The first of the “Happy?” sermons centres on the story of Jesus’ baptism in the gospel of Luke (3:15-17 and 21-22). The recording is a little longer than usual because the reading of the sermon text and the anthem are included. Then, before Cari could begin preaching, Bruce launched into a small moment of “Don’t worry be happy” (Bobby McFerrin) for fun. If you want to start there, move to 6:40 or so.

Once Cari got in, it was all business… John the Baptist as our Spiritual Director for the day, giving us all a healthy “kick in the backside” toward God’s intention of justice, righteousness, deep belonging and love for us all.

“Happy” in this first sermon, becomes a state of grace, rather than a feeling or emotion. All we have to do is turn and receive it… but of course it’s not quite that simple. There is a cost.

(And we also have three more weeks to explore the ins and outs of happy.)