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Christopher Keating

Chris Keating is the pastor of Woodlawn Chapel Presbyterian Church in suburban St. Louis, Missouri. He is a graduate of Princeton Theological Seminary and St. Paul School of Theology in Kansas City. Chris is a regular contributor to the Belief St. Louis blog for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, and his articles have also appeared in the Church of the Brethren's monthly magazine, Messenger.
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The Immediate Word

What We Do, Who We Are -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus slips away from his parents and their traveling party as they prep
The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Late Night With God -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle passage, James extols the power of faith -- and specifically of prayer -- to
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...
Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
The Cost Of Cold Hearts -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2014
The brutally cold temperatures that held much of America in its icy grip last week put a major fr
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
United In Mind And Purpose -- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from First Corinthians, Paul highlights the divisions and quarrels
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
Breath Of Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2014
This Sunday’s Deuteronomy text presents us with a stark and very clear choice: “I have set before
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc

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Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
The Cost Of Cold Hearts -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2014
The brutally cold temperatures that held much of America in its icy grip last week put a major fr
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
United In Mind And Purpose -- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from First Corinthians, Paul highlights the divisions and quarrels
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
Breath Of Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2014
This Sunday’s Deuteronomy text presents us with a stark and very clear choice: “I have set before
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tuning Out Violence By Turning The Other Cheek -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary texts build on last week’s themes, emphasizing again the importance of fol
The Debt Penalty: Pay The Fine Or Do The Time -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul reminds us once again of our call to look beyond our own self
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tacos And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for the First Sunday in Lent are all about

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The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Late Night With God -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle passage, James extols the power of faith -- and specifically of prayer -- to
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...
Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
The Cost Of Cold Hearts -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2014
The brutally cold temperatures that held much of America in its icy grip last week put a major fr
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
United In Mind And Purpose -- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from First Corinthians, Paul highlights the divisions and quarrels
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
Breath Of Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2014
This Sunday’s Deuteronomy text presents us with a stark and very clear choice: “I have set before
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tuning Out Violence By Turning The Other Cheek -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary texts build on last week’s themes, emphasizing again the importance of fol

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The Immediate Word

Back To School Blues -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2015
This week’s Old Testament and Psalm readings proclaim the importance of discerning the voice of the
Press One To Order Quality Parenting -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2015
This week’s passage from Proverbs describes the qualities of a “capable wife” who is “far more preci
What We Do, Who We Are -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus slips away from his parents and their traveling party as they prep
The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Late Night With God -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle passage, James extols the power of faith -- and specifically of prayer -- to
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...
Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
The Cost Of Cold Hearts -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2014
The brutally cold temperatures that held much of America in its icy grip last week put a major fr
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
United In Mind And Purpose -- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from First Corinthians, Paul highlights the divisions and quarrels
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
Breath Of Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2014
This Sunday’s Deuteronomy text presents us with a stark and very clear choice: “I have set before

Worship

The Immediate Word

What We Do, Who We Are -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus slips away from his parents and their traveling party as they prep
The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Late Night With God -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle passage, James extols the power of faith -- and specifically of prayer -- to
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...
Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
No Return, No Exchange -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2014
In the hectic days following Christmas, the focus of our retail establishments turns from squeezi
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
The Cost Of Cold Hearts -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2014
The brutally cold temperatures that held much of America in its icy grip last week put a major fr
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
United In Mind And Purpose -- 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from First Corinthians, Paul highlights the divisions and quarrels
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
Breath Of Life -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2014
This Sunday’s Deuteronomy text presents us with a stark and very clear choice: “I have set before
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 7 | OT 12 | Pentecost 2
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 8 | OT 13 | Pentecost 3
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 9 | OT 14 | Pentecost 4
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

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John Jamison
Object: A pig stuffed animal.

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Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent! Let’s get started!

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
George Reed
For June 22, 2025:

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
But now that faith has come, we are no longer subject to a disciplinarian,  for in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.  As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek; there is no longer slave or free; there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. (vv. 25-28)

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a
Life can be frightening sometimes. Thus it is both comforting but disconcerting to find a giant of faith like Elijah to fear the future. On that matter Martin Luther once claimed:
David Kalas
We’re not far from the 4th of July. And while for so many Americans, it seems that the holiday has become more about long weekends, cookouts, and fireworks shows, the theme of freedom is still there at least in the background. We might take advantage of that, therefore, and give some thought to the theme of freedom as it is revealed in our assigned texts for this week.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

The madman cried out to Jesus, "What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God?" In our worship today let us explore what Jesus has to do with us and invite him to heal our brokenness.

Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, we often find ourselves thinking, saying and doing things that we quickly regret.
Lord, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Constance Berg
When Jill was five, she began to have headaches. The headaches were so severe she would throw up. Sometimes she would pass out. They usually came once a month. Jill could be playing, resting, or watching television when the headaches would come. Her only warning was a sudden pain in her head, then a blinding light would appear, and she would be rocked with pain. In her teenage years, they became debilitating, causing Jill to be in bed for three days at a time.
Stan Purdum
I'm not sure when the term "burn out" ceased being only a description of what happened to a campfire when you ran out of firewood to a term describing the experience of long-term exhaustion and diminished interest, usually coming immediately after an extended period of overwork, but the expression seems to fit that later situation, doesn't it? Exhaustion, deep weariness, all used up, nothing more to give, wiped out, burned out -- call it what we will, its symptoms are all too familiar to many of us.
April Yamasaki
In the classic movie, Mary Poppins, Julie Andrews plays a no-nonsense, yet delightful, nanny to two young children. As a nanny to a wealthy family, she is part teacher, part parent, and part disciplinarian. She gets the children up in the morning, puts them to bed at night, supervises their many adventures, and guides them in many ways. While they are in her care, she is responsible for their overall safety and well-being.

Julia Ross Strope
Zoos are no longer in people's good graces.
Religion faces the same problem.
Certain illusions about freedom plague them both.
-- Yann Martel, Life of Pi

Call To Worship
Leader: I'm so glad you're here! There are seats for everyone; there's slight air movement; the windows engender tranquility and imagination and words will stimulate fresh thoughts.

People: It's good to be here, in sanctuary. We're glad for opportunities to gather and to express our gratitude to God and our appreciation for one another.

Special Occasion

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