We were all gathered together on fb for Reverend Billy Hester's sermon, "On The Left", gleaned from his watching of "Avengers: Endgame".
He had advised the congregation to see the superhero movie during the week, just to be familiar with the story.
I had no need to do that.
The movie is crystallized in my mind.
Yes, even six years after seeing it, I remember all the grief undergone by superheroes, mortals, and even gods.
I'd like to say that I paid attention to the sermon, but I had the sound off most of the time.
I would turn it on for the songs: "Cuando El Pobre", "You've Got A Friend", "We Shall Overcome", all favorites of mine.
I had the video on the entire time, watching out of the corner of my eye as I took care of business on that social media site, cleaning out 'memories', as I have done every day this past year.
Even masked in the Captain America suit, I knew that was Rabbi Haas!!!
Sure enough, it was him, and he gave the closing prayer!
All were singing, and pantomiming, along with Cheri for "Here I Am, Lord".
What a fabulous closing number!
I just may have to actually listen to the sermon.... but not right now.
I have "Father Brown" and "Sister Boniface" awaiting me.
Then there's "10 Streets That Changed America", including Woodward Avenue in Detroit, so that should be nice to hear about.
Plus, they need to be viewed so I can clean them out of my "recorder" to make room for more shows.
Comcast only allows me to "tape" so many, and I have "Will Trent" coming back on Monday and Tuesday.
(smile!)
1 comment:
[from email dated January 16, 2026, concerning the sermon spoken of in this post]
"Church Family & Friends,
I hope this email finds you warm and well as we move through this cold stretch. As Sunday approaches, I want to personally invite you to join us for worship at Asbury Memorial - and to get just a little excited about what's ahead. I also want to give you a holy assignment before Sunday: Curl up under a blanket and watch the movie, Avengers: Endgame, if you can. Even if superheroes aren't your thing, this 2019 movie is worth seeing. It is widely considered to be the best of the Marvel Superhero films. And it has a particular scene that is one of the best in cinematic history - a scene I'll be talking about in my Sunday sermon titled, "On Your Left."
The forecast for Sunday includes the chance of rain - and maybe even snow. While the weather may tempt us to stay tucked in at home, I want to encourage you to do what heroes so often do: show up anyway. There is something especially meaningful about gathering together on a gray, rainy, or even snowy day - to sing, pray, laugh, and remember that we are never alone, no matter the forecast.
And before worship, I invite you to come a little early for the 10 O'clock Hour. The class has asked me to share my thoughts and perspective on the afterlife - one of the most frequently asked questions of faith. I'll offer reflections and some resources for those who want to explore this topic more deeply. We'll begin gathering at 9:45 a.m. for coffee, with the conversation starting promptly at 10:00 a.m. It's a relaxed, welcoming space, and I'd love for you to be part of it.
See you Sunday!
Love,
Billy"
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