Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? — Psalm 15:1
I believe Eliot Stone is a gift to Washington Cathedral. With a name fit for a rock star, he brings a thoughtful, youthful perspective to everything he touches. And here’s the great news—this fun, former rock-and-roll drummer is preaching this Sunday on one of the most majestic passages in the Bible: Psalm 15.
His message is entitled “Don’t Look Away!” It’s a call to courage, honesty, and faith.
Now, if you didn’t already know Eliot, you might imagine a long-haired, bearded artist hanging out at some avant-garde joint like Laughs Comedy Club in the U-District. And sure—he’d fit in. But to us, he’s the heavenly-voiced guitarist who leads us in authentic, soul-stirring worship week after week. His heart is anchored in Jesus, and his words ring with grace and depth.
“Don’t Look Away” is the perfect title for a message rooted in Psalm 15.
This ancient song of David is what scholars call a “spiritual entrance psalm”—likely used in the time of King David by worshipers as they approached the tabernacle (which would later become the Temple). In just five verses, it gives us a clear and powerful vision for living in God’s presence.
Psalm 15 speaks to three deep truths that couldn’t be more relevant today:
Wholeness (Holiness) in daily life
Authenticity in our walk with God
Living with the presence of God in every moment
It doesn’t shy away from tough issues—justice, integrity, truth-telling. In fact, many Christian teachers see Psalm 15 as an Old Testament companion to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. It’s a spiritual mirror that challenges us: Are we living the kind of life that brings God close?
And that’s what Pastor Eliot will invite us into—a fresh, honest approach to faith. He’ll challenge us to not look away from the world God has placed us in. To not ignore pain, injustice, or truth. But to stay present, to live no lies, and to let our worship overflow into real life.
So don’t miss it this Sunday at 10:30 AM.
Come ready to be refreshed, inspired, and grounded in God’s presence.
Your friend for the rest of my life,
Pastor Tim White