A sermon for the Resurrection of Our Lord, by Father Dan Suelzle.
Death is defeated. The grave has lost its sting. What authority and power can it really claim to have over us, who have been baptized into the Resurrection and the Life? Listen to Fr. Suelzle’s Easter homily below.
A sermon for Palm Sunday, by Father Jerome Leckband.
In his homily for Palm Sunday, Father Leckband explores the striking contrast between the world’s definition of power and the “strange kingship” of Jesus Christ. As we enter Holy Week, we are invited to look past the waving palm branches to see the true nature of the King who comes to save us.
The sermon highlights the intentional humility of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. While worldly kings ride on warhorses to demonstrate military might and dominance, Jesus arrives on a humble beast of burden. This is not a king who comes to be served, but one who comes to serve. His authority is not found in earthly political power, but in his perfect obedience to the Father.
Drawing from St. Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 2, Father Leckband reminds us that the “mind of Christ” is defined by self-emptying love.
The Palm Sunday liturgy, with its shift from “Hosanna” to “Crucify Him,” serves as a mirror for the human heart. We are reminded that the same crowd that welcomed him with joy soon turned against him. However, the message of the Gospel is that Christ remains steadfast. He enters Jerusalem knowing full well the cost, enduring the shame and the suffering for our sake.
As we follow Jesus into this Holy Week, we are called to lay down our own pride and “palm branches” of self-righteousness. Our hope is not found in our own loyalty, which so often wavers, but in the unwavering faithfulness of the King who rode into the city to die so that we might live.
“He humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”
You can listen to the full homily below.
Join us for a joyful evening of sacred music and fellowship at Hope Lutheran Church in Batesville, Arkansas! On Sunday, June 8 at 4pm, we’re joining together for a Hymn-Sing and Organ Recital that will walk us through the festival half of the Church Year, celebrating the life of Christ through Scripture and song.
We’re honored to welcome three talented organists who will lead us in music throughout the evening: Kristi Leckband, Malachi Heinecke, and Aaron Jackson.
Their performances will guide us through the seasons of Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost—each one reflected in beautiful hymns and organ works that draw us deeper into the story of our salvation in Christ.
Between congregational hymn singing, each organist will present pieces that highlight the rich traditions of sacred music and the theological depth embedded in the Church’s year.
Following the music, a delicious dinner will be served, giving us a chance to enjoy fellowship with friends old and new. All are welcome—bring your family, friends, and neighbors for this uplifting evening.
A free-will offering will be received during the event to support LERT (Lutheran Early Response Team). LERT provides practical assistance and the comfort of Christ to individuals and communities in our region affected by natural disasters. Your generosity will help bring hope and help to those in need.
📍 Hope Lutheran Church, Batesville, AR
📅 Sun., June 8, 4pm
🍽️ Dinner to follow the recital
💛 Free-will offering to benefit LERT
Come be encouraged by the beauty of sacred music, the joy of communal singing, and the fellowship of believers. We look forward to seeing you there!
Soli Deo Gloria!
All Saints Lutheran Church and School 