https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-conclusions/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-conclusions/#comments Sun, 30 Aug 2026 19:56:06 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/21d0c33f-6212-3c27-9ecb-72c2b1f3a6eb What is the purpose of a creed or ‘I Believe’ statement?

Where creeds overlap, you find companions for the journey. Creeds can unite us, but they can also divide. Some attempts to rewrite the Apostles’ Creed help us understand who God is and can change both our view of the world, and God.

Paul saw the shrines to the unknown god in Athens as misguided. Our God is known, and close. Not far away, distant emotionally or unknown. His message to the Athenians suggests that we should embrace those around us while hewing to the bible’s teachings. God made this earth spacious for all living creatures., human and otherwise.

Because we trust in God, and we are created by God, we can peel back the layers and more fully understand.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Acts, Chapter 17, verses 16-28.

 

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette provides a restated creed:

I believe in God the Father, the Almighty God above, Maker of the earth and heaven which were formed in God’s great love.

And in Jesus, loving Jesus, God’s own Son, who makes us new. This the creed of generations, is the faith for our church too.

Jesus by God’s Holy Spirit was so wondrously conceived, Born unto the Virgin Mary, who your promises believed.

Jesus suffering under Pilate, on a cross was crucified. Soldiers mocked hi, friends denied him; he hung there until he died.

So it was, our Lord was buried, in a borrowed tomb he lay. To the dead he then descended, where was joy on earth that day?

There’s more to God’s great story: In three days he rose again. He ascended into heaven and he sits at God’s right hand.

I believe what God has promised: Christ will come as he has said. He will judge the nations’ peoples, both the living and the dead.

I believe God’s Holy Spirit makes the church one family. We’re surrounded by God’s people, saints who in our Lord believe.

I believe that God forgives us for the times we turn away, And that God will raise our bodies on that resurrection day.

We rejoice that we’ll live forever, singing praise to God’s great name. This the creed of generations is the faith that we proclaim.

 

]]> What is the purpose of a creed or ‘I Believe’ statement?

Where creeds overlap, you find companions for the journey. Creeds can unite us, but they can also divide. Some attempts to rewrite the Apostles’ Creed help us understand who God is and can change both our view of the world, and God.

Paul saw the shrines to the unknown god in Athens as misguided. Our God is known, and close. Not far away, distant emotionally or unknown. His message to the Athenians suggests that we should embrace those around us while hewing to the bible’s teachings. God made this earth spacious for all living creatures., human and otherwise.

Because we trust in God, and we are created by God, we can peel back the layers and more fully understand.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Acts, Chapter 17, verses 16-28.

 

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette provides a restated creed:

I believe in God the Father, the Almighty God above, Maker of the earth and heaven which were formed in God’s great love.

And in Jesus, loving Jesus, God’s own Son, who makes us new. This the creed of generations, is the faith for our church too.

Jesus by God’s Holy Spirit was so wondrously conceived, Born unto the Virgin Mary, who your promises believed.

Jesus suffering under Pilate, on a cross was crucified. Soldiers mocked hi, friends denied him; he hung there until he died.

So it was, our Lord was buried, in a borrowed tomb he lay. To the dead he then descended, where was joy on earth that day?

There’s more to God’s great story: In three days he rose again. He ascended into heaven and he sits at God’s right hand.

I believe what God has promised: Christ will come as he has said. He will judge the nations’ peoples, both the living and the dead.

I believe God’s Holy Spirit makes the church one family. We’re surrounded by God’s people, saints who in our Lord believe.

I believe that God forgives us for the times we turn away, And that God will raise our bodies on that resurrection day.

We rejoice that we’ll live forever, singing praise to God’s great name. This the creed of generations is the faith that we proclaim.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1509 143 full Apostles' Creed: The Body Apostles' Creed: The Body https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-the-body/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-the-body/#comments Mon, 24 Aug 2026 21:47:08 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/763c7b6d-9d39-31c3-9c05-ac9a19cdceb5 This message is on the third article of the Apostles’ Creed, and we focus on the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.

Resurrection of the body can be the cornerstone of faith. The through line of our theology is that the body is central to our understanding of our existence in Christ. Scripture is full of creation words.

Creeds struggle to get things right about what they believe. Gnosticism would have us believe tht the true self is spirit and soul. Not the physical being. Much of our theology is about escaping from the body. The creed talks about the creation as an important component of our belief.

The creed does not tell us that humans are spiritual only. To the contrary, our bodies are clothed in Christ, and this informs us and guides our actions. Why does this matter? Because we don’t just exist, we profoundly matter in God’s plans.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Romans Chapter 8 ,Verses 22- 25.

Our second reading is from Revelations, Chapter 21, Verses 1 - 5.

 

Masai Creed

We believe in Creator, Father-Mother Spirit, who called the world and all that is in it. Into being, who spoke the creative-forming wor, and all came father who created women and men and set them free to live in love. In obedience to the will of supreme love and in community with all.

We believe in Creator, Son and Brother, who, because of love beyond our understanding, love for creation, entered the world to share our humanity, to rejoice and despair; ate set before us the paths of life and death, and walk them with us; to be rejected and die, but to finally conquer death and bind the world to himself for all time.

We believe in Creator, In-Dwelling Spirit, who invites us into community., that we my thought faith and that community of oneness, experience uplifting and sustaining grace; that we may fulfill our human responsibility reach out to our neighbor, whoever that may be; that we may rejoice in the constant nature of creation and wondrous joy of life itself.

We believe in Creator, whose word teaches us that all things grow together, the Circle of Life; that the paths of life and death, good and evil, too often come together, that choices are not clearly defined; but that we confidently and responsibly tread the path we choose and only the true One can be our judge. We believer in Creator, who is present and working in this world through all creation.

AMEN. 

]]> This message is on the third article of the Apostles’ Creed, and we focus on the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.

Resurrection of the body can be the cornerstone of faith. The through line of our theology is that the body is central to our understanding of our existence in Christ. Scripture is full of creation words.

Creeds struggle to get things right about what they believe. Gnosticism would have us believe tht the true self is spirit and soul. Not the physical being. Much of our theology is about escaping from the body. The creed talks about the creation as an important component of our belief.

The creed does not tell us that humans are spiritual only. To the contrary, our bodies are clothed in Christ, and this informs us and guides our actions. Why does this matter? Because we don’t just exist, we profoundly matter in God’s plans.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Romans Chapter 8 ,Verses 22- 25.

Our second reading is from Revelations, Chapter 21, Verses 1 - 5.

 

Masai Creed

We believe in Creator, Father-Mother Spirit, who called the world and all that is in it. Into being, who spoke the creative-forming wor, and all came father who created women and men and set them free to live in love. In obedience to the will of supreme love and in community with all.

We believe in Creator, Son and Brother, who, because of love beyond our understanding, love for creation, entered the world to share our humanity, to rejoice and despair; ate set before us the paths of life and death, and walk them with us; to be rejected and die, but to finally conquer death and bind the world to himself for all time.

We believe in Creator, In-Dwelling Spirit, who invites us into community., that we my thought faith and that community of oneness, experience uplifting and sustaining grace; that we may fulfill our human responsibility reach out to our neighbor, whoever that may be; that we may rejoice in the constant nature of creation and wondrous joy of life itself.

We believe in Creator, whose word teaches us that all things grow together, the Circle of Life; that the paths of life and death, good and evil, too often come together, that choices are not clearly defined; but that we confidently and responsibly tread the path we choose and only the true One can be our judge. We believer in Creator, who is present and working in this world through all creation.

AMEN. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1306 142 full Apostles' Creed:Holy Catholic Church - Communion of Saints Apostles' Creed:Holy Catholic Church - Communion of Saints https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-1786930146/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-1786930146/#comments Sun, 16 Aug 2026 21:11:26 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e3b54d47-e3c3-3487-803f-d9fc780c5a81 Today we continue our review of the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed: The Holy catholic church and the communion of saints. The adjective catholic means universal - the church around the world. We are in Christianity with a variety of others. The communion of saints refers to those in doing God's work in the world. Us and those with whom we walk shoulder to shoulder. 

Today’s message comes from Pastor Tania. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Ephesians Chapter 2 Verses 13 -16. Our Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 19 - 22.

 

Ionian Creed.

We believe that God is present in the darkness before dawn; in the waiting and uncertaintly where fear and courage join hands, conflict and caring link arms, and the sun rises over barbed wire. 

We believe in a with-us God who sits down in our midst to share our humanity. we affirm a faith that takes us beyond a safe place: into action, into vulnerability and onto the streets. we commit ourselves to work for change and put ourselves on the line; to bear responsibility, take risks, live powerfully and face humiliation; to stand with those on the edge; to choose life and be used by the Spirit for God's new community of hope.

Amen

 

]]> Today we continue our review of the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed: The Holy catholic church and the communion of saints. The adjective catholic means universal - the church around the world. We are in Christianity with a variety of others. The communion of saints refers to those in doing God's work in the world. Us and those with whom we walk shoulder to shoulder. 

Today’s message comes from Pastor Tania. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Ephesians Chapter 2 Verses 13 -16. Our Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 19 - 22.

 

Ionian Creed.

We believe that God is present in the darkness before dawn; in the waiting and uncertaintly where fear and courage join hands, conflict and caring link arms, and the sun rises over barbed wire. 

We believe in a with-us God who sits down in our midst to share our humanity. we affirm a faith that takes us beyond a safe place: into action, into vulnerability and onto the streets. we commit ourselves to work for change and put ourselves on the line; to bear responsibility, take risks, live powerfully and face humiliation; to stand with those on the edge; to choose life and be used by the Spirit for God's new community of hope.

Amen

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1031 140 full Apostles' Creed: We Believe in theHoly Spirit Apostles' Creed: We Believe in theHoly Spirit https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed/#comments Sun, 09 Aug 2026 11:27:40 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/999a3513-f46f-3c48-9458-f02347b08151 Today we continue our review of the Apostles' Creed with the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed: We believe the the Holy Spirit. What did it take to say ‘I will leave what I know and go out?” How do we deal with the experience of absence. The life of following Christ is not defined by absence, but by presence.  Holy Spirit is present with us at all time.

Three ways that the Holy Spirit is with us:

  • Holy Spirit brings the miracle of faith.  T
  • That faith persists even in times of trial.
  • That the Holy Spirit brings us peace and understanding.

 

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Acts: Chapter 1 Verses 6 - 8. Our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 14, verses 25-27.

Masai Creed:

We believe in the one High God, who out of love created the beautiful world and everything good in it. He created Man and wanted Man to be happy in the world. God loves the world and every nation and tribe on the Earth.

We have known this High God in darkness, and now we know Him in the light.God promised in the book of His word, the Bible, that He would save the world and all the nations and tribes.

We believe that God made good His promise by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, a man in the flesh, a Jew by tribe, born poor in a little village, who left His home and was always on safari doing good, curing people by the power of God, teaching about God and man, showing the meaning of religion is love. He was rejected by his people, tortured and nailed hands and feet to a cross, and died. He lay buried in the grave, but the hyenas did not touch him, and on the third day, He rose from the grave. He ascended to the skies. He is the Lord.

We believe that all our sins are forgiven through Him. All who have faith in Him must be sorry for their sins, be baptized in the Holy Spirit of God, live the rules of love and share the bread together in love, to announce the Good News to others until Jesus comes again.

We are waiting for Him. He is alive. He lives. This we believe. Amen.

]]> Today we continue our review of the Apostles' Creed with the Third Article of the Apostles’ Creed: We believe the the Holy Spirit. What did it take to say ‘I will leave what I know and go out?” How do we deal with the experience of absence. The life of following Christ is not defined by absence, but by presence.  Holy Spirit is present with us at all time.

Three ways that the Holy Spirit is with us:

  • Holy Spirit brings the miracle of faith.  T
  • That faith persists even in times of trial.
  • That the Holy Spirit brings us peace and understanding.

 

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Acts: Chapter 1 Verses 6 - 8. Our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 14, verses 25-27.

Masai Creed:

We believe in the one High God, who out of love created the beautiful world and everything good in it. He created Man and wanted Man to be happy in the world. God loves the world and every nation and tribe on the Earth.

We have known this High God in darkness, and now we know Him in the light.God promised in the book of His word, the Bible, that He would save the world and all the nations and tribes.

We believe that God made good His promise by sending His Son, Jesus Christ, a man in the flesh, a Jew by tribe, born poor in a little village, who left His home and was always on safari doing good, curing people by the power of God, teaching about God and man, showing the meaning of religion is love. He was rejected by his people, tortured and nailed hands and feet to a cross, and died. He lay buried in the grave, but the hyenas did not touch him, and on the third day, He rose from the grave. He ascended to the skies. He is the Lord.

We believe that all our sins are forgiven through Him. All who have faith in Him must be sorry for their sins, be baptized in the Holy Spirit of God, live the rules of love and share the bread together in love, to announce the Good News to others until Jesus comes again.

We are waiting for Him. He is alive. He lives. This we believe. Amen.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1286 139 full Apostles' Creed: Rose Again Apostles' Creed: Rose Again https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-rose-from-the-dead/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-rose-from-the-dead/#comments Sun, 02 Aug 2026 19:09:59 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/6f108f1e-d484-3a95-98c6-d6397fdd8429  Today we continue our review of the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed: Jesus rose and ascended into heaven. There are 4 broad areas of the life of Jesus: His incarnation, life & teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection.

What can we learn from Jesus resurrection? While others have been revived, Jesus is the only one who has been resurrected and who subsequently didn't die. Instead, he ascended. That resurrection turns despair into hope. Even though Jesus sits in judgement, it is judgement in the service of change.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Philippians Chapter 2, verses 5 - 11.

Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 46 - 53.

 

Contemporary Affirmation of Faith

We believe in you, O God, who spoke all life into being, author of heaven and earth, architect of time, quilter of the cosmos. You shape our bodies from the dust of the ground, and by your breath we are given life.

We believe in you, O God, who became incarnate in Christ Jesus, the Word made flesh, truly divine and truly human. You lived among us to reveal your justice, died among us to break the bonds of sin and death, and were raised among us to bring abundant life.

We believe in you, O God, who transforms us by the Holy Spirit, draws us into community, moves us to action, and inspires us to hope against hope. You breathe new life into a fallen world and equip us to proclaim the good news of resurrecting love. All thanks and praise to you, Oh God, our beginning and our end.

Amen.

]]>  Today we continue our review of the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed: Jesus rose and ascended into heaven. There are 4 broad areas of the life of Jesus: His incarnation, life & teachings, crucifixion, and resurrection.

What can we learn from Jesus resurrection? While others have been revived, Jesus is the only one who has been resurrected and who subsequently didn't die. Instead, he ascended. That resurrection turns despair into hope. Even though Jesus sits in judgement, it is judgement in the service of change.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our New Testament Lesson comes from Philippians Chapter 2, verses 5 - 11.

Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 46 - 53.

 

Contemporary Affirmation of Faith

We believe in you, O God, who spoke all life into being, author of heaven and earth, architect of time, quilter of the cosmos. You shape our bodies from the dust of the ground, and by your breath we are given life.

We believe in you, O God, who became incarnate in Christ Jesus, the Word made flesh, truly divine and truly human. You lived among us to reveal your justice, died among us to break the bonds of sin and death, and were raised among us to bring abundant life.

We believe in you, O God, who transforms us by the Holy Spirit, draws us into community, moves us to action, and inspires us to hope against hope. You breathe new life into a fallen world and equip us to proclaim the good news of resurrecting love. All thanks and praise to you, Oh God, our beginning and our end.

Amen.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1451 138 full Apostles' Creed: Crucified, Died and Buried Apostles' Creed: Crucified, Died and Buried https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-crucified-died-and-buried/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-crucified-died-and-buried/#comments Sun, 26 Jul 2026 23:15:22 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/586d1c71-a825-3695-b1aa-632da4e219de Today we continue our review of the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed Who suffered under Pontius Pilate , was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. The focus on the cross is appropriate, because it confesses truth about the world.

The cross is an extraordinary affirmation of Article One.

Sin, death and evil are real; Redemption is needed.

The cross is the defining element of discipleship.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from First Corinthians Chapter 1, verses 18 - 25.

Our Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 16, verses 24 - 26.

Indigenous Creed:

We believe in Creator, Father-Mother Spirit, who called the world and all that is in it. Into being, who spoke the creative-forming word, and all came forth who created women and men and set them free to live in love, in obedience to the will of supreme love and in community with all.

We believe in Creator, Son and Brother, who, because of love beyond our understanding, love for creation, entered the world to share our humanity, to rejoice and despair; to set before us the paths of life and death, and walk them with us; to be rejected and die, but to finally conquer death and bind the world to himself for all time.

We believe in Creator, In-Dwelling Spirit, who invites us into community, that we may through faith and that community of oneness, experience uplifting and sustaining grace; that we may fulfill our human responsibility reach to out to our neighbor, whoever that may be; that we may rejoice in the constant nature of creation and wondrous joy of life itself.

We believe in Creator, whose word teaches us that all things grow together, the Circle of Life; that the paths of life and death, good and evil, too often come together, that choices are not clearly defined; but that we confidently and responsibly tread the path we choose and only the true One can be our judge. We believer in Creator, who is present and working in this world through all creation. AMEN. 

]]> Today we continue our review of the Second Article of the Apostles’ Creed Who suffered under Pontius Pilate , was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. The focus on the cross is appropriate, because it confesses truth about the world.

The cross is an extraordinary affirmation of Article One.

Sin, death and evil are real; Redemption is needed.

The cross is the defining element of discipleship.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Jason. Our New Testament Lesson comes from First Corinthians Chapter 1, verses 18 - 25.

Our Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 16, verses 24 - 26.

Indigenous Creed:

We believe in Creator, Father-Mother Spirit, who called the world and all that is in it. Into being, who spoke the creative-forming word, and all came forth who created women and men and set them free to live in love, in obedience to the will of supreme love and in community with all.

We believe in Creator, Son and Brother, who, because of love beyond our understanding, love for creation, entered the world to share our humanity, to rejoice and despair; to set before us the paths of life and death, and walk them with us; to be rejected and die, but to finally conquer death and bind the world to himself for all time.

We believe in Creator, In-Dwelling Spirit, who invites us into community, that we may through faith and that community of oneness, experience uplifting and sustaining grace; that we may fulfill our human responsibility reach to out to our neighbor, whoever that may be; that we may rejoice in the constant nature of creation and wondrous joy of life itself.

We believe in Creator, whose word teaches us that all things grow together, the Circle of Life; that the paths of life and death, good and evil, too often come together, that choices are not clearly defined; but that we confidently and responsibly tread the path we choose and only the true One can be our judge. We believer in Creator, who is present and working in this world through all creation. AMEN. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1423 137 full Apostles' Creed: Jesus Christ Apostles' Creed: Jesus Christ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-jesus-christ/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-jesus-christ/#comments Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:15:07 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/650c4a0d-43d5-36a0-987d-b48edb7c21ea Jesus Christ is our Lord. This claim is often made as if the implications are self-evident, but it’s a phrase that needs unpacking, not the least because Lord isn’t a term we use much outside of church. This 3rd sermon in our series on the Apostles’ Creed focuses on this line: ““I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, Our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary.” After treating the somewhat edgy topic of the virgin birth, the sermon focuses on the more central question: What does it mean when we call Jesus Lord? Spoiler alert: It means that Jesus is different from any other kind of political leader. And also, it means Jesus loves us.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 1, verses 26 - 35, and our New Testament Lesson comes from Colossians Chapter 1, verses 15 - 19a.

 

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette provides a restated creed:

I believe in God the Father, the Almighty God above, Maker of the earth and heaven which were formed in God’s great love.

And in Jesus, loving Jesus, God’s own Son, who makes us new. This the creed of generations, is the faith for our church too.

Jesus by God’s Holy Spirit was so wondrously conceived, Born unto the Virgin Mary, who your promises believed.

Jesus suffering under Pilate, on a cross was crucified. Soldiers mocked hi, friends denied him; he hung there until he died.

So it was, our Lord was buried, in a borrowed tomb he lay. To the dead he then descended, where was joy on earth that day?

There’s more to God’s great story: In three days he rose again. He ascended into heaven and he sits at God’s right hand.

I believe what God has promised: Christ will come as he has said. He will judge the nations’ peoples, both the living and the dead.

I believe God’s Holy Spirit makes the church one family. We’re surrounded by God’s people, saints who in our Lord believe.

I believe that God forgives us for the times we turn away, And that God will raise our bodies on that resurrection day.

We rejoice that we’ll live forever, singing praise to God’s great name. This the creed of generations is the faith that we proclaim.

]]> Jesus Christ is our Lord. This claim is often made as if the implications are self-evident, but it’s a phrase that needs unpacking, not the least because Lord isn’t a term we use much outside of church. This 3rd sermon in our series on the Apostles’ Creed focuses on this line: ““I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, Our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary.” After treating the somewhat edgy topic of the virgin birth, the sermon focuses on the more central question: What does it mean when we call Jesus Lord? Spoiler alert: It means that Jesus is different from any other kind of political leader. And also, it means Jesus loves us.

Today’s message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 1, verses 26 - 35, and our New Testament Lesson comes from Colossians Chapter 1, verses 15 - 19a.

 

Carolyn Winfrey Gillette provides a restated creed:

I believe in God the Father, the Almighty God above, Maker of the earth and heaven which were formed in God’s great love.

And in Jesus, loving Jesus, God’s own Son, who makes us new. This the creed of generations, is the faith for our church too.

Jesus by God’s Holy Spirit was so wondrously conceived, Born unto the Virgin Mary, who your promises believed.

Jesus suffering under Pilate, on a cross was crucified. Soldiers mocked hi, friends denied him; he hung there until he died.

So it was, our Lord was buried, in a borrowed tomb he lay. To the dead he then descended, where was joy on earth that day?

There’s more to God’s great story: In three days he rose again. He ascended into heaven and he sits at God’s right hand.

I believe what God has promised: Christ will come as he has said. He will judge the nations’ peoples, both the living and the dead.

I believe God’s Holy Spirit makes the church one family. We’re surrounded by God’s people, saints who in our Lord believe.

I believe that God forgives us for the times we turn away, And that God will raise our bodies on that resurrection day.

We rejoice that we’ll live forever, singing praise to God’s great name. This the creed of generations is the faith that we proclaim.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1601 136 full Apostles' Creed: God the Father Apostles' Creed: God the Father https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-god-the-father/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-god-the-father/#comments Sun, 12 Jul 2026 18:36:36 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/80af4f1b-bb05-36e7-a0ef-f440baafdcdf Today we explore the first article of the Apostles' Creed: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Some are concerned that  the use of the word Father is less inclusive and depicts a stern, sterile relationship. The original word was Abba in Aramaic; which was papa or daddy - signifying deep intimacy and trust. Some also question why an almighty creator would allow the evils that we see in today's world. Another way to frame this question might be why do humans allow the evils to continue?

Today's message is from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel comes from Luke, Chapter 12, Verses 22-31, and our scripture reading is Genesis 1, verses 24-27.

Contemporary Lutheran Affirmation of Faith:

We trust in God, the Creator of all that is, of galaxies and forests, oceans and deserts, creatures and every human being. God speaks life into existence, calls creation good, and remains faithful to the world God has made.We belive that the earth is no ours to possess, but a gift to recieve with gratitude, to share with justice and tend with humility.

We trust in Jesus Christ, Godsl living Word among us, born into this world, sharing our joys and suffering. In his life, he proclaimed God's kingdom of mercy. In his death, he entered the depths of human pain. In his resurrection, he opened the way to new life for all creation. Through Christ, we are forgiven, freed from the need to justify ourselves, and called into lives of faith, hope and love. 

We trust in the Holy Spirit, present and active in the church and in the world. Gathering people into communities of grace, awakening faith, renewing hears, and equipping us for service. The Spirit moves among all peoples, inspires care for our neighbors, and calls us to seek justice, make peace and protect the flourishing of creation.

We trust that God has not abandoned the world, and is even now making all things new. Therefore we live in hope: for the healing of the earth, for reconciliation among people, for the renewal of the church, and for the resurrection life promised in Christ.

To God- Creator, Son, and Holy Spirit, be glory now and forever.

Amen.

 

]]> Today we explore the first article of the Apostles' Creed: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Some are concerned that  the use of the word Father is less inclusive and depicts a stern, sterile relationship. The original word was Abba in Aramaic; which was papa or daddy - signifying deep intimacy and trust. Some also question why an almighty creator would allow the evils that we see in today's world. Another way to frame this question might be why do humans allow the evils to continue?

Today's message is from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel comes from Luke, Chapter 12, Verses 22-31, and our scripture reading is Genesis 1, verses 24-27.

Contemporary Lutheran Affirmation of Faith:

We trust in God, the Creator of all that is, of galaxies and forests, oceans and deserts, creatures and every human being. God speaks life into existence, calls creation good, and remains faithful to the world God has made.We belive that the earth is no ours to possess, but a gift to recieve with gratitude, to share with justice and tend with humility.

We trust in Jesus Christ, Godsl living Word among us, born into this world, sharing our joys and suffering. In his life, he proclaimed God's kingdom of mercy. In his death, he entered the depths of human pain. In his resurrection, he opened the way to new life for all creation. Through Christ, we are forgiven, freed from the need to justify ourselves, and called into lives of faith, hope and love. 

We trust in the Holy Spirit, present and active in the church and in the world. Gathering people into communities of grace, awakening faith, renewing hears, and equipping us for service. The Spirit moves among all peoples, inspires care for our neighbors, and calls us to seek justice, make peace and protect the flourishing of creation.

We trust that God has not abandoned the world, and is even now making all things new. Therefore we live in hope: for the healing of the earth, for reconciliation among people, for the renewal of the church, and for the resurrection life promised in Christ.

To God- Creator, Son, and Holy Spirit, be glory now and forever.

Amen.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1390 135 full Apostles' Creed: An Introduction Apostles' Creed: An Introduction https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-an-introduction/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/apostles-creed-an-introduction/#comments Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:39:55 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/39776e01-e72d-395e-90d0-7c9f0a82ba03 A creed is a formal statement of core beliefs or guiding principles. Often a creed is composed of ‘I Believe’ statements and these statements could and should lead to actions informed by the creed. Living out the actions resulting from the creed tells outside observers who we are. The Apostles’ Creed is neither written in the bible, nor was it written by Apostles. However, it is an encapsulation of the entire bible, and captures the Triune nature of God. There are three articles in the Apostles’ Creed, each starting with an ‘I believe’ statement.

 

Today’s message is brought to us by Pastor Jason, and the scripture reading comes from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Chapter 2, verses 5 - 11.  After Jason’s message, Pastor Tania leads the congregation in the Ionian Creed.

 

Ionian Creed:

We believe that God is present in the darkness before the dawn; in the waiting and uncertainty where fear and courage join hands. Conflict and caring link arms, and the sun rises over barbed wire. We believe in a with-us God who sits down in our midst to share our humanity.

We affirm a faith that takes us beyond a safe place: into action, into vulnerability and onto the streets.

We commit ourselves to work for change and put ourselves on the line; to bear responsibility, take risks, live powerfully and face humiliation; to stand with those on the edge; to choose life and be used by the Spirit for God’s new community of hope. Amen

]]> A creed is a formal statement of core beliefs or guiding principles. Often a creed is composed of ‘I Believe’ statements and these statements could and should lead to actions informed by the creed. Living out the actions resulting from the creed tells outside observers who we are. The Apostles’ Creed is neither written in the bible, nor was it written by Apostles. However, it is an encapsulation of the entire bible, and captures the Triune nature of God. There are three articles in the Apostles’ Creed, each starting with an ‘I believe’ statement.

 

Today’s message is brought to us by Pastor Jason, and the scripture reading comes from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Chapter 2, verses 5 - 11.  After Jason’s message, Pastor Tania leads the congregation in the Ionian Creed.

 

Ionian Creed:

We believe that God is present in the darkness before the dawn; in the waiting and uncertainty where fear and courage join hands. Conflict and caring link arms, and the sun rises over barbed wire. We believe in a with-us God who sits down in our midst to share our humanity.

We affirm a faith that takes us beyond a safe place: into action, into vulnerability and onto the streets.

We commit ourselves to work for change and put ourselves on the line; to bear responsibility, take risks, live powerfully and face humiliation; to stand with those on the edge; to choose life and be used by the Spirit for God’s new community of hope. Amen

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1046 134 full The Blessing of Hospitallity: The View From Tanzania The Blessing of Hospitallity: The View From Tanzania https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-blessing-of-hospitallity-the-view-from-tanzania/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-blessing-of-hospitallity-the-view-from-tanzania/#comments Sun, 28 Jun 2026 17:09:29 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/1f9f865d-539e-3168-a257-b24c847fdf21 Guests are a blessing. Jesus told the Disciples to go out and share the good news, and that they would be showered with hospitality. Hospitality is the process of a stanger taken under protection of the host for a given time during the period of hospitality. The disciples needed hospitality because of the dangers of the world and their vulnerability. Sometimes the roles of those who need welcome and those who offer welcome can change and both parties can do both the welcoming and receiving  welcome.

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel comes from John  Chapter 10, verses 40-42. Our scripture lesson is Psalm 100.

]]> Guests are a blessing. Jesus told the Disciples to go out and share the good news, and that they would be showered with hospitality. Hospitality is the process of a stanger taken under protection of the host for a given time during the period of hospitality. The disciples needed hospitality because of the dangers of the world and their vulnerability. Sometimes the roles of those who need welcome and those who offer welcome can change and both parties can do both the welcoming and receiving  welcome.

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel comes from John  Chapter 10, verses 40-42. Our scripture lesson is Psalm 100.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 882 133 full Race Equity: A Westwood Core Value Race Equity: A Westwood Core Value https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/westwood-core-values-race-equity/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/westwood-core-values-race-equity/#comments Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:28:44 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/b320d22e-ffd9-389d-b768-6372052b30f9 The Gospel of John tells us that we are freed by faith alone, and crucified in Christ. However, our culture is trying to remove our remembrances of the sacrifices and the contributions of our non-white brothers and sisters with the intent that we forget. Westwood stands diametrically opposed to this attempt to rewrite history. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel comes from John  Chapter 8, verses 31 - 36. Our scripture lesson is from 2 Samuel, Chapter 13, verses 20-22.

]]> The Gospel of John tells us that we are freed by faith alone, and crucified in Christ. However, our culture is trying to remove our remembrances of the sacrifices and the contributions of our non-white brothers and sisters with the intent that we forget. Westwood stands diametrically opposed to this attempt to rewrite history. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel comes from John  Chapter 8, verses 31 - 36. Our scripture lesson is from 2 Samuel, Chapter 13, verses 20-22.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1000 132 full Affirming LGBTQIA+: A Westwood Core Value Affirming LGBTQIA+: A Westwood Core Value https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/affirming-lgbtqia-a-westwood-core-value/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/affirming-lgbtqia-a-westwood-core-value/#comments Sun, 14 Jun 2026 15:21:05 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/0867d8df-36c1-3098-918f-bca60a1ad37c The church exists for all of the people of the world. It doesn't exist to keep us comfortable and cloistered behind our walls. When we live the mission and the Holy Spirit gets unleashed, the endings are unimaginable. Each of us has the good news of God's gift to be shared anywhere and everywhere.

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our scripture lesson comes from Psalm 100, and our Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter's 9 verse 35 to Chapter 10, verse 8. 

]]> The church exists for all of the people of the world. It doesn't exist to keep us comfortable and cloistered behind our walls. When we live the mission and the Holy Spirit gets unleashed, the endings are unimaginable. Each of us has the good news of God's gift to be shared anywhere and everywhere.

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our scripture lesson comes from Psalm 100, and our Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter's 9 verse 35 to Chapter 10, verse 8. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1120 131 full Child Well-being: A Westwood Core Value Child Well-being: A Westwood Core Value https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/how-stories-become-alive/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/how-stories-become-alive/#comments Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:51:05 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/4d77bc14-f666-3b11-805c-5a88f7abc964 The Gospel of Matthew shares that a value for Christian discipleship is both creating a welcoming space for children and pursuing their well-being in our communities.  This values isn’t just something decided on, but comes from being swept up into God’s story of grace and calling in Jesus.

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. Our bible reading is Psalm 127, and our Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter 9, verses 18 - 26.

]]> The Gospel of Matthew shares that a value for Christian discipleship is both creating a welcoming space for children and pursuing their well-being in our communities.  This values isn’t just something decided on, but comes from being swept up into God’s story of grace and calling in Jesus.

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. Our bible reading is Psalm 127, and our Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter 9, verses 18 - 26.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1089 130 full Pentecost: The Spirit is Present Through Us: Educators Share Stories of Resilience and Beauty Pentecost: The Spirit is Present Through Us: Educators Share Stories of Resilience and Beauty https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/pentacost-does-the-holy-ghost-manifest-in-our-world/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/pentacost-does-the-holy-ghost-manifest-in-our-world/#comments Tue, 02 Jun 2026 23:41:13 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/bdfb077e-700b-320f-9041-95a09043f33f When the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on that first Pentecost, the results were immediate, obvious and startling. Normally, we don't see the effects of the Holy Spirit that directly, but God is present in the world around us through the work of the Holy Spirit. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Sarah. She interviews Olivia Tolzin and Zach Prowell, who are both educators. The three discuss the beauty and lament of the past year in education, and share how their faith made a difference. You’ll hear how the Spirit showed up through them. Today's lesson comes from 1 Corinthians, Chapter 12 verses 1, 4-11.

]]> When the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples on that first Pentecost, the results were immediate, obvious and startling. Normally, we don't see the effects of the Holy Spirit that directly, but God is present in the world around us through the work of the Holy Spirit. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Sarah. She interviews Olivia Tolzin and Zach Prowell, who are both educators. The three discuss the beauty and lament of the past year in education, and share how their faith made a difference. You’ll hear how the Spirit showed up through them. Today's lesson comes from 1 Corinthians, Chapter 12 verses 1, 4-11.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1668 129 full The Ascension: Gazing at the Sky or Engaging with the World? The Ascension: Gazing at the Sky or Engaging with the World? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-ascension-gazing-at-the-sky-or-engaging-with-the-world/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-ascension-gazing-at-the-sky-or-engaging-with-the-world/#comments Sun, 24 May 2026 15:50:06 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c5786bff-323c-304d-8dff-f49de154de71 Luke writes the story of the ascension twice. The main elements of the two match up, but differ in some of the details., but why? We explore the stories and how the perspective may change depending upon the audience.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gosple comes from Luke, Chapter 24, versess 44 - 53, and is compared to the story of ascension from Acts Chapter 1 Verses 6 -11.

]]> Luke writes the story of the ascension twice. The main elements of the two match up, but differ in some of the details., but why? We explore the stories and how the perspective may change depending upon the audience.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gosple comes from Luke, Chapter 24, versess 44 - 53, and is compared to the story of ascension from Acts Chapter 1 Verses 6 -11.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1133 128 full The Road To Emmaus: Recruited The Road To Emmaus: Recruited https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-road-to-emmaus-recruited/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-road-to-emmaus-recruited/#comments Sun, 17 May 2026 21:32:31 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ccac7e86-0c64-3628-8653-3398c883b14c Have you ever been recruited for a job, a team, a role that you didn't really know was coming your way? Those disciples on the road to Emmaus were. They didn't know it at the time, but Jesus appeared to them and recruited them into his grand design. They invited him into their home for the evening, offered him food and drink. It was only after he took charge and blessed the meal that they realized who Jesus actually was. Then they became an even bigger part of the story by immediately turning around to go back to Jerusalem and share the good news of Jesus' resurrection with the Eleven. 

God often recruits us be leaders in the same way. We may want to have others in the limelight because it can be hard to see ourselves as leaders, but we all have the capacity within us. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 28 - 35.

]]> Have you ever been recruited for a job, a team, a role that you didn't really know was coming your way? Those disciples on the road to Emmaus were. They didn't know it at the time, but Jesus appeared to them and recruited them into his grand design. They invited him into their home for the evening, offered him food and drink. It was only after he took charge and blessed the meal that they realized who Jesus actually was. Then they became an even bigger part of the story by immediately turning around to go back to Jerusalem and share the good news of Jesus' resurrection with the Eleven. 

God often recruits us be leaders in the same way. We may want to have others in the limelight because it can be hard to see ourselves as leaders, but we all have the capacity within us. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 28 - 35.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1203 127 full The Road to Emmaus: Stories Matter The Road to Emmaus: Stories Matter https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/road-to-emmaus-stories-matter/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/road-to-emmaus-stories-matter/#comments Sun, 17 May 2026 21:15:51 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/2a31a958-d1f3-31b0-a436-4ece2474b321 As the disciples walked away from Jerusalem after the crucifixtion, their internal story of the event was limiting their ability to see a future for Christ and Christianity. As Jesus walked with them, he helped explain how their story was an incomplete telling of the events of the past days. We too can allow our stories to be limiting vs. enlivening.  We need to remember that a Savior is with us at all times. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our Gosple is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 18-27.

]]> As the disciples walked away from Jerusalem after the crucifixtion, their internal story of the event was limiting their ability to see a future for Christ and Christianity. As Jesus walked with them, he helped explain how their story was an incomplete telling of the events of the past days. We too can allow our stories to be limiting vs. enlivening.  We need to remember that a Savior is with us at all times. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our Gosple is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 18-27.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1205 126 full The Road to Emmaus: Leadership The Road to Emmaus: Leadership https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-road-to-emmaus-leadership/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-road-to-emmaus-leadership/#comments Sun, 03 May 2026 23:53:41 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/6cb4182c-9e0a-366b-989f-be8d9fbc97ba The Road to Leadership. In a story often called “The Road to Emmaus,” followers of Jesus express the disappointment and heartbreak of Jesus' crucifixion. When we experience disappointment on life's road, it can lead to cynicism, lost hope, and dead ends. This road is hard and the journey is difficult, but it can also be revealing. The road of disappointment can show us our passions and deepest desires. We meet Jesus there, and that road can become the place we discover our call to leadership.

This message comes to us from Pastor Sarah. Our gospel comes from Luke, Chapter 24 verses 13 - 18.

]]> The Road to Leadership. In a story often called “The Road to Emmaus,” followers of Jesus express the disappointment and heartbreak of Jesus' crucifixion. When we experience disappointment on life's road, it can lead to cynicism, lost hope, and dead ends. This road is hard and the journey is difficult, but it can also be revealing. The road of disappointment can show us our passions and deepest desires. We meet Jesus there, and that road can become the place we discover our call to leadership.

This message comes to us from Pastor Sarah. Our gospel comes from Luke, Chapter 24 verses 13 - 18.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1182 125 full Culture of Grace, What Footprints Are You Leaving? Culture of Grace, What Footprints Are You Leaving? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-what-footprints-are-you-leaving/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-what-footprints-are-you-leaving/#comments Sun, 26 Apr 2026 13:39:18 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/3bf40c94-dc23-3529-997e-467637c29c0b When we create a legacy, it is the small things that build the story. One way to think about this is you are leaving footprints, whether you are intentional about them or not.  Our legacy, our story or footprint is created every day by our choices, our priorities, our commitments on how we spend our time and money.  This legacy looks different for each of us, but we can also create a ‘shared footprint’ in our church community, by supporting and participating in opportunities that match our values.

Today's message comes from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel is from John, Chapter 21, verses 15 - 19.

 

]]> When we create a legacy, it is the small things that build the story. One way to think about this is you are leaving footprints, whether you are intentional about them or not.  Our legacy, our story or footprint is created every day by our choices, our priorities, our commitments on how we spend our time and money.  This legacy looks different for each of us, but we can also create a ‘shared footprint’ in our church community, by supporting and participating in opportunities that match our values.

Today's message comes from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel is from John, Chapter 21, verses 15 - 19.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 836 124 full Agency: Choosing, With Scars Agency: Choosing, With Scars https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture/#comments Sun, 19 Apr 2026 22:47:57 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/5e10e8f8-0412-373a-b461-ec50f03e0071 The scars that Jesus showed to his disciples behind those locked doors were the most visible, but not the only scars in the room. The disciples were dealing with their own scars, both named and unnamed. We have the choice to allow our scars to define us, or to get beyond them, and God celebrates our choices. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from John Chapter 20, verses 24 to 31.

 

]]> The scars that Jesus showed to his disciples behind those locked doors were the most visible, but not the only scars in the room. The disciples were dealing with their own scars, both named and unnamed. We have the choice to allow our scars to define us, or to get beyond them, and God celebrates our choices. 

Today's message comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from John Chapter 20, verses 24 to 31.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 994 123 full Culture of Grace: Our Experience of A Culture of Grace Culture of Grace: Our Experience of A Culture of Grace https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-our-experience-of-a-culture-of-grace/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-our-experience-of-a-culture-of-grace/#comments Sun, 12 Apr 2026 14:26:09 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/af37f82a-97b1-3592-80d2-8094a85efe50 Culture is made up of things seen and unseen. It is what is obvious, but also that which isn't as obvious, and is sometimes invisible. Culture is made up of both the external markers as well as that which is at the core. While hardship, fear and shame can infuse and inform our culture in negative situations, we can actively build a culture around hope, love and inclusion.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah.  Our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 20, verses 19 - 23.

]]> Culture is made up of things seen and unseen. It is what is obvious, but also that which isn't as obvious, and is sometimes invisible. Culture is made up of both the external markers as well as that which is at the core. While hardship, fear and shame can infuse and inform our culture in negative situations, we can actively build a culture around hope, love and inclusion.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah.  Our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 20, verses 19 - 23.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1105 122 full What's Up With An Earthquake? What's Up With An Earthquake? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/whats-up-with-an-earthquake/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/whats-up-with-an-earthquake/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:05:15 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e3da0acf-532a-3d89-ab37-9b87f27315b3 Today we hear the resurrection story from Matthew, which is the only Gospel to describe an earthquake when the two Marys went to the tomb. In the recent past, we've experienced our own earthquakes. From school shootings and  killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, to the most recent wars and partisan divides, it can feel like we are under assault.  However the good news of the resurrection is that sin and death do not have the last word. God does and he shares that good news with us. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from Matthew Chapter 28, verses 1 - 10, and the Scripture is from Romans Chapter 6, verses 3 - 5.

]]> Today we hear the resurrection story from Matthew, which is the only Gospel to describe an earthquake when the two Marys went to the tomb. In the recent past, we've experienced our own earthquakes. From school shootings and  killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, to the most recent wars and partisan divides, it can feel like we are under assault.  However the good news of the resurrection is that sin and death do not have the last word. God does and he shares that good news with us. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from Matthew Chapter 28, verses 1 - 10, and the Scripture is from Romans Chapter 6, verses 3 - 5.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 971 121 full Annointing a Reluctant King Annointing a Reluctant King https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/annointing-a-reluctant-king/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/annointing-a-reluctant-king/#comments Sun, 29 Mar 2026 20:24:19 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/75a60cb8-022e-345c-ab2f-49e9e95f55ac Kings are often greeted by pomp and circumstance. However Jesus did not enter jerusalem by the main gate, he came in via backroads sitting on a donkey rather than a war horse humbled, not triumphant. The celebration of kingship is often evinced by an annointing. Messiah translates into Christ in English and contain the idea of being anointed. Even though Jesus anointing , crowning and assuming his throne was different than his followers expected. His anointing gives us the hope that Christ's anointing heals us as a people. Together we follow a God towards love, hope and peace. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter 21, Verses 1 - 11. The Scripture lesson comes from Philippians Chapter verses 5 - 11.

]]> Kings are often greeted by pomp and circumstance. However Jesus did not enter jerusalem by the main gate, he came in via backroads sitting on a donkey rather than a war horse humbled, not triumphant. The celebration of kingship is often evinced by an annointing. Messiah translates into Christ in English and contain the idea of being anointed. Even though Jesus anointing , crowning and assuming his throne was different than his followers expected. His anointing gives us the hope that Christ's anointing heals us as a people. Together we follow a God towards love, hope and peace. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter 21, Verses 1 - 11. The Scripture lesson comes from Philippians Chapter verses 5 - 11.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1096 120 full Forgiveness: Renew or Release the Relationship Forgiveness: Renew or Release the Relationship https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-renew-or-release-the-relationship/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-renew-or-release-the-relationship/#comments Sun, 22 Mar 2026 16:47:30 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ae116e7d-f5e6-3baa-8e9a-4eefcd6720ec Each instance of forgiveness is different and the difficulty of providing forgiveness varies. Many representations in popular culture make this difficult process too simple, forgiveness is asked, accepted and the relationship restored. Unfortunately, in many cases the process can be overwhelming and isn't easy to bring to conclusion. But it doesn't need to work like these simple examples. Relationships may need distance, or may need to be broken completely. In some instances a new different relationship may develop.

The good news is that forgiveness is between God and God's people - all of us.

Our message today comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson comes from John Chapter 20, verses 19-23,  and our scripture is Jeremiah Chapter 31, verses 31-34

]]> Each instance of forgiveness is different and the difficulty of providing forgiveness varies. Many representations in popular culture make this difficult process too simple, forgiveness is asked, accepted and the relationship restored. Unfortunately, in many cases the process can be overwhelming and isn't easy to bring to conclusion. But it doesn't need to work like these simple examples. Relationships may need distance, or may need to be broken completely. In some instances a new different relationship may develop.

The good news is that forgiveness is between God and God's people - all of us.

Our message today comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson comes from John Chapter 20, verses 19-23,  and our scripture is Jeremiah Chapter 31, verses 31-34

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1298 116 full Forgiveness: Granting Forgiveness Forgiveness: Granting Forgiveness https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-granting-forgiveness/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-granting-forgiveness/#comments Mon, 16 Mar 2026 15:36:17 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/b751a99b-6c97-3c6c-80a4-82864da76089 When we hear about others who provide forgiveness, it is natural to wonder whether we would be able to grant forgiveness in the same situation. Forgiveness  is a complex and ever changing thing, and can be challenging to define. In this message we hear others definitions for forgiveness that can help us inform how we internalize and think about forgiveness. 

Our message today comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel lesson comes from Luke Chapter 4, verses 16-21 and our scripture is from Psalm 142.

]]> When we hear about others who provide forgiveness, it is natural to wonder whether we would be able to grant forgiveness in the same situation. Forgiveness  is a complex and ever changing thing, and can be challenging to define. In this message we hear others definitions for forgiveness that can help us inform how we internalize and think about forgiveness. 

Our message today comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel lesson comes from Luke Chapter 4, verses 16-21 and our scripture is from Psalm 142.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1178 117 full Forgiveness: Naming the Hurt Forgiveness: Naming the Hurt https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-naming-the-hurt/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-naming-the-hurt/#comments Sun, 08 Mar 2026 14:59:52 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/af1b7235-b91b-3d15-83b8-486c25b6af6c Is is possible to go through life without being hurt? Of course not. We can deny the hurt exists, and push it down deep inside. Naming that hurt is essential to healing and forgiveness. When we hurt, it can feel as thos something is wrong with the world, and also with us. We have the power to name and release the hurt as part of the forgiveness process. 

Our message today comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson comes from John Chapter 13 verses 21-30,  and our lesson comes from Psalm 69.

]]> Is is possible to go through life without being hurt? Of course not. We can deny the hurt exists, and push it down deep inside. Naming that hurt is essential to healing and forgiveness. When we hurt, it can feel as thos something is wrong with the world, and also with us. We have the power to name and release the hurt as part of the forgiveness process. 

Our message today comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson comes from John Chapter 13 verses 21-30,  and our lesson comes from Psalm 69.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1512 118 full Forgiveness: Telling the Story Forgiveness: Telling the Story https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-telling-the-story/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-telling-the-story/#comments Sun, 01 Mar 2026 15:36:46 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/05a34ea4-db84-3f70-b34d-19dc5a65a464 Telling the story is a part of the process of forgiveness, whether that story is of how we were hurt, or how we hurt others. And yet, it may not be quick, as we need time to grieve, process, and recover. A question is who can help by holding our stories? Friends and family members, and even groups can help us heal. god tells us that he will be with us and join us in our story. 

Our message today comes from Pastoral Intern Aaron. Our scripture lessons are from Psalm 130 and Genesis Chapter 37, verses 1-4 and 12-26.

]]> Telling the story is a part of the process of forgiveness, whether that story is of how we were hurt, or how we hurt others. And yet, it may not be quick, as we need time to grieve, process, and recover. A question is who can help by holding our stories? Friends and family members, and even groups can help us heal. god tells us that he will be with us and join us in our story. 

Our message today comes from Pastoral Intern Aaron. Our scripture lessons are from Psalm 130 and Genesis Chapter 37, verses 1-4 and 12-26.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1579 119 full Forgiveness: Introduction Forgiveness: Introduction https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-introduction/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/forgiveness-introduction/#comments Sun, 22 Feb 2026 15:45:23 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e62eaf41-17f1-330a-a0f8-24041ebd1726 Forgiveness is hard, but important. Jesus teaches that forgiveness is part of our shared humanity. We have the agency to forgive and can choose to be healed. Over the next weeks we will review Bishop Desmond Tutu's views on forgiveness in his book The Book of Forgiving: A Fourfold Path for Healing Ourselves and Our World.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our Gospel comes from John 8, Chapter verses 1 - 11. The Scripture lesson is from Psalm 25, verse 1 - 7 and 16 - 18.

 

]]> Forgiveness is hard, but important. Jesus teaches that forgiveness is part of our shared humanity. We have the agency to forgive and can choose to be healed. Over the next weeks we will review Bishop Desmond Tutu's views on forgiveness in his book The Book of Forgiving: A Fourfold Path for Healing Ourselves and Our World.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our Gospel comes from John 8, Chapter verses 1 - 11. The Scripture lesson is from Psalm 25, verse 1 - 7 and 16 - 18.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1031 115 full Do Not Be Afraid Do Not Be Afraid https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/do-not-be-afraid/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/do-not-be-afraid/#comments Sun, 15 Feb 2026 14:13:02 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/edac127b-bd4f-31a5-8fb1-1bbd99e46c4e On the mount, Jesus said to all of us: "Get Up! Do not be afraid!" Transfiguration is change and we are called to change - there is work to be done. Where you are, there are you called; to step up and lead.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. Our gospel is from Matthew Chapter 17, verses 1-9. 

]]> On the mount, Jesus said to all of us: "Get Up! Do not be afraid!" Transfiguration is change and we are called to change - there is work to be done. Where you are, there are you called; to step up and lead.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. Our gospel is from Matthew Chapter 17, verses 1-9. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1020 114 full Power of Paradox:Small is Big Power of Paradox:Small is Big https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradoxsmall-is-big/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradoxsmall-is-big/#comments Sun, 08 Feb 2026 14:08:27 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/cfd207f2-e958-3394-915a-735f2f4c5544 Jesus tells us to let our light shine so that others can see our good works. Yet how much light can a single candle put out? Quite a bit in the dark of night or the dark of circumstance. Each of us can have an unforeseeable impact when we allow our light to shine forth, and from those small rays of light, big things can result.

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 13 - 20. 

]]> Jesus tells us to let our light shine so that others can see our good works. Yet how much light can a single candle put out? Quite a bit in the dark of night or the dark of circumstance. Each of us can have an unforeseeable impact when we allow our light to shine forth, and from those small rays of light, big things can result.

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our Gospel is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 13 - 20. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1142 113 full Power of Paradox: The Beatitudes Power of Paradox: The Beatitudes https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-the-beatitudes/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-the-beatitudes/#comments Sun, 01 Feb 2026 15:42:29 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/15d2e1cb-6983-3dc0-802f-a83ee5e2c174 Jesus' Sermon on the Mount is well known for the passage known as the Beatitudes. The danger of this message is the risk of further separation between those on the margins and others. Sometimes we can wonder who is blessed and who is cursed; which of these am I.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. Our Old Testament lesson comes from Micah, Chapter 6, verses 6 - 8. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 1 -12.

]]> Jesus' Sermon on the Mount is well known for the passage known as the Beatitudes. The danger of this message is the risk of further separation between those on the margins and others. Sometimes we can wonder who is blessed and who is cursed; which of these am I.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. Our Old Testament lesson comes from Micah, Chapter 6, verses 6 - 8. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 5, verses 1 -12.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1642 112 full Power of Paradox: Slow in a Fast World Power of Paradox: Slow in a Fast World https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-slow-in-a-fast-world/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-slow-in-a-fast-world/#comments Sun, 25 Jan 2026 17:49:46 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/73a18f4b-ba01-3dd6-a6f0-b2eb1fa38643 The pace of the world continues to accelerate. Unfortunately, often with that speed, discernment is lost. Speed mixed with fear can lead to violence. God's moving in the world is slow. When we move at the speed of God, leadership can be shaped by grace. When we are overwhelmed by fear, the appropriate response is to slow down. 

Today's message is presented by Pastoral Intern Arron. Our scripture lesson is from Isaiah Chapter 9, verses 1 - 4. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter 4, verses 12-23. 

]]> The pace of the world continues to accelerate. Unfortunately, often with that speed, discernment is lost. Speed mixed with fear can lead to violence. God's moving in the world is slow. When we move at the speed of God, leadership can be shaped by grace. When we are overwhelmed by fear, the appropriate response is to slow down. 

Today's message is presented by Pastoral Intern Arron. Our scripture lesson is from Isaiah Chapter 9, verses 1 - 4. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter 4, verses 12-23. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 970 111 full Power of Paradox: We Are the Ones We've Beeb Waiting For Power of Paradox: We Are the Ones We've Beeb Waiting For https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-we-are-the-ones-for-whom-we-are-waiting/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-we-are-the-ones-for-whom-we-are-waiting/#comments Sun, 18 Jan 2026 18:21:46 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/72d748d4-fad2-3859-a464-d79da0c88805 Todays message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospl is John, chapter 1, verses 35 - 42. The scripture reading is from Isaiah Chapter 49 verses 1 - 5.

]]> Todays message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospl is John, chapter 1, verses 35 - 42. The scripture reading is from Isaiah Chapter 49 verses 1 - 5.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1474 110 full Power of Paradox: Down to Go Up Power of Paradox: Down to Go Up https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-down-to-go-up/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/power-of-paradox-down-to-go-up/#comments Sun, 11 Jan 2026 21:09:02 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c9dad1f8-3dc9-32cd-8591-929e00c4e0f3 As we have talked about leadership in a culture of grace, the concept is that each of us has agency and capacity to lead in our own ways. The paradox is that implicit in leadership is servanthood. Martin Luther said that God is found not only in suffering, but also in the midst of doubt, fear, tribulation, temptation, despair and lament. Paradox defines us as individuals and Christians. 

In these difficult times, the paradox is that God hasn't left the scene. The crucified God is with us as our center. This paradox stands at the heart of our gospel.

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason. The Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter 3, verses 13 - 17. The Scripture lesson is from Isaiah, Chapter 42, verses 1 - 9.

]]> As we have talked about leadership in a culture of grace, the concept is that each of us has agency and capacity to lead in our own ways. The paradox is that implicit in leadership is servanthood. Martin Luther said that God is found not only in suffering, but also in the midst of doubt, fear, tribulation, temptation, despair and lament. Paradox defines us as individuals and Christians. 

In these difficult times, the paradox is that God hasn't left the scene. The crucified God is with us as our center. This paradox stands at the heart of our gospel.

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason. The Gospel comes from Matthew Chapter 3, verses 13 - 17. The Scripture lesson is from Isaiah, Chapter 42, verses 1 - 9.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1376 109 full Stirred Up Stirred Up https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/stirred-up/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/stirred-up/#comments Sun, 04 Jan 2026 21:04:08 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ce179d02-bced-36fe-b7c7-993d3917c473 How does God surprise us and the world? And why do our doubts arise when we are agitated by God? Taresso is the Greek word for trouble, agitation or stirred up. Jesus' response in multiple instances is "Peace be with you'. Where in our lives are we being agitated by God, and how will we respond?

Pastoral intern Aaron Schute walks us through 3 stories in the new testament where the disciples were taresseo, and draws the response of Jesus to help us prepare for the times when God stirs us up. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 2, verses 1 - 12.

 

]]> How does God surprise us and the world? And why do our doubts arise when we are agitated by God? Taresso is the Greek word for trouble, agitation or stirred up. Jesus' response in multiple instances is "Peace be with you'. Where in our lives are we being agitated by God, and how will we respond?

Pastoral intern Aaron Schute walks us through 3 stories in the new testament where the disciples were taresseo, and draws the response of Jesus to help us prepare for the times when God stirs us up. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew, Chapter 2, verses 1 - 12.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1034 108 full Holding Joys and Griefs as a Community of Hope Holding Joys and Griefs as a Community of Hope https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-joys-and-perils-of-christmas/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-joys-and-perils-of-christmas/#comments Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:36:54 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/4821c058-8d6a-311b-8be5-095274a10cdb The birth of Jesus can be seen as a transformation. It is the beginning of the story and also the beginning of the ending. While it may seem that Christmas should be a season of joy, as told in the Gospel of Matthew, it is both joy and pain. The birth of Jesus brings a newness of hope for us to follow. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from Matthew Chapter 2, verses 13 - 23.

]]> The birth of Jesus can be seen as a transformation. It is the beginning of the story and also the beginning of the ending. While it may seem that Christmas should be a season of joy, as told in the Gospel of Matthew, it is both joy and pain. The birth of Jesus brings a newness of hope for us to follow. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel is from Matthew Chapter 2, verses 13 - 23.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 906 107 full Where Is God Moving In Our World? Where Is God Moving In Our World? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-is-god-moving-in-our-world/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-is-god-moving-in-our-world/#comments Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:44:44 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/d64a3451-e212-3891-89e9-92ecd161552f Where is God today and where is he moving in our world? Is he here with us during this Christmas Season? We explore Christmas messages from both Indonesia and Guatemala and learn that God chooses us to bring light to the world. 

 

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron. The Gospel is from John, Chapter 1, verses 1 - 14.

]]> Where is God today and where is he moving in our world? Is he here with us during this Christmas Season? We explore Christmas messages from both Indonesia and Guatemala and learn that God chooses us to bring light to the world. 

 

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron. The Gospel is from John, Chapter 1, verses 1 - 14.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1300 106 full Where Is God Being Born? Where Is God Being Born? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-is-god-being-born/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-is-god-being-born/#comments Sun, 28 Dec 2025 21:09:01 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/53eedc7a-d2ff-3353-aca1-b1494cb0d06b Where do we find God? While he was born 2000 years ago into this world. that wasn't a one and done event. God keeps being born into this world, and into each of our hearts. 

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 2, verses 8-14.

]]> Where do we find God? While he was born 2000 years ago into this world. that wasn't a one and done event. God keeps being born into this world, and into each of our hearts. 

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 2, verses 8-14.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1163 105 full Culture of Grace: Listening Week 4 Culture of Grace: Listening Week 4 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-4/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-4/#comments Sun, 21 Dec 2025 18:56:15 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/6e912e83-2ace-36fc-a392-7a5b916888d9 In this Season of Advent, God has something new to say to us. We should be listening to others and to God, but often this can be difficult. In order to listen and hear the Word, we need to slow down and tune in. Today we hear about Gabriel's visit to Mary to tell her that she was going to bear the Son of God. Mary's response was profound, and a model for us all. She said yes.

Today's message comes from Pastor Tania. The Gospel is from Luke chapter 1, verses 26-38. 

]]> In this Season of Advent, God has something new to say to us. We should be listening to others and to God, but often this can be difficult. In order to listen and hear the Word, we need to slow down and tune in. Today we hear about Gabriel's visit to Mary to tell her that she was going to bear the Son of God. Mary's response was profound, and a model for us all. She said yes.

Today's message comes from Pastor Tania. The Gospel is from Luke chapter 1, verses 26-38. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 692 104 full Culture of Grace: Listening Week 3 Culture of Grace: Listening Week 3 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-3/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-3/#comments Sun, 14 Dec 2025 21:02:12 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ac1b1228-ec08-36e7-9b6d-04105dbc1d9e Listening requires at least 2 people. When you listen carefully and you believe, you will share the news. If you listen closely, you can hear that the heavens are still whispering: "Jesus is here, and God loves you."

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson comes from Matthew Chapter 1, verses 18-25.  

]]> Listening requires at least 2 people. When you listen carefully and you believe, you will share the news. If you listen closely, you can hear that the heavens are still whispering: "Jesus is here, and God loves you."

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson comes from Matthew Chapter 1, verses 18-25.  

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 821 103 full Culture of Grace: Listening Week 2 Culture of Grace: Listening Week 2 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-2/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-2/#comments Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:06:46 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/d7ac9bae-eca3-3992-a23b-f9eec8b3f8f0 In the bustle of our daily lives, when inappropriate comments are all around, can we still God in our lives? What matters is our ability to listen to that which defines what we are.

This message is brougth by Pastor Jason. our Gospel lesson is from Luke Chapter 1, verses 39 to 41.  We focus on Luke Chapter 1 verses 50 - 54.

]]> In the bustle of our daily lives, when inappropriate comments are all around, can we still God in our lives? What matters is our ability to listen to that which defines what we are.

This message is brougth by Pastor Jason. our Gospel lesson is from Luke Chapter 1, verses 39 to 41.  We focus on Luke Chapter 1 verses 50 - 54.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1093 102 full Culture of Grace - Listening Week 1 Culture of Grace - Listening Week 1 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-1/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/culture-of-grace-listening-week-1/#comments Sun, 30 Nov 2025 14:54:33 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/4756f13a-f131-3073-b1e1-2c8a9f6e46f6 In a culture of grace, listening is essential to leadership but hard. It is hard to silence our internal discussions to really listen. Our goal should be to understand not what matters to us, but what is true for our conversation partner at that point in time. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. Our Old Testament lesson is from Isiah chapter 40, verses 1-5. The Gospel is from Matthew chapter 3, verse 16. 

]]> In a culture of grace, listening is essential to leadership but hard. It is hard to silence our internal discussions to really listen. Our goal should be to understand not what matters to us, but what is true for our conversation partner at that point in time. 

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. Our Old Testament lesson is from Isiah chapter 40, verses 1-5. The Gospel is from Matthew chapter 3, verse 16. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1162 101 full Generosity in A Culture of Grace: Fully Formed Lives Generosity in A Culture of Grace: Fully Formed Lives https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-fully-formed-lives/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-fully-formed-lives/#comments Sun, 23 Nov 2025 18:36:28 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/141fe6d8-b830-327a-a822-7945ae66660c How do we live our lives so that we seek the thriving of others? Paul tells us that we have fully formed lives and that we have recieved riches beyond our imagination. While we experience the joy of that gift, we need to continue to be generous so that other can expience the joy of that gift as well. 

This week's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The lesson is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 9, verses 7 - 15. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 1-4.

]]> How do we live our lives so that we seek the thriving of others? Paul tells us that we have fully formed lives and that we have recieved riches beyond our imagination. While we experience the joy of that gift, we need to continue to be generous so that other can expience the joy of that gift as well. 

This week's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The lesson is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 9, verses 7 - 15. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 24, verses 1-4.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1072 99 full Generosity in A Culture of Grace: Shoulder to Shoulder Generosity in A Culture of Grace: Shoulder to Shoulder https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-shoulder-to-shoulder/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-shoulder-to-shoulder/#comments Sun, 16 Nov 2025 14:37:07 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/40d1b69e-fd29-355a-a958-6c90aeb6b080 In a culture of generosity does is it matter that one provides more than another? What if our skills or gifts are different? How does a gift economy compare to a transactional economy? 

Our message comes from Pasto Sarah. The Lesson is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8 verses 8 - 15 The Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 17, verses 11 - 19

]]> In a culture of generosity does is it matter that one provides more than another? What if our skills or gifts are different? How does a gift economy compare to a transactional economy? 

Our message comes from Pasto Sarah. The Lesson is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8 verses 8 - 15 The Gospel lesson is from Luke, Chapter 17, verses 11 - 19

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1441 98 full Generosity in A Culture of Grace: True Colors Generosity in A Culture of Grace: True Colors https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-true-colors/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-in-a-culture-of-grace-true-colors/#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2025 14:37:54 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/3b75621d-74b6-33bc-8ee4-e60f915f7104 When in trail, what shows a person's true colors? Paul would tell us that generosity will show one's true color. 

 

Out lesson comes from 2 Corinthians Chapter 8, verses 1-7. The Gospel Lesson is from Luke, Chapter 19, verses 1-10. 

]]> When in trail, what shows a person's true colors? Paul would tell us that generosity will show one's true color. 

 

Out lesson comes from 2 Corinthians Chapter 8, verses 1-7. The Gospel Lesson is from Luke, Chapter 19, verses 1-10. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1196 97 full A Tapestry Woven of God's First Love A Tapestry Woven of God's First Love https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-tapestry-woven-of-gods-first-love/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-tapestry-woven-of-gods-first-love/#comments Sun, 02 Nov 2025 13:36:33 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/db37a722-80b0-3793-8db0-935bae1de947 On All Saints Sunday we hear the Good News of the hope found in Jesus that speaks how we view both life and death. God first loves us, and that doesn't change.

Today's message is brought by Pastor Jason. Our new testament lesson is from  Colossians chapter 2, verses 2-3, 6-7, and 11-14 from the Message version. The Gospel is from Luke, chapter 6, verses 46-49.

]]> On All Saints Sunday we hear the Good News of the hope found in Jesus that speaks how we view both life and death. God first loves us, and that doesn't change.

Today's message is brought by Pastor Jason. Our new testament lesson is from  Colossians chapter 2, verses 2-3, 6-7, and 11-14 from the Message version. The Gospel is from Luke, chapter 6, verses 46-49.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1251 100 full Over a lifetime, faith changes, God does not. Over a lifetime, faith changes, God does not. https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/oct-26-2025/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/oct-26-2025/#comments Sun, 26 Oct 2025 17:43:12 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/97da4523-a5b1-3885-82fb-bc76a6114c3d Most people find that their faith evolves over time, changing as our understanding of God, God's church and our activities in the world change. Luther says that faith is a living, bold trust in God's grace. And while our faith may change, God’s love remains unchanging.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from John Chapter 8, verses 31-36. The New Testament lesson comes from Romans Chapter 3, Verses 20-28.

]]> Most people find that their faith evolves over time, changing as our understanding of God, God's church and our activities in the world change. Luther says that faith is a living, bold trust in God's grace. And while our faith may change, God’s love remains unchanging.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from John Chapter 8, verses 31-36. The New Testament lesson comes from Romans Chapter 3, Verses 20-28.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1280 96 full Vocation of Friendship: Week 5 Vocation of Friendship: Week 5 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-5/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-5/#comments Sun, 19 Oct 2025 12:24:27 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/596a4d2d-228e-398d-9bd2-800306d968e3 How are friendship and hospitality related and different? Both are vocations; the difference is that hospitality is an action while friendship refers to a relationship. Unlike many of the messages that we hear today, we are told to love the other and invite them in, not cast them out. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter25, verses 31-40, and the scripture reading is 1 Peter, Chapter 4, verses 8-10.

]]> How are friendship and hospitality related and different? Both are vocations; the difference is that hospitality is an action while friendship refers to a relationship. Unlike many of the messages that we hear today, we are told to love the other and invite them in, not cast them out. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel lesson is from Matthew Chapter25, verses 31-40, and the scripture reading is 1 Peter, Chapter 4, verses 8-10.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1078 95 full Vocation of Friendship: Week 4 Vocation of Friendship: Week 4 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-4/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-4/#comments Sun, 12 Oct 2025 20:00:53 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/d39f28a6-2707-3f45-b766-4380fd648e27 How do we define acts of friendship? Is it in the grand gestures, or being a genius at the close at hand? How do we grow faithfully into that call? Paul's letter to the Romans discusses how we should embrace what God does for us is the best thing we can do for God. 

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 17 verses 20 - 21.

The reading for the study is Romans Chapter 12, verses 1-2, & 9-16.

]]> How do we define acts of friendship? Is it in the grand gestures, or being a genius at the close at hand? How do we grow faithfully into that call? Paul's letter to the Romans discusses how we should embrace what God does for us is the best thing we can do for God. 

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 17 verses 20 - 21.

The reading for the study is Romans Chapter 12, verses 1-2, & 9-16.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1037 94 full Vocation of Friendship: Week 3 Vocation of Friendship: Week 3 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-3/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-3/#comments Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:15:49 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/b583cd99-f117-3ebf-aafa-1a3e8f4ea455 When suffering strikes, what happens when it seems that it is too much? When a friend is dealing with this deep suffering, being their friend becomes more challenging. The temptation is to move past it, to ignore or minimize the suffering and challenges with well-meaning phrases. Sometimes, we can provide the most comfort in just being there in spirit and peace. The comfort and care of friendship is to both receive as well as give.

This message comes from Pastoral Intern Aaron. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 24 verses 13 - 35.  The reading for the study is Job Chapter 2, verses 11-13.

]]> When suffering strikes, what happens when it seems that it is too much? When a friend is dealing with this deep suffering, being their friend becomes more challenging. The temptation is to move past it, to ignore or minimize the suffering and challenges with well-meaning phrases. Sometimes, we can provide the most comfort in just being there in spirit and peace. The comfort and care of friendship is to both receive as well as give.

This message comes from Pastoral Intern Aaron. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 24 verses 13 - 35.  The reading for the study is Job Chapter 2, verses 11-13.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1065 93 full Vocation of Friendship: Week Two Vocation of Friendship: Week Two https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-two/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-two/#comments Sun, 28 Sep 2025 11:13:10 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/56318201-648c-3ed4-83f0-0aa1f3af8192 Friendship is the foundation of community. How do communities of people come together across differences? We are responsible for both our actions and our reactions. We are to not only bear one another's burdens but also to bear our own.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our gospel reading is from Matthew 5, verses 21-24 Chapter 10 verses 25 - 28. The reading for the study is Galatians Chapter 6, verses 1-6.

]]> Friendship is the foundation of community. How do communities of people come together across differences? We are responsible for both our actions and our reactions. We are to not only bear one another's burdens but also to bear our own.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our gospel reading is from Matthew 5, verses 21-24 Chapter 10 verses 25 - 28. The reading for the study is Galatians Chapter 6, verses 1-6.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1431 92 full Vocation of Friendship: Week One Vocation of Friendship: Week One https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-one/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-week-one/#comments Sun, 21 Sep 2025 12:20:57 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/37b4df19-9ab6-3736-abea-12042eabff45 How does the vocation of friendship relate to Jesus' command that we both love God and our neighbor? How are our individual definitions of friendship related to our own experience of friendship?

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 10 verses 25 - 28. The reading for the study is 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, verses 4-7.

]]> How does the vocation of friendship relate to Jesus' command that we both love God and our neighbor? How are our individual definitions of friendship related to our own experience of friendship?

This message comes from Pastor Jason. Our gospel reading is from Luke Chapter 10 verses 25 - 28. The reading for the study is 1 Corinthians Chapter 13, verses 4-7.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1151 91 full Vocation of Friendship: Kickoff - Rally Sunday Vocation of Friendship: Kickoff - Rally Sunday https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-kickoff-rally-sunday/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/vocation-of-friendship-kickoff-rally-sunday/#comments Sun, 14 Sep 2025 14:16:55 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/4b30604a-eee3-35aa-a06e-d64a3e6d4665 What does it mean when Jesus tells his disciples that they are his friends? Does that extend to us? How are we called to be friends to others? We kick off the Vocation of Friendship study with an exploration of friend networks and the ways that each of us differ in our friendships.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from John, Chapter 5 verses 9-17.

]]> What does it mean when Jesus tells his disciples that they are his friends? Does that extend to us? How are we called to be friends to others? We kick off the Vocation of Friendship study with an exploration of friend networks and the ways that each of us differ in our friendships.

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from John, Chapter 5 verses 9-17.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1546 90 full God's Work, Our Hands God's Work, Our Hands https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/gods-work-our-hands/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/gods-work-our-hands/#comments Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:53:57 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/1ff999d6-c9e4-3752-ab0d-eb49a26d54c2 With just a little faith, we can live by Jesus’ teaching as disciples. The primary places we are called to be God’s hands and feet are in the roles in which we already participate. Jesus provides guidance in Luke 17, identifying two challenges that concerned his disciples.

This message comes from Pastor Jason, and he wonders about how Jesus' words can guide us today. Our The New Testament Lesson is from James Chapter 1, verses 16-25, and our Gospel is From Luke Chapter 17, verses 5 to 10.

]]> With just a little faith, we can live by Jesus’ teaching as disciples. The primary places we are called to be God’s hands and feet are in the roles in which we already participate. Jesus provides guidance in Luke 17, identifying two challenges that concerned his disciples.

This message comes from Pastor Jason, and he wonders about how Jesus' words can guide us today. Our The New Testament Lesson is from James Chapter 1, verses 16-25, and our Gospel is From Luke Chapter 17, verses 5 to 10.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1227 89 full Does God Have Time for Your Prayer? Does God Have Time for Your Prayer? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/does-god-have-time-for-your-prayer/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/does-god-have-time-for-your-prayer/#comments Sun, 07 Sep 2025 13:06:15 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/4424c66f-a051-30b1-beae-b39ae7e2219d As we wrap up the series on the Lord’s Prayer, the sermon notes the variety of prayers that were gathered over the last two months. Over a thousand individual prayers were submitted by our congregation, but that’s just a drop in the bucket of human conversation with God. Prayer can be seen as simply -paying attention – to the world around you. Your attention is limited. The good news is that God has unlimited attention for you and your particular circumstances, and for everyone else too.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Old Testament reading is from !Kings, Chapter 8, Verses 27 - 30. The New Testament lesson is from Ephesians, Chapter 1, Verses 15 - 19.

]]> As we wrap up the series on the Lord’s Prayer, the sermon notes the variety of prayers that were gathered over the last two months. Over a thousand individual prayers were submitted by our congregation, but that’s just a drop in the bucket of human conversation with God. Prayer can be seen as simply -paying attention – to the world around you. Your attention is limited. The good news is that God has unlimited attention for you and your particular circumstances, and for everyone else too.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Old Testament reading is from !Kings, Chapter 8, Verses 27 - 30. The New Testament lesson is from Ephesians, Chapter 1, Verses 15 - 19.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1285 88 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Doxology Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Doxology https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-doxology/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-doxology/#comments Mon, 01 Sep 2025 13:02:11 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/30a45ad4-f868-3725-8f4f-2db7c5db9eb2 “Amen” is more than a closing word to the Lord’s Prayer—it’s our bold yes to God’s kingdom of abundance. In a world often marked by scarcity and fear, we trust God’s promise and enter the work of renewal, justice, and glory breaking into the world here and now.

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron. The Gospel reading is from Luke, Chapter 11, Verses 1 - 4, and the Scripture reading is from Revelation, Chapter 31, Verses 3 - 5. 

]]> “Amen” is more than a closing word to the Lord’s Prayer—it’s our bold yes to God’s kingdom of abundance. In a world often marked by scarcity and fear, we trust God’s promise and enter the work of renewal, justice, and glory breaking into the world here and now.

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron. The Gospel reading is from Luke, Chapter 11, Verses 1 - 4, and the Scripture reading is from Revelation, Chapter 31, Verses 3 - 5. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 904 87 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Deliver Us From Evil Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Deliver Us From Evil https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-deliver-us-from-evil/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-deliver-us-from-evil/#comments Thu, 28 Aug 2025 08:38:55 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e8962a0f-952a-3776-a3ac-e15ed83288b9 Jesus encountered evil many times during his ministry. Evil can be difficult to envision, because it is so far out of our day to day experience. Does evil describe some of what we see in today’s world? In order to effectively address evil in our midst, first we must see it for what it is and then renounce it.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson is from Mark Chapter 5, verses 1 - 20.  

]]> Jesus encountered evil many times during his ministry. Evil can be difficult to envision, because it is so far out of our day to day experience. Does evil describe some of what we see in today’s world? In order to effectively address evil in our midst, first we must see it for what it is and then renounce it.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel lesson is from Mark Chapter 5, verses 1 - 20.  

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1362 86 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Save us from the Time of Trial Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Save us from the Time of Trial https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-save-us-from-the-time-of-trial/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-save-us-from-the-time-of-trial/#comments Sun, 17 Aug 2025 10:11:18 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/1bf4ebc8-54a9-37ae-9c15-eacdf5bb2843 Prayer often doesn't come easy, particularly when grief and pain is present and feels overwhelming. These trials are rea; and can easily be overwhelming. And yet Jesus tells us to stay awake and be saved from the time of trial.But what does this mean? How does God preserve us during those trials? Because those trials are not the end. The cross overcomes all. 

This message is presented by Pastor Jason. The Scripture lesson comes from Romans Chapter 8. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 22 Verses 39-46.

]]> Prayer often doesn't come easy, particularly when grief and pain is present and feels overwhelming. These trials are rea; and can easily be overwhelming. And yet Jesus tells us to stay awake and be saved from the time of trial.But what does this mean? How does God preserve us during those trials? Because those trials are not the end. The cross overcomes all. 

This message is presented by Pastor Jason. The Scripture lesson comes from Romans Chapter 8. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 22 Verses 39-46.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1252 85 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-forgive-us-our-sins-as-we-forgive-those-who-sin-against-us/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-forgive-us-our-sins-as-we-forgive-those-who-sin-against-us/#comments Wed, 13 Aug 2025 21:49:15 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/baf22f14-b12c-3d46-8902-2e214cdc6007 What does it mean to have our sins forgiven? Although we hear this regularly, it is difficult for us to understand and internalize what this means.

This message is from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel reading is from Matthew Chapter 18, Verses 15-22. 

]]> What does it mean to have our sins forgiven? Although we hear this regularly, it is difficult for us to understand and internalize what this means.

This message is from Pastor Sarah. The Gospel reading is from Matthew Chapter 18, Verses 15-22. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1408 84 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Give Us Our Daily Bread Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Give Us Our Daily Bread https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-give-us-our-daily-bread/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-give-us-our-daily-bread/#comments Fri, 01 Aug 2025 23:49:54 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/84f79219-ed98-338f-a405-02c23d75c68d Our daily bread. Praying this petition shapes us to notice that some people have bread enough for months while others struggle to get through the day. When we ask for daily bread, we ask not only for ourselves, but also for others. And we ask for more than just bread, but for all that people need to thrive. Ultimately, we are asking to trust God in little and big things, every day.

This message is from Pastor Sarah. The Old Testament reading comes from Exodus, Chapter 16, Verses 11 to 18. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 6 verses 26 to 35.

]]> Our daily bread. Praying this petition shapes us to notice that some people have bread enough for months while others struggle to get through the day. When we ask for daily bread, we ask not only for ourselves, but also for others. And we ask for more than just bread, but for all that people need to thrive. Ultimately, we are asking to trust God in little and big things, every day.

This message is from Pastor Sarah. The Old Testament reading comes from Exodus, Chapter 16, Verses 11 to 18. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 6 verses 26 to 35.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1270 83 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Your Will Be Done Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Your Will Be Done https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-your-will-be-done/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times-your-will-be-done/#comments Sun, 27 Jul 2025 09:39:05 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/0e778755-f9be-3acf-b2e7-e12ae42e2439 In this podcast, we explore God's will. How do we know what God's will really is?  Is every thing that happens actually God's will?

Pastor Tania takes on this complex topic and provides insight. Our Gospel reading today is from the book of John Chapter 6Verses 35 to 40.

 

]]> In this podcast, we explore God's will. How do we know what God's will really is?  Is every thing that happens actually God's will?

Pastor Tania takes on this complex topic and provides insight. Our Gospel reading today is from the book of John Chapter 6Verses 35 to 40.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1069 82 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Thy Kingdom Come Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Thy Kingdom Come https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray/#comments Wed, 16 Jul 2025 21:53:11 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/1dca52ae-79c4-316f-873e-bcb3a0259cfb This week we explore the 2nd petition… “Your Kingdom Come”.  The sermon will invite us to wonder about how we think about prayer in this petition and some reflections on what two parts of the Gospel mean when they refer to “the Kingdom of God”.

This episode is brought to us by Pastor Jason, and the scripture readings are Luke Chapter 13 verses 18-31 and Matthew  Chapter 20, verses 1-16.

]]> This week we explore the 2nd petition… “Your Kingdom Come”.  The sermon will invite us to wonder about how we think about prayer in this petition and some reflections on what two parts of the Gospel mean when they refer to “the Kingdom of God”.

This episode is brought to us by Pastor Jason, and the scripture readings are Luke Chapter 13 verses 18-31 and Matthew  Chapter 20, verses 1-16.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1297 81 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Hallowed Be Your Name Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Hallowed Be Your Name https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-pt-2/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-pt-2/#comments Wed, 09 Jul 2025 13:46:07 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/00efc833-97a6-3d42-b4c0-164146716cdc This week we explore the phrase “Hallowed be your name." We reflect on how God, who can seem mysterious and far, is deeply near to us like a loving parent. Drawing from Martin Luther’s teachings and scripture, we consider how God’s name becomes

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron Schutte. Our Scripture is from Exodus Chapter 3, verses 1 - 15.

]]> This week we explore the phrase “Hallowed be your name." We reflect on how God, who can seem mysterious and far, is deeply near to us like a loving parent. Drawing from Martin Luther’s teachings and scripture, we consider how God’s name becomes

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron Schutte. Our Scripture is from Exodus Chapter 3, verses 1 - 15.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 915 80 full Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Our Father in Heaven Teach Us To Pray: The Lord’s Prayer for Our Times: Our Father in Heaven https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/teach-us-to-pray-the-lord-s-prayer-for-our-times/#comments Fri, 04 Jul 2025 20:52:29 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/b4296171-c91b-369b-a589-edf86dfc2b5c Are our prayers always answered? Jesus taught his followers the Lord’s Prayer, and told them to be persistent in prayer. As we begin a summer series on the Lord’s Prayer, the sermon addressed the closeness of God our father, the other-ness of God in heaven, and what it means for our prayers to be “answered.”

This weeks message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel is from Luke Chapter 11, verses 1 - 10. 

]]> Are our prayers always answered? Jesus taught his followers the Lord’s Prayer, and told them to be persistent in prayer. As we begin a summer series on the Lord’s Prayer, the sermon addressed the closeness of God our father, the other-ness of God in heaven, and what it means for our prayers to be “answered.”

This weeks message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our Gospel is from Luke Chapter 11, verses 1 - 10. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1055 79 full Through Faith: All Are Children of God Through Faith: All Are Children of God https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/through-faith-all-are-children-of-god/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/through-faith-all-are-children-of-god/#comments Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:47:23 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/1683f1f8-e7a2-3285-bcc9-2a40ea3208be What does a congregation look like that’s faithful to Paul’s claim in Gal. 3?

that our “oneness” is found by faith in Christ, not our sameness as we can so often see.  This week two members of Westwood will share their reflections on this question through the lens of their faith journey as members of the LGBT community.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our scripture is from Galatians Chapter 3 verses 23-29,

]]> What does a congregation look like that’s faithful to Paul’s claim in Gal. 3?

that our “oneness” is found by faith in Christ, not our sameness as we can so often see.  This week two members of Westwood will share their reflections on this question through the lens of their faith journey as members of the LGBT community.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our scripture is from Galatians Chapter 3 verses 23-29,

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1442 78 full Do You Want to Get Free? Do You Want to Get Free? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/do-you-want-to-get-free/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/do-you-want-to-get-free/#comments Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:39:42 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/5aea4205-323f-3a0e-a861-37e533053785 God's promise of freedom and liberation throughout history has been for the oppressed and the captives. Explore how we define freedom as individuals and as a country and how Jesus spoke about and lived it out. 

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron, and our gospel is from Luke Chapter 4, verses 14-21, and the Lesson is Isaiah 61 which Jesus refers to in the Gospel. 

]]> God's promise of freedom and liberation throughout history has been for the oppressed and the captives. Explore how we define freedom as individuals and as a country and how Jesus spoke about and lived it out. 

This message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron, and our gospel is from Luke Chapter 4, verses 14-21, and the Lesson is Isaiah 61 which Jesus refers to in the Gospel. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 949 77 full Spirit of Hopes and Dreams Spirit of Hopes and Dreams https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/rooted-in-hope/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/rooted-in-hope/#comments Sat, 14 Jun 2025 08:18:44 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/63ced733-5704-3d7f-8b10-74f9e493d596 How does the presence of the Holy Spirit in the birth of Christianity relate to us today? Hope is at the root of the message. That we should live in hope is what the Spirit brought to those in that closed room long ago, and to us today.  

Pastor Jason brings us today's message. The Gospel lesson comes from John, Chapter 14.

]]> How does the presence of the Holy Spirit in the birth of Christianity relate to us today? Hope is at the root of the message. That we should live in hope is what the Spirit brought to those in that closed room long ago, and to us today.  

Pastor Jason brings us today's message. The Gospel lesson comes from John, Chapter 14.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1162 76 full Your Children Are Not Your Children Your Children Are Not Your Children https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/your-children-are-not-your-children/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/your-children-are-not-your-children/#comments Fri, 06 Jun 2025 08:56:08 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/133af26a-1661-3c87-8bb3-1e322cc1e57d Trust. We don’t do anything alone. Trust is at the heart of relationship. God trusted Jesus with the disciples. Jesus trusted the disciples with his mission after he ascended. 

Parents need trust when they hand their children to others for care and education. And we are all responsible for the well-being of all God’s children, not just our own. “Child Well-being” is one of Westwood's five core values.  This message addresses the importance of creating trustworthy environments that enable all people to thrive.

Our scripture reading is from Isaiah Chapter 40, verses 28-31, and the Gospel lesson is from John 17, verses 6-9.

 

]]> Trust. We don’t do anything alone. Trust is at the heart of relationship. God trusted Jesus with the disciples. Jesus trusted the disciples with his mission after he ascended. 

Parents need trust when they hand their children to others for care and education. And we are all responsible for the well-being of all God’s children, not just our own. “Child Well-being” is one of Westwood's five core values.  This message addresses the importance of creating trustworthy environments that enable all people to thrive.

Our scripture reading is from Isaiah Chapter 40, verses 28-31, and the Gospel lesson is from John 17, verses 6-9.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1059 75 full Moving from Trouble to Hope Moving from Trouble to Hope https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/moving-from-trouble-to-hope/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/moving-from-trouble-to-hope/#comments Sat, 31 May 2025 08:09:51 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ef526d12-1c96-333e-9e3b-07535fc1ea9a How do we move from Troubles to passionate patience to character and how does this result in hope? Where and how does the Holy Spirit flow generously into our lives?

Today's message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron, and our scripture is from Romans Chapter 5, verses 1-5 and our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 14, verses 23-29.

 

]]> How do we move from Troubles to passionate patience to character and how does this result in hope? Where and how does the Holy Spirit flow generously into our lives?

Today's message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron, and our scripture is from Romans Chapter 5, verses 1-5 and our Gospel lesson is from John Chapter 14, verses 23-29.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1260 74 full Hope: Energizing to Meet the Moment Hope: Energizing to Meet the Moment https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/hope-energizing-to-meet-the-moment/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/hope-energizing-to-meet-the-moment/#comments Wed, 28 May 2025 22:04:31 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c79dff13-39de-3708-bf86-2703f6872577 In this message we wonder about the effect of hope in God’s promises has in the present.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our scripture reading comes from Lamentations Chapter 3, verses 21-24. Th e Gospel reading is from the book of John, Chapter 21, verses 9-17.

]]> In this message we wonder about the effect of hope in God’s promises has in the present.

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. Our scripture reading comes from Lamentations Chapter 3, verses 21-24. Th e Gospel reading is from the book of John, Chapter 21, verses 9-17.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1154 73 full Doing Hopeful Things Doing Hopeful Things https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/doing-hopeful-things/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/doing-hopeful-things/#comments Sun, 18 May 2025 10:55:10 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/f844b22b-2957-32e9-b96e-26768fb251ef “I know the plans I have for you…to give you a future with hope.” That’s a popular Bible passage, giving hope to people who are in a hard times, but it’s only half of the story. Before God gives this promise, God says to settle down and make homes and families there – in this case, in a foreign country as refugees. Our faithful actions now – even if they seem small and insignificant – are part of ushering in God’s promise of a future with hope.

This message is presented by Pastor Sarah.The Scripture lesson comes from Jeremiah Chapter 29, and our Gospel is from John, Chapter 21.

 

]]> “I know the plans I have for you…to give you a future with hope.” That’s a popular Bible passage, giving hope to people who are in a hard times, but it’s only half of the story. Before God gives this promise, God says to settle down and make homes and families there – in this case, in a foreign country as refugees. Our faithful actions now – even if they seem small and insignificant – are part of ushering in God’s promise of a future with hope.

This message is presented by Pastor Sarah.The Scripture lesson comes from Jeremiah Chapter 29, and our Gospel is from John, Chapter 21.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1136 72 full Jumping into the Arms of Jesus Jumping into the Arms of Jesus https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/jumping-into-the-arms-of-faith/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/jumping-into-the-arms-of-faith/#comments Mon, 12 May 2025 19:53:57 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/31a89013-b69a-32b1-bfc2-b36ac7289d4e Resurrection and hope are out in the world. But we need to step put into the world and be aware and look carefully to find them. Looking past the darkness, because Jesus knows that darkness and suffering to support us through the pain grief and evil, because the Risen Lord is with us.  Resurrection in our lives has many faces and if we look for it we can see it daily. It is authentic, messy vibrant and filled with hope. 

This message comes to us from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel reading is from John Chapter 20, verses 24 - 31. 

 

]]> Resurrection and hope are out in the world. But we need to step put into the world and be aware and look carefully to find them. Looking past the darkness, because Jesus knows that darkness and suffering to support us through the pain grief and evil, because the Risen Lord is with us.  Resurrection in our lives has many faces and if we look for it we can see it daily. It is authentic, messy vibrant and filled with hope. 

This message comes to us from Pastor Tania. Our Gospel reading is from John Chapter 20, verses 24 - 31. 

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1031 71 full The Grinch Stole Christmas. What about Easter? The Grinch Stole Christmas. What about Easter? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-grinch-stole-christmas-what-about-easter/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-grinch-stole-christmas-what-about-easter/#comments Wed, 23 Apr 2025 20:44:57 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/52ffc7db-0345-350b-85d1-e74e29eb297d The Grinch who stole Christmas is not usually considered an Easter story, but in this sermon, Pastor Sarah uses the tale of Grinch to describe the miracle of Easter.

Just like the Grinch was surprised to find out he hadn’t ruined Christmas, everyone involved in the crucifixion was surprised to find out that God’s love was more powerful than sin, more powerful even than death. Even Jesus’ closest disciples doubted God’s power. And so do we. But the good news of Easter is that resurrection doesn’t depend on us. God acted to raise Jesus from the dead.

What does depend on us? Sharing the good news so that all the world can know! Christ is Risen Indeed Alleluia!

Our Bible reading is from the Book of Luke, Chapter 24

]]> The Grinch who stole Christmas is not usually considered an Easter story, but in this sermon, Pastor Sarah uses the tale of Grinch to describe the miracle of Easter.

Just like the Grinch was surprised to find out he hadn’t ruined Christmas, everyone involved in the crucifixion was surprised to find out that God’s love was more powerful than sin, more powerful even than death. Even Jesus’ closest disciples doubted God’s power. And so do we. But the good news of Easter is that resurrection doesn’t depend on us. God acted to raise Jesus from the dead.

What does depend on us? Sharing the good news so that all the world can know! Christ is Risen Indeed Alleluia!

Our Bible reading is from the Book of Luke, Chapter 24

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 979 70 full It Is Finished: A Creation Story It Is Finished: A Creation Story https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/it-is-finished-a-creation-story/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/it-is-finished-a-creation-story/#comments Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:23:11 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c0f29491-675c-358d-940c-e0ee2e93d891 Good Friday, is it a night of sorrow or joy? It is both, for what is the cost of discipleship? 

In this message, Pastor Jason provides unique context to the telling of the passion story in John, Chapters 18 and 19. 

]]> Good Friday, is it a night of sorrow or joy? It is both, for what is the cost of discipleship? 

In this message, Pastor Jason provides unique context to the telling of the passion story in John, Chapters 18 and 19. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 594 69 full A Culture of Remembering A Culture of Remembering https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-culture-of-remembering/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-culture-of-remembering/#comments Tue, 15 Apr 2025 18:19:50 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c3adb087-d047-3d2d-a379-308923cb9e0a Who is to be remembered? Is it those whose might makes them larger than life, or are other traits worthy of memory. We learn about the Roman tradition of the victor entering the conquered city and compare it to how Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason, and he suggests that not only does what you remember matter, but that also memories define who we are as a culture. The scripture is Luke Chapter 19, verses 29-40.  

]]> Who is to be remembered? Is it those whose might makes them larger than life, or are other traits worthy of memory. We learn about the Roman tradition of the victor entering the conquered city and compare it to how Jesus entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. 

Today's message comes to us from Pastor Jason, and he suggests that not only does what you remember matter, but that also memories define who we are as a culture. The scripture is Luke Chapter 19, verses 29-40.  

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 985 68 full Deep Love Deep Love https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/deep-love/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/deep-love/#comments Wed, 09 Apr 2025 21:58:25 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/116a0511-8d38-3809-9ba7-289b8d2b984e Today's message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron.

Sam Bardwell, brings the Gospel Lesson, John Chapter 12, verses 1 to 8, to life.

]]> Today's message is brought to us by Pastoral Intern Aaron.

Sam Bardwell, brings the Gospel Lesson, John Chapter 12, verses 1 to 8, to life.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 809 67 full Welcome Home Welcome Home https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/wecome-home/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/wecome-home/#comments Thu, 03 Apr 2025 08:52:25 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/57bef376-0031-3749-9169-defda58ce745 Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 15, verses 1 to 3 and 11 to 32 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 15, verses 1 to 3 and 11 to 32 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1431 66 full A Culture of Grace and Healing A Culture of Grace and Healing https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/be-healed/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/be-healed/#comments Sat, 29 Mar 2025 09:56:54 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/2d7d42ff-d9ee-36b4-a007-38ec5932c636 In this sermon we notice that the story of the fig tree is understood as first a story of God’s healing when it is read alongside the healing story in Luke 13.  We believe that a characteristic of a culture of grace is the having space for the healing that comes when we can be authentic about our stories of joys, sorrows, and traumas.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 13, verses 7 to 16 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> In this sermon we notice that the story of the fig tree is understood as first a story of God’s healing when it is read alongside the healing story in Luke 13.  We believe that a characteristic of a culture of grace is the having space for the healing that comes when we can be authentic about our stories of joys, sorrows, and traumas.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 13, verses 7 to 16 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1200 65 full Pastoral Intern Aaron Schutte Introduction Pastoral Intern Aaron Schutte Introduction https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/pastoral-intern-aaron-shutte-introduction/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/pastoral-intern-aaron-shutte-introduction/#comments Sat, 22 Mar 2025 09:59:51 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/61146dd5-9237-3ef7-8f95-4eb410ae56b8 In this podcast, we have an opportunity to meet Westwood's new Pastoral Intern. Aaron Schutte. Aaron has been a member at Westwood for 3 years, and he and his family are integral to our community. Aaron shares his passions, how he found the ministry, and where he hopes his future lies. 

]]> In this podcast, we have an opportunity to meet Westwood's new Pastoral Intern. Aaron Schutte. Aaron has been a member at Westwood for 3 years, and he and his family are integral to our community. Aaron shares his passions, how he found the ministry, and where he hopes his future lies. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1417 64 full Moving Towards One Another Moving Towards One Another https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/care-for-relationships/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/care-for-relationships/#comments Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:54:32 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/a5246267-646b-3eb7-be3b-8f1823b77c96 “Today we notice the direction of Jesus in Luke 13… instead of fleeing Jerusalem he goes in that direction for the gift of God’s redemption in the cross and empty tomb.  In this sermon, we wonder if that sense of direction… moving towards each other is a characteristic of a culture of grace.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 13, verses 31 to 35 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life. 

]]> “Today we notice the direction of Jesus in Luke 13… instead of fleeing Jerusalem he goes in that direction for the gift of God’s redemption in the cross and empty tomb.  In this sermon, we wonder if that sense of direction… moving towards each other is a characteristic of a culture of grace.

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson, Luke Chapter 13, verses 31 to 35 is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1246 63 full God Mode According to Jesus God Mode According to Jesus https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/god-mode-according-to-jesus/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/god-mode-according-to-jesus/#comments Sun, 16 Mar 2025 19:17:07 -0500 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/50620e70-e67f-38e6-846c-bb1cd5145f5e Our message is brought by Pastor Sarah. 

The Gospel Lesson is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> Our message is brought by Pastor Sarah. 

The Gospel Lesson is brought to us today by Sam Bardwell, Theologian and actor, bringing the scriptures to life.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1099 62 full Out of the Swirling Cloud Out of the Swirling Cloud https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/out-of-the-swirling-cloud/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/out-of-the-swirling-cloud/#comments Fri, 07 Mar 2025 19:43:53 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/d72aa03c-42d8-3cd9-a627-369e4911bc48 How can we hear Jesus’ voice cut through our weariness and fear? We wait, watch our guide, and listen for the signs.

This message comes from Interim Pastor Aaron Schutte. The Gospel is from Luke, chapter 9, verses 28-36

]]> How can we hear Jesus’ voice cut through our weariness and
fear? We wait, watch our guide, and listen for the signs.

This message comes from Interim Pastor Aaron Schutte. The Gospel is from Luke, chapter 9, verses 28-36

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 774 61 full Where Do You Keep Your Treasure? Where Do You Keep Your Treasure? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-do-you-keep-your-treasure/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/where-do-you-keep-your-treasure/#comments Wed, 26 Feb 2025 22:26:53 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/32d30507-bcb9-3f0a-88c3-d8a1f7aa1a2c As recorded in Matthew 6, Verse 21. “For where your treasure is,  there your heart will be also"(vs. 21).  These words are often interpreted to suggest that if you look at how your money (or time and talents) is used then you can find a persons heart/values.

What if we reframe it to mean that your heart can and will follow how you use your money/time/talents. What would that mean for our understanding of the Vocation of Generosity? How might that direct how we how we use these God-given gifts?

Our message comes from Pastor Jason and the Gospel lesson is from the book of Matthew Chapter 6, verses 19-21.

]]> As recorded in Matthew 6, Verse 21. “For where your treasure is,  there your heart will be also"(vs. 21).  These words are often interpreted to suggest that if you look at how your money (or time and talents) is used then you can find a persons heart/values.

What if we reframe it to mean that your heart can and will follow how you use your money/time/talents. What would that mean for our understanding of the Vocation of Generosity? How might that direct how we how we use these God-given gifts?

Our message comes from Pastor Jason and the Gospel lesson is from the book of Matthew Chapter 6, verses 19-21.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 860 60 full Piercing Reality: Expanding Our Generosity Worldview Piercing Reality: Expanding Our Generosity Worldview https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/piercing-reality-expanding-our-generosity-worldview/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/piercing-reality-expanding-our-generosity-worldview/#comments Sat, 22 Feb 2025 17:36:38 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/2e0dde3a-3fe4-3c03-90bd-5de110dcc940 There’s a dominant worldview that says you have to look out for yourself. Numero uno. I did it my way.

But the “foolish” way of Christ reveals a different way to live. When we look out for others, we can also trust that others will look out for us. Generosity creates community.

Pastor Sarah brings us this message. Our Scripture comes from First Corinthians, verses 18, 26-31. The video referred to is highly worth watching here:

]]> There’s a dominant worldview that says you have to look out for yourself. Numero uno. I did it my way.

But the “foolish” way of Christ reveals a different way to live. When we look out for others, we can also trust that others will look out for us. Generosity creates community.

Pastor Sarah brings us this message. Our Scripture comes from First Corinthians, verses 18, 26-31. The video referred to is highly worth watching here:

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 949 59 full The Orientation of Generosity The Orientation of Generosity https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-orientation-of-generosity/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-orientation-of-generosity/#comments Sun, 16 Feb 2025 13:00:06 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ba81ff6d-6b48-3ad2-a68a-c51fdc3d1839 This week, Pastor Jason explores the definition of generosity and how we approach the call to generosity with all that God has given us. How do we orient our lives if Paul's statement that "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. As our core confession, how dow we connect this concept to our theological claims of Grace and Vocation?

Our reading is from the Book of Gallatians, Chapter 2, Verses 19-20

]]> This week, Pastor Jason explores the definition of generosity and how we approach the call to generosity with all that God has given us. How do we orient our lives if Paul's statement that "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. As our core confession, how dow we connect this concept to our theological claims of Grace and Vocation?

Our reading is from the Book of Gallatians, Chapter 2, Verses 19-20

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1266 58 full Generosity is a Story Generosity is a Story https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-is-a-story/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/generosity-is-a-story/#comments Thu, 06 Feb 2025 20:52:12 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/144da904-eff6-3d65-a9de-f47729d08319 Have you ever been in a pay-it-forward drive thru line? That’s when the person in front pays for you, and then you pay for the person behind you. As those experiences demonstrate, generosity is connected to what happens before you, and what comes next.  

Past. Present. Future.

We are always embedded in a story of generosity: God’s generosity to us (often through other people!), and our generosity to others. Can you recall a time when you received something from someone else? How will you keep the story of generosity going?

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our scripture reading is Deuteronomy Chapter 26, Verses 1-11.

]]> Have you ever been in a pay-it-forward drive thru line? That’s when the person in front pays for you, and then you pay for the person behind you. As those experiences demonstrate, generosity is connected to what happens before you, and what comes next.  

Past. Present. Future.

We are always embedded in a story of generosity: God’s generosity to us (often through other people!), and our generosity to others. Can you recall a time when you received something from someone else? How will you keep the story of generosity going?

This message comes from Pastor Sarah. Our scripture reading is Deuteronomy Chapter 26, Verses 1-11.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 939 57 full The Vocation of Generosity The Vocation of Generosity https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-vocation-of-generosity/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/the-vocation-of-generosity/#comments Mon, 03 Feb 2025 08:59:41 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/ac43941e-7a48-3500-bd00-e59ebbc4c437 In the past years, Westwood’s Grace and Vocation focus has spent significant time connecting our roles (family, friend, citizen, work/school/retirement) with our faith. We explore what it means to be God's hands an feet in the world, using our time, talents and financial resources. 

This week's message comes from Pastor Jason, and he talks with two Westwood members to help us reflect on the vocation of generosity and the importance of connecting our faith to the use of our time, talent, and financial resources. Our scripture reading is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8, Verses 1-15

]]> In the past years, Westwood’s Grace and Vocation focus has spent significant time connecting our roles (family, friend, citizen, work/school/retirement) with our faith. We explore what it means to be God's hands an feet in the world, using our time, talents and financial resources. 

This week's message comes from Pastor Jason, and he talks with two Westwood members to help us reflect on the vocation of generosity and the importance of connecting our faith to the use of our time, talent, and financial resources. Our scripture reading is from 2 Corinthians, Chapter 8, Verses 1-15

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1625 56 full Living With Fear Living With Fear https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/living-with-fear/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/living-with-fear/#comments Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:58:15 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/13f79f2d-32db-3ce2-9023-4430598546c1 Fear. It’s experienced by every person, a natural part of being human. Does that mean Jesus could have felt it too?

In this message Pastor Sarah imagines what it would mean if Jesus was afraid, and discovers a graciousness and honesty about her own fear. Fear, it turns out, isn’t the opposite of faith. Fear tills the soil where faith can take root and grow, and our fear is no match for God's love.

Our Lesson is from Psalm 36, verses 5-10. The Gospel lesson is from John, Chapter 2, verses 1-11

]]> Fear. It’s experienced by every person, a natural part of being human. Does that mean Jesus could have felt it too?

In this message Pastor Sarah imagines what it would mean if Jesus was afraid, and discovers a graciousness and honesty about her own fear. Fear, it turns out, isn’t the opposite of faith. Fear tills the soil where faith can take root and grow, and our fear is no match for God's love.

Our Lesson is from Psalm 36, verses 5-10. The Gospel lesson is from John, Chapter 2, verses 1-11

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1494 55 full Be Who We Are Baptized To Be Be Who We Are Baptized To Be https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/be-who-we-are-baptized-to-be/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/be-who-we-are-baptized-to-be/#comments Tue, 21 Jan 2025 21:29:45 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/7ff5b2ce-2059-3b8c-9766-ff81282daf17 In these uncertain times, where it’s easy to lose hope by just looking at my newsfeed, our faith invites us to turn both to God and our neighbor (think Jimmy Carter as one example in the news this week).

This week's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 15-15 and 21-22. 

]]> In these uncertain times, where it’s easy to lose hope by just looking at my newsfeed, our faith invites us to turn both to God and our neighbor (think Jimmy Carter as one example in the news this week).

This week's message is brought to us by Pastor Tania. The Gospel is from Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 15-15 and 21-22. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 884 54 full Can We Praise God During Our Ordinary Existence? Can We Praise God During Our Ordinary Existence? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/can-we-praise-god-during-our-ordinary-existence/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/can-we-praise-god-during-our-ordinary-existence/#comments Sat, 11 Jan 2025 12:55:07 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/c4372b60-2c86-33c2-94cc-56c515dee3bd The early months of the year are some of the hardest. Dark and cold, without excitement of the holidays, it can be deflating to discover the same old life awaits. But Christmas changes us. God’s birth into this world means that even if we return to life as normal, we are changed. In this sermon, the shepherds serve as an example for all of us. After seeing the baby Jesus in the manger, they praised God even as they returned to their ordinary lives. We too can carry the glory of Christmas into our lives, all year round, because God keeps on coming to us, every day of our lives.

Today's message is presented by Pastor Sarah.  The scripture reading is from Ephesians Chapter 1, V 3-14. and the Gospel is Lukem Chapter 2, Verses 15 - 21.

]]> The early months of the year are some of the hardest. Dark and cold, without excitement of the holidays, it can be deflating to discover the same old life awaits. But Christmas changes us. God’s birth into this world means that even if we return to life as normal, we are changed. In this sermon, the shepherds serve as an example for all of us. After seeing the baby Jesus in the manger, they praised God even as they returned to their ordinary lives. We too can carry the glory of Christmas into our lives, all year round, because God keeps on coming to us, every day of our lives.

Today's message is presented by Pastor Sarah.  The scripture reading is from Ephesians Chapter 1, V 3-14. and the Gospel is Lukem Chapter 2, Verses 15 - 21.

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 867 53 full A Colossians New Year's Resolution List A Colossians New Year's Resolution List https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-colossians-new-years-resolution-list/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/a-colossians-new-years-resolution-list/#comments Tue, 07 Jan 2025 19:04:56 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/9876f19d-f46a-369a-b317-96f1bce93efb What are your New Year's resolutions? With the societal ritual of New Year’s resolutions upon us, Jason invites us to wonder what a New Year’s Resolution list might look like based on Colossians 3. 

 

]]> What are your New Year's resolutions? With the societal ritual of New Year’s resolutions upon us, Jason invites us to wonder what a New Year’s Resolution list might look like based on Colossians 3. 

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 961 52 full Your Life is the Manger Scene Your Life is the Manger Scene https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/your-life-is-the-manger-scene/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/your-life-is-the-manger-scene/#comments Mon, 30 Dec 2024 12:52:46 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/952d1f44-593d-337f-8f62-d4aabf2e370c Was your Christmas imperfect? Welcome to the club. It can be easy to idealize the perfect Christmas, and then judge yourself accordingly. Here's a little secret: the first Christmas wasn't as ideal as the manger scenes make it out to be. The point of Christmas is that God became real flesh in a real world - a world that was full of the kinds of troubles you are dealing with too. God loved that world which means that God loves you too. And God worked with real people, which means that God is working through you too. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from the Book of John, Chapter 1 Verses 1-14. 

]]> Was your Christmas imperfect? Welcome to the club. It can be easy to idealize the perfect Christmas, and then judge yourself accordingly. Here's a little secret: the first Christmas wasn't as ideal as the manger scenes make it out to be. The point of Christmas is that God became real flesh in a real world - a world that was full of the kinds of troubles you are dealing with too. God loved that world which means that God loves you too. And God worked with real people, which means that God is working through you too. 

Today's message is brought to us by Pastor Sarah. The Gospel is from the Book of John, Chapter 1 Verses 1-14. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 970 51 full Prince of Peace Prince of Peace https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/prince-of-peace/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/prince-of-peace/#comments Tue, 24 Dec 2024 10:31:25 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/427a8b51-d33a-30c3-b9d4-4c77fedc58bb Our message today comes from Pastor Tania, who explores what the Prince of Peace brings to us in this holiday season. 

]]> Our message today comes from Pastor Tania, who explores what the Prince of Peace brings to us in this holiday season. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 658 50 full Paying Attention to God, Who Pays Attention to You Paying Attention to God, Who Pays Attention to You https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/paying-attention-to-god-who-pays-attention-to-you/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/paying-attention-to-god-who-pays-attention-to-you/#comments Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:48:03 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/991777cd-9d60-3712-8054-c0cca67eb0b6 In the “attention economy,” many voices compete for your attention. It can be hard to prioritize. In Handel’s Messiah, the word “Behold” appears multiple times. As our almighty leader, God is drawing your attention to the peace, hope, and love that are always here, even in difficult times. How do you pay attention to God? And how can you give someone your attention who needs it today?

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah.

 

]]> In the “attention economy,” many voices compete for your attention. It can be hard to prioritize. In Handel’s Messiah, the word “Behold” appears multiple times. As our almighty leader, God is drawing your attention to the peace, hope, and love that are always here, even in difficult times. How do you pay attention to God? And how can you give someone your attention who needs it today?

Today's message comes from Pastor Sarah.

 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 713 49 full Handel's Messiah, Part 1 Handel's Messiah, Part 1 https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/handels-messiah-part-1/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/handels-messiah-part-1/#comments Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:27:51 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/248f2e8c-7aa5-3c5f-8f8f-1f6b8efd7cd9 During Advent, our music and worship team are performing Handel's Messiah in lieu of scripture readings. The performance includes the following pieces, and their scriptural basis.

THE WORD IN SONG “Messiah” George Frideric Handel

Overture Scene One: God’s Comforting Promise Recitative: Comfort, Ye My People (Isaiah 40:1-3) Aria: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted (Isaiah 40:4) Chorus: And the Glory of the Lord (Isaiah 40:5)

Scene Two: The Purifying Messiah is Prophesied Recitative: Thus Saith the Lord (Haggai 2:6-7) Aria: But who may abide? (Malachi 3:1) Chorus: And He shall purify (Malachi 3:3)

]]> During Advent, our music and worship team are performing Handel's Messiah in lieu of scripture readings. The performance includes the following pieces, and their scriptural basis.

THE WORD IN SONG “Messiah” George Frideric Handel

Overture
Scene One: God’s Comforting Promise
Recitative: Comfort, Ye My People (Isaiah 40:1-3)
Aria: Every Valley Shall Be Exalted (Isaiah 40:4)
Chorus: And the Glory of the Lord (Isaiah 40:5)

Scene Two: The Purifying Messiah is Prophesied
Recitative: Thus Saith the Lord (Haggai 2:6-7)
Aria: But who may abide? (Malachi 3:1)
Chorus: And He shall purify (Malachi 3:3)

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1230 48 full Comfort Food Comfort Food https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/comfort-food/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/comfort-food/#comments Wed, 04 Dec 2024 18:15:00 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/9144b215-1cb8-388a-be99-ed25d59f99f3 “Some may describe familiar works of music as “comfort food”… meaning a piece of music that invites an escape from the joys a challenges of the real world.  The background of Handel’s Messiah and the use of scripture both suggest that this work of music functions not to turn away from the world, but as a call to turn towards to world with hope.”

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. 

]]> “Some may describe familiar works of music as “comfort food”… meaning a piece of music that invites an escape from the joys a challenges of the real world.  The background of Handel’s Messiah and the use of scripture both suggest that this work of music functions not to turn away from the world, but as a call to turn towards to world with hope.”

This message is brought to us by Pastor Jason. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 554 47 full What Does Baptism Have to do with My Bank Account? What Does Baptism Have to do with My Bank Account? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/what-does-baptism-have-to-do-with-my-bank-account/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/what-does-baptism-have-to-do-with-my-bank-account/#comments Sat, 30 Nov 2024 21:02:50 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/f586b33a-17f9-30a0-9b23-63f9fd2462ae Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1170 46 full What is Reasonable? What is Reasonable? https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/what-is-reasonable/ https://realgoodcourage.podbean.com/e/what-is-reasonable/#comments Tue, 19 Nov 2024 16:59:29 -0600 realgoodcourage.podbean.com/3d3222ad-c21d-3709-bf06-a373fef03156 In his commentary, Biblical Scholar Don Juel says the following.  “The disciples speak for reasonable people.  They do not expect anything from Jesus.”  In this sermon we wonder in our own time about our definitions of “reasonableness” and how a definition that includes faith in Jesus has an affect on how we think about generosity.

This message comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson is Mark Chapter 6, Verses 30 to 44. 

]]> In his commentary, Biblical Scholar Don Juel says the following.  “The disciples speak for reasonable people.  They do not expect anything from Jesus.”  In this sermon we wonder in our own time about our definitions of “reasonableness” and how a definition that includes faith in Jesus has an affect on how we think about generosity.

This message comes from Pastor Jason. The Gospel Lesson is Mark Chapter 6, Verses 30 to 44. 

]]> Westwood Lutheran Church false No 1234 45 full