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Emphasis Preaching Journal

Possessions bring responsibility -- Genesis 3:8-19, Hebrews 4:1-3, 9-13, Mark 10:17-30 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1991
Today's lessons introduce the issue of material wealth with almost as much stringency as the issue o
Creation then and now -- 2 Samuel 5:1-12, 2 Samuel 5:1-12 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1991
Differences between biblical views of the world and modern views are always a challenge to the inter
Good? -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9, John 18:1-19:42 -- Good Friday - B -- 1991
What is good about Good Friday?
Jesus' followers face change -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:46-53 -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 1991
During a lifetime, changes come that shake us up and require major adjustments.
Reality -- 2 Samuel 18:24-33, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1991
What is reality? Is it material and physical so it may be tested by our senses?
Conflict and caring -- 1 Samuel 16:14-23, 1 Samuel 16:14-23 -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 1991
During the past six months, the mobilization for war showed how demanding and severe conflict can be
Called by God -- 2 Samuel 7:18-29, Ephesians 1:1-10, Mark 6:7-13 -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1991
When I read about Amos' certainty of his call from God, I wonder.
Passion -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11 -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1991
Each year we take time during Lent to follow Jesus along his road from high admiration to the cross.
Commitment -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Ephesians 5:21-33, John 6:55-69 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1991
Where should our commitments focus?
Easter -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-12, John 15:1-8 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1991
Easter is a stark reminder that nothing we can do can overcome the power of God.
Three for the show -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1991
You remember that child's game that requires someone to say, "One for the money, two for the show, t
God in the commonplace -- 2 Kings 2:1-12a, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1991
Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote these lines in her poem Aurora Leigh.
Miracle -- 2 Samuel 12:15b-24, Ephesians 4:1-6, John 6:24-35 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1991
For the month of August, lessons from the Gospel of John will explore insights related to Jesus' fee
What role for law? -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1991
From one point of view in his time, Jesus played fast and loose with the law.
Getting along -- Proverbs 2:1-8, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:31-37 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1991
Getting along, just getting along, that is how most of us live most of the time.
Commanded to love -- Exodus 24:3-8, 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 1991
How can love be commanded? Is it not supposed to be spontaneous?
Service and ambition -- Isaiah 23:7-12, Mark 10:35-45 -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1991
How serious is the contrast between the biblical teaching of sacrificial service and the worldly com
Self denial -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:2 (3-10) -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1991
I have a missionary friend who has spent most of his adult life in India working as a missionary-edu
Repetition -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1991
If you are on course with your preaching, you will sometimes notice how it seems you are saying the
God's kingdom and growth -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10, 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1991
In the northern hemisphere, June is an ideal time to think of growing things.
Reading the other side of the New Testament -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:35-48 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1991
It is important that we never forget that the New Testament was written in the midst of real life, r
Marriage and divorce -- Genesis 2:18-24, Mark 10:2-16 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1991
Jesus' teaching about divorce has seemed too austere, even legalistic, to Christians in modern socie
When will Jesus come? -- Isaiah 63:16-64:8, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:32-37 -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
For a time we have been having some respite from those who see every world event as the herald of th
Christ mass -- Isaiah 62:6-7, 10-12, Titus 3:4-7, Luke 2:8-20 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1990
How we conceive Christmas is critical to our faith.
Watching the expanding claims of the New Testament -- 2 Samuel 7:8-16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
Just back away from the New Testament for a moment and take a broad look at what is portrayed here.

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Time -- 2 Peter 3:8-15a -- Leah Thompson -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
But do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, an
Baptizer -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Leah Thompson -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts
This little light -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Leah Thompson -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Do not quench the Spirit. (v. 19)
You just had to be there... -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Leah Thompson -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
He himself was not the light, but he came to testify to the light. (v. 8)
Word for all -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Leah Thompson -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
But is now disclosed, and through the prophetic writings is made known to all the Gentiles, accor
Impossible -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Leah Thompson -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For nothing will be impossible with God. (v. 37)
A purifying clean -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Leah Thompson -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for hims
Read all about it -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Leah Thompson -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see -- I am bringing you good news of great
What Is Concealed Now Is Revealed -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: This lesson focuses on the nature of revelation, to suddenly "see" something
Pointing Out the Christ -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Anna Shirey -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: I want to focus a bit on John the Baptist -- who is such an interesting chara
Seeing into the Heart -- John 1:43-51 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: Here we are looking at Jesus' first "recruiting" mission, as depicted in John
Freeze! -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: In this next story of Jesus inviting disciples, we're going to focus on Jesus
Cleaning Out the Icks -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: A lesson about spiritual possession is a difficult one for children to unders
Saved to Serve -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: This scripture passage is a great lead-in to a conversation about need and gr
Being a Blabbermouth -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: This is one of those provocative stories in the gospel where Jesus seems to w
Being Healed -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Anna Shirey -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: How does it feel to be truly seen?
Carrying God's Mark -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Anna Shirey -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: As we begin our journey into Lent, we are faced with some weighty spiritual q
Being the Beloved -- Mark 1:9-15 -- Anna Shirey -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: This Sunday it would be easy to stick with the first part of the text, which
Waiting for the Right Gift -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Anna Shirey -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2011
First Thoughts: This first Sunday after Christmas we are introduced to two familiar character

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Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
Anticipation -- It's Keepin' Me Waitin' -- Mark 13:24-37, Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Advent arrives for our congregations on a weekend when many people will still be basking in the afte
Guide Rails -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The lectionary's assigned passage from Isaiah for the Second Sunday of Advent tells us that we are t
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in

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Impossible -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Leah Thompson -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For nothing will be impossible with God. (v. 37)

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Who's On First? -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, James and John ask Jesus to secure preferred seating for them in heaven
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
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
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:
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
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
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

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On The Mountaintop -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Psalm 50:1-6 -- Keith Hewitt -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Contents "On The Mountaintop" by Keith Hewitt* * * * * * *
Law And Justice -- John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Contents "Law and Justice" by Frank Ramirez

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Don't we wish that... -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Bob Ove -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
Don't we wish that were true of all confirmands!
Just like the creation narrative... -- Genesis 1:1-5 -- Derl G. Keefer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2014
Just like the creation narrative tells of the beginning of life so baptism is the symbol of God's be
I suppose some would say... -- Genesis 1:1-5 -- Bob Ove -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2014
I suppose some would say "in the big bang." I'm not sure it makes much difference how God does thing
Paul claims that the incarnation... -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
Paul claims that the incarnation has long been kept a mystery. It still is hard to believe.
When Pope Francis visited... -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Ron Love -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
When Pope Francis visited South Korea in August 2014 he made his strongest gesture yet to reach out
Baptism and the Holy Spirit... -- Acts 19:1-7 -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2014
Baptism and the Holy Spirit belong together intimately according to Luke.
In a Frank & Ernest comic... -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Ron Love -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In a Frank & Ernest comic strip by Bob Thaves, two little boys are sitting in a backyard.
Jesus reminds us that we... -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
Jesus reminds us that we do not have a moment to waste, we need to be prepared.
Marcus Mariota has been... -- Acts 19:1-7 -- Ron Love -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2014
Marcus Mariota has been the starting quarterback for Oregon since the 2012 season.
The word "virgin" in Hebrew... -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Bob Ove -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
The word "virgin" in Hebrew can also mean "young woman." But if we translate this passage "young wom
Sermon Illustrations for Advent 2 (2014) -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Bob Ove, Derl G. Keefer, Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
Isaiah 40:1-11
His message is one of baptism... -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Bob Ove -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2014
His message is one of baptism. That seems to be the beginning our Christian walk.

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Proper 21 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2001
As referred to in 9:20--22 in our text, Esther is a book that celebrates Jewish deliverance from per
Epiphany of Our Lord -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2001
The first strophe or stanza of this passage actually ends with verse 7, but the lectionary has ended
Proper 22 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2001
God trusts Job.
Second Sunday after Epiphany -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2001
In the days of Eli and Samuel, before the beginning of the kingship of Saul, and from about 1220 --1
Proper 23 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2001
The story of Job is presented to us primarily through a series of dialogues that Job carries on with
Third Sunday after Epiphany -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2001
In preaching on this text from Jonah, we must never forget that it is set within a narrative context
Proper 24 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41) -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2001
Our sometimes sentimental, always lenient religious faith bumps up against this text for the morning
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2001
We do not usually think of Moses as a prophet.
Proper 25, Reformation Sunday -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2001
After the Lord's long interrogation of Job in chapters 38-41, in which Job learns humility before th
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany -- Isaiah 40:21-31 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2001
This passage makes up three stanzas of the longer poem of Isaiah 40:12--31.
First Sunday in Advent -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2001
"In our sins we have been a long time, and shall we be saved?" (v. 5d).
Proper 27 -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2001
Our text for the morning sets us immediately into the middle of a family drama.
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2001
Despite the multitudinous variety of possible preaching texts in the Old Testament, the lectionary s
Second Sunday in Advent -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2001
To understand this rich passage, the preacher must first understand its setting.
Proper 28 -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2001
Let us first give an historical accounting of the text.
Seventh Sunday after Epiphany -- Isaiah 43:18-25 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2001
A portion of this passage, namely verses 16--21, is also treated on the Fifth Sunday in Lent in Cycl
Third Sunday in Advent -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2001
This passage forms the middle chapter of an announcement of salvation that is found in Isaiah 60--62
Transfiguration Sunday -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2001
I wonder if you remember one of the characters in the popular television series, M*A*S*H.
Eighth Sunday after Epiphany -- Hosea 2:14-20 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2001
Hosea could very well be called "the prophet of intimacy" - of intimacy with God.
Trinity Sunday -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2001
Who is Jesus Christ?
Good Friday -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Good Friday - B -- 2001
We might call this reading from Second Isaiah "The Great Reversal," because that is what it is about
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2001
This is the same Old Testament text that will be specified for Christmas Day in Cycles A and C.
First Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2001
This passage contains what is known as the Noachic Covenant - God's covenant with Noah.
First Sunday after Christmas -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2001
This text continues with the passage that we read from Isaiah 61 on the Third Sunday in Advent.
Second Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2001
We come in this passage to the Priestly version of God's promise to Abraham of a son.

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Life In The Spirit -- Romans 8:22-27 -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Chapter 8 of Paul's letter to the Romans is one of the greatest chapters in all of scripture.
The Five Senses -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- John S. Smylie -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
In the gospel text there is an opportunity to meet Jesus, using every one of our senses.
The Fred Factor -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Scott Suskovic -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of G
Joy Is For Leaping -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2008
This ode to spring and to love is almost always used at Passover.
Flesh And Spirit -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
Chapters 7-8 of Romans are among the most important words in the Bible for us in the twenty-first ce
Fred And Barney -- John 10:11-18 -- John S. Smylie -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
I grew up in the suburbs, in a community outside of lower Manhattan.
But Is It True? -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Scott Suskovic -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Chr
The Place Beyond Punishment -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
You can tell a lot about a family by finding out what happens if a child spills something.
Jesus Brings New Life -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The end of World War II and the onset of the Cold War, which saw the super powers of the United Stat
Bothered And Bewildered -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
Whatever one wants to say about the apostle Paul, we must at least say this: He took Christianity ou
Weed And Feed -- John 15:1-8 -- John S. Smylie -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
I think some people are natural-born gardeners.
The Missing Piece -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Scott Suskovic -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2008
He it is who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purify for himself
Having A Good Name -- Proverbs 1:20-33 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
Proverbs is right: Having a good name is a terribly important thing.
Jesus Will Lead Us Home -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The voyage of Sir Ernest Shackleton and his 28 men aboard the Endurance bound for Antarctica,
Eyes On The Prize -- 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
"I believed, and I spoke." Paul begins this passage with a reference to the Septuagint, the Greek tr
The Little Golf Club -- John 15:9-17 -- John S. Smylie -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Our Lord's new commandment, to love one another as he has loved us, is easier said than done.
The Fullness Of Time -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- Scott Suskovic -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
But when the fullness of time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, in
Finding The Good Woman In Us All -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
A good woman is a superwoman, or so it appears to me as I read the list of things she can do.
It's God's Will? -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Scott Suskovic -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2008
...
The Place Beyond Revenge -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2008
A custom is begun!
Jesus Rescues Us -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Oskar Schindler, immortalized in Steven Spielberg's 1993 prize-winning film, Schindler's List
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
I've got a home in that kingdom -- ain't that good news.
The Logical Conclusion -- Luke 24:44-53 -- John S. Smylie -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
For several years, I had the privilege of serving a congregation in upstate New York.
Epiphany: All About You! -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Scott Suskovic -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2008
... God has given me this special ministry of announcing his favor to you Gentiles.
Job Is For Real -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2008
We find Job on the edge of town, his money gone, his children dead, picking at his innumerable sores

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Blooming -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Constance Berg -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
"You know how three weeks ago I asked you to speak about your trip to Mexico?
Julia -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Constance Berg -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1999
Julia is the first of seven children and the only girl.
God's Precious Gift -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Constance Berg -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1999
Paul and Rosa had tried and tried to have a baby.
Mother Shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Constance Berg -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Liliana called me to her room at three that afternoon.
See The Little Light Shine -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Constance Berg -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
She was so patient.
Encouragement -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Constance Berg -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1999
Words are important. They start wars, create unions, and touch our emotions.
A Mother's Thoughts -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Constance Berg -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1999
She held the baby to her chest, looking into his eyes.
A Life For A Life -- John 15:9-17 -- Constance Berg -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Who would lay down his life for a friend?
Dance Of Gratitude -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1999
Anna dances. Ever since she was cured of a childhood disease, she has danced.
Gift From God -- John 17:6-19 -- Constance Berg -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Brian could feel the heat of anger rising in his neck.
Bartolome de las Casas, Missionary -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1999
Professor Bob Corbett celebrates and laments the work of Bartolomé de las Casas.
This I Know -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1999
Some knew him as not being well versed or fluent.
Miracles -- John 6:1-21 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1999
Some people have spent countless hours trying to explain how Jesus could possibly have fed 5,000 men
Joelito's Legacy -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1999
The prophet Jonah was commanded by God to go to Nineveh; Joel Fil‡rtiga was inspired to go to Paragu
Trickle Up -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1999
Paul calls for unity and gives us the seven signs of Christian unity as we make up the body of Chris
Knowledge vs. Love -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1999
In the beginning they seemed normal enough.
A Change Of Heart -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1999
Moe wasn't always so nice.
The Church Still Lives -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1999
I was the only former church leader present at the closing ceremony of the tiny country church.
The Invitation To Join -- Ephesians 5:15-20 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1999
Pao felt disconnected. Like he didn't belong. Like he didn't have a purpose.
Something's Missing ... -- 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 -- Constance Berg -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1999
When Todd was four years old, he loved to play T-ball.
Joined Together -- John 6:56-69 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1999
I was nervous. I was asked just a few hours ago to fill in at the nursing home and lead worship.
God Noticed Their Hearts -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1999
The vote to have a new church pictorial directory made was approved. Everyone was excited.
A Different Hunger -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1999
Marsha and Richard had a beautiful home on a wooded lot just outside the suburbs.
Sharing One's Faith -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1999
One of the greatest joys for believers is that chance to share our faith with each other and others.
A Second Chance -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- Constance Berg -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1999
Mark is a chaplain in a nursing home.

The Political Pulpit

Worship

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Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2002
First Lesson: Job 1:1; 2:1-10Theme: Testing Our FaithCall To Worship
The Suffering Servant -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Good Friday - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: He was despised and rejected by others.
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- Psalm 65 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 65)One: Praise is due to you, O God.
Proper 8 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Ephesians 2:11-22)
Wisdom Calls -- Mark 8:27-38, James 3:1-12, Proverbs 1:20-33 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: The law of the Lord is perfect; it gives new strength.
The Lord's Love For His People -- Hosea 2:14-20 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 4)
Proper 25 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 16)One: Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
True Happiness -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Happy are those who reject the advice of evil people,
The Lord Made Us All -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Serve the Lord with a right spirit.
God's Forgiveness -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: The Lord says, "Do not cling to events of the past."
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipWomen: We know love by this, that Jesus laid down his life for us.
Proper 26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Revelation 1:8)
A Time For Singing -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Come, let us thank the Lord for his steadfast love,
Proper 13 -- Ephesians 6:10-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Ephesians 6:10-18)
Obedience to God -- The Way To New Life -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Sing praise to the Lord, all his faithful people!
Fifth Sunday Of Easter -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipRight: The spirit told Philip to join the chariot of the Ethiopian.
Proper 4 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on 2 Corinthians 6:8-13)
Pray That All The Peoples Of Earth May Know God -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: With my whole being I sing for joy to the living God.
The Understanding God -- Isaiah 40:21-31 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: It is good to sing praise to our God.
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeft: Is there a place where we can come to laugh?
Proper 22 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Psalm 34:1-8)
Seek Wisdom -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: The way to become wise is to honor the Lord;
God Speaks To His People -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: With all our hearts let us thank the Lord.
Seventh Sunday Of Easter -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Acts 1:6-11)
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 10 | OT 15 | Pentecost 5
30 – Sermons
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30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Proper 11 | OT 16 | Pentecost 6
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
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Proper 12 | OT 17 | Pentecost 7
34 – Sermons
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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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