Login / Signup

George Reed

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.
Hold down Ctrl (Windows) / Command (Mac) for multiple selections (scroll list to see all options)

Children's sermon

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Into the Wilderness -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2018
As this week’s lectionary gospel text begins, we are told that John the Baptist “appeared in the wil
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten by Dean Feldmeyer
Memory and Wisdom -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2018
Better Than What? -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2018
Signs -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Tell the Truth (it sets you free...) -- Mark 2:23-3:6, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
Everyone Gets Coal -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018

The Immediate Word

Who... Who Are You? -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Isaiah 51:1-6 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2017
In the wake of the
Stale Bread and Sour Wine -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Jeremiah 15:15-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells the disciples that “those who want to save their
Love in Action -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14, Ezekiel 33:7-11, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary epistle text, Paul echoes Jesus when he says that the commandments can be
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
Singing Songs and Rising Waters -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2017
With barely a chance to catch their breath after reporting on the catastrophic flooding caused in Te
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2017
The prophet Isaiah begins this week’s Old Testament lection with a clarion call to the Israelites: “
Cash, Credit, or Your Life? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a curious parable about greedy vineyard tenant
An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
What Happens in Vegas -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2017
The centerpiece of this week’s lectionary gospel text is a parable about guests who spurn their invi
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
What Belongs to God? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees scheme to trap Jesus with what in journalistic
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Swiping Toward God -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees continue trying to trap Jesus with their series
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
Caught Off-Guard -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the parable of the bridesmaids -- a story Jesus tells to

Illustration

Free Access

Into the Wilderness -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2018
As this week’s lectionary gospel text begins, we are told that John the Baptist “appeared in the wil
Signs -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Tell the Truth (it sets you free...) -- Mark 2:23-3:6, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
Everyone Gets Coal -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Is There an App for That? -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2018
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018

The Immediate Word

Singing Songs and Rising Waters -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2017
With barely a chance to catch their breath after reporting on the catastrophic flooding caused in Te
Cash, Credit, or Your Life? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a curious parable about greedy vineyard tenant
What Happens in Vegas -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2017
The centerpiece of this week’s lectionary gospel text is a parable about guests who spurn their invi
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
What Belongs to God? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees scheme to trap Jesus with what in journalistic
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2017
The prophet Isaiah begins this week’s Old Testament lection with a clarion call to the Israelites: “
Swiping Toward God -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees continue trying to trap Jesus with their series
An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Caught Off-Guard -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the parable of the bridesmaids -- a story Jesus tells to
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Risky Business -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable that on the surface seems like a first-
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo
Jesus Offers a Black Friday Deal -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2017
The final Sunday of the church year -- known as Christ the King Sunday -- celebrates the Reign of Ch
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
She Says / Cross-Contamination -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Ron Love -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
It’s almost as if there’s been a nuclear chain reaction -- in the wake of serious allegations of sex

Liturgy

Preaching

Free Access

Into the Wilderness -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2018
As this week’s lectionary gospel text begins, we are told that John the Baptist “appeared in the wil
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten by Dean Feldmeyer
Memory and Wisdom -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2018
Better Than What? -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2018
Signs -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Tell the Truth (it sets you free...) -- Mark 2:23-3:6, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
Everyone Gets Coal -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Is There an App for That? -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2018

The Immediate Word

Stale Bread and Sour Wine -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Jeremiah 15:15-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells the disciples that “those who want to save their
Love in Action -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14, Ezekiel 33:7-11, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary epistle text, Paul echoes Jesus when he says that the commandments can be
Singing Songs and Rising Waters -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2017
With barely a chance to catch their breath after reporting on the catastrophic flooding caused in Te
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
Cash, Credit, or Your Life? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a curious parable about greedy vineyard tenant
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2017
The prophet Isaiah begins this week’s Old Testament lection with a clarion call to the Israelites: “
What Happens in Vegas -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2017
The centerpiece of this week’s lectionary gospel text is a parable about guests who spurn their invi
An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
What Belongs to God? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees scheme to trap Jesus with what in journalistic
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Swiping Toward God -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees continue trying to trap Jesus with their series
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Caught Off-Guard -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the parable of the bridesmaids -- a story Jesus tells to
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo

Sermon

Free Access

Tell the Truth (it sets you free...) -- Mark 2:23-3:6, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
Everyone Gets Coal -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Is There an App for That? -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2018
Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Into the Wilderness -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2018
As this week’s lectionary gospel text begins, we are told that John the Baptist “appeared in the wil
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten by Dean Feldmeyer
Memory and Wisdom -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2018
Better Than What? -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2018

The Immediate Word

Living As One -- Acts 1:6-14, John 17:1-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary passage from Acts describes the reaction of the disciples to Jesus’ ascension
Caught Off-Guard -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the parable of the bridesmaids -- a story Jesus tells to
Saints On A Train -- Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2017
While the world copes with another apparent terrorist attack in London, a recent incident on a
Keep Calm And Hope On -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2017
Less than three months after a similar coordinated
Risky Business -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable that on the surface seems like a first-
Do I Have To Invite Jesus Over For Thanksgiving? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2017
With our headlines full of news about violent attacks fueled by hatred and revenge -- both in
Faith In The Face Of Loss -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, Abraham faces the most extreme test many of us could po
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Jesus Offers a Black Friday Deal -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2017
The final Sunday of the church year -- known as Christ the King Sunday -- celebrates the Reign of Ch
Fertile Grounds: Birthrights And Kingdom Privileges -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Genesis 25:19-34, Romans 8:1-11 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2017
This week’s primary Old Testament lectionary text brings us the story of Jacob trading away his birt
She Says / Cross-Contamination -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Ron Love -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
It’s almost as if there’s been a nuclear chain reaction -- in the wake of serious allegations of sex
Paved With Good Intentions -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable about workers anxious to rid a field of
The Scrappy Sound of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Isaiah declares to the exi
Secrets And Lies -- Genesis 29:15-28, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2017
We all have secrets -- things that we would rather keep hidden from others...
Test Everything -- 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, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary passage from his letter to the Thessalonians, Paul tells the congregation
The Double-Dog Dare Days Of August -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2017
The world was put on edge last week, as
Christmas Greetings -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for the fourth Sunday of Advent, the angel Gabriel brings dumbfounding

Worship

Free Access

Full of It -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Tom Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Into the Wilderness -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2018
As this week’s lectionary gospel text begins, we are told that John the Baptist “appeared in the wil
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten by Dean Feldmeyer
Memory and Wisdom -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2018
Better Than What? -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2018
Signs -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Tell the Truth (it sets you free...) -- Mark 2:23-3:6, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Deuteronomy 5:12-15 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
Everyone Gets Coal -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018

The Immediate Word

Who... Who Are You? -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Isaiah 51:1-6 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2017
In the wake of the
Stale Bread and Sour Wine -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Jeremiah 15:15-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells the disciples that “those who want to save their
Love in Action -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14, Ezekiel 33:7-11, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary epistle text, Paul echoes Jesus when he says that the commandments can be
The Right Thing -- Matthew 3:13-17, Psalm 29, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2017
Matthew’s brief account of Jesus’ baptism seems curious in a way -- John the Baptist seems quite amb
Singing Songs and Rising Waters -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2017
With barely a chance to catch their breath after reporting on the catastrophic flooding caused in Te
Thinking Globally, Acting Locally -- Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2017
The prophet Isaiah begins this week’s Old Testament lection with a clarion call to the Israelites: “
Cash, Credit, or Your Life? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a curious parable about greedy vineyard tenant
An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
What Happens in Vegas -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2017
The centerpiece of this week’s lectionary gospel text is a parable about guests who spurn their invi
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
What Belongs to God? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees scheme to trap Jesus with what in journalistic
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Swiping Toward God -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, the Pharisees continue trying to trap Jesus with their series
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
Caught Off-Guard -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2017
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the parable of the bridesmaids -- a story Jesus tells to
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Easter 2
20 – Sermons
170+ – Illustrations / Stories
26 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
20 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 3
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 4
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
33 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A sheep or lamb stuffed animal.

Note: For the best experience, when you ask the questions, take the time to draw the children out a bit and help them come up with answers. Make it more of a conversation if you can.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent! Let’s get started! (Hold the sheep in your lap as you continue.)

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Katy Stenta
Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
George Reed
Mary Austin
For May 4, 2025:

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
Then I looked, and I heard the voice of many angels surrounding the throne and the living creatures and the elders; they numbered myriads of myriads and thousands of thousands, singing with full voice… (vv. 11-12a)

Phillip Hasheider is a retired Wisconsin beef farmer and an award-winning author who was dead for six minutes and came back to tell about it. If you have ever thought about dying and wondered what it would be like, then Hasheider’s Six Minutes in Eternity is a book you will want to read.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Coffin
A medical worker is working long, hard, stress filled hours in an urban hospital setting. One day he or she is called into the administrator’s office to be terminated due to angering professionals in the upper echelon. The worker protests that it is, “My word against their word, why am I to be the scapegoat?” The administrator pulls rank! The worker is asked to turn in their badge and do not come into the premises again unless as a patient. The now unemployed medical worker still feels the calling to be a healer. So, they get a job at an alternative/natural health medicine store.
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Acts 9:1-6 (7-20)
Martin Luther believed that the story of Paul’s conversion demonstrates that there is no need for special revelation. The reformer commented:

Our Lord God does not purpose some special thing for each individual person, but gives to the whole world — one person like the next — his baptism and gospel. (Complete Sermons, Vol.7, p.271)

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
I've recently spent several hours by the lakeside, for I've been in retreat this past week in the little village of Hemingford Grey, in Huntingdonshire. A great delight for me was to walk to the flooded gravel pits, sit on a bench in glorious sunshine, and watch the water birds. For me, that's a wonderful way to become very aware of the presence of God through the beauty of his created world. And sitting like that for several hours, doing nothing but watching and waiting, I can't help but absorb the peace which passes all understanding.

SermonStudio

Constance Berg
When Beth was a teenager, she lived on the streets. She smoked cigarettes and drank beer and her parents had said that she had to choose: her friends or her family. Beth chose her friends and lived from house to house and eventually in homeless shelters. She barely avoided being raped at one point. About six months of shelter-hopping was all she could take, and she found a shelter that sponsored her until she took the GED. They told her she was brilliant: she was just bored and dissatisfied with the status quo. The shelter supervisors suggested she look into community college.
James Evans
(For alternative approaches, see Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6, Cycle B; and Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14, Cycle C.)

The main theme of this psalm is captured profoundly in the movement within a single verse: "Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with morning" (v. 5). Casting life experiences between light and dark is not unique or novel, of course, but the poet's treatment of these themes offers some fertile ground for reflection.

Elizabeth Achtemeier
We have three different accounts of the conversion of Saul in the Gospel according to Luke (9:1-20; 22:6-16; 26:12-18). They differ in a few minor details, but essentially they are the same. In addition, Paul writes of his conversion in Galatians 1:11-16, and in 1 Corinthians 9:1 and 15:8-9, stating that at the time of his conversion on the road to Damascus, he saw the Lord. For Paul, that made him an apostle, equal to the twelve. An apostle, in Paul's thought, was one who had seen the risen Christ and had been sent to announce that good news.
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
Once in a far-off land, there was a great king whose dominion extended far and wide. His power and authority were absolute. One day, as events would happen, a young man, a commoner, committed a grave offense against the king. In response, the king and his counselors gathered together to determine what should be done. They decided that since the offense was so grave and had been committed by a commoner against someone so august as the king, the only punishment that would satisfy justice was death.

Special Occasion

Wildcard SSL