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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.
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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

#whatafaithfulpersonlookslike -- Luke 18:9-14, Joel 2:23-32, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Psalm 65 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells the familiar parable of the Pharisee and the t
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
All Along The Watchtower -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage, the prophet Habakkuk pleads: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for he
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
That's My Boy! -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2016
As we observe Jesus’ baptism this Sunday, the lectionary texts celebrate our being welcomed into and
Like A Shepherd, Lead Us -- Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 1:68-79, Psalm 46 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2016
On this final Sunday of the church year, all of the lectionary readings address the reign of Christ
Sometimes You Have To Shout -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2016
The prophet Isaiah declares in this week’s Old Testament passage that “For Zion’s sake I will
Something's Coming -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Psalm 122 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we turn to Advent and the first Sunday of the church year and a new lectionary cycle, the foremos
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
Super-Sized Spectacles Of Faith -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up on a mountain with him to pray.
The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil
Unlocking Easter's Hope -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary gospel text opens with a stark description of the existential fear that gripp
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Where Is Your God? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2016
The news was stunning -- a deranged man calmly waited until last call at a packed gay nightclub in O
Good Riddance -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The apostle Paul tells us in this week’s lectionary epistle passage that once we are “in Christ, the
The Real Deal -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
In this week’s gospel lectionary text, John dispatches his followers to confront Jesus and ask him:
What A Waste -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel passage takes us into the home of Lazarus, where Jesus is being feted with an hon
The Sixth Immortality -- Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2016
The narrative of Jesus’ resurrection is a very powerful one -- yet it also can seem so fantastical p
Fences Make Bad Neighbors -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s epistle text relates Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road.
After Stuff Happens -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Acts recounts Peter’s startling restoration to life of Tabitha, a d
Opening Closed Doors -- John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Acts 11:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
North Carolina became the center of national controversy last month when it passed the “
Love, Love Is The Answer -- John 5:1-9, John 14:23-29, Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the primary gospel text selected by the lectionary for this week, Jesus prepares his disciples fo
What Is A Life Worth? -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the lectionary passage from Acts for Easter 7, Paul and Silas are followed for several days by a
All Together Now! -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:14-17, John 14:8-17 (25-27), Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2016
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts tells of a crowd gathered from many diverse locations..
Exercising Dominion -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Psalm 8, John 16:12-15, Romans 5:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2016
The lectionary psalm selection for Trinity Sunday (Psalm 8) provides plenty of fodder for those on b

Illustration

The Immediate Word

The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil
Unlocking Easter's Hope -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary gospel text opens with a stark description of the existential fear that gripp
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Where Is Your God? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2016
The news was stunning -- a deranged man calmly waited until last call at a packed gay nightclub in O
Good Riddance -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The apostle Paul tells us in this week’s lectionary epistle passage that once we are “in Christ, the
The Real Deal -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
In this week’s gospel lectionary text, John dispatches his followers to confront Jesus and ask him:
What A Waste -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel passage takes us into the home of Lazarus, where Jesus is being feted with an hon
The Sixth Immortality -- Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2016
The narrative of Jesus’ resurrection is a very powerful one -- yet it also can seem so fantastical p
Fences Make Bad Neighbors -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s epistle text relates Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road.
After Stuff Happens -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Acts recounts Peter’s startling restoration to life of Tabitha, a d
Opening Closed Doors -- John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Acts 11:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
North Carolina became the center of national controversy last month when it passed the “
Love, Love Is The Answer -- John 5:1-9, John 14:23-29, Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the primary gospel text selected by the lectionary for this week, Jesus prepares his disciples fo
What Is A Life Worth? -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the lectionary passage from Acts for Easter 7, Paul and Silas are followed for several days by a
All Together Now! -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:14-17, John 14:8-17 (25-27), Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2016
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts tells of a crowd gathered from many diverse locations..
Exercising Dominion -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Psalm 8, John 16:12-15, Romans 5:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2016
The lectionary psalm selection for Trinity Sunday (Psalm 8) provides plenty of fodder for those on b
On The Other Hand -- Luke 7:1-10, 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39, Galatians 1:1-12, Psalm 96 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, a clearly frustrated Elijah pleads wit
Confronting Shame With Guerrilla Grace -- Luke 7:36--8:3, 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2016
Both of his week’s lectionary Old Testament passages depict ordinary people who find themselves in d
Fit For The Kingdom -- Luke 9:51-62, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2016
At first glance, Jesus’ actions in this week’s lectionary gospel passage hardly seem like those we u
Kiss -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary passage from Second Kings features the intriguing tale of the healing of Naam
Licensed Fruit Inspectors -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2016
The last week has been a tumultuous one that has highlighted the divisions in American society.
Snakes And Scorpions -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray -- and, he sugg
Living In A Selfie Culture -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary texts have a great deal to say about the misplaced priorities of contemporary
Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
Beloving -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle text from First John (4:7-21) presents us with a mandate to “love one another
Baby Steps And Bending The Arc -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The primary theme of recent weeks continues, with a focus on the subject of love.

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
All Along The Watchtower -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage, the prophet Habakkuk pleads: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for he
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
That's My Boy! -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2016
As we observe Jesus’ baptism this Sunday, the lectionary texts celebrate our being welcomed into and
Like A Shepherd, Lead Us -- Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 1:68-79, Psalm 46 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2016
On this final Sunday of the church year, all of the lectionary readings address the reign of Christ
Sometimes You Have To Shout -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2016
The prophet Isaiah declares in this week’s Old Testament passage that “For Zion’s sake I will
Something's Coming -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Psalm 122 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we turn to Advent and the first Sunday of the church year and a new lectionary cycle, the foremos
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
Super-Sized Spectacles Of Faith -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up on a mountain with him to pray.
The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil
Unlocking Easter's Hope -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary gospel text opens with a stark description of the existential fear that gripp
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Where Is Your God? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2016
The news was stunning -- a deranged man calmly waited until last call at a packed gay nightclub in O
Good Riddance -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The apostle Paul tells us in this week’s lectionary epistle passage that once we are “in Christ, the
The Real Deal -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
In this week’s gospel lectionary text, John dispatches his followers to confront Jesus and ask him:
What A Waste -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel passage takes us into the home of Lazarus, where Jesus is being feted with an hon
The Sixth Immortality -- Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2016
The narrative of Jesus’ resurrection is a very powerful one -- yet it also can seem so fantastical p
Fences Make Bad Neighbors -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s epistle text relates Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road.
After Stuff Happens -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Acts recounts Peter’s startling restoration to life of Tabitha, a d
Opening Closed Doors -- John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Acts 11:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
North Carolina became the center of national controversy last month when it passed the “
Love, Love Is The Answer -- John 5:1-9, John 14:23-29, Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the primary gospel text selected by the lectionary for this week, Jesus prepares his disciples fo
What Is A Life Worth? -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the lectionary passage from Acts for Easter 7, Paul and Silas are followed for several days by a
All Together Now! -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:14-17, John 14:8-17 (25-27), Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2016
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts tells of a crowd gathered from many diverse locations..
Exercising Dominion -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Psalm 8, John 16:12-15, Romans 5:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2016
The lectionary psalm selection for Trinity Sunday (Psalm 8) provides plenty of fodder for those on b
On The Other Hand -- Luke 7:1-10, 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39, Galatians 1:1-12, Psalm 96 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, a clearly frustrated Elijah pleads wit

Sermon

The Immediate Word

The Neighbor Next Door -- Luke 10:25-37, Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Psalm 82 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2016
It seems that each day in the last week has brought us news of another horror somewhere around the w
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
Fathering Hope: Giving Joseph A Voice -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we all know, the holiday season preceding Christmas is not universally one of comfort and joy, of
Lemonade -- 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Luke 17:11-19, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2016
In this week’s Old Testament passage, God -- through the prophet Jeremiah -- addresses the people of
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
Persisting In The Struggle -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2016
The key themes in this week’s lectionary epistle and gospel texts are the value and necessity of pat
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap
#whatafaithfulpersonlookslike -- Luke 18:9-14, Joel 2:23-32, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Psalm 65 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells the familiar parable of the Pharisee and the t
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
All Along The Watchtower -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage, the prophet Habakkuk pleads: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for he
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Like A Shepherd, Lead Us -- Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 1:68-79, Psalm 46 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2016
On this final Sunday of the church year, all of the lectionary readings address the reign of Christ
That's My Boy! -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2016
As we observe Jesus’ baptism this Sunday, the lectionary texts celebrate our being welcomed into and
Something's Coming -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Psalm 122 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we turn to Advent and the first Sunday of the church year and a new lectionary cycle, the foremos
Sometimes You Have To Shout -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2016
The prophet Isaiah declares in this week’s Old Testament passage that “For Zion’s sake I will
Super-Sized Spectacles Of Faith -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up on a mountain with him to pray.
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
Unlocking Easter's Hope -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary gospel text opens with a stark description of the existential fear that gripp
The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Where Is Your God? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2016
The news was stunning -- a deranged man calmly waited until last call at a packed gay nightclub in O
Good Riddance -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The apostle Paul tells us in this week’s lectionary epistle passage that once we are “in Christ, the

Worship

The Immediate Word

#whatafaithfulpersonlookslike -- Luke 18:9-14, Joel 2:23-32, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Psalm 65 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells the familiar parable of the Pharisee and the t
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
All Along The Watchtower -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage, the prophet Habakkuk pleads: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for he
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
That's My Boy! -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2016
As we observe Jesus’ baptism this Sunday, the lectionary texts celebrate our being welcomed into and
Like A Shepherd, Lead Us -- Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 1:68-79, Psalm 46 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2016
On this final Sunday of the church year, all of the lectionary readings address the reign of Christ
Sometimes You Have To Shout -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2016
The prophet Isaiah declares in this week’s Old Testament passage that “For Zion’s sake I will
Something's Coming -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Psalm 122 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we turn to Advent and the first Sunday of the church year and a new lectionary cycle, the foremos
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
Super-Sized Spectacles Of Faith -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus takes Peter, John, and James up on a mountain with him to pray.
The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil
Unlocking Easter's Hope -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary gospel text opens with a stark description of the existential fear that gripp
Primary Fears -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel text, a group of Pharisees warn Jesus that he needs to leave the area in order
Where Is Your God? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2016
The news was stunning -- a deranged man calmly waited until last call at a packed gay nightclub in O
Good Riddance -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The apostle Paul tells us in this week’s lectionary epistle passage that once we are “in Christ, the
The Real Deal -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
In this week’s gospel lectionary text, John dispatches his followers to confront Jesus and ask him:
What A Waste -- John 12:1-8, Philippians 3:4b-14, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel passage takes us into the home of Lazarus, where Jesus is being feted with an hon
The Sixth Immortality -- Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - C -- 2016
The narrative of Jesus’ resurrection is a very powerful one -- yet it also can seem so fantastical p
Fences Make Bad Neighbors -- John 21:1-19, Revelation 5:11-14, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Psalm 30 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s epistle text relates Paul’s conversion experience on the Damascus Road.
After Stuff Happens -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Acts recounts Peter’s startling restoration to life of Tabitha, a d
Opening Closed Doors -- John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Acts 11:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
North Carolina became the center of national controversy last month when it passed the “
Love, Love Is The Answer -- John 5:1-9, John 14:23-29, Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the primary gospel text selected by the lectionary for this week, Jesus prepares his disciples fo
What Is A Life Worth? -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2016
In the lectionary passage from Acts for Easter 7, Paul and Silas are followed for several days by a
All Together Now! -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:14-17, John 14:8-17 (25-27), Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2016
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts tells of a crowd gathered from many diverse locations..
Exercising Dominion -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Psalm 8, John 16:12-15, Romans 5:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2016
The lectionary psalm selection for Trinity Sunday (Psalm 8) provides plenty of fodder for those on b
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Christ the King Sunday
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Thanksgiving
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The Immediate Word

Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Tom Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For December 7, 2025:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
There was an incident some years ago, when an elderly lady in some village parish in England was so fed up with the sound of the church bells ringing, that she took an axe and hacked her way through the oak door of the church. Once inside, she sliced through the bell ropes, rendering the bells permanently silent. The media loved it. There were articles in all the papers and the culprit appeared on television. The Church was less enthusiastic - and took her to court.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
(See The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle A, and The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)

This psalm is a prayer for the king, and it asks God to extend divine rule over earth through the anointed one who sits on the throne. Although the inscription says the psalm is about Solomon, that is a scribal addition. More likely, this was a general prayer used for more than one of the Davidic kings, and it shows the common belief that the monarch would be the instrument through which God acted.

Mark Wm. Radecke
In her Pulitzer Prize winning book, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, author Annie Dillard recalls this chilling remembrance:
Paul E. Robinson
There is so much uncertainty in life that most of us look hard and long for as many "sure things" as we can find. A fisherman goes back again and again to that hole that always produces fish and leaves on his line that special lure that always does the trick. The fishing hole and the lure are sure things.
John N. Brittain
If you don't know that Christmas is a couple of weeks away, you must be living underground. And you must have no contact with any children. And you cannot have been to a mall, Wal-Mart, Walgreen's, or any other chain store since three weeks before Halloween. Christmas, probably more than any other day in the contemporary American calendar, is one of those days where impact really stretches the envelope of time not just -- like some great tragedy -- after the fact, but also in anticipation.
Tony S. Everett
One hot summer day, a young pastor decided to change the oil in his automobile for the very first time in his life. He had purchased five quarts of oil, a filter wrench, and a bucket in which to drain the used oil. He carefully and gently drove the car onto the shiny, yellow ramps and eased his way underneath his vehicle.

Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
We've gathered here today on the second Sunday of Advent to continue to prepare ourselves for the coming of our Lord. This task of preparing for the arrival of the Lord is not as easy as we might think it is. As in other areas of life, we find ourselves having to unlearn some things in order to see what the scriptures teach us about God's act in Jesus. We've let the culture around us snatch away much of the meaning of the birth of the Savior. We have to reclaim that meaning if we really want to be ready for what God is still doing in the miracle of Christmas.
Timothy J. Smith
As we make our way through Advent inching closer to Christmas, our days are consumed with many tasks. Our "to do" list grows each day. At times we are often out of breath and wondering if we will complete everything on our list before Christmas Day. We gather on this Second Sunday in Advent to spiritually prepare for what God has done and continues to do in our lives and in our world. We have been too busy with all our activities and tasks so that we are in danger of missing out on the miracle of Christmas.
Frank Luchsinger
For his sixth grade year his family moved to the new community. They made careful preparations for the husky, freckle-faced redhead to fit in smoothly. They had meetings with teachers and principal, and practiced the route to the very school doors he would enter on the first day. "Right here will be lists of the classes with the teachers' names and students. Come to these doors and find your name on a list and go to that class."
R. Glen Miles
The text we have heard today is pleasant, maybe even reassuring. I wonder, though, how many of us will give it any significance once we leave the sanctuary? Do the words of Isaiah have any real meaning for us, or are they just far away thoughts from a time that no longer has any relevance for us today?
Susan R. Andrews
When our children were small, a nice church lady named Chris made them a child--friendly creche. All the actors in this stable drama are soft and squishy and durable - perfect to touch and rearrange - or toss across the living room in a fit of toddler frenzy. The Joseph character has always been my favorite because he looks a little wild - red yarn spiking out from his head, giving him an odd look of energy. In fact, I have renamed this character John the Baptist and in my mind substituted one of the innocuous shepherds for the more staid and solid Joseph. Why this invention?
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Wild animals flourish around us,
C: and prowl within us.
P: Injustice and inequity surround us,
C: and hide within us.
P: Vanity and pride divide us,
C: and fester within us.

A time for silent reflection

P: O God, may your love free us,
C: and may your Spirit live in us. Amen.

Prayer Of The Day

Emphasis Preaching Journal

The world and the church approach the "Mass of Christ" with a different pace, and "atmospheres" that are worlds apart. Out in the "highways and byways" tinsel and "sparkly" are everywhere, in the churches the color of the paraments and stoles is a somber violet, or in some places, blue. Through the stores and on the airwaves carols and pop tunes are up-beat, aimed at getting the spirits festive, and the pocketbooks and wallets are open.
David Kalas
In the United States just now, we're in the period between the election and the inauguration of the president. In our system, by the time they are inaugurated, our leaders are fairly familiar faces. Months of primaries and campaigning, debates and speeches, and conventions and commercials, all contribute to a fairly high degree of familiarity. We may wonder what kind of president someone will be, but we have certainly heard many promises, and we have had plenty of opportunities to get to know the candidate.
(A)
During my growing up years we had no family automobile. My father walked to work and home again. During World War II his routine at the local milk plant was somewhat irregular. As children we tried to guess when he would come. If we were wrong, we didn't worry. He always came.
Wayne Brouwer
Schuyler Rhodes
What difference does my life make for others around me? That question is addressed in three related ways in our texts for today. Isaiah raised the emblem of the Servant of Yahweh as representative for what life is supposed to be, even in the middle of a chaotic and cruel world. Paul mirrors that reflection as he announces the fulfillment of Isaiah's vision in the coming of Jesus and the expansion of its redemptive effects beyond the Jewish community to the Gentile world as well.

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