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A mystery -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
Today I want to explain everything about the kingdom of God
Our free ticket -- John 3:14-21 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! If you went to a movie or a concert or the
Aim to please God -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like to play
Who gives the most? -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Tell me what you think is a lot of money.
He makes the deaf to hear -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you know someone who
You're paid for -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning! Have you ever gone shopping in a big store, a
The Bread of Life -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Good morning! Long before Jesus was born, the people of God
We don't have to do this -- Mark 8:31-38 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I'm going to make an expression
Three in one, one in three -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Who is Jesus, really? -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Little things -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
Tell me some of the people who are heroes to you. (Let them
Who is it? -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Good morning! Let's play a game this morning. This game is
Casting out demons -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
Good morning! How many of you like popcorn? (let them answer) I love popcorn.
Tri-unity -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Today is Trinity Sunday -- a Sunday set aside to honor God
What's a good shepherd? -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning! I have a picture here. Can you tell me what's
Encourage one another -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you can do this?
Now! -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
Good morning! I have (three) clocks here and they all say
The only cure -- Hebrews 5:5-10 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning! I brought three little containers with me this
God's surprise package -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have a garden of
Gathering together -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. It is good to see all of you here this morning.
Taming your tongue -- James 3:1-12 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. (Form two talking mouths with
Follow me! -- John 1:43-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning! In the Gospel reading today, we heard Jesus
A joyful noise -- Ephesians 5:15-20 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
Do you feel like making music this morning? I do! I would
Count your blessings -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Good morning, boys and girls. For many of you today is the
Feel the wind blow -- John 3:1-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever felt the wind?

Children's Story

Communicating God's Love

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

We celebrated Christmas sometime back... -- Ephesians 2:1-10 -- Craig Kelly -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
We celebrated Christmas sometime back, and of course, one of the common sights at Christmas is the t
There was much lamenting that had Jesus come sooner... -- John 11:32-44 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
There was much lamenting that had Jesus come sooner Lazarus might not have died (v. 32).
Someone asked me one day... -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Someone asked me one day, "How much do you earn a year?" I answered him, "I earn about $750,000." He
Sermon Illustrations for the Third Sunday of Easter (2012) -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Acts 3:12-19
On February 24, 1742, Peter Bohler gathered a group of Moravians... -- 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2012
On February 24, 1742, Peter Bohler gathered a group of Moravians who would sail to the American colo
NULL -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
Solomon built the first temple, which was destroyed by the Babylonians in the sixth century.
Statistician Hans Rosling is recognized for his contribution to advancing the public health... -- Ephesians 2:11-22 -- Ron Love -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2012
Statistician Hans Rosling is recognized for his contribution to advancing the public health in Afric
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Wherever Anne went, she ran each morning.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 15 | OT 20 (2012) -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-4, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2012
1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-4
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 7 | OT 12, Cycle B (2012) -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2012
1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23) 32-49
NULL -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
There were many hikers who came to Nepal to challenge the tallest mountains in the world.
When Melinda Gates returned from Bangladesh... -- 1 John 4:7-21 -- Ron Love -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
When Melinda Gates returned from Bangladesh where she observed the humanitarian work being performed
NULL -- James 5:13-20 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
Measles, chickenpox, swine flu, mad cow disease -- medical words today's "youth" recognize.
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 5 (2012) -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Doris Donnelly, challenges the stigma of weeping... -- John 11:32-44 -- Richard A. Hasler -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
Doris Donnelly, in her book Spiritual Fitness, challenges the stigma of weeping and shows how
Generosity is a cardinal ethical virtue... -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Generosity is a cardinal ethical virtue uplifted in many houses of faith.
Sermon Illustrations for the Fourth Sunday after Easter (2012) -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Acts 4:5-12
NULL -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
Question: What state records the greatest number of earthquakes along with volcanic eruptions
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 11 | OT 16 (2012) -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2012
2 Samuel 7:1-14a
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Ron Love -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Donald Sadoway, 62, is an MIT engineer. His specialty is liquid-metal batteries.
If death is nothing Christians need fear... -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2012
If death is nothing Christians need fear, why do we spend so much time worrying about it, being sad
Christians have been made people who go against the grain... -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2012
Christians have been made people who go against the grain. Martin Luther King Jr.
NULL -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Ron Love -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
J.
Not all of us farm or tend gardens anymore... -- John 15:1-8 -- Craig Kelly -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Not all of us farm or tend gardens anymore, so for some, this illustration may not be quite as illum
NULL -- James 5:13-20 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
There is a ministry in many congregations today that uses prayer shawls to comfort those who are sic

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Preaching

SermonStudio

Receiving the true bread of life, Jesus Christ -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Receiving the true bread of life, Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the Bread from heaven that truly satisfies us -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Jesus is the Bread from heaven that truly satisfies us.
Being filled with the wisdom and Spirit of God -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Being filled with the wisdom and Spirit of God.
The difficulty of discipleship and of keeping God's covenant -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: The difficulty of discipleship and of keeping God's covenant.
The return of the Lord -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Russell F. Anderson -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: The return of the Lord.
Purity is an inside job -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Purity is an inside job.BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Christ as our Shepherd King -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Christ as our Shepherd King.
Faith active in good works -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Faith active in good works.
Joy and anticipation concerning what God was about to do -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Joy and anticipation concerning what God was about to do.
Seek true wisdom; follow Christ -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Seek true wisdom; follow Christ.
The Advent Season -- Russell F. Anderson -- 1996
Background Of The Season
The Fig Tree Lesson -- Mark 13:24-37 -- William E. Keeney -- 1996
We were traveling in the dark.
A warning against selfish ambition, which fractures community -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: A warning against selfish ambition, which fractures community.
Who are saints? -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44 -- Russell F. Anderson -- All Saints Day - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Who are saints? Those who rely on God for comfort and salvation.
The One Shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- William E. Keeney -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
The Good Shepherd parable comes on the fourth Sunday of Easter.
Brand Name Or Generic? -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Providing a preserving and redemptive effect on the world.
The crucified and risen Jesus has ascended to the Father -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: The crucified and risen Jesus has ascended to the Father.
The Fruitful Vine -- John 15:1-8 -- William E. Keeney -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
What is a preacher to make of a parable or extended allegory about a vine in an urban and industrial
Remaining true to our covenants of faith -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Remaining true to our covenants of faith.
A call to repentance and renewal -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: A call to repentance and renewal.
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1993
This account of Elijah's being taken to heaven on a chariot of
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
According to the priestly school, this is another account of

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Brand Name Or Generic? -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Providing a preserving and redemptive effect on the world.
Christ as our Shepherd King -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Christ as our Shepherd King.
Purity is an inside job -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Purity is an inside job.BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Acceptable Time -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2005
When Paul arrived at the city of Corinth, Greece, the middle of the first century A.D., he knew he h
Misled By Beauty -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2005
It seems to me that the so-called "reality" television shows that have proliferated on the airwaves
Giving Of Ourselves -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2005
Have you ever wondered if growing up poor could somehow imbue you with deeper character?
Time To Come Home -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2005
Time To Come Home
Claiming A Do-Over Faith -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
What do you think of when you hear the word "jubilee"?
Accepting The Unconventional In Life -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2005
Once upon a time there was a great teacher, a guru, who had many followers.
Perceiving The Presence Of God -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
Three sisters lived in the forest.
Are You A Taker Or A Giver? -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2005
It was quite a picture -- on the front of the New York Times magazine.
The God Of War And Peace -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2005
The United Methodists came out with their most recent hymnbook in 1989.
Signs -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2005
In 2002, there was a popular Mel Gibson movie called Signs.
Secret Revealed -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Donald Charles Lacy -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
At last it happens!
A Level Playing Field For God -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2005
A Level Playing Field For God
Where Are You From? -- John 18:1--19:42 -- David T. Ball -- Good Friday - B -- 2005
Whenever we travel, we come into contact with new people.
Showing Up -- John 11:32-44 -- Stan Purdum -- All Saints Day - B -- 2005
No less a commentator on the human condition than Woody Allen has said, "Eighty percent of success i
The Paradoxical Power Of Weakness -- 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2005
There are people who speak to us more powerfully out of their weakness than out of their strength.
Mourning Our Fallen Tormentors -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2005
Mourning Our Fallen Tormentors
Why God Has No Grandchildren -- John 8:31-36 -- Stan Purdum -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2005
Children of pastors have their share of strange experiences.
Our Ultimate Destination -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- All Saints Day - B -- 2005
On U.S.
Apocalypse Wow! -- Isaiah 25:6-9 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- All Saints Day - B -- 2005
A pastor friend of mine recently attended a ministerial meeting at a Presbyterian church, along with
A Clock Or A Compass? -- Mark 1:9-15 -- David T. Ball -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2005
Do you all have your compasses with you? What? You don't have compasses?
Using Scripture And Other Sources To Understand Jesus -- Luke 24:44-53 -- David T. Ball -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2005
One of most interesting places in our public libraries is the biography section.
A Time For Us -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2005
In the musical, West Side Story, Leonard Bernstein's modern paraphrase of Romeo and Juliet
Lilies Of The Field -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Stan Purdum -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2005
In 1635, the Puritan clergyman, Roger Williams, was banished from Massachusetts Bay Colony for promo
All That Goes Down Must Go Up -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- John T. Ball -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2005
We are now almost fifty days after Easter, days that were filled with the immediate presence of the
Final Instructions -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Ron Lavin -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2005
Final Instructions

Stories

SermonStudio

A Healing Presence -- Mark 1:29-39 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lynette E. Metz -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons.
The Mystery Of His Will -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- John E. Sumwalt, Marcia Lee -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
...
The Call Of God -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- John E. Sumwalt, Bill Dow -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
On Ash Wednesday of 2000, I had a very powerful worship experience.
Someone To Watch Over Me -- Psalm 89:20-37 -- John E. Sumwalt, Patricia M. Thaker -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
In February of 2000, my grandfather, Lloyd Dings, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
Eagerly Waiting -- Hebrews 9:24-28 -- John E. Sumwalt, Eileen Fink -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
In my dream, I was in my bed trying to get to sleep when I heard someone coming.
Letting Go Of All The Junk -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kay L. Bandle -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
I mean, brothers and sisters, the appointed time has grown short; from now on, let even those who ha
A Deep Peace -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jodie And Georgia N. Hunt -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B
My father died suddenly, at the age of 58, while he was on business in Canada.
Reasons To Live -- Mark 1:21-28 -- John E. Sumwalt, Rebecca Henderleiter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
And the unclean spirit convulsed him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him.
Just Let Go -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt, Bonny J. Bailey -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B
As we work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in vain.
Dorothy's Story -- John 15:9-17 -- John E. Sumwalt, Dorothy Kraemer -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.
Overcome With Amazement -- Mark 5:21-43 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B
... he said to them, "Why do you make a commotion and weep?
Revelation -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- John E. Sumwalt, Iris Ninis -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
...
A Sign Of God's Love -- Psalm 22:1-15 -- John E. Sumwalt, Marie Regine Redig -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Shared Power -- Acts 8:26-40 -- John E. Sumwalt, Robert Maeglin -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
It had been a long day of meetings, and a group of scientists were returning from Manila to Los Bano
An Honor Not Taken Lightly -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- John E. Sumwalt, Bruce Stunkard -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
Every high priest chosen from among mortals is put in charge of things pertaining to God on their be
Peace Be With You -- John 20:19-31 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kenneth Lyerly -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
When my mother called the last time to tell us that Dad was in the hospital again, and not doing wel
Stopped In Mid-Air -- John E. Sumwalt, Marjorie K. Evans
This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble.
Startled -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- John E. Sumwalt, Elaine H. Klemm-grau -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Jackie was gone.
Christ Entered In -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- John E. Sumwalt, Patricia Lietzke -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
But when Christ came as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater an
God Restores My Soul -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
A few weeks ago, I started reading a psalm a day as part of my daily devotions.
Wisdom From Above -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- John E. Sumwalt, Martinus Cawley -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
About fifteen years ago, as I prepared for a big cider-pressing, I had to move the top-heavy hydraul
Filled With The Spirit -- Acts 19:1-7 -- John E. Sumwalt, Eileen Fink -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
I had been reading books on the baptism of the Holy Spirit, trying to figure out the controversy bet
A Narrow Escape -- Psalm 124 -- John E. Sumwalt, Judy Ziese -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowlers; the snare is broken, and we have escaped.
Seeing Jesus -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lee E. Meissner -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
It was a nice summer day.
A Tire Of A Different Dimension -- Psalm 26 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kay Boone Stewart -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Vindicate me, O Lord, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the Lord without wave

The Political Pulpit

Worship

SermonStudio

First Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- James R. Wilson -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Theme: Come to us, O Lord!Call To Worship
Second Sunday After Christmas -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- James R. Wilson -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Parent's Days -- Luke 2:41-52 -- James R. Wilson -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Let us come together giving honor to Almighty God!
Second Sunday of Advent -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- James R. Wilson -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
First Lesson: Isaiah 40:1-11
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), John 1:1-14 -- James R. Wilson -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Passion Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11 -- James R. Wilson -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- James R. Wilson -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: We are called to serve the Lord with all of our hearts!
Third Sunday Of Advent -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- James R. Wilson -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
First Lesson: Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Proper 10 -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-16, Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:14-29 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- James R. Wilson -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: The Word of the Lord shall endure forever! Praise be to the Lord!
Proper 11 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
All Saints' Day -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44 -- James R. Wilson -- All Saints Day - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Come, let all of God's people give praise and worship the Lord!
Proper 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Come, let all of God's people give praise and worship the Lord!
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- James R. Wilson -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Proper 13 -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-6, John 6:24-35 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Baptism Of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- James R. Wilson -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1996
First Lesson: Genesis 1:1-5 Theme: Meeting the God of Eternity
Proper 14 -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Easter -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- James R. Wilson -- Easter Day - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Christ, our Lord, is risen from the dead. Praise be to the Lord!
Proper 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1996
First Lesson: 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 Theme: Solomon seeks the wisdom to rule.
Second Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- James R. Wilson -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: The Lord is merciful and the Lord is wonderful and great!
Proper 16 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Let us come and worship together our loving and wonderful God!
Third Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- James R. Wilson -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
First Lesson: Acts 3:12-19 Theme: Responding to God with repentance
Proper 17 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Let us each come before the Lord this day with an open heart!
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- James R. Wilson -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Christ is our hope and our salvation. Let us praise the Lord!
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Let all who would stand true for the Lord gather now for worship!
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
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120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Christmas!
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100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
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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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