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Thom M. Shuman

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Something To Get Excited About -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Advent - C
Zephaniah's exhortation to rejoice and exult in God's salvation gives us something to rejoice in.
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 1:47-55, Hebrews 10:5-10, Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
You Are The Person Of The Year -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C
The new year -- this is a good time for taking a few steps back seeking to discover our place in God
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Answering The Call -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C
In the time of year when daylight is the least, the brightest gift came to us, our Lord, Jesus Chris
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them
Was It Only A Dream? -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C
"For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest..." (Isaiah 62:1).
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Divided We Fall -- Acts 11:1-18, John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C
The recent story about the U.S.
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Word Keepers Needed -- John 14:23-29, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, Acts 16:9-15, Psalm 67 -- Thom M. Shuman, Teresa L. Major -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C
Jesus tells his disciples in this Sunday's gospel reading that "those who love me will keep my word"
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
Listening To God Through Bird Flu -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
One of the distinguishing features of these first few years of the 21st century has been how much in
Meeting Jesus In Jail -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C
This Sunday's passage from Acts 16:16-34 offers up a striking contrast between outward appearances a
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Is God Listening? -- John 17:6-19 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Ascension of the Lord - B
A major story making headlines recently has been the revelation that the NSA, the federal agency in
Wildfire! -- John 14:8-17 (25-27), Romans 8:14-17, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - C
Fire is an archetypal symbol and a powerful reality in our lives.

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Something To Get Excited About -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Advent - C
Zephaniah's exhortation to rejoice and exult in God's salvation gives us something to rejoice in.
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 1:47-55, Hebrews 10:5-10, Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
You Are The Person Of The Year -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C
The new year -- this is a good time for taking a few steps back seeking to discover our place in God
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Answering The Call -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C
In the time of year when daylight is the least, the brightest gift came to us, our Lord, Jesus Chris
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them
Was It Only A Dream? -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C
"For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest..." (Isaiah 62:1).
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Divided We Fall -- Acts 11:1-18, John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C
The recent story about the U.S.
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Word Keepers Needed -- John 14:23-29, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, Acts 16:9-15, Psalm 67 -- Thom M. Shuman, Teresa L. Major -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C
Jesus tells his disciples in this Sunday's gospel reading that "those who love me will keep my word"
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
Listening To God Through Bird Flu -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
One of the distinguishing features of these first few years of the 21st century has been how much in
Meeting Jesus In Jail -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C
This Sunday's passage from Acts 16:16-34 offers up a striking contrast between outward appearances a
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Is God Listening? -- John 17:6-19 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Ascension of the Lord - B
A major story making headlines recently has been the revelation that the NSA, the federal agency in
Wildfire! -- John 14:8-17 (25-27), Romans 8:14-17, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - C
Fire is an archetypal symbol and a powerful reality in our lives.

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Something To Get Excited About -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Advent - C
Zephaniah's exhortation to rejoice and exult in God's salvation gives us something to rejoice in.
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 1:47-55, Hebrews 10:5-10, Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
You Are The Person Of The Year -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C
The new year -- this is a good time for taking a few steps back seeking to discover our place in God
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Answering The Call -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C
In the time of year when daylight is the least, the brightest gift came to us, our Lord, Jesus Chris
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them
Was It Only A Dream? -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C
"For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest..." (Isaiah 62:1).
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Divided We Fall -- Acts 11:1-18, John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C
The recent story about the U.S.
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Word Keepers Needed -- John 14:23-29, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, Acts 16:9-15, Psalm 67 -- Thom M. Shuman, Teresa L. Major -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C
Jesus tells his disciples in this Sunday's gospel reading that "those who love me will keep my word"
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
Listening To God Through Bird Flu -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
One of the distinguishing features of these first few years of the 21st century has been how much in
Meeting Jesus In Jail -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C
This Sunday's passage from Acts 16:16-34 offers up a striking contrast between outward appearances a
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Is God Listening? -- John 17:6-19 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Ascension of the Lord - B
A major story making headlines recently has been the revelation that the NSA, the federal agency in
Wildfire! -- John 14:8-17 (25-27), Romans 8:14-17, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - C
Fire is an archetypal symbol and a powerful reality in our lives.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
The Refiner's Fire: From Failure To Forgiveness -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Advent - C
In Advent, we live with a truth that is already here and not yet here.
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
Something To Get Excited About -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Advent - C
Zephaniah's exhortation to rejoice and exult in God's salvation gives us something to rejoice in.
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 1:47-55, Hebrews 10:5-10, Micah 5:2-5a, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
You Are The Person Of The Year -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C
The new year -- this is a good time for taking a few steps back seeking to discover our place in God
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them
Answering The Call -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C
In the time of year when daylight is the least, the brightest gift came to us, our Lord, Jesus Chris
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Divided We Fall -- Acts 11:1-18, John 13:31-35, Revelation 21:1-6, Psalm 148 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C
The recent story about the U.S.
Was It Only A Dream? -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C
"For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest..." (Isaiah 62:1).
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Word Keepers Needed -- John 14:23-29, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, Acts 16:9-15, Psalm 67 -- Thom M. Shuman, Teresa L. Major -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C
Jesus tells his disciples in this Sunday's gospel reading that "those who love me will keep my word"
Choosing Hope -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C
Where do we, as a people, look for hope? Or, as a people, have we given up on hope?
Listening To God Through Bird Flu -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
One of the distinguishing features of these first few years of the 21st century has been how much in
Meeting Jesus In Jail -- Acts 16:16-34, John 17:20-26, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C
This Sunday's passage from Acts 16:16-34 offers up a striking contrast between outward appearances a
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Is God Listening? -- John 17:6-19 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Ascension of the Lord - B
A major story making headlines recently has been the revelation that the NSA, the federal agency in
Wildfire! -- John 14:8-17 (25-27), Romans 8:14-17, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - C
Fire is an archetypal symbol and a powerful reality in our lives.

Worship

SermonStudio

Lent 1 -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Litany For LentOne: O Christ, as you head to Jerusalem, you lead us
Proper 7 -- Genesis 21:8-21, Romans 6:1b-11, Matthew 10:24-39 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: There is no one like you, God of Abraham and Sarah.
Advent 1 -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: In the days to come, we will hear God calling us
Proper 8 -- Genesis 22:1-14, Romans 6:12-23, Matthew 10:40-42 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: With joy and celebration,
Advent 2 -- Isaiah 11:1-10, Romans 15:4-13, Matthew 3:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We gather, in this place, in this time of worship
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Come to our God, all who hunger for life,
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Be patient! the time is coming
Proper 10 -- Genesis 25:19-34, Romans 8:1-11, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: On this midsummer's day, we gather as God's people
Christmas Eve -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
GreetingOne: The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;
Proper 11 -- Genesis 28:10-19a, Romans 8:12-25, Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come to the One
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), John 1:1-14 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Wonder of wonders, God has come to us!
Proper 12 -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come, to proclaim God's majesty,
Christmas 1 -- Isaiah 63:7-9, Hebrews 2:10-18, Matthew 2:13-23 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: All God's people -- boys and girls, women and men,
Proper 13 -- Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Matthew 14:13-21 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come to this place of worship,
Christmas 2 -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: On this day, we remember the gift of God's Word
Proper 14 -- Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Romans 10:5-15, Matthew 14:22-33 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Scripture tells us of how Jesus once invited Peter
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: He came as a baby, to bring laughter to children;
Proper 15 -- Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: How good it is to gather as God's people!
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: When the floods and storms of the world threaten
Proper 16 -- Exodus 1:8--2:10, Romans 12:1-8, Matthew 16:13-20 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: In a time of bitterness and pain,
Epiphany 2 -- Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Gathered in winter's grayness, we wait,
Proper 17 -- Exodus 3:1-15, Romans 12:9-21, Matthew 16:21-28 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We are told that our love toward others
Epiphany 5 -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: To a society that lives in the shadowed recesses
Proper 19 -- Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12, Matthew 18:21-35 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: When we have been overwhelmed by the flood of fears,
Epiphany 6 -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Matthew 5:21-37 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: You could have stayed in bed,
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
24 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

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What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

Special Occasion

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