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Rhapsodies in faith and expectation -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
An enduring model of ministry -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Unto us a child is given -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1993
Christmas Eve services take diverse formats. Some will be late afternoon services for families.
Salvation is in sight -- Isaiah 61:10__62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1993
Reality orientation characterizes the readings for this day after Christmas.
Great David's greater son -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
The trio of readings today are traditional in many communions.
Not for graveyards -- Isaiah 25:6-9, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B -- 1991
No doubt you have heard me say it before, "Easter is not for graveyards."
Limits of legalism -- 1 Kings 2:1-4, 10-12, Ephesians 6:10-20, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1991
Once again, as on the second Sunday of Pentecost, the lesson reports how Jesus faced criticism for b
What is the Law? -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:22-25, John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1991
One of the difficult things we do around the church is to use the same word when we mean different t
Getting it straight -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1991
One of the things that interests me as one who loves to teach classes on the Bible is to discover ho
Fulfillment in spite of delay -- 2 Samuel 6:1-15, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1991
Our expectations may be ordered according to a plan scheduled over time.
Handling rejection -- 2 Samuel 7:1-17, 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Mark 6:1-6 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1991
Rejection can be so subversive of one's self-confidence as to threaten a person's equilibrium.
Hope against hope -- Jeremiah 31:7-9, Hebrews 5:1-6, Mark 10:46-52 -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1991
Some might call the Old Testament lesson an unfulfilled prophecy.
Witnesses -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Mark 1:14-20 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1991
The Bible will not let us alone. To have the faith is not to have it as an exclusive possession.
Truth and sacrifice -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, James 2:1-5, 8-10, 14-18, Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1991
The closing sentences in the gospel lesson read like a collection of proverbs.
God: unity in community -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1991
The doctrine of the Trinity declares the mystery of God as much as it represents the revelation of G
Room for action -- Job 42:1-6, James 4:13-17; 5:7-11, Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1991
The lesson from the Old Testament for this Sunday carries a vision of God's people as a spirit-fille
Believing -- 2 Samuel 18:1, 5, 9-15, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:1, 5, 9-15 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1991
The lessons for this Sunday call our attention to believing, which is the fundamental characteristic
Of shepherds and righteousness -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1991
The metaphor of the shepherds has been a favorite among Christians, as hymns and windows in churches
God depends upon the church -- Ezekiel 37:1-14, Acts 2:1-21, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1991
According to the interpretation of the lessons for Pentecost, as outlined below, God expects the chu
The root of courage -- Acts 4:8-12, 1 John 3:18-24, John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1991
There are those in our midst who are quite threatened by many things in life and cannot seem to must
The invitation -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:35-42 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1991
All of us ought to be constantly reminded that it is the purpose of the gospel writers not just to p
Sacrifice -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:7-10, John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1991
There are those who get all tangled up in incorrect understandings of the sacrificial system of Juda
Death and duty -- Job 28:20-28, James 3:13-18, Mark 9:30-37 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1991
At the beginning of Fall most of us are colorful foliage and expecting bright days for some time to
Shedding light on the subject -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1991
Though the season of epiphany traditionally takes its rationale from the coming of the wise men to t
Growth -- 2 Samuel 12:1-14, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-15 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1991
Church growth has been a topic of concern for some time.

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Game-Changers -- Mark 1:14-20, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2012
The lectionary scripture passages for the Third Sunday after Epiphany bring us a pair of startling s
Awesome! -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2012
In the passage from the Hebrew scriptures appointed by the lectionary for this week, Isaiah comes fa
Quirky Leadership -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2012
One of the main themes running throughout all of this week's lectionary passages is the authority th
Dual Citizenship -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2012
In this week's Old Testament lectionary passage, the elders of Israel approach a clearly displeased
House Calls -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2012
In this week's lectionary gospel passage, Jesus continues his healing ministry by leaving the synago
Even God Has Some Regrets, Apparently -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Mark 4:26-34, Psalm 20 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2012
In the lectionary epistle text for Proper 6 (2 Corinthians 5:6-17), Paul addresses the attitude we o
It Pays To Advertise -- Mark 1:40-45, 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Psalm 30 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2012
Another Super Bowl extravaganza is now in the rearview mirror, and for many people the most anticipa
Running Quickly Into Battle… With Five Smooth Stones? -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary passage from the Old Testament features one of the Bible's most enduring st
Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
Bring Me The Head Of John The Baptizer -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2012
Historically speaking, we should currently be in the summer doldrums of this year's presidential cam
Strangers And Aliens In The Voting Booth -- Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2012
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul addresses the squabble that had arisen in the Ephesi
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
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Drones: Ancient And Modern -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
As the world watches the casualties mount in the conflict in Syria, we wonder -- when is it appropri
Loving Wisely -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2012
This week's lectionary text from the Hebrew scriptures brings us David's heart-wrenching lament over
Where Everyone Is Above Average -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2012
The recent spate of mass shootings has been very troubling.
This Church Is Difficult; Who Can Accept It? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
Jesus tells us in this week's lectionary gospel passage that "those who eat my flesh and drink my bl
Tradition Vs. Twitter -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, James 1:17-27, Song of Solomon 2:8-13, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2012
We all know that tradition is an important influence in human affairs...
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
James And The Giant... Picket Line? -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
Teaching has always been a difficult and often thankless task, as James pointedly observes in the op
Girl Talk -- Eavesdropping On The Capable Wife And Today's Woman -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
Over the last century, the role of women in American society has been completely transformed.
The Politics Of Division -- Or Addition -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
Making conclusions based on anecdotal evidence is a tricky proposition -- while it can often powerfu
Women And Children First -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Jesus' response to the Pharisees' question about divorce in this week's lectionary gospel passage of

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The sowing and the reaping -- 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 -- Leah Thompson -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2011
The point is this: the one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the one who sows boun
Strongman -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you may be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus
Marking time -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Leah Thompson -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. (v. 31)

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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
Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
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's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
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
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
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
Peanuts, Paste, And Pathways To God -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, James 1:17-27, Song of Solomon 2:8-13, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel reading, Jesus loses his patience (yet again) with a group of scribes and Phar
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
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
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
Press One To Order Quality Parenting -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2015
This week’s passage from Proverbs describes the qualities of a “capable wife” who is “far more preci
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
Late Night With God -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle passage, James extols the power of faith -- and specifically of prayer -- to
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
Not Changed But Transformed -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passage from the letter to the Hebrews delves into Christology, ranking Chris
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.
Anger, Anguish, And Faith's Vanishing Act -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
Last Thursday it happened again -- another in a long line of violent outbursts, leaving multiple vic

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Proper 8 -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2001
During the reign of Saul (ca.1020--1000 B.C.), Israel's principal enemies were the Philistines, thos
Fourth Sunday in Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2001
There are three decisive times in the Old Testament when God breaks into Israel's history with a new
Proper 9 -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2001
We have here the account of how David was made king over all the tribes of Israel, after ruling for
All Saints' Sunday -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- All Saints Day - B -- 2001
One of the best ways to uncover the principal themes of an Old Testament text is to note its repetit
Proper 10 -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2001
The lectionary has a way of eliminating from a passage those sections that are considered distastefu
Ascension of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2001
This passage is the stated Old Testament Lesson for Ascension Sunday also in Cycle A.
Proper 11 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2001
This text forms one of the most important theological passages in the Old Testament.
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- 2001
There are many other texts in the Old Testament that call for the repentance appropriate to Ash Wedn
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2001
In all likelihood, our text for the morning comes to us from an eye--witness in the court of King Da
Baptism of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2001
Unfortunately, this text from Genesis has often been connected with baptism, and therefore the lecti
Proper 13 -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2001
Our eye--witness account of the reign of King David over all of Israel continues.
Proper 14 -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2001
"It's a long story." That familiar saying could be applied to our text for the morning, because the
Christ the King -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2001
This is the Sunday of Christ the King, the last Sunday in the church year, before we enter the Adven
Proper 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2001
Between the notice of David's death in 1 Kings 2:10 and the succession of his son Solomon to the thr
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Easter Day - B -- 2001
There are many people here this morning who do not normally come to Sunday services.
Proper 16 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2001
When we dealt with the story of David, we learned that he was not permitted to build a temple to hou
Second Sunday of Easter -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2001
This text for the Sunday after Easter really shakes us up, doesn't it?
Proper 17 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2001
By this text we begin expositions of some of the Writings of the Old Testament, with which we will d
Third Sunday of Easter -- Acts 3:12-19 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- 2001
I know a woman whose husband was an alcoholic - I say "was" because the husband is dead now; he dran
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2001
In both Mesopotamia and Egypt, but also in Israel, Wisdom teaching and theology held a respected pos
Fourth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2001
We continue in our text this morning with the events surrounding Peter's healing of the lame man at
Proper 19 -- Proverbs 1:20-33 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2001
In chapters 1--9 of the Book of Proverbs, the figure of Wisdom is personified as a woman.
Fifth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2001
Luke, the author of Acts, intends his story in the Acts of the Apostles to show how the gospel rapid
Proper 20 -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2001
We live in a society in which the role of women has become very ambiguous.
Sixth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 10:44-48 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2001
This text forms the tag-end of Acts 10:34-43 which is the stated Old Testament lesson for Easter Sun

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I Went Down To The River To Pray -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Robert J. Elder -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2008
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgive
Finding The Right House For God -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- William J. Carl, III -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2008
Have you ever noticed how some families move a lot?
Hope On The Day Of Judgment -- Hebrews 9:24-28 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2008
Standing in the parlor at church that day was not unlike the many other occasions when I had attende
The Final Exam -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2008
In 1993, former president Jimmy Carter presented the commencement address to the graduating class at
A Death On A Long Friday -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12 -- Ken Lentz -- Good Friday - B -- 2008
After dying in a car crash, three friends went to heaven for orientation.
Love In Action -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Love one another. It sounds so simple, doesn't it?
Disintegration And Reintegration -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- John S. Smylie -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2008
Today's reading is the longest assigned reading that we have the entire year.
Can Anything Good Come Out Of Our Town? -- John 1:43-51 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2008
Well, good, old Nathaniel. In a way, he's the mystery disciple of the New Testament.
Being Two People At Once -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2008
David gets in trouble the way many other men get in trouble.
I Love You, Too -- 1 John 4:7-21 -- Nancy Kraft -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
When someone says, "I love you," the natural reply is, "I love you, too." If you're in a loving rela
For The Life Of Betsy D. I. Smylie -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John S. Smylie -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2008
For many thousands of years, men and women of myriad tongues and races have gathered underneath the
Time's A-Wasting -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2008
Just when everything seems as normal as can be ...
Small Sin, Large Grace -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2008
This pericope is in two parts. First there is the testimony of Nathan against David.
Loving God -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Nancy Kraft -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Are you in love with God?
Silence And Darkness -- John 18:1--19:42 -- John S. Smylie -- Good Friday - B -- 2008
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Can Teach, Can Do -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Robert J. Elder -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2008
Every time I have ever studied this passage with other people, it seems to me that we have been all
When Necks Break -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2008
What is the point of war? Even wars of old?
Doing Christ's Work -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Nancy Kraft -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
My mom's hands were never idle. She was always doing some kind of needlework or craft.
Looking For Jesus? -- John 20:1-18 -- John S. Smylie -- Easter Day - B -- 2008
The Lord is risen! The Lord is risen indeed!
Spiritual Gifts: God's Gift Of Fulfillment -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Scott Suskovic -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Now you have every spiritual gift you need.-- 1 Corinthians 1:7 (NLT)
Wise Leadership -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2008
Solomon asks for the right thing: He asks for wisdom.
Eternal Life Is Now -- 1 John 5:9-13 -- Nancy Kraft -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Imagine describing what music is like to someone who has never heard a sound. How would you do it?
Speaking Peace -- John 20:19-31 -- John S. Smylie -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
On the evening of that day, that first Easter Day, the disciples were gathered together, but as yet
They Call It Grace -- 2 Peter 3:8-15a -- Scott Suskovic -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not w
Dedicating Temples -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2008
So much is happening in chapter 8 of 1 Kings that we almost want to get dressed up for an amazing ce

Stories

SermonStudio

Forgiven And Encouraged -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1999
Lee and JoAnn had foster children in their homes for years.
God's Presence In The Millennium -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- Constance Berg -- All Saints Day - B -- 1999
The speaker was funny, interesting, engaging, and very knowledgeable.
Calming The Storm -- Mark 4:35-41 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 1999
The Lake of Galilee is on the northern end of the rift valley.
A Different Celebration -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1999
In Mexico, it's not Santa Claus who delivers gifts. And it's not December 25 that is so important.
New Hope -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Constance Berg -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 1999
Chiapas is one of the two poorest states in Mexico.
How We Are God's Tea Cups -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1999
The tea cup was stained.
An Hour To Think -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12 -- Constance Berg -- Good Friday - B -- 1999
Tim wanted to get home. It would be so good to see Meg and the children again.
Treasures -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Constance Berg -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1999
A man bought a house.
Blessed To Be A Blessing -- 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1999
Mark had loved helping out ever since he was young.
Baptism -- 1 Peter 3:18-22 -- Constance Berg -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
"Oh, Mom, don't be silly. I don't need Erin baptized.
A Beautiful Creation -- Genesis 1:1-5 -- Constance Berg -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1999
All he saw was a dark, formless blob. A blob that he knew would one day come alive with character.
Seeing With New Eyes -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Constance Berg -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 1999
Rudy looked around. He couldn't believe it. It had finally ended. He was free.
Every Child Has A Purpose -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Constance Berg -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
It was Alpha's eightieth birthday and the party was grand.
The Message Of The Cross -- John 18:33-37 -- Constance Berg -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1999
"Can you make a banner for the church?"
We Gather Together -- Psalm 126 -- Constance Berg -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 1999
The aromas were inviting. Turkey, dressing, gravy, and cranberries.
The Portrait -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Constance Berg -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
Paul couldn't stand it anymore. The constant ringing in his ears was deafening.
The Body Of Christ ... For You -- Mark 14:12-16, 22-26 -- Constance Berg -- 1999
"This is the body of Christ, broken for you."
Saint Thomas Aquinas -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 -- Constance Berg -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
Thomas Aquinas, the great philosopher, theologian, and teacher, is the patron saint of Roman Cathol
Life's Purpose -- Ephesians 2:1-10 -- Constance Berg -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
Holly was washing the dishes, listening to her favorite gospel quartet on tape, when two men pulled
"Christ Jesus Lay In Death's Strong Bands" -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Constance Berg -- Easter Day - B -- 1999
Christ Jesus lay in death's strong bandsFor our offenses given;
Lesson From The Shamrock -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Constance Berg -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1999
Shar was worried. She was in charge of the children's sermon this Sunday.
A Blessed Harvest -- John 12:20-33 -- Constance Berg -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
It sounded like thunder. There wasn't a cloud in the sky that morning. The noise grew louder.
Peace Be With You -- John 20:19-31 -- Constance Berg -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
"Peace be with you. Peace be with you."
A Prayer Is Answered -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Constance Berg -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1999
Virginia and Ralph wanted a child. They wanted a son, as a matter of fact.
Madame And Maid -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Constance Berg -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 1999
Isabel put on a white glove. Today was Thursday. Cleaning day in the house.

The Political Pulpit

Worship

SermonStudio

Speak, Lord, I'm Listening -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
Second Sunday In Lent -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16)
Proper 9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
A Day Of Remembrance -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
Job Perseveres And Finds New Life -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: I will always thank the Lord; I will never stop praising him.
Third Sunday In Lent -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on 2 Timothy 3:14-17)
Last Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipRight: The Light has been shining.
A New Covenant -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Create pure hearts in us, O God,
Faithfulness -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on 1 Corinthians 13)
Holy Trinity Sunday -- Frank Ramirez -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 6:1-8)
When We Lose Patience -- Numbers 21:4-9 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
Where Is God When We Need Him? -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 40:28-31)
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 30)
Proper 5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Lamentations 3:19-26)
The Ten Commandments -- Exodus 20:1-17 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: The law of the Lord is perfect; it gives new strength.
Do You Have All The Answers? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41) -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Praise the Lord, my soul! O Lord, my God, how great you are!
First Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipOne: Lord, your light is shining to the nations.
Proper 6 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 123)
God's Covenant With Abraham -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipCome, let us worship the God of Abraham and our God, too.
Speak Up For Freedom -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: How shall we serve our God who has blessed us in so many ways?
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 139)All: O LORD, you have searched me and known me.
Proper 7 -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Ephesians 1:3-14)
The Sign Of The Covenant -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
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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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