Sermon by Barbara Brown Taylor: “Home By Another Way.”
Dates(s): January 6, 2008 - Epiphany
Text(s): Matthew 2:1-12
Kenneth J. Hockenberry
Beulah Presbyterian Church

The Rev. Barbara Brown Taylor is an Episcopal priest – and she us surely one of the most effective and sought after preachers and teacher of preachers in the entire English speaking world. She has served as a parish rector in parishes in Georgia, and is currently a professor of religion and philosophy at Piedmont College in Demorest, Georgia. I have heard her preach and teach – Judy has as well – she is amazing.

Born in 1951, she holds 8 honorary doctorate degrees, has published 11 books, is working on another ones - and is sought after as a lecturer and workshop leader in preaching and writing all over the world. In fact her speaking engagement calendar is full to the end of 2008 – and she is currently making plans for 2009.

As I was preparing for today’s worship service on this Day of Epiphany, I read again her sermon “Home By Another Way.” I had read it some years ago, and was reminded just how marvelous it is. Early in the week I thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice for all of us to hear her preach this sermon.” But then several thoughts came to mind:

• Her calendar is likely full – and when I checked, it already is.
• We probably could not afford her fee
• and if you did hear her preach in person, you probably wouldn’t want to hear me preach next Sunday.

I don’t do this kind of thing very often – this is only the third or fourth time I’ve read someone else’s sermon – always giving credit to the source. But every once in awhile, I think it is appropriate and even beneficial for us all. And not to worry – Episcopal preachers are usually preach on the short side.

So please listen and be encouraged and inspired by this slightly edited version of Barbara Brown Taylor’s sermon, “Home By Another Way.”

(Read text of sermon).

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