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George Reed

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George Reed, OSL has served as a minister in the United Methodist church for over thirty years. He holds degrees from Wright State University and United Theological Seminary, both located in Dayton, Ohio. He has also taken graduate studies at the Institute of Formative Spirituality at Duquesne University. After serving various UMC churches in Ohio, Reed is now serving as the Intentional Interim Senior Pastor at Ada Congregational Church/United Church of Christ in Ada, Michigan. He is a contributor to the Sermons on the Gospel Readings series and is the author of three-volume (Cycles A, B, and C) series Lectionary Worship Aids, Series IX. Reed and his wife have three grown children.
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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele
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
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
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
Anger, Anguish, And Faith's Vanishing Act -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
Last Thursday it happened again -- another in a long line of violent outbursts, leaving multiple vic
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
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
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
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
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
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
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
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
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
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 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

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The Immediate Word

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
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
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
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
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
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
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
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 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
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 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
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
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
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
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
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
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
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
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: “

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

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
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
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
Anger, Anguish, And Faith's Vanishing Act -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
Last Thursday it happened again -- another in a long line of violent outbursts, leaving multiple vic
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
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
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
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
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
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
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
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
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
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 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

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Highways And Byways -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
This week’s gospel text brings us a bare-bones introductory portrait of John the Baptist.
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
Dreaming Of A Green Christmas -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, John the Baptist asks a penetrating question: “Who warned you to flee fr
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele
Authority And Power -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle pericope Paul takes on a dispute among the Corinthian church over whether
Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele
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
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
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
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
Revisiting The Resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2014
Preaching the resurrection can be a challenging endeavor -- and in this installment of Th
A Stone For A Pillow -- Genesis 28:10-19a, Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2014
The Genesis text appointed by the lectionary for Proper 11 describes Jacob’s journey from Beershe
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Infinite Infinities -- Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Matthew 28:16-20 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2014
The lectionary texts for Trinity Sunday -- specifically the creation story from Genesis and Psalm
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip

Worship

The Immediate Word

Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele
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
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
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
Anger, Anguish, And Faith's Vanishing Act -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
Last Thursday it happened again -- another in a long line of violent outbursts, leaving multiple vic
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
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
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
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
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
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
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
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
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
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 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
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Baptism of Our Lord
29 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
40 – Children's Sermons / Resources
25 – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 3 | OT 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – 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
Christopher Keating
For January 25, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus called Simon and Andrew, James and John, to follow him. They immediately made their decision and dropped everything, for they knew the importance of their call. When Jesus calls us, do we hear him and do we respond?

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when I'm busy I find it difficult to hear you.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy, I find it difficult to respond to you.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy I'm not sure whether I want to follow you.
Lord, have mercy.
Janice B. Scott
I remember years ago watching an old film, which I think was "The Nun's Story." The young nun who was the heroine of the story had all sorts of difficulties in relationships with the other nuns. The problem was that she was super-intelligent, and the other nuns resented her. In the end the young nun went to the Mother Superior for advice, and was told that as a sign of humility she should fail her coming exams!

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
A Story to Live By: "Angel of Mercy"
Shining Moments: "A Dog's Life" by David Michael Smith
Good Stories: "God's Call" by Stephen Groves
Scrap Pile: "The Way Less Taken" by Garry Deverell


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

C. David Mckirachan
Sandra Herrmann
Contents
"Ordinary Time" by C. David McKirachan
"Who's the Fool?" by C. David McKirachan
"Sharing the Light" by Sandra Herrmann


* * * * * * *


Ordinary Time
by C. David McKirachan
Isaiah 9:1-4

SermonStudio

John N. Brittain
How familiar Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1 sound! Chloe's people had reported quarreling among the believers. Imagine that -- disagreements in a church! There were rivalries and backstabbing even in the very earliest days of the Christian community.
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
A few years ago, I was on a retreat in northern Michigan, and I knew that some of our friends from home were sailing in the vicinity. One evening I went to the local boat dock, and walked through the lines of boats calling out the names of our friends, hopeful that they might be there. I remember the joy I felt when I yelled their names, and they answered! They were actually there, and they responded to my call!
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: In Christ's Name
Message: What on earth will bring us together, God? Lauds, KDM

How long must we wait, God,
for people to stop fighting
nations and nations
buyers and sellers
big ones and little ones
in-laws and relatives
husbands and wives
sisters and brothers
for me to stop fighting with me?
How long must we wait, God,
before we let the Christ Child come here?1
William B. Kincaid, III
In some parts of the country it doesn't matter, but in many areas the snow which falls during this time of the year can bring things to a decisive halt. Schools close. Events are canceled. Travel becomes tricky. If the conditions become severe enough, the decision may be made that not everybody should try to get to work. Only those who are absolutely necessary should report.
R. Glen Miles
"There will be no more gloom." That is how our text begins today. For the ones who were in anguish, glory will replace the gloom. Light will shine in darkness. Celebration will replace oppression. A new day will dawn.

In one sense these verses offer a summary of the overall message of the scriptures, "The darkness will pass. The light of a new day is dawning and there will be joy once again." At the end of the Bible, almost as if the original collectors of these sacred texts intended to remind us again of this word of hope, the Revelation of John tells us:
Robert A. Beringer
After a service of ordination to the Christian ministry, a sad-faced woman came up to the newly-ordained pastor and said, "It's a grand thing you are doing as a young man - giving up the joys of life to serve the Lord." That woman's attitude reflects a commonly held belief that to be serious about our faith means that we expect all joy to be taken out of living. For many, Christianity appears to be a depressing faith, with unwelcome disciplines, that cramps our lifestyle and crushes our spirits.
John T. Ball
All religions offer salvation. Eastern religions offer salvation from the illusion of being separated from ultimate reality - as in Hinduism, or from the pains of desire, as in Buddhism. Nature religions preach a salvation by calling us to realize we are linked to the natural world. Humanistic religions offer a salvation tied to the call to live in dignity and justice without divine aid. The biblical religions - Judaism, Islam, and Christianity - describe salvation in somewhat different ways. Judaism sees salvation primarily as an earthly and corporate affair.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Discord, dissention, strife,
C: anger, violence, hatred;
P: we confess to you, O God,
C: our schemes, our willful rebellion,
our hidden hostilities toward your children.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our lack of trust in your presence,
our need to control, our insatiable appetite for praise.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our fear of speaking the truth in love,
our self-hatred, our moments of utter despair
when we no longer believe you are at work in us.
Wayne H. Keller
Adoration And Praise

Invitation to the Celebration
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
Canticle Of Light And Darkness (UM205)
To Us A Child Of Hope Is Born (CBH189)
God Of Our Strength (CBH36)
Beneath The Cross Of Jesus (CBH250, UM297, NCH190, PH92)
In The Cross Of Christ I Glory (CBH566, UM295, NCH193--194, PH84)
Lord, You Have Come To The Lakeshore (CBH229, NCH173, PH377, UM344)
Where Cross The Crowded Ways Of Life (PH408, CBH405, UM42, NCH543)
Jesus Calls Us, O'er The Tumult (UM398, NCH171--172, CBH398)

Anthems

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wayne Brouwer
In 1882 George MacDonald wrote a fascinating story that powerfully illumines the thought behind today's lectionary passages. MacDonald called his tale "The Day Boy and the Night Girl: the Romance of Photogen and Nycteris" (it is available online at http://www.ccel.org/m/macdonald/daynight/daynight.html). In MacDonald's fable a witch steals a newborn girl and raises her in the total darkness of a cave. The witch experiences both light and darkness, but not the girl. She is completely immersed in the black world.
Wayne Brouwer
"Politics are almost as exciting as war, and quite as dangerous!" said Winston Churchill. "In war you can only be killed once, but in politics many times."

In one of his essays, Albert Camus describes a powerful scene. John Huss, the great Czech reformer of the church, is on trial. His accusers twist all his ideas out of shape. They refuse to give him a hearing. They maneuver the political machine against him and incite popular passion to a lynch-mob frenzy. Finally, Huss is condemned to be burned at
David Kalas
Schuyler Rhodes
I was in the home of a church member the other day where I saw a marvelous family portrait. The picture had been taken on the occasion of a fiftieth wedding anniversary, and the entire family had gathered for the occasion. The celebrating husband and wife were seated in the center of the picture, flanked by their adult children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. It was a magnificent full-color illustration of God's design.

Special Occasion

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