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Stephen P. McCutchan

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Communicating God's Love

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Loving God -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2011
" 'You should love the Lord your God with all of your heart, and with all your soul, and with all yo
Defusing a time bomb -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2010
(Information for this article is drawn with permission from the ToolBox of the Presbytery Pastora

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
For the hurt of my poor people I am hurt, I mourn, and dismay has taken hold of me.
Easter 6 -- John 14:23-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
Lent 3 -- Psalm 63:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Acts 8:14-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
... they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.-- Acts 8:16
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / Ordinary Time 33 -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
By your endurance you will gain your souls. -- Luke 21:19
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Luke 7:36--8:3 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears
Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Psalm 79:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
We have become a taunt to our neighbors, mocked and derided by those around us.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
They asked him, "Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?" He replied,
Lent 3 -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ.
Proper 12 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 17 -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in
Epiphany 7 / Ordinary Time 7 -- Psalm 37:1-11, 39-40 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2009
Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath. Do not fret -- it leads only to evil.
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning J
Advent 1 -- Jeremiah 33:14-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of
Christ The King / Proper 29 -- Jeremiah 23:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2009
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch....
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
He asked that he might die: "It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better tha
Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made
The Ascension of Our Lord -- Psalm 47 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
He chose our heritage for us, the pride of Jacob whom he loves. Selah
Lent 3 -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
... do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem?
Proper 12 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 17 -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.-- Luke 11:1b
Epiphany 3 / Ordinary Time 3 -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2009
Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.-- Luke 4:21
Epiphany 2 / Ordinary Time 2 -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2009
For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest....
Advent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.-- Psalm 25:1
Proper 23 / Ordinary Time 28 -- Psalm 66:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2009
Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds among mortals.
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- Galatians 3:23-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and fe
Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Luke 16:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be de

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Sermon

SermonStudio

Mugwumpers -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2009
In certain streams of Christianity, it is common to speak of people being "born again." The phrase c
The Sinner And The Sinned Against -- 1 Kings 17:1-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2009
Each of us experiences the world as both sinner and the sinned against.
On Loan From God -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
Sometimes it is hard to understand what it is in human nature that allows people to become so crass
The Naaman Syndrome -- 2 Kings 4:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
The healing of Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Aram, seems to me to provide a metaphor
When God Measures The Church -- Amos 7:7-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2009
We begin to hear about prophets in the Bible after Israel convinced God to let them have a king.
When The Fruit Is Spoiled -- Amos 8:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
When we speak of Amos today, we know that he was one of Israel's great prophets.
Seeing A Chariot Of Fire -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
I think that we are in a battle for the soul of the church.
Birthdays And Marriages -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
It is common to speak of Pentecost as the birthday of the church.
At Points Of Despair -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
It seems almost inevitable that people who experience the highs of life are also going to experience
God's Playful Wisdom -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
If I mentioned Sophia to you, what memories would it evoke?

The Immediate Word

Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor
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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
George Reed
For November 30, 2025:
  • Time Change by Chris Keating. The First Sunday of Advent invites God’s people to tell time differently. While the secular Christmas machine keeps rolling, the church is called to a time of waiting and remaining alert.
  • Second Thoughts: What Time Is It? by Tom Willadsen based on Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
According to Martin Luther our thanksgiving is brought about only by justification by grace:

But bringing of tithes denotes that we are wholly given to the service of the neighbor through love…  This, however, does not happen unless, being first justified by faith. (Luther’s Works, Vol.9, p.255)

The Reformer also wants us to be happy, what with all the generous gifts we have been given.  He wrote:
Wayne Brouwer
A schoolteacher asked her students to make a list of the things for which they were thankful. Right at the top of Chad’s list was the word “glasses.” Some children resent having to wear glasses, but evidently not Chad! She asked him about it. Why was he thankful that he wore glasses?

“Well,” he said, “my glasses keep the boys from hitting me and the girls from kissing me.”

The philosopher Eric Hoffer says, “The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings!” That’s true, isn’t it?
William H. Shepherd
Christianity is, among other things, an intellectual quest. The curriculum to know God truly. The lesson plans interact creatively with other aspects of faith: worship is vain if not grounded in truth, while service is misguided if based on faulty premises. While faith certainly cannot be reduced to knowledge, it cannot be divorced from it, either.

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (v. 6)

We just received word about the passing of our friend, Rosmarie Trapp. We had lost touch with her in recent years, so I was shocked when I stumbled onto her obituary in The New York Times from May 18, 2022.
David E. Leininger
John Jamison
Contents
What's Up This Week
"The Reason for the Season" by David Leininger
"Time's Up" by John Jamison


What's Up This Week

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John Jamison
Object: The activity for this message is the Be Thank You! game.

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The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Rosemary was 33 years old. She'd been married to James for four years and they had two children, Sam who was two and the baby, Elizabeth, who was just three weeks old. Apart from the baby blues and extreme fatigue, both of which got her down a bit when James was at work, Rosemary was happy. They had recently moved to the London suburbs and James commuted each day by train.

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
This brief psalm is among the most familiar in the psalter, but that is primarily because its verses have been excerpted in so many hymns and liturgical texts. There is something to be gained from looking at Psalm 100 in its entirety, and trying to recover its ancient liturgical context.

James Evans
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (v. 6). What better way could there be for us to begin the Advent season than by focusing our prayers on peace? The word, shalom, translated "peace," means much more than the mere absence of conflict. And of course, it is not only Jerusalem that is in need of peace; the whole world needs the shalom that the psalmist dreams about. So perhaps we should expand the breadth of this prayer, and deepen it with our awareness of the various meanings of the Hebrew idea of peace.

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 2:1--5 (C, RC, E)
Tony S. Everett
A popular skit at church camps involves about a dozen folks lined up side-by-side, looking anxious and frustrated facing the audience. Each person rests a left elbow on the right shoulder of their neighbor. Then, from left to right, each member asks, "Is it time yet?" When the question arrives at the end of the line, the last person looks at his/her wristwatch and responds, "No." This reply is passed, one-by-one each with bored sighs, back to the first questioner. After a few moments, the same question is passed down the line (left elbows remaining on the right shoulders).
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
Just a few days before writing this message, I conducted a memorial service for a 60-year-old man who was the picture of health until three months before his death. He was active, vibrant, only recently retired, and looking forward to years of good life with his wife and family and friends. Nonetheless, pancreatic cancer had done its work, and quickly, and he was gone. It was the general consensus that it was too soon for his life to end; he was too young to die.
John W. Clarke
In this the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, Jesus begins to withdraw to the east side of the Sea of Galilee. He has fed the 5,000, and he has walked on water. The press of the crowds had become all consuming and he needs some solitude to prepare himself for what lay ahead. Considering that the crowds that followed him more than likely knew of the feeding of the 5,000, and some may even have heard of the miraculous walking on water, it is difficult to explain why in these verses, they would doubt anything he had to say -- but they do.
Robert R. Kopp
My favorite eighth grader just confessed his aspiration for becoming President of the United States.

When I foolishly asked the inspiration of his lofty goal, he replied, "Bill Clinton." Then my hormone-raging adolescent proceeded to list perceived presidential perks that have nothing to do with God or country.

My prayer list has been altered.

And my attitude about prayer in public schools has changed too.

I used to be against prayer in public schools.
John E. Berger
Thanksgiving, according to one newspaper columnist, has kept its original meaning better than any other holiday. That original meaning, he wrote, was family reunions around large dinner tables.

In contrast, Christmas has changed into Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Easter has come to emphasize new spring clothes and the Easter bunny. Even our national holidays -- Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day -- have become cook-outs and summer travel get-aways.
Mark Ellingson
Thanksgiving: How do we say thanks authentically and not lapse into the platitudes so often associated with this holiday? There are several dangers associated with the holiday. Ever since it was instituted as a national holiday by Abraham Lincoln, and even before when various state governors instituted it in their states, Thanksgiving has not been a strictly Christian holiday. There has been a lot of nationalism and self-congratulations associated with this day. What is the distinctively Christian way to give thanks to God for all the good things that we have?

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