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Emphasis Preaching Journal

See? Believe? -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2000
The incarnation is the heart of Christianity.
Words -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2000
The little boy's parents persistently call him stupid, and he drops out of high school his first yea
Yes! -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12 -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2000
A few months ago there were two different television commercials that both had to do with a fellow t
The right stuff -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2000
The movie by the same name added this expression to our vocabulary -- "the right stuff." It refers t
Allegiance to Jesus -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2000
America has an identity crisis. Ever since 1947, when the Supreme Court ruled on Everson v.
Deceiving appearances -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10, Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2000
The old proverb says appearances can be deceiving. And there is much truth in those words.
A new connection -- Hosea 2:14-20, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Mark 2:13-22 -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2000
As a very young and inexperienced pastor (many years ago), Bob made a terrible mistake.
Little things count -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2000
As our universe becomes larger (ala the Hubble telescope), our interests can become smaller.
The way up is down -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1-19:42 -- Good Friday - B -- 2000
The shroud of death covers our world. The sanctuary is dark, and the Table bare.
Follow-through -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2000
As we write this column, we are trying to sneak in as much time as possible to watch the tennis matc
Worthy lives -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2000
The thread which your authors find curling through these lessons is expressed in Ephesians 4:1 when
Be glad -- Joel 2:21-27, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Matthew 6:25-33 -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2000
At the founding of our country, George Washington issued a presidential proclamation, establishing T
Might -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2000
There are all kinds of power and might displayed in our world.
Our stories -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:14-29 -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2000
Biographies and autobiographies are always fascinating to read.
Written on the heart -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2000
There are some experiences that make indelible marks on our lives.
Change -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2000
Change is seldom easy.
Parenting -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2000
Two of the important issues facing our society today are the matters of the family (see our column f
To be clean -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2000
"Cleanliness is next to Godliness." We don't hear that old proverb much any more, but its meaning is
Cut it out! -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2000
We began Lent with our baptisms and proceeded to a discussion of the faith that both motivates and s
Worthy adversaries -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2000
Complacency is surely one of the many problems plaguing contemporary Christianity in the United Stat
Togetherness -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2000
We humans are gregarious creatures, aren't we?
From grasshoppers to eagles -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2000
"Does God really care about me?
Wise up! -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2000
We live in an era of an explosion of knowledge.
Dreams and visions -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2000
Ever since Freud, dreams have taken on new, but very important functions.
Where shall we begin? -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2000
We may find it hard sometimes to know where to begin.

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Give in Response to Jesus -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The Point: Our offering in church is a response to Jesus' gifts to us
Jesus Alone Is Important -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
The Point: The things of this world will be lost but not Jesus
Jesus Is King of All -- John 18:33-37 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
The Point: Jesus is King of all of life and of our hearts
Be Thankful 365 Days a Year -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2015
The Point: Recognize things that you are thankful for and be thankful always

The Immediate Word

Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
Beloving -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle text from First John (4:7-21) presents us with a mandate to “love one another
Baby Steps And Bending The Arc -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The primary theme of recent weeks continues, with a focus on the subject of love.
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
Of Pentecost, Polls, And Power -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts is filled with vivid imagery -- but though there are pl
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
Seeing As God Sees -- 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Psalm 20, Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2015
A recurring theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the great things that come in unexpected
A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2018) -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2018
2 Samuel 11:26-12:13a and Psalm 51:1-12
Sermon Illustrations for the Sixth Sunday of Easter (2018) -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- Bill Thomas, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
Acts 10:44-48

The Immediate Word

Going Along -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Psalm 50:1-6 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2018
Going Along by Mary Austin2 Kings 2:1-12
The Transaction of Grace -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 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
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
Giving Things Up -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - 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
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Stories Told, Stories Forgotten by Dean Feldmeyer
Vulnerable Leadership -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2018
Note: This installment is still being edited and appended, but for purposes of immediacy we are
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
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
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
Restored to More -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2018
The Home of God is Right Here / Searching for Shalom -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- All Saints Day - B -- 2018
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
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
Much more than a promise -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
For February 25, 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
From the Outside In -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
For March 4, 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
It's Complicated -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2018
Living Beyond Fear -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2018
Memory and Wisdom -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2018

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Easter 7 -- Psalm 1 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
Psalm 1 has long been considered as a possible prologue to the rest of the psalter.
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 111 -- James Evans -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2006
(See Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)
Advent 3 -- Psalm 126 -- James Evans -- 2006
There is perhaps no greater challenge to the life of faith than suffering.
The Day Of Pentecost -- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- James Evans -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Day Of Pentecost, Cycle A, for an alternat
Proper 16 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 21 -- Psalm 84 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2006
This vibrant psalm celebrates the presence of God in the temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem.
Advent 3 -- Luke 1:47-55 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- 2006
One day, back in the early years of computers, an engineer was asked to demonstrate to a group of re
The Holy Trinity -- Psalm 29 -- Stan Purdum -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary for The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Tim
Proper 17 / Pentecost 15 / Ordinary Time 22 -- Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- James Evans -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2006
(See Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14, Cycle A, for an alternative approach, emphasizing 45:
Advent 4 -- Luke 1:47-55 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- 2006
One day, back in the early years of computers, an engineer was asked to demonstrate to a group of re
Good Friday -- Psalm 22 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Good Friday - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Good Friday, Cycle A; Lent 2, Cycle B; and Pro
Advent 4 -- Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 -- Stan Purdum -- 2006
(See Proper 11/Pentecost 9/Ordinary Time 16, Cycle B, for an alternative approach to vv.
The Resurrection Of Our Lord/Easter Day -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Carlos Wilton -- Easter Day - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Resurrection Of Our Lord/Easter Day, Cycle
Christmas Eve -- Psalm 96 -- Stan Purdum -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas Eve, Cycle A, for an alternative app
Easter 2 -- Psalm 133 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
This little gem of a psalm celebrates the joy of unity among comrades in the faith.
Christmas Day -- Psalm 97 -- Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Christmas Day, Cycle A; see also Easter 7, Cyc
Easter 3 -- Psalm 4 -- Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
This psalm is familiar to those whose liturgical traditions include an evening, or Evensong, service
Advent 1 -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- 2006
(See Advent 4, Cycle A, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for an alternative
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Stan Purdum -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)
Advent 2 -- Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Stan Purdum -- 2006
(See Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
Easter 5 -- Psalm 22:25-31 -- Stan Purdum -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
We will meet Psalm 22 in its entirety on Good Friday, but here the lectionary designates just verses
Lent 4 -- Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Stan Purdum -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2006
(For an alternative approach to vv.
Lent 5 -- Psalm 51:1-12 -- Stan Purdum -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2006
(See Ash Wednesday, Cycle A, and Proper 13/Pentecost 11/Ordinary Time 18, Cycle B, for alternativ
Lent 5 -- Psalm 119:9-16 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2006
The reason for this alternate lectionary selection, culled from the longest of the psalms, is undoub
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Palms, Cycle A; see also The Re
Palm Sunday/Sunday Of The Passion -- Psalm 31:9-16 -- Stan Purdum -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycles A and C, for al

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The Difference Easter Makes -- Acts 10:34-43 -- David H. Webb -- Easter Day - B -- 2009
Once upon a time, a few years ago, a little boy came up to his pastor during Holy Week and said, "Sa
The Church's DNA -- Acts 4:32-35 -- David H. Webb -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
Once upon a time, a dear woman struggled to muster enough strength to face the trials that came her
At The Heart -- Acts 3:12-19 -- David H. Webb -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
We have a new library in town.
Confident Faith -- Acts 4:5-12 -- David H. Webb -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
It is hard to find a more bold expression of the Easter faith than what we hear from Peter today in
A Wonderful Conversion Story -- Acts 8:26-40 -- David H. Webb -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
In our first lesson today, we hear yet another Easter faith story.
Our Salvation In Being Loved -- Acts 10:44-48 -- David H. Webb -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
All of a sudden, the Holy Spirit fell on everyone, even the Gentiles.
Life's Greatest Tension: Despair vs. Hope -- Acts 1:1-11 -- David H. Webb -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2009
Today is Ascension Sunday.
The Courage To Carry On -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- David H. Webb -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
The courage to be, to do, to act, to care, and to be responsible lies at the heart of our existence.
God Is The Hound Of Heaven -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2008
Students of American history have always been fascinated by the life and career of the sixteenth pre
Maybe Today -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 -- Scott Suskovic -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2008
... the appointed time has grown short.... -- 1 Corinthians 7:29
All Is Restored? -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- Robert A. Hausman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2008
Our text brings us to the climax of the book of Job.
Welcome To The Center Of Life -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2008
"The thickets, I said, send up their praise at dawn."1 I thought of this line from a poem by Wendell
Living Upside Down -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Kristin Borsgard Wee -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
In any list of unusual animals, you are likely to find the sloth.
Dividing Walls -- Ephesians 2:11-22 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2008
"Welcome to the center of the world!" This is the message of the first chapter of Ephesians.
Family Values -- Mark 3:20-35 -- Kristin Borsgard Wee -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
Last week I was reading a newspaper article on family values.
Recognizing The Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2008
In 1950, sportswriters selected him as the greatest athlete of the first half of the twentieth centu
The Struggle For Freedom -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- Scott Suskovic -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2008
But you must be careful with this freedom of yours.-- 1 Corinthians 8:9a (NLT)
God Begins Anew -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Robert A. Hausman -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2008
In some ways the Old Testament lesson today (Jeremiah 31:31-34) may seem rather strange for Reformat

The Immediate Word

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)
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 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)

The Village Shepherd

God Never Gives Up On Us -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- William J. Carl, III -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
Note: There is no content for Proper 5 / OT 10 / Pentecost 3 from The Village Shephe
I've Got A Home In That Kingdom -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Nibs Stroupe -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2008
Note: There is no content for Proper 6 / OT 11 / Pentecost 4 from The Village Shephe

Stories

SermonStudio

Christ The King -- John 18:33-37 -- David E. Leininger -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2008
Church junkies know that on the ecclesiastical calendar, this marks the last Sunday of the liturgica
"He Ascended Into Heaven" -- Acts 1:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
Familiar words. Churches have been repeating them for centuries in the Apostles' Creed:
Winning Over Worry -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- David E. Leininger -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2008
Of all the living things that God created, human beings are the only ones that worry.
God's Battleship -- John 17:6-19 -- David E. Leininger -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Several years ago, there was a convention of clergy gathered at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta under th
Resolutions For A New Year -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Happy New Year! No, the calendar is not one month off. Today is New Year's Day ...
Beating Babel -- Acts 2:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Once upon a time, in the dim and distant past, a little Jewish child asked, "Mommy, Daddy, why do pe
Surprise! -- Luke 1:26-38 -- David E. Leininger -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Do you like surprises? Some folks do.
Expressing The Inexpressible -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- David E. Leininger -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
What can we ever say about God that is adequate?
Christmas In The Crossfire -- Titus 2:11-14 -- David E. Leininger -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2008
One Monday, a couple of years ago, my wife and I crossed the driveway from the manse to the church t
Never, Never, Never, Never Give Up! -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
"Never give up. Never give up.
Simeon -- Luke 2:22-40 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
I am old and ready to die.
Be Careful What You Wish For ... You Just Might Get It! -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
This is graduation time in many communities.
Merry Xmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2008
This is a glorious time of year.
The Day God Voted -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2008
Are you ready to vote? These days it seems as if that were a perpetual question.
Gifts For The Christ Child -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2008
The three wise men.
Peace In The Midst Of The Storm -- Mark 4:35-41 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2008
Suppose for a few minutes that you are one of them.
Power! -- Mark 1:4-11 -- David E. Leininger -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2008
In a former congregation of mine, a Sunday school teacher told me of an incident that happened there
"If I But Touch ..." -- Mark 5:21-43 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2008
Happy ending. Two wonderful healing stories, one sandwiched in the middle of the other.
The Voice -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2008
Someone has suggested that the title for a sermon about this incident in the life of Samuel should b
Preaching Back Home -- Mark 6:1-13 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2008
All four gospels tell us that Jesus was rejected by his hometown and home synagogue.
A Gospel For Losers -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2008
A fellow is standing at a bar, just looking at his drink.
The Earth Is The Lord's ... And Don't You Forget It! -- Psalm 24 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2008
Of course, we do forget it ... regularly.
Understanding Bible Prophecy -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2008
One of my parishioners once wrote me asking for some help in understanding the confusing imagery in
Jesus Christ, Superstar -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2008
"Jesus Christ, Superstar" is about as good a description as we can come up with as we read the text.
The Healing Touch -- Mark 1:29-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2008
What is a dinner guest to do?

The Political Pulpit

Worship

SermonStudio

Bulletin Insert for Christmas Day for Year B -- John 1:1-14 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
Service For The Christ CandleReader A: ___________________
Theme: Stop The Presses! New Story! -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18, Psalm 23 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom 1 John 3:16-24.Leader:
Theme: Have No Fear -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 22:26-28) One:
Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 125.
First Sunday in Advent -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
Theme: Lots Of Luck -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 1:1-2) One:
Fifth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipBased on 1 John 4:7-21. Leader: Love -- what is love?
Theme: As The Lord Lives, I Will Not Leave You -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 50:1-6) One:
Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 19 Leader: The heavens sing of the glory of God;
First Sunday in Advent -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
Theme: You Explain It -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (Psalm 118:1-2, 8-9, 14, 18) One:
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17, Psalm 98 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Theme: Fashion Report -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Frank Ramirez -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 6:1)
Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37, Psalm 1 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 1:1-3 (The Message)Leader:
First Sunday in Advent -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
Theme: Pass Around Passover -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Seventh Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19, Psalm 1 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 1:1-3 (The Message)Leader:
The Resurrection Of Our Lord -- Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 25:6-9, John 20:1-18, Mark 16:1-8, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipThis mini-drama can be used to open worship.
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: _________________________
Time To Clean Up -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
Theme: Too Late To Be Quiet -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 148:11-13) Older:
Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 124. Leader:
First Sunday in Advent -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date: _________________________
A Sense Of Past And Future -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- New Year's Day - B -- 2005
Call To Worship
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Proper 10 | OT 15 | Pentecost 5
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John Jamison
Object: You may present this message as a simple story, or have the children act it out as a role-play. I will show the role-play version, but you can ignore the acting pieces and just tell the story if you prefer.

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

* * *

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

The Immediate Word

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

Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

StoryShare

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

The Village Shepherd

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

SermonStudio

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

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

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