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Ron Love

Ronald H. Love was called into the ordained ministry from a career as a state trooper. He has served Methodist churches in rural, inner-city and suburban settings for 20 years, and also served for four years as an Army chaplain. Dr. Love has also been a corporate librarian for a Fortune 500 company and been a university professor for ten years, teaching history and theology. His writing experience includes denominational publications, magazine articles on religion, and a newspaper devotional column. He holds a bachelor's degree in sociology (Slippery Rock State College), master's degrees in library and information science (University of Pittsburgh), secondary education (Duquesne University), church history (Indiana University of Pennsylvania), and theology (Wesley Theological Seminary), as well as a doctorate in homiletics (Pittsburgh Theological Seminary). Dr. Love now resides in South Carolina.
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Commentary

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Finding Words In Speechless Grief -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary Old Testament and Gospel texts both contain accounts of the death of a widow'
Longing For Peace -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2013
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s
Power Without Honor -- Luke 7:36--8:3, 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures brings us a fascinating story about the ab
Fleeing Christmas -- Matthew 2:13-23, Isaiah 63:7-9 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2013
The gospel text for the First Sunday after Christmas tells of Jesus and his family’s flight to Eg
Tony Soprano's Kingdom Dilemma -- Luke 9:51-62, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2013
The entertainment headlines this week have been dominated by the shocking news of actor James Gandol
Longing For Peace -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2013
Because of the close proximity this year of the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve/Day --
Prior To Destruction -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2013
The passage from Second Kings appointed by the lectionary for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Pr
Use It Or Lose It -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2013
The lectionary’s appointed passage from Amos for this week uses the seasonal imagery of a basket
When Scorpions Sting And Prayers Go Unanswered -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2013
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus not only shares with us the Lord’s Prayer, he also offers an e
The Bottom Of The Mountain -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text tells of the Transfiguration -- a spectacular experience for thre
Is It Real Or Is It Photoshop? -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2013
On the Second Sunday of Easter, the lectionary showcases the familiar story of the disciple Thomas a
Who Watches The Watchers? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2013
One of the main themes in the lectionary scripture texts for Proper 7 is the importance of truth-tel
Oh, How I Love Your Law! -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2013
Judges and the law are a prominent theme in this week’s lectionary texts, with Jesus telling a p
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus picks up right where he left off last week by conti
Sour Grapes -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary passage from the book of Isaiah, the prophet laments the strained rela
Troublesome Marching Orders And Unlikely Superheroes -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2013
At The Head Of The Table -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable about a banquet host who eschews th
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Playing Poker In Damascus -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2013
The images were horrific -- even by the standards of the civil war in Syria that has raged on fo
Joy In Darkness -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
As we enter the Lenten season and its emphasis on introspection and spiritual cleansing, it's a usef
No Rejoicing Yet -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus illustrates the concern God has for every one of us,
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Sleepless In Syria -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2013
Every day brings new twists and turns in the diplomatic negotiations over Syria.
Fast Food Christianity -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A major theme in the lectionary texts this week is nourishment of the body and soul.
A Vessel Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2013
Each newscast last week brought more horrific scenes -- from Monday’s murderous rampage at the N

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Presentation Of The Lord (2017) -- Malachi 3:1-4, Hebrews 2:14-18, Luke 2:22-40 -- Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- 2017
Malachi 3:1-4
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 (2017) -- Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2017
Isaiah 49:1-7
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2017) -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
Exodus 16:2-15
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 3 (2017) -- Isaiah 9:1-4, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Matthew 4:12-23 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2017
Isaiah 9:1-4
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 (2017) -- Judges 4:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Matthew 25:14-30 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bob Ove -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2017
Judges 4:1-7
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 4 | Ot 4 (2017) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
Micah 6:1-8
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 (2017) -- Exodus 17:1-17, Philippians 2:1-13, Matthew 21:28-32 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2017
Exodus 17:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Christ The King (Proper 29) (2017) -- Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Ephesians 1:15-23, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2017
Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24
Sermon Illustrations for Thanksgiving Day (2017) -- Deuteronomy 8:7-18, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Luke 17:11-19 -- Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2017
Deuteronomy 8:7-18
Sermon Illustrations for New Year's Day (2017) -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- New Year's Day - A, New Year's Day - B, New Year's Day - C -- 2017
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Sermon Illustrations For Day Of Pentecost (2017) -- Acts 2:1-21, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, John 20:19-23 -- Bill Thomas, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2017
Acts 2:1-21
Sermon Illustrations For Trinity Sunday (2017) -- Genesis 1:1--2:4a, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Matthew 28:16-20 -- Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2017
Genesis 1:1--2:4a
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 6 | Ot 11 (2017) -- Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Romans 5:1-8, Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2017
Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7)
Sermon Illustrations for Advent 1 (2017) -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bob Ove -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
Isaiah 64:1-9
Sermon Illustrations For Easter 7 (2017) -- Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, John 17:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
Acts 1:6-14
Sermon Illustrations for Advent 2 (2017) -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
Isaiah 40:1-11
Sermon Illustrations For Easter 6 (2017) -- Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, John 14:15-21 -- Frank Ramirez, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
Acts 17:22-31
Sermon Illustrations for Third Sunday of Advent (2017) -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Sermon Illustrations For Easter 5 (2017) -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14 -- Bob Ove, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
Acts 7:55-60
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 (2017) -- Genesis 21:8-21, Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39 -- Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2017
Genesis 21:8-21
Sermon Illustrations For Easter 4 (2017) -- Acts 2:42-47, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- Bonnie Bates, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
Acts 2:42-47
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 (2017) -- Genesis 22:1-14, Romans 6:12-23, Matthew 10:40-42 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2017
Genesis 22:1-14
Sermon Illustrations For Easter 3 -- Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35 -- Bob Ove, Bill Thomas, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
Acts 2:14a, 36-41
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 (2017) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bill Thomas -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Sermon Illustrations for Fourth Sunday of Advent (2017) -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2017
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Finding Words In Speechless Grief -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary Old Testament and Gospel texts both contain accounts of the death of a widow'
Fleeing Christmas -- Matthew 2:13-23, Isaiah 63:7-9 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2013
The gospel text for the First Sunday after Christmas tells of Jesus and his family’s flight to Eg
Power Without Honor -- Luke 7:36--8:3, 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures brings us a fascinating story about the ab
Longing For Peace -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2013
Because of the close proximity this year of the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve/Day --
Tony Soprano's Kingdom Dilemma -- Luke 9:51-62, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2013
The entertainment headlines this week have been dominated by the shocking news of actor James Gandol
Prior To Destruction -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2013
The passage from Second Kings appointed by the lectionary for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Pr
Use It Or Lose It -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2013
The lectionary’s appointed passage from Amos for this week uses the seasonal imagery of a basket
When Scorpions Sting And Prayers Go Unanswered -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2013
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus not only shares with us the Lord’s Prayer, he also offers an e
The Bottom Of The Mountain -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text tells of the Transfiguration -- a spectacular experience for thre
Is It Real Or Is It Photoshop? -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2013
On the Second Sunday of Easter, the lectionary showcases the familiar story of the disciple Thomas a
Who Watches The Watchers? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2013
One of the main themes in the lectionary scripture texts for Proper 7 is the importance of truth-tel
Oh, How I Love Your Law! -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2013
Judges and the law are a prominent theme in this week’s lectionary texts, with Jesus telling a p
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus picks up right where he left off last week by conti
Sour Grapes -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary passage from the book of Isaiah, the prophet laments the strained rela
Troublesome Marching Orders And Unlikely Superheroes -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2013
At The Head Of The Table -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable about a banquet host who eschews th
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Playing Poker In Damascus -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2013
The images were horrific -- even by the standards of the civil war in Syria that has raged on fo
Joy In Darkness -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
As we enter the Lenten season and its emphasis on introspection and spiritual cleansing, it's a usef
No Rejoicing Yet -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus illustrates the concern God has for every one of us,
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Fast Food Christianity -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A major theme in the lectionary texts this week is nourishment of the body and soul.
Sleepless In Syria -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2013
Every day brings new twists and turns in the diplomatic negotiations over Syria.
Fatted Calf Or Pork? -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text features the parable of the prodigal son, which provides plenty o
A Vessel Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2013
Each newscast last week brought more horrific scenes -- from Monday’s murderous rampage at the N

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Longing For Peace -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2013
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s
Finding Words In Speechless Grief -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary Old Testament and Gospel texts both contain accounts of the death of a widow'
Fleeing Christmas -- Matthew 2:13-23, Isaiah 63:7-9 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2013
The gospel text for the First Sunday after Christmas tells of Jesus and his family’s flight to Eg
Power Without Honor -- Luke 7:36--8:3, 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures brings us a fascinating story about the ab
Longing For Peace -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2013
Because of the close proximity this year of the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve/Day --
Tony Soprano's Kingdom Dilemma -- Luke 9:51-62, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2013
The entertainment headlines this week have been dominated by the shocking news of actor James Gandol
Prior To Destruction -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2013
The passage from Second Kings appointed by the lectionary for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Pr
Use It Or Lose It -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2013
The lectionary’s appointed passage from Amos for this week uses the seasonal imagery of a basket
When Scorpions Sting And Prayers Go Unanswered -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2013
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus not only shares with us the Lord’s Prayer, he also offers an e
The Bottom Of The Mountain -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text tells of the Transfiguration -- a spectacular experience for thre
Is It Real Or Is It Photoshop? -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2013
On the Second Sunday of Easter, the lectionary showcases the familiar story of the disciple Thomas a
Who Watches The Watchers? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2013
One of the main themes in the lectionary scripture texts for Proper 7 is the importance of truth-tel
Oh, How I Love Your Law! -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2013
Judges and the law are a prominent theme in this week’s lectionary texts, with Jesus telling a p
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus picks up right where he left off last week by conti
Sour Grapes -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary passage from the book of Isaiah, the prophet laments the strained rela
Troublesome Marching Orders And Unlikely Superheroes -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2013
At The Head Of The Table -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable about a banquet host who eschews th
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Playing Poker In Damascus -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2013
The images were horrific -- even by the standards of the civil war in Syria that has raged on fo
Joy In Darkness -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
As we enter the Lenten season and its emphasis on introspection and spiritual cleansing, it's a usef
No Rejoicing Yet -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus illustrates the concern God has for every one of us,
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Fast Food Christianity -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A major theme in the lectionary texts this week is nourishment of the body and soul.
Sleepless In Syria -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2013
Every day brings new twists and turns in the diplomatic negotiations over Syria.
Fatted Calf Or Pork? -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text features the parable of the prodigal son, which provides plenty o

Worship

The Immediate Word

Longing For Peace -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2013
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of God’s
Finding Words In Speechless Grief -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary Old Testament and Gospel texts both contain accounts of the death of a widow'
Fleeing Christmas -- Matthew 2:13-23, Isaiah 63:7-9 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2013
The gospel text for the First Sunday after Christmas tells of Jesus and his family’s flight to Eg
Power Without Honor -- Luke 7:36--8:3, 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a, Galatians 2:15-21 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures brings us a fascinating story about the ab
Longing For Peace -- Matthew 1:18-25, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2013
Because of the close proximity this year of the Fourth Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve/Day --
Tony Soprano's Kingdom Dilemma -- Luke 9:51-62, 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14, Galatians 5:1, 13-25 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2013
The entertainment headlines this week have been dominated by the shocking news of actor James Gandol
Prior To Destruction -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2013
The passage from Second Kings appointed by the lectionary for the Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Pr
Use It Or Lose It -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2013
The lectionary’s appointed passage from Amos for this week uses the seasonal imagery of a basket
When Scorpions Sting And Prayers Go Unanswered -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2013
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus not only shares with us the Lord’s Prayer, he also offers an e
The Bottom Of The Mountain -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text tells of the Transfiguration -- a spectacular experience for thre
Is It Real Or Is It Photoshop? -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 118:14-29, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2013
On the Second Sunday of Easter, the lectionary showcases the familiar story of the disciple Thomas a
Who Watches The Watchers? -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39, Galatians 3:23-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2013
One of the main themes in the lectionary scripture texts for Proper 7 is the importance of truth-tel
Oh, How I Love Your Law! -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2013
Judges and the law are a prominent theme in this week’s lectionary texts, with Jesus telling a p
Surprise, Surprise, Surprise -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus picks up right where he left off last week by conti
Sour Grapes -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary passage from the book of Isaiah, the prophet laments the strained rela
Troublesome Marching Orders And Unlikely Superheroes -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2013
At The Head Of The Table -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells a parable about a banquet host who eschews th
A Consistent Ethic Of Love -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2013
There is probably no other topic in American life that inflames passions as deeply as that of aborti
Playing Poker In Damascus -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2013
The images were horrific -- even by the standards of the civil war in Syria that has raged on fo
Joy In Darkness -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
As we enter the Lenten season and its emphasis on introspection and spiritual cleansing, it's a usef
No Rejoicing Yet -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2013
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus illustrates the concern God has for every one of us,
Citizens Of Heaven -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A clear theme emerges from the lectionary texts for the Second Sunday in Lent -- how we deal with ou
Fast Food Christianity -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
A major theme in the lectionary texts this week is nourishment of the body and soul.
Sleepless In Syria -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2013
Every day brings new twists and turns in the diplomatic negotiations over Syria.
Fatted Calf Or Pork? -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2013
This week's lectionary gospel text features the parable of the prodigal son, which provides plenty o
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Proper 10 | OT 15 | Pentecost 5
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Proper 11 | OT 16 | Pentecost 6
29 – Sermons
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Proper 12 | OT 17 | Pentecost 7
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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John Jamison
Object: You may present this message as a simple story, or have the children act it out as a role-play. I will show the role-play version, but you can ignore the acting pieces and just tell the story if you prefer.

Note: For the role-play version, you will need to select two girls and one boy to play the roles. You might also have a broom and a dust rag if you want to.

* * *

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

The Immediate Word

Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
Nazish Naseem
For July 20, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52
Amos proclaims the word from God that punishes the people. The people are to be punished for their lack of faith, for their focus on practicing deceit, betraying honesty to their neighbors, and being impatient for the time after the Sabbath when they can focus on profit and selling their crops and wares. Oh, my! What a terrible message for people. You have been unfaithful so I will punish you. And then in the psalm, God is proclaimed to be the olive tree, that which brings blessing.
David Kalas
I have tried to find different ways of saying it so that my children don’t tire of hearing it. But the basic principle remains the same, and my kids have heard it a ton. “First things first.” They ask if they can do this or they start to do that, and I will endeavor to redirect them, saying, “Why don’t we make sure we’re doing first things first!”

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
I am now rejoicing in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church. (v. 24)

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
One of Martha's earliest memories was of her little sister Mary singing and dancing in the middle of an admiring crowd of friends. Mary had always been a dancer, from the time she could walk. Privately, Martha thought she'd always been something of a show-off and ought to go on the stage, for Mary loved an audience.

SermonStudio

John E. Sumwalt
Jeanne Jones
Several years ago, before we moved to Wisconsin, I was an honorary nanny for our pastor's son, Jonathan. I took care of him from the time he was able to walk until our pastor moved, when Jonathan was about five. We had wonderful times together. One time, when I was at their house, and we had been doing some spiritual direction together, Pastor Michael asked me if I knew the name of my guardian angel.
James Evans
We are not surprised when we learn about crooks and robbers boasting about "mischief done against the godly" or "plotting destruction" all day long. The image we have in our minds about who "bad" people are, and how they conduct themselves, make such accusations completely plausible. We are less inclined to believe such things about leaders, especially respected leaders among us. We have difficulty believing someone with wealth and power would deliberately plot to do someone else harm.
Arley K. Fadness
Today's gospel from Luke 10 follows the parable of the good Samaritan. Luke positions the good Samaritan and the Mary-Martha story back to back for good reason. The parable and the story are examples of the Great Commandment "to love the Lord your God with all your heart and your neighbor as yourself." The good Samaritan parable illustrates "love to neighbor," whereas the Mary-Martha story illustrates "love to God."
Kirk R. Webster
In the early 1990s, Wesley Nunley of Dallas completed a project he had dreamed of for decades. "I tell you, this could be a big thing," he explained. Wes then walked out to a concrete octagon in the middle of his backyard. With a beaming smile, arms raised up in excitement, the energetic retiree said, "This welcomes the UFO to land, which has never been done before."
John W. Wurster
It was the best of times. A time of prosperity and confidence, a time of relative peace, a time when most everything looked pretty good, a time when most everyone felt pretty good. It was a time maybe not unlike our own time.
H. Burnham Kirkland
Words Of Assurance
Our God is both wise and caring: afflicting the comfortable and comforting the afflicted.

Pastoral Prayer
God, we bow before you this morning, knowing that you hear every prayer. We know that in all of Creation, you are the source of life. You are the one who set the light swirling between the galaxies. The breath of your Spirit pulses through all life. You have even become flesh among us. We praise you, Lord, that in all your wonder, you have not forgotten us.

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