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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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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
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, 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
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
Water, Water, Everywhere? -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
All the action in this week’s Old Testament and gospel texts is centered around access to water.
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Show Me The Marks -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features “doubting Thomas,” whose skepticism marks him as some
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Then Their Eyes Were Opened -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The walk to Emmaus takes center stage in this week’s gospel text.
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 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s Acts passage tells of the stoning of Stephen.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
For May 18, 2014 from
Feeling Like Orphans -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The lectionary passages this week reassure us of God’s presence and care for us, even in the most
Baptized Into The Unthinkable -- Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39, Jeremiah 20:7-13, Genesis 21:8-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2014
The psalmist opens this week’s lectionary psalm (Psalm 86) with a plaintive plea: “Incline your e

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The Immediate Word

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
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
Water, Water, Everywhere? -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
All the action in this week’s Old Testament and gospel texts is centered around access to water.
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Show Me The Marks -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features “doubting Thomas,” whose skepticism marks him as some
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 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Then Their Eyes Were Opened -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The walk to Emmaus takes center stage in this week’s gospel text.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s Acts passage tells of the stoning of Stephen.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
For May 18, 2014 from
Feeling Like Orphans -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The lectionary passages this week reassure us of God’s presence and care for us, even in the most
Baptized Into The Unthinkable -- Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39, Jeremiah 20:7-13, Genesis 21:8-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2014
The psalmist opens this week’s lectionary psalm (Psalm 86) with a plaintive plea: “Incline your e
Paul Meets Hobby Lobby -- Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul contrasts God’s law with the constraints of human behavior: “
How Far Would You Go? -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2014
A big theme in the lectionary passages for Proper 8 is the question of how far we are willing to
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
What We Fail To Mention -- Genesis 29:15-28, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2014
The opening section of Psalm 105 -- the lectionary’s primary psalm selection for this coming week

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The Immediate Word

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
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
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
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
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
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
Water, Water, Everywhere? -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
All the action in this week’s Old Testament and gospel texts is centered around access to water.
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Show Me The Marks -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features “doubting Thomas,” whose skepticism marks him as some
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 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Then Their Eyes Were Opened -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The walk to Emmaus takes center stage in this week’s gospel text.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s Acts passage tells of the stoning of Stephen.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
For May 18, 2014 from
Feeling Like Orphans -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The lectionary passages this week reassure us of God’s presence and care for us, even in the most
Baptized Into The Unthinkable -- Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39, Jeremiah 20:7-13, Genesis 21:8-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2014
The psalmist opens this week’s lectionary psalm (Psalm 86) with a plaintive plea: “Incline your e
Paul Meets Hobby Lobby -- Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul contrasts God’s law with the constraints of human behavior: “

Sermon

The Immediate Word

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
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
Water, Water, Everywhere? -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
All the action in this week’s Old Testament and gospel texts is centered around access to water.
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Show Me The Marks -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features “doubting Thomas,” whose skepticism marks him as some
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 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Then Their Eyes Were Opened -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The walk to Emmaus takes center stage in this week’s gospel text.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s Acts passage tells of the stoning of Stephen.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
For May 18, 2014 from

Worship

The Immediate Word

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
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
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
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
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
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
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
Water, Water, Everywhere? -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
All the action in this week’s Old Testament and gospel texts is centered around access to water.
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Show Me The Marks -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features “doubting Thomas,” whose skepticism marks him as some
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 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Then Their Eyes Were Opened -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The walk to Emmaus takes center stage in this week’s gospel text.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
This week’s Acts passage tells of the stoning of Stephen.
Uncovering Our Ears -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
For May 18, 2014 from
Feeling Like Orphans -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
The lectionary passages this week reassure us of God’s presence and care for us, even in the most
Baptized Into The Unthinkable -- Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39, Jeremiah 20:7-13, Genesis 21:8-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2014
The psalmist opens this week’s lectionary psalm (Psalm 86) with a plaintive plea: “Incline your e
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Proper 20 | OT 25 | Pentecost 15
30 – Sermons
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29 – Worship Resources
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Proper 21 | OT 26 | Pentecost 16
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Proper 22 | OT 27 | Pentecost 17
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...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For September 21, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Frank Ramirez
Well, it’s autumn, and by now the seeds we planted in the spring either took root and produced or else the weather, pests, rabbits, or our own laziness conspired to make this year’s garden less than a success. But at one point we had to get started and actually plant seeds for the future.

Jeremiah is looking back from the perspective of our spiritual well-being and laments than our spiritual harvest has all been for naught. He wonders if it is now too late for a recovery. Is there no healing, no balm in Gilead, to apply to our wounds?
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 and Psalm 79:1-9
In the spring as farmers and gardeners prepare to plant we are looking at a summer of possibilities. Hard work, to be sure, but also potential. What will happen? What will this season be like? At summer’s end there will be no more questions. We’ll know. Maybe it was a great season, and we have canned or frozen many vegetables. Maybe the farmers have brought in a bumper crop and they got a good price besides.

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: This message will be based on a game you will play. See the note below.

NOTE: Ask three or more adults to come up and play the role of Simon for your group. Tell them to all speak at once, asking the children to do different things. The goal is to create a nice bit of confusion for the children to experience.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Great!

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Hey!” Annie waved at the woman standing next to the open doorway. “Can you come here?”

The woman made her way past the other nursing home residents and stood next to Annie’s wheelchair.

“What can I do for you?”

“You look familiar.” Annie squinted at her. “Do I know your name?”

“I’m Brenda.” The woman pointed at her name tag. “I work in the kitchen and sometimes help serve the meals when they are ready.”

“That’s right. I think we’ve met before.” Annie tapped her lips with her finger. “You have the nice smile.”

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus said, “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much.” In our worship today let us remember the little things in our lives and ask God to help us to be utterly faithful in them.



Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes we pretend that little sins don't matter.

Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we imagine that you don't notice little sins.

Christ, have mercy.

SermonStudio

James Evans
This poignant prayer of lament and community grief gives expression to what it feels like to suffer as a person of faith. If we believe we are truly part of God's community, then the destruction of that community -- as was the case with Israel in 587 B.C. -- becomes a time for doubt, anger, and confusion. Furthermore, if we believe we are individual members of that community, our personal suffering also creates an opportunity for a crisis of faith: "Why didn't God protect me?" Of course, it does not take a national catastrophe to raise those sorts of questions.
Kirk R. Webster
If feedback is the breakfast of champions, perhaps we would do well to examine some of our prayer habits. If you have ever heard someone use The Just Really Prayer, you know exactly what problem we are talking about.

That prayer goes something like this, "Lord, we just really thank you for this day. We come before you and just really pray for mercy. We offer ourselves to you and just really ask that your will be done in our lives. Amen." I'm thankful this particular Just Really prayer was mercifully short, unlike the next example, The Good Guilt-Based Prayer.
John W. Wurster
Another season has come and gone. Promises that were made have not been fulfilled. Good intentions haven't yielded any tangible results. Dreams have not come true. High hopes have proven to be only wishful thinking. Nothing has really changed; nothing has really improved. The time keeps moving along, but we seem stuck in the same ruts. Old routines remain, prejudices persist, dullness and anxiety continue to be constant companions. Lingering in the air is that nagging sense that things aren't quite right, not as they could be, not as they should be.
R. Robert Cueni
In the scripture lesson for today Jesus tells a perplexing parable about a thoroughly dishonest employee who was praised for his dishonesty. In this story Jesus not only seems comfortable suggesting that it is acceptable to compromise with moral failings, but our Lord appears to commend his disciples to "go and do likewise." For centuries, preachers, commentators, and scholars have struggled to make sense of this outrageous tale.

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