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An annual reminder -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43 -- David Kalas -- Easter Day - B
In the opening verse of our passage from the epistles, the Apostle Paul writes, "Now I would remind
The Blood -- Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
One of the interesting things about blood, as it is presented in the New Testament, is the fact that
Invitations -- Acts 4:32-35; 3:13-15, 17-26, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35; 3:13-15, 17-26 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
One of the interesting things about the Old and New Testaments is their use of the word "therefore."
Table manners -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
Perhaps it is the oddity that I am writing this on the Monday before Thanksgiving or it is my procli
Ultimately! -- Psalm 80:1-7, Hebrews 10:5-10, Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
One of the little books that ought to be required reading for every Christian is The Will of God
Starting over -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
A college professor presented his class syllabus on the first day of the new semester.
Self--Denial -- Genesis 17:1-10, 15-19; 28:10-17 (18-22);, Mark 8:31-38 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
One of the most easily recognizable activities most associated with Lent is the practice of self--de
Prescription on a pole -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9 -- David Kalas -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B
We have so many aisles of medications in our country today that home remedies may be a vanishing art
Love -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- Ascension of the Lord - B
One of the preacher's greatest difficulties is to deal with the word love.
Now I lay me down to love -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- David Kalas, Schuyler Rhodes -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
I have three young daughters. One of them in particular would say that she is an animal
The Affirmation of Life -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:11b-19 -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B
One of the reasons so many are skeptical about Christianity is what they see and hear from people wh
What goes up -- Luke 24:44-53, Ephesians 1:15-23, Acts 1:1-11, Psalm 47 -- David Kalas -- Ascension of the Lord - B
"What goes up must come down." So goes the old saying, in an axiomatic testament to the gravitationa
Getting to yes -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12 -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B
A number of years ago, a colleague and I were in a kind of leadership stalemate.
The right lens, "A or B" -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
One thing that I don't look forward to is the periodic visit to the optometrist.
Tri-focusing -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
On a scale of one to ten, rate the influence of the "one in three" and "the three in one" of the Tri
What triumph? -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, 9:9, 10, Philippians 2:5-11 -- Passion Sunday - B
A scared band of disciples anxiously watching out of the corner of their eyes as they come into Jer
Night watch -- Isaiah 62:6-12, Titus 3:4-7, Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Rembrandt's grand painting of The Company of Captain Frans Cocq has captured lingering reflec
Spiritual chinook -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Romans 8:22-27, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Wayne Brouwer -- Day of Pentecost - B
In northern parts of the United States winter weather reports include phrases like "cold
Changing times -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Advent reminds us of the flow of time. We are all bound by time.
Prisoners for love -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
In a scene from the current hit Broadway show, The Producers, a chorus of
Living in faith -- 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Luke 2:41-52 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
After Christmas, with its striking combination of trying human circumstances and glorious divine rev
Covenant -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:7-10, John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
Sometimes I hear persons talking about their relationship to God as though they're bargaining with h
Looking for heroes -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, Psalm 9:9-20 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
The year was 1934. Times were difficult around the world. Times were especially
All the time in the world -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- David Kalas -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
As a rule, you can tell how much time a person has by how quickly they move.
A Realistic Faith -- Ephesians 4:17-24, John 6:24-35 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Sometimes one gets the idea that there is something spiritual and different from real life in real r

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God's valentine -- John 3:13-17 (L)
Today is September 14. There is a holiday on the fourteenth
Not so foolish! -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! I want you to look at this old wallet. It's
Christ is our cornerstone -- Ephesians 2:13-22 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
(Note: As a variation of this lesson, invite your church
The source of our knowledge -- John 1:10-18 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Good morning! Have any of you ever met _______________?
Luke 24:44-53 -- Ascension of the Lord - B
Today we celebrate the "Ascension of the Lord." What do you
House rules -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
God's light shines forth -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever played
A permanent reminder -- Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you remember how we talked about me last week?
We bow before God -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning! I brought this plant with me this morning to
Jesus: our once for all -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Suggestion: If there is a golfer in the congregation, suggest
Celebrity Jesus -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you know anyone famous?
God's temple -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
I have here a toy church building. We often think that God
The just-right plan -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning! How many of you had a wonderful Christmas?
Promises, promises -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Good morning! Have you ever broken a promise that you made?
A verse to remember -- John 3:1-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Have you ever seen anyone with a
Who is the Spirit? -- John 3:1-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Good morning! Today is "Trinity Sunday." Can anyone tell me
We're welcome here! -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B
Do any of you have a car -- a real car that you can drive
He can do it! -- John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! Once, when Jesus was in Jerusalem, he went to
Where's Jesus? -- Mark 6:30-34 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever played
Revealing the mystery -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - B
Good evening! Why are we in church on a Thursday evening?
God's testimony -- 1 John 5:9-13 -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning! Imagine this is a picture of a famous person
Transforming vacation -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like to go on
Mercy for a blind beggar -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Have you ever heard of the word "beggar"?
Prophet Jesus -- John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
I'm sure you had breakfast this morning. But can you
Love your neighbor -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you ever have to

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

Lloyd Ogilvie one day was pondering this passage... -- Acts 3:12-19 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Lloyd Ogilvie one day was pondering this passage about Peter's sermon in the temple after Peter and
The Wisdom of Solomon from the Apocrypha... -- Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9 -- Richard A. Hasler -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
The Wisdom of Solomon from the Apocrypha, those writings that illuminate the period between the Old
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Vera was a unique woman. During her marriage she birthed two natural sons.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 (2012) -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Mark J. Molldrem, Cynthia E. Cowen, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
Job 38:1-7 (34-41)
Our anatomy illustrates James' advice... -- James 1:17-27 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2012
Our anatomy illustrates James' advice.
Suze Oman, financial expert and TV host... -- John 6:34, 41-51 -- Ron Love -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2012
Suze Oman, financial expert and TV host, reflected on what she thought was the most influential plac
Scolded and criticized... -- 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- Ron Love -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2012
Scolded and criticized, Abraham Lincoln still insisted on signing the Emancipation Proclamation.
How many times have we seen grown men crying... -- John 2:13-22 -- Craig Kelly -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
How many times have we seen grown men crying after winning a Super Bowl or the World Series?
Ken and Carol Dorushka were having their morning cup of coffee... -- John 17:6-19 -- Ron Love -- 2012
Ken and Carol Dorushka were having their morning cup of coffee, when Carol mentioned she needed some
I wonder why it is that so many... -- Acts 3:12-19 -- Craig Kelly -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
I wonder why it is that so many in the body of Christ see so many events in scripture as only being
The lesson refers to grace and mercy... -- Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
The lesson refers to grace and mercy being on God's holy ones (v. 9).
Sermon Illustrations for Second Sunday of Easter (2012) -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Acts 4:32-35
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
There is a saying: "Mind your thoughts for they become words.
NULL -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
We all have favorites. Jesus' favorite disciple was John.
NULL -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41) -- Ron Love -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
In the comic strip The Born Loser, Brutus Thornapple is staring at his computer console.
So many blame God for what they do and say... -- James 1:17-27 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2012
So many blame God for what they do and say.
Exhausted from having spent a weekend working... -- James 3:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
Exhausted from having spent a weekend working in a Minneapolis food pantry, a homeless shelter, and
Debra Farrington in her book... -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-4 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2012
Debra Farrington in her book, Learning to Hear with the Heart, tells of the horror of an expe
God's ways are not our ways... -- 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2012
God's ways are not our ways.
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 4 (2012) -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
Numbers 21:4-9
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 9 | OT 14 (2012) -- 2 Samuel 5:1-15, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2012
2 Samuel 5:1-15, 9-10
Susanna Wesley defined... -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Ron Love -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Susanna Wesley defined for her son, who would become the founder of Methodism, the meaning of sin.
When multi-billionaire Warren Buffett was eleven years old... -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- Ron Love -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
When multi-billionaire Warren Buffett was eleven years old, in the spring of 1942, he made his first
It was a spirited Wednesday for the 55,528 fans gathered in Metrodome... -- Acts 4:32-35 -- Ron Love -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
It was a spirited Wednesday for the 55,528 fans gathered in Metrodome.
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
When we lived in Nepal there were families being torn apart by intermarriage.

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Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 (C, E); Joel 2:12-18 (RC)
Proper 8 (C, E) -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 (C)
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Genesis 1:1-5 (C)
Proper 9 (C, E) -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 (C)
Christ The King -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: 2 Samuel 23:1-7 (C)
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: 2 Kings 2:1-12 (C)
Corpus Christi -- Exodus 24:3-8, Hebrews 9:11-15, Mark 14:12-16, 22-26 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Exodus 24:3-8
The Holy Trinity -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Isaiah 6:1-8 (C)
The Resurrection Of Our Lord (Easter Day) -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 or Mark 16:1-8 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Easter Day - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Acts 10:34-43 (C, RC, E)
First Sunday After Christmas/Holy Family -- Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Isaiah 61:10„62:3 (C, E)
Second Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS Lesson 1: Acts 4:32-35 (C, RC)
Second Sunday After Christmas -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:1-18 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Jeremiah 31:7-14 (C, E)
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Acts 3:12-19 (C); Acts 3:13-15, 17-19 (RC)
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Acts 4:5-12 (C); Acts 4:8-12 (RC)
Fifth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Acts 8:26-40 (C, E)
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
The Baptism of Jesus and Baptism of the Spirit. -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- Russell F. Anderson -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: The baptism of Jesus and baptism of the Spirit.
The difficulty of entering the kingdom of heaven when material things have a hold on you. -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: The difficulty of entering the kingdom of heaven when material things have a hol
Bread For Life -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- William E. Keeney -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1996
Friends told me recently that they had bought a bread-making machine.
we pay homage to Christ as our king through his cross -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: At this end of the Church year we pay homage to Christ as our king through his c
Our human pride gets in the way of our worshiping and serving the Lord -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Our human pride gets in the way of our worshiping and serving the Lord.
Healing and eternal life through the sufferings and death of Jesus Christ -- Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1-19:42 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Good Friday - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Healing and eternal life through the sufferings and death of Jesus Christ, God's
Eating Living Bread -- John 6:51-58 -- William E. Keeney -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1996
Most Americans eat well. Three square meals a day is not uncommon.

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Watching For The Coming Of The Lord -- Mark 13:32-37 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1999
"But about that day or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Fa
Healing A Withered Hand -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Harold H. Lentz -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1999
One sabbath he was going through the grainfields; and as they made their way his disciples began to

Sermon

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Setting All The Idols Down -- Hosea 2:14-20 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2005
Setting All The Idols Down
Those Other Sheep -- John 10:11-18 -- David T. Ball -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Sometimes a familiar scriptural text begs for our attention. We may have read this text many times.
Dave, Tell Me About The Cross -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- John T. Ball -- Good Friday - B -- 2005
Dave, having just finished seminary, and before leaving for doctoral studies on the west coast, drov
April Love -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2005
It's a bit odd that the lectionary committee placed this reading from the Song of Solomon in late su
Watch! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Michael L. Ruffin -- 2005
Mark 13 speaks to those who expect too much and to those who expect too little.
The Unsuccessful Jesus -- John 6:56-69 -- John T. Ball -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2005
John 6:56-69 is a great passage from John's Gospel.
Practicing God's Presence -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
In the early years of the sixteenth century, a young adventurer named Nicolas Herman left his parent
It's All About Jesus -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12 -- Ron Lavin -- Good Friday - B -- 2005
It's All About Jesus
Nothing But Plunging In -- John 15:1-8 -- David T. Ball -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Commenting on our lection, John 15:1-8, a great American preacher wrote, "There is nothing for it bu
Listening To Minority Voices -- 1 Peter 3:18-22 -- John T. Ball -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
The endurance of humanity and even the whole cosmos could depend upon giving a serious listening of
The Spiritual Gateway -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Picture this: You are on your way to the airport to catch a flight to a wedding where you are in the
Repent! -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a -- Michael L. Ruffin -- 2005
A new beginning is a valuable thing. A fresh start is a great relief.
Time For A Minimalist Faith -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- John T. Ball -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2005
Some years ago, a San Francisco author who often worked as a stevedore on the city's docks, wrote,
Looking In All The Wrong Places -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2005
Author's Note: a fun way to animate this sermon might be to play sections of the several hit
Chocolate Cake, Flooded Waters, And Baptism -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- Ron Lavin -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Chocolate Cake, Flooded Waters, And Baptism
The Power Of Jesus' Death -- John 15:9-17 -- David T. Ball -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
There is an old saying that nothing is inevitable except death and taxes.
Abraham: The Near Death Of God's Promise -- Romans 4:13-25 -- John T. Ball -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Since Dr.
Nice Guys Finish First -- Proverbs 1:20-33 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
One day, a Sunday school teacher asked her class of children about their favorite Bible verses.
Rejoice! -- Psalm 126, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Michael L. Ruffin -- 2005
I keep coming back to it time after time, so it is never going to stop being one of the most signifi
A Healing Ministry For The Modern Church -- Mark 7:24-37 -- John T. Ball -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
The mission and ministry of Jesus was preaching, teaching, and healing.
Our Prayers Are Our Thanksgiving -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it
Generosity As The Clue To Life -- Mark 8:27-38 -- John T. Ball -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
All the great founders of our religious traditions offer secrets to the good life.
Proclaiming Jesus Christ -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 -- Donald Charles Lacy -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2005
It is not easy to promote someone else. Human nature rises up against it.
A Funeral For "I Can'ts" -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Ron Lavin -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
A Funeral For "I Can'ts"
Heaven Can Wait -- John 17:6-19 -- David T. Ball -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
In a popular Hollywood movie starring Warren Beatty, Beatty plays a quarterback destined to lead the

Stories

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A Mother's Prayer -- John 17:6-19 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jo Perry-Sumwalt -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
It was the same every night when Ruth Kristmon got into her bed.

SermonStudio

Music Box Dancer -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1993
David stared at the music box nostalgically as his sister held it out to him.
The Lost Notebook -- James 5:13-20 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1993
They entered the house drained from the night.
Mazuza Consciousness -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Peter C. Garrison -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Jim brought in the last of the boxes from the moving van.

StoryShare

Seeing Jesus -- John 20:26, John 20:19-31 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
ContentsA Story to Live By: "Seeing Jesus"
Assurance -- Mark 1:10 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "Assurance" by Janet Beltman
My Eyes Have Seen Your Salvation -- Luke 2:29a -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Contents
Carrying The Cross -- Mark 8:34b, Mark 8:35 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "Carrying the Cross" by Kenneth Lyerly
Christmas Communion -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Contents1 Sharing Visions, "Christmas Communion" by John Sumwalt
Telling Personal Stories In Sermons -- Psalm 107:19 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B
Contents"Telling Personal Stories in Sermons" by John Sumwalt
God Gives Me Weeds -- Psalm 111: 4-6 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "God Gives Me Weeds" by Laura Hoff
He Was A Saint -- Luke 24:36-37 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
ContentsA Story to Live By: "He Was a Saint"
No One Is Lost -- Psalm 147:2b-3 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "No One Is Lost" by Keith R. Eytcheson, Sr
Say I Love You -- 1 John 3:18 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
ContentsA Story to Live By: "Say I Love You"
A Healing Presence -- Mark 1:40-41 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "A Healing Presence" by Lynette Metz
A Hazelnut -- 1 John 4:7 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
ContentsA Story to Live By: "A Hazelnut"
A Source Of Comfort -- Psalm 41:8, 10a -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B
ContentsSharing Stories: "A Source of Comfort" by Kendall W. Anderson
The Fruit Of Trouble -- John 15:16 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
Easter 6, May 25, 2003Edited by John Sumwalt and Jo Perry-Sumwalt
Consolation -- Jeremiah 31:9a, John 1:14 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
ContentsSharing Visions, "Consolation" by Lori Hetzel
A Triumph Of The Spirit -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Contents
Blessed At The Core -- Mark 4:10 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
ContentsSharing Visions, "Blessed at the Core" by Manda R. Stack
Are Ye Able? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c, Hebrews 5:1-10 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Contents
The Call Of God -- 1 Samuel 3:10 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "The Call of God" by Bill Dow
The Fruit Of Forgiveness -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Contents A Note from John
A Call To Ministry -- Mark 1:16-18 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
ContentsSharing Visions: "A Call to Ministry" by Nancy Nichols

The Political Pulpit

Worship

SermonStudio

Tell Me -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Where On Earth Are You? -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1999
Call To WorshipLeader: Where are you when we need you, God?
Upon All -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
You Upstart! -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Replacement -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1999
First Lesson: Job 42:1-6, 10-17 Theme: Seeing For Ourselves
Both Ears Tingling -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1999
Call To WorshipLeader: We listen for the way God calls to us.
Secure -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Get Up -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Strategy -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
god or God? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
Theme: god or God?Call To Worship
Words In Your Mouth -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
A Sad Heart -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
What Makes You Change? -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
Theme: What Makes You Change?Call To WorshipLeader: What changes us?
Waiting For God -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
God's Kids Hope -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Calling Your Name? -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship Leader: Who is calling your name?
If Only ... -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Alive, I Say -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Listen To Their Voice -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
The Blotter -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
On The Heart -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
A Door Of Hope -- Hosea 2:14-20, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Mark 2:13-22 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
The Lion's Paw -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship Leader: Who is your Goliath?
Sonrise -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
24 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

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

SermonStudio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

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

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

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

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

StoryShare

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


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

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

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

Special Occasion

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