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Frank Ramirez

Frank Ramirez is a native of Southern California and is the senior pastor of the Union Center Church of the Brethren near Nappanee, Indiana. Frank has served congregations in Los Angeles, California; Elkhart, Indiana; and Everett, Pennsylvania. He and his wife Jennie share three adult children, all married, and three grandchildren. He enjoys writing, reading, exercise, and theater.
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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Talk Me Down -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2023
“Talk me down.” Have you heard that saying?
Are You Ready? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2023
When people say there is peace and security, look out. Be ready! Something is coming!
Apocalypse Now! -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
Shakespeare’s stage was pretty simple and bare — an open space out of doors where comedies, tragedie
A New ID -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2023
One of the ways we can redefine ourselves is by changing the way we dress.
I Can See Clearly Now -- Matthew 2:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2023
The ancient words of the Hebrew scriptures hold the key to cracking the code in all three scriptures
Sight and Sound -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2023
Although I still think a bare stage is the most effective form of theater, there’s no denying that p
Seeing is Believing, Right? -- John 9:1-41, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
We like to say “seeing is believing” as if the evidence of our eyes will automatically convince us o
Lost and Found! -- Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43, Jeremiah 31:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - A -- 2023
The promise of the resurrection is not only for Jesus, but for all who are lost – we shall be found.
Where Is God Found? -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2023
Where is God to be found? Not in shrines made by human hands. God is in our midst.
Take Over, God! -- Genesis 12:1-9, Romans 4:13-25, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2023
In these passages, God calls on individuals to give up control of their lives and follow a whole new
Woulda Coulda Shoulda -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
There’s no use having vain regrets because we didn’t.
Wrestling with the Undeniable -- Matthew 14:13-21, Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2023
This is really happening. No, really. This is really happening.
The Road Less Traveled -- Exodus 3:1-15, Romans 12:9-21, Matthew 16:21-28 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2023
Robert Frost wrote a poem titled “The Road Less Traveled,” about making a choice between one turn in
History Has Its Eyes On You! -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Frank Ramirez -- New Year's Day - C -- 2022
In the musical Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda, a paternal George Washington reminds the imp
On the Road to Find Out -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2022
Road trip.
Truly Acknowledging God -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2022
It’s not uncommon to hear folks thank God for their blessings, almost as a pro forma kind of thing.
Fast Food, Past and Present Tense, Future Indicative -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2022
The late science fiction writer Robert A.
The Triumph of Love -- Acts 11:1-18, Revelation 21:1-6, John 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2022
One of the problems about living in the present is that the only perspective we get on our current t
Not On Our Own -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Galatians 3:23-29, Luke 8:26-39, Psalm 42 and 43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2022
My guess is that we’ve all got a favorite book about Lincoln. The list is endless, of course.
Learn and Live -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
There are lessons to be learned at all levels of life.
Life or Death: Make A Choice -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Luke 15:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2022
Choices matter.
What Just Happened Out There? -- Joel 2:23-32, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Luke 18:9-14, Psalm 65 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2022
Nothing is something because it provides a blank stage for God’s miracles to be clearly seen.

Free Access

Apocalypse Now! -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
Shakespeare’s stage was pretty simple and bare — an open space out of doors where comedies, tragedie
Sight and Sound -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2023
Although I still think a bare stage is the most effective form of theater, there’s no denying that p
Take Over, God! -- Genesis 12:1-9, Romans 4:13-25, Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2023
In these passages, God calls on individuals to give up control of their lives and follow a whole new

Drama

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Palm/Passion Sunday (2025) -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Luke 22:14--23:56 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2025
Isaiah 50:4-9
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 7 | OT 12 (2025) -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Galatians 3:23-29, Luke 8:26-39 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2025
1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a and Psalm 42-43
Sermon Illustrations for Maundy Thursday (2025) -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2025
Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 8 | OT 13 (2025) -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2025
2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 and Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20
Sermon Illustrations for Good Friday (2025) -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1--19:42 -- Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Good Friday - C -- 2025
Isaiah 52:13--53:12
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 9 | OT 14 (2025) -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Psalm 30 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2025
2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30
Sermon Illustrations for Easter Day (2025) -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, John 20:1-18, Luke 24:1-12, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Easter Day - C -- 2025
Isaiah 65:17-25
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 10 | OT 15 (2025) -- Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Luke 10:25-37 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2025
Amos 7:7-17 and Psalm 82
Sermon Illustrations for Christmas 2 (2025) -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 31:7-14
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 11 | OT 16 (2025) -- Amos 8:1-12, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2025
Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2025) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2025
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2025) -- Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2025
Hosea 1:2-10 and Psalm 85
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2025) -- Isaiah 43:1-7, Acts 8:14-17, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 43:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 2 | OT 2 (2025) -- Isaiah 62:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, John 2:1-11 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 62:1-5
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2025) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Hosea 11: 1-13
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 3 (OT 3) Cycle C (2025) -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Luke 4:14-21 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2025
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 14 | OT 19 (2025) -- Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Luke 12:32-40 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 and Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 15 | OT 20 (2025) -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 5:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 16 | OT 21 (2025) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Hebrews 12:18-29, Luke 13:10-17, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 1:4-10 and Psalm 77:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 (2025) -- Jeremiah 2:4-13, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 2:4-13
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (OT 4) Cycle C (2025) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 (2025) -- Jeremiah 18:1-11, Philemon 1:1-21, Luke 14:25-33 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 18:1-11 and Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 5 (OT 5) Cycle C (2025) -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13) -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13)
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 6 (OT 6) Cycle C (2025) -- Jeremiah 17:5-10, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Luke 6:17-26 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 17:5-10

StoryShare

Spoiler Alert! -- Genesis 45:3-11, 15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2025
I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. (v. 4)

Prayer

Sermon

SermonStudio

What Are You Looking At? -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
One of the most obvious things about the night sky is the moon, especially the full moon.
Ashes And Bugs -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
Ah, spring! The days are getting longer, and hopefully warmer.
What's In A Name? -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
What's in a name? Does a name matter?
Abraham Believed God -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
If you've traveled with small children in a car, you've probably heard this conversation more than o
He Will Abundantly Pardon -- Isaiah 55:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Perhaps you have taken a vacation with the intention of seeking out some historical or national monu
Gateway To Grace -- Joshua 5:9-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
When you visit a church camp you're aware that you're separated from civilization.
Past, Present, Future -- Isaiah 43:16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
We have a great history as a nation, but many of us are content with the pious stories we learned as
Essentials -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2006
D. L. Miller of Mount Morris, Illinois, was a world traveler among a people who didn't travel much.
The Word Of The Lord Came To The Prophet Haggai -- Haggai 1:1 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
There is something about seeing a zero creep up on the odometer, whether it's in your car, the world
While This House Lies In Ruins -- Haggai 1:2-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
Hymnologists say the first hymn in a hymnal tells a lot about the rest of the book.
This House In Its Former Glory -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
In the second year of King Darius, in the seventh month, on the twent-first day of the month, the wo
Yes, It Becomes Unclean -- Haggai 2:11-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
When my family grew large enough, not so much in numbers, but in the size of its members, it was t
On The Twenty-fourth Day -- Haggai 2:10 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
Haggai works his way to this crucial question, and so shall we.
Is There Any Seed Left In The Barn? -- Haggai 2:19 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
About eight years ago I first considered moving from Los Angeles to northern Indiana, from the city
For I Have Chosen You! -- Haggai 2:20-23 -- Frank Ramirez -- 1998
When I was a kid the night before Christmas was the longest night in the world.

Stories

StoryShare

Don't Worry. Be Happy. -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2024
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or
Origin Stories -- Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2024
Then I said, ‘See, I have come to do your will, O God’ (in the scroll of the book it is written
Not Quite A Dial of Destiny -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2024
In the time of King Herod, after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, Magi[
I Can See Clearly Now -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2024
We use the word epiphany to refer to moments when we really see people, places, or things for what t
A Sanctuary from the Fire -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2024
As they continued walking and talking, a chariot of fire and horses of fire separated the two of
The Unbroken Circle -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2024
For I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you…. (v. 23)
A Series of Dreams -- Matthew 2:13-23 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2023
In 2004 Nobel Laureate Bob Dylan published the book Chronicles: Volume One.
A Great Light -- But Who Saw It First? -- Matthew 4:12-23, Isaiah 9:1-4 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2023
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep dar
Because God is There -- Exodus 24:12-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2023
Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. (v. 15)
Gave As Good As She Got -- John 4:5-42 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2023
Just then his disciples came.
Footwear and Foot Care -- John 13:1-7, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2023
(Jesus) poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet… (v. 5)
Seeing And Not Seeing -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2023
Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, and he vanished from their sight.
Into Thin Air -- Acts 1:1-11, Luke 24:44-53 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2023
According to Acts 1:9, as the disciples watched, Jesus “…was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of
Sign Here -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2023
As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax-collection station….
One Hit Wonder -- Zechariah 9:9-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
Rejoice greatly, O daughter Zion!    Shout aloud, O daughter Jerusalem!
A Little Peace and Quiet -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2023
Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself.
What's In A Name? -- Exodus 3:1-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2023
God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I a
Sour Grapes -- Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2023
What do you mean by repeating this proverb concerning the land of Israel, “The parents have eate
Impostor Syndrome? -- Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2023
Never since has there arisen a prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face.
Peace and Security -- 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2023
When they say, “There is peace and security,” then sudden destruction will come upon them, as la
What We Need -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
But that same night the word of the Lord came to Nathan, “Go and tell my serva

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See What You Want To See -- Exodus 20:1-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2024
You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, punishin
A Great Light -- But Who Saw It First? -- Matthew 4:12-23, Isaiah 9:1-4 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2023
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep dar
Because God is There -- Exodus 24:12-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2023
Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. (v. 15)
Sign Here -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2023
As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax-collection station….

Worship

SermonStudio

Good Friday -- Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9Theme: Approach ...
Good Friday -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 18:1--19:42Theme: You Are Here
Proper 21/Ordinary Time 26 -- Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15Theme: The Long Term
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 6:27-38Theme: Yes, Love THAT Enemy, Too!
Proper 10/Ordinary Time 15 -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 10:25-37Theme: Question And Answer
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 3:15-17, 21-22Theme: God Remains Pleased With Us
Proper 4/Ordinary Time 9 -- Galatians 1:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Galatians 1:1-12Theme: Untouched By Human Hands
All Saints -- Luke 6:20-31 -- Frank Ramirez -- All Saints Day - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 6:20-31Theme: Blessings And Woes
The Resurrection Of Our Lord/Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 10:34-43Theme: Thank Heavens I Don't Get No Respect!
Proper 21/Ordinary Time 26 -- 1 Timothy 6:6-19 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Timothy 6:6-19Theme: A Few Of My Favorite Things
Eighth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 55:10-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 55:10-13Theme: Full Circle, Full Cycle
Proper 11/Ordinary Time 16 -- Amos 8:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Amos 8:1-12Theme: Bad Pun, Bad News
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 62:1-5Theme: An Arranged Marriage
Proper 4/Ordinary Time 9 -- Luke 7:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 7:1-10Theme: Unmatched Faith
Thanksgiving Day -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Deuteronomy 26:1-11Theme: Giving And Receiving
The Resurrection Of Our Lord/Easter Day -- 1 Corinthians 15:19-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:19-26Theme: More To Be Pitied Than Envied
Proper 21/Ordinary Time 26 -- Luke 16:19-31 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 16:19-31Theme: Pay Close Attention
Eighth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 15:51-58 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:51-58Theme: Mystery Solved
Proper 11/Ordinary Time 16 -- Colossians 1:15-28 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 1:15-28Theme: Second Verse, Same As The First
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11Theme: I See It Now
Proper 5/Ordinary Time 10 -- 1 Kings 17:8-16 (17-24) -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: 1 Kings 17:8-16 (17-24)Theme: Your Word Is Truth
Thanksgiving Day -- Philippians 4:4-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Philippians 4:4-9Theme: Good Things -- Good God
The Resurrection Of Our Lord/Easter Day -- John 20:1-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 20:1-18Theme: Ha!
Proper 22/Ordinary Time 27 -- Lamentations 1:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Lamentations 1:1-6Theme: The Real 9/11
Eighth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 6:39-49 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 6:39-49Theme: Demote The Mote
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 28 | OT 33 | Pentecost 23
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christ the King Sunday
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Thanksgiving
34 – Sermons
80+ – Illustrations / Stories
24 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
24 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Mary Austin
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
Nazish Naseem
For November 16, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Coffin
Another natural disaster has flattened a number of coastal communities. Despite the weather and major television station warnings, and government disaster preparations, the dystopian destruction nightmare of Luke 21 has decimated another community. Also, it is reasonable to believe that this is not the last year for hurricanes, Tsunami’s, wild fires, mudslides and tornados. They will occur again. However as weary citizens are interviewed in one group of people with the background of homes in rubble and streets still draining flood waters, they will not leave. This is their home.
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Isaiah 65:17-25 and Isaiah 12

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
“The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, and dust will be the serpent’s food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain,” says the LORD. (v. 25)

A week after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, country singer Toby Keith — who died Feb. 5, 2024 — wrote a patriotic ballad titled “Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue.” It was filled with populist fighting rhetoric that matched the mood of a nation shaken by the shocking death and destruction of that day.

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A blood pressure monitor. It is actually called a sphygmomanometer, and is pronounced “sfig·mow·muh·naa’·muh·tr”.

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The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer
Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.

SermonStudio

Stephen P. McCutchan
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
-- Isaiah 12:3

John W. Clarke
No reading of Luke is complete without coming to realize that Luke is concerned that the world understands that Jesus is the hope of the world and that any teaching that leads away from that fact is a false teaching. No matter what, no matter when, Jesus will be there to give us life.

Scott Suskovic
Whoever does not work should not eat!
-- 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (NLT)

Wow! Kind of takes your breath away, doesn't it? Not a lot of ambiguity in that rule. "You don't work, you don't eat." For a religion based on grace, it seems a bit unyielding.

Mark Ellingson
Freedom is such a lovely word, a compelling image. What is freedom? How would you define it? What does it mean to you? Webster's New World Dictionary defines freedom as being exempt from control or from arbitrary restrictions. Freedom is said to be the ability to choose or determine one's own actions.

Special Occasion

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