Rev. Jim Magaw

Not the Life You Expected

Sometimes our expectations are thwarted and we find ourselves in vastly different situations than we had imagined or hoped for. How are we to deal with expectations that do not come to pass or lead us in directions that we had not anticipated or desired?

The Prophetic Imperative

We live in an era that screams out for prophets—people who not only expose the evils of society but also offer a vision of hope and healing. How do we embody the prophetic vision and prophetic voice right now, right here?

Great Expectations

According to recent studies, peoples’ expectations effect the outcomes of challenging situations, like looking for a job, taking a test or having surgery. While positive expectations are associated with positive outcomes, positive fantasies are not. What are our expectations for our church, our lives, and our world?

Trusting the Call

In our current era, it is easy to lose our way amidst the sometimes overwhelming and painful chaos and confusion in our world. It is important in times like these to remember what we are called to do and the place where the world’s needs and our passions intersect.

What is Unitarian Universalism?

Unitarian Universalism is sometimes wrongly described as not having its own theology. Although it’s true that there is a great deal of theological diversity within our congregations, we do have our own unique theology—both historically and contemporarily. This service will provide an overview of Unitarian Universalist theology and why it is important to us and … Continued

The Flaming Chalice

The image of a flaming chalice, which has its roots in the Judeo-Christian tradition, has been the primary symbol of Unitarianism since the 1940’s. This service will explore the meaning and history of this symbol, especially as it relates to the larger mission of Unitarian Universalism in the world.

Three Rules to Live By

Although there are countless rules to live by that have been devised over many centuries, this sermon will focus on three rules put forth by musicians Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson. These particular rules have to do with being fearless, discerning and kind.

Good Enough

Although there is certainly a place and time for striving and ambition, sometimes our quest for perfection and winning keeps us from living satisfying lives that are “good enough.” How can we embrace the good-enough lifestyle?

The Journey Toward Forgiveness

Forgiveness is one of the greatest challenges and most enduring themes of human existence. One way of conceptualizing forgiveness is as a continuum rather than a destination. How can this idea help us be forgiven and forgiving?

Curiosity and Wonder

Curiosity and wonder can be much-needed antidotes to feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Instead of remaining mired in frustration and anger, how might we cultivate a sense of curiosity and a sense of wonder?