CORINTH

-Sermon Notes-

June 28, 2026

 

“The Power of Coalescence”

(Psalm 13, Matthew 10:40-42)

     Clouds are often majestic looking; storm clouds even more so.  How are such awesome clouds formed?  By something called coalescence.  Coalescence is part of the water cycle which forms clouds.  When air is lifted either by being warmed or by a frontal boundary (cold or warm,) the water molecules in the air mass begin to stick together, otherwise known as coalescing. As the water molecules join together, they become larger and larger as the air ascends; eventually the water molecules sticking together become visible, which is a cloud.  If the water molecules continue to coalesce, the cloud will continue to grow and expand into a powerful, often beautiful storm cloud.  Amazing how seemingly small things (water molecules) joining together can become something so awesome!

     Seems like this is what Jesus is pointing out today in the passage from Matthew.  These words are presented to the disciples as he is calling them to follow him.  At the beginning of the chapter, Jesus invites them to follow, explains the mission, tells them there will be persecution, and that they will be fear-filled at times.  Not a very convincing way to invite people to be part of his movement!  Then he speaks about the power of a cold cup of water.  Even a simple, cold cup of water given to someone in the name of a disciple who represents Christ can bring transformation and beauty.  This simple act is combined with a sacred Spirit, leading to something truly special.

     From Psalm 13 we find David lifting prayers during a time of turmoil.  While we know who the author is, we don’t know the exact circumstances inspiring his lament.  Scholars believe it is likely during the time he is being pursued by the jealous King Saul.  As David is on the run, perhaps hiding-out in a cave somewhere, he feels abandoned by God.  Despite his situation, David speaks words of prayer.  Prayer may seem simple, perhaps even small at times.  Yet when prayers are lifted, even simple, small prayers, they combine to create beauty and transformation.

     July 4th is almost here, with mighty, majestic fireworks lighting-up skylines across the USA.  How do they begin?  With just a spark.  A small spark, combined with the right ingredients, cause big, beautiful moments!

     We as individuals may seem small on our own, but when we join together with our offerings of seemingly small acts of ministry, may produce awesome, large, beautiful holy moments as we align ourselves with the presence of the Holy Spirit.  That, my friends, is:

The power of coalescence!