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Ron Love

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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

Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-12, Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
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
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
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-
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
Make America Great -- Anew -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus suggests that following traditional precepts like “a
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
Can These Bones Live? -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130, Romans 8:6-11 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
For nearly a decade and a half, Iraq has been wracked by violence and conflict.
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
Meeting Jesus Again -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, two disciples walking to Emmaus encounter a fellow travele
Opening The Door, Being The Door -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
This Sunday’s lectionary readings are centered on the themes of sheep and shepherds -- Psalm 23 tell
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
Stephen's Stoning As Capital Punishment -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
The state of Arkansas’s

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Snakes On The Plane -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
For March 11, 2018:
Alphas and Omegas -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2018
Gotta Serve Somebody... -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
Written on the heart -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
For March 18, 2018:
Holding our breath -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - 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
Long Awaited Frenzy / Occasional Truths -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Mary Austin, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Thomas Willadsen -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2018
For March 25, 2018:
The Principal Thing -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2018
Delighting in the law -- Psalm 1, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
In the Most Holy Place -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2018
The Holy Spirit is No Cob Job -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Day of Pentecost - 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
Religious but not Spiritual -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2018
The First Fact Checkers -- John 20:1-18, Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Easter Day - B -- 2018
For April 1, 2018:
The Rule of Law, or Ruled by Law? -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, James 1:17-27, Song of Solomon 2:8-13, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - 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
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Joice Again! -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Thomas Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
For December 16, 2018:
Defending the Doubter -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
For April 8, 2018:
The Power of Words and How to Use Them -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 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
Back In for More -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
All I Want for Christmas is You -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Bethany Peerbolte, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
For December 23, 2018:
Paying Attention -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10, (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2018
This week the lectionary brings us the story of young Samuel hearing God’s voice and being identifie
A New Outfit for the New Year -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2018
For December 30, 2018:

Preaching

The Immediate Word

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
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
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-
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
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
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
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
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
Make America Great -- Anew -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus suggests that following traditional precepts like “a
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
Can These Bones Live? -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130, Romans 8:6-11 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
For nearly a decade and a half, Iraq has been wracked by violence and conflict.
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
Meeting Jesus Again -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, two disciples walking to Emmaus encounter a fellow travele
Opening The Door, Being The Door -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
This Sunday’s lectionary readings are centered on the themes of sheep and shepherds -- Psalm 23 tell
Who Are These Old People Grabbing My Baby? -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Isaiah 60:1-6, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B, Epiphany of the Lord - B, New Year's Day - B -- 2017
The lectionary gospel text for the first Sunday after Christmas tells the story of Jesus being prese
Stephen's Stoning As Capital Punishment -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
The state of Arkansas’s

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-12, Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
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
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
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-
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
Make America Great -- Anew -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus suggests that following traditional precepts like “a
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
Can These Bones Live? -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130, Romans 8:6-11 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
For nearly a decade and a half, Iraq has been wracked by violence and conflict.
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
Meeting Jesus Again -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, two disciples walking to Emmaus encounter a fellow travele
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
Opening The Door, Being The Door -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
This Sunday’s lectionary readings are centered on the themes of sheep and shepherds -- Psalm 23 tell
Stephen's Stoning As Capital Punishment -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
The state of Arkansas’s

Worship

The Immediate Word

Looking For Salt In A High-Sodium World -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-12, Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Epiphany 5, Jesus exhorts us to be “the salt of the earth” and “th
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
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
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-
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
Make America Great -- Anew -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus suggests that following traditional precepts like “a
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
Can These Bones Live? -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130, Romans 8:6-11 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
For nearly a decade and a half, Iraq has been wracked by violence and conflict.
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
Meeting Jesus Again -- Luke 24:13-35, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, two disciples walking to Emmaus encounter a fellow travele
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
Opening The Door, Being The Door -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
This Sunday’s lectionary readings are centered on the themes of sheep and shepherds -- Psalm 23 tell
Stephen's Stoning As Capital Punishment -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2017
The state of Arkansas’s
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MAUNDY THURSDAY
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New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Ron Love
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Bob Ove
Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18
In many European countries, early on Easter Monday, the girls come out of their homes wearing traditional red, black and white folkloric dress. The young men walk down the streets, also in traditional dress of high black boots, black hats, white shirts and cream-colored trousers. The men follow the girls playing instruments and the older women of the village have prepared a cornucopia of food.
Bonnie Bates
Bob Ove
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Ron Love
Bill Thomas
Isaiah 52:13--53:12
Ron Love
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Bob Ove
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
The Pittsburgh Pirates had their last great baseball season in 1979. The Pirates had 98 wins and 64 losses that year and captured the National League East Division title by two games over the Montreal Expos. The Pirates then beat the Cincinnati Reds to win their ninth National League title, and they defeated the Baltimore Orioles to win their fifth World Series title.
David Kalas
From time to time, I’ll hear someone ask a speculative question that begins, “If a space alien showed up on earth, what would he think about...” The idea is to try to imagine what an outsider sees. If we could find someone without any familiarity or preconceived notions, what would he or she see and think.
Wayne Brouwer
In the blackness, in the bleakness, we need to sense God’s presence. We need to know that God is there, even if, like Job, we do not understand what is happening around us and inside of us. “The restless millions wait for the Light,” says George Bernanos, “Whose dawning maketh all things new.”

This is the dilemma of Israel in Egypt. This is the struggle of life in Corinth. This is the washing of waves surrounding Jesus and his disciples “on the night in which he was betrayed.”
Frank Ramirez
It can not only be hard, but in some cases not possible to say much at all on Easter morning, what with Easter Breakfast, perhaps a cantata, a children’s choir, and an Easter egg hunt swallowing up any space you might have for preaching. But this is the central message of our faith. Jesus is Risen. This changes everything.

Now do not despair. You can preach Easter every Sunday. For the earliest Christians every Sunday was Easter! Even so, if you’re feeling squeezed you can still take one of these passages and make an important point.

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Christopher Keating
Ron Love
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Bethany Peerbolte
For April 21, 2019:
  • Why Are You Weeping? by Dean Feldmeyer — One of the reasons it’s so hard to visualize a risen Christ is that we’ve hidden him behind a mountain of hollow, milk chocolate bunnies and marshmallow chickens.

StoryShare

Keith Hewitt
David O. Bales
Contents
"Reflections of Grief" by Keith Hewitt
"Bearing Our Infirmities" by David O. Bales
"Abandoned?" by David O. Bales


Reflections of Grief
by Keith Hewitt
John 18:1--19:42
Keith Wagner
Contents
"Love Conquers All" by Keith Wagner
"Being together gives us Hope" by Keith Wagner



Love Conquers All
by Keith Wagner
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

For me, the heart of the psalmist’s message is his willingness to be a faithful servant, making commitments to God through sacrifice and love. It takes courage to live sacrificially, none the less our faith is strengthened and we become closer to God with our dedication and loyalty.
C. David Mckirachan
Frank Ramirez

This Doesn’t Make Sense
by C. David McKirachan
Acts 10:34-43

CSSPlus

Arley K. Fadness
“I have seen the Lord.” (v. 18)

Happy Easter morning boys and girls,

Today I have the best news ever to share with you. Are you ready to hear it? (children respond) First, notice I have a container (box or can) with a lid on it. Inside we will find ____________.  (for example: oreo cookies, legos etc.)

So let's see what is inside. (open lid) What do we see? Nothing. What? Aren't there supposed to be ___________ inside?? (children respond)
Arley K. Fadness
“When Jesus had received the wine, he said,'it is finished,' then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.'”

Good Friday morning (evening) children,

Today I am feeling very quiet. You know why? It is a holy day, a somber day.

How are you feeling? (children respond) We call it Good Friday. That's a strange name for a sad day isn't it? Perhaps today, the day we remember our Lord Jesus died, we might call Bad Friday or Dark Friday or Sad Friday. But no, it's Good Friday.
Arley K. Fadness
“So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.” (v. 14)

Good morning beautiful children,

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
We Christians are often reckoned to be a sad bunch, at least in the opinion of non-Christian western society. And sometimes, I think they're right. We must seem a bit pathetic to normal red-blooded human beings as we go to church each Sunday, singing hymns and indulging in all kinds of odd rituals, when we could be cleaning the car or shopping or playing sport or otherwise enjoying ourselves.

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
Our culture still "seeks the living among the dead" as it pursues security, comfort, and pleasure.

First Lesson
Acts 10:34-43
Peter's Easter Testimony
Donald Charles Lacy
So much happening in so little time! We are left gasping for breath. We stagger under the weight of the mighty arm of historical occurrence. You and I praise God because we know the rest of the story. Those present did not know how things would turn out. They must have been like awestruck children nearing exasperation.

David Kalas
We have a table before us. It is a familiar table; we have gathered around it together countless times before. It features the cherished elements of bread and wine; and taken together, those elements on this table form a sacrament.

Across the many traditions within the Christian church, we call this sacrament by different names. The Roman Catholics refer to the Mass, while the Eastern Orthodox church uses the Divine Liturgy. A number of Protestant denominations call it the Eucharist, others holy communion, and still others the Lord's Supper.

Special Occasion