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Choosing up sides -- John 15:9-17 -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning! I'd like to play a little game with you this
Join God's family -- Mark 1:4-11 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
(Note: Some of the terminology in this lesson may need to be
Sharing with others -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Waiting for Jesus -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we begin the new church year.
He is risen! -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Easter Day - B
Good morning! What do they call this flower? (Show the
Chosen -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we are beginning another new year.
The secret is out! -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought a present with me this
Jesus has authority -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Good morning! Once Jesus was teaching people in Israel, and
We all fit! -- 1 Corinthians 12:27-31a
Good morning! I wonder how many of you like to put puzzles
Thanking God -- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you take piano
The widow's all -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Jesus knows what happens inside us! At the time Jesus lived
John the Baptist -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning! Do you know who this is? (Show the picture and
No more bad habits -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like candy bars?
A daughter/son of God -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Now, I know your names, but I'm going to ask you to tell me
The best news ever -- John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you remember my story last
God's temple -- 1 Corinthians 3:16-23
When we think of the church, what do most of us think of?
They are precious in his sight -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Thanksgiving Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today is Thanksgiving and it is a very special day.
Who's going to live there? -- Revelation 21:1-6a -- All Saints Day - B
Good morning! The current year is just about over. In less
Jesus and crayons -- Acts 10:34-38 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Can you imagine coloring a
The warmth of God's power -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you know what this is?
The big secret -- Mark 13:24-37 -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning and Happy New Church Year!
Like a butterfly -- John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B
Good morning! Today is a very special Sunday. Can anybody
Seeing God -- John 1:1-18 -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Good morning! Did any of you see God this morning when you came into church?
A very big surprise! -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
(Note: You may want to create your own object example. You
Working together -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Good morning! Saint Paul tells us that the church is like a

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NULL -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Evan was graduating.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 (2012) -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- Mark J. Molldrem, Bob Ove, Cynthia E. Cowen, Ron Love, Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Job 1:1; 2:1-10
Sermon Illustrations for Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
Acts 2:1-21
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 (2012) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Ron Love, Bob Ove, Mark J. Molldrem, Cynthia E. Cowen, Mark Ellingsen, Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sid Cook, 59, is a fourth generation Wisconsin cheese maker... -- Acts 10:44-48 -- Ron Love -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Sid Cook, 59, is a fourth generation Wisconsin cheese maker.
Sermon Illustrations for Passion Sunday (2012) -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11 -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2012
Isaiah 50:4-9a
A Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life poll revealed... -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2012
With reference to the lesson's description of David and his contemporaries worshiping joyfully it is
NULL -- Hebrews 9:24-28 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
Mrs. Edwards had a passion for teaching.
NULL -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
Wesley C.
During the French Revolution the country was in economic chaos... -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Ron Love -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2012
During the French Revolution the country was in economic chaos.
Some expect God to perform a healing when they pray for a person... -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Some expect God to perform a healing when they pray for a person.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 27 | OT 32 (2012) -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen, Cynthia E. Cowen, Mark J. Molldrem, Bob Ove, Ron Love -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17
NULL -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
In the TV series 24, which aired several years ago, Jack Bauer (played by Kiefer Sutherland)
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 6 | OT 11, Cycle B (2012) -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2012
1 Samuel 15:34--16:13
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 (2012) -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen, Mark J. Molldrem, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
Proverbs 1:20-33
The late Peter Gomes once commented on Eastern Orthodox baptism... -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
The late Peter Gomes once commented on Eastern Orthodox baptism and said: "...
First Lady Michelle Obama became... -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Ron Love -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2012
First Lady Michelle Obama became defensive with the publication of the book The Obamas, by
John Paul Jones, a captain in the U.S. Navy... -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Ron Love -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2012
John Paul Jones, a captain in the U.S.
NULL -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
Our lesson is all about giving, not about how much to give, but the spirit of giving.
NULL -- Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Ron Love -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
Oftentimes new technology becomes so commonplace that we fail to realize its revolutionary social ch
Julia Ward Howe, the composer of... -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2012
Julia Ward Howe, the composer of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" once asked the abolitionist leade
Barbara Van Dahan is addressing a problem that has been basically ignored by society... -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Ron Love -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Barbara Van Dahan is addressing a problem that has been basically ignored by society, and that is th
NULL -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
Ted Geisel of Springfield, Massachusetts, wanted to be a writer.
NULL -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
One of my sons is getting his degree, and he sometimes complains about the tests he will have to tak
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 8 | OT 13 (2012) -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2012
2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27

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Proper 15 -- Psalm 102:1-12 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1993
Hear my prayer, O Lord; let my cry come to you.
Easter 2 -- Psalm 133 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!
Proper 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1993
We have come to the end of the story of great King David who
Proper 8 -- Psalm 30 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1993
I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up,
Fourth Sunday Of Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
David tells his prophet, Nathan, that he wants to build a
Proper 16 -- Psalm 67 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1993
May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
Easter 3 -- Psalm 4 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Answer me when I call, O God of my right! You gave me room when I was in distress.
Proper 16 -- 2 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1993
At the completion of the building of the temple, Solomon calls
Proper 9 -- Psalm 89:20-37 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1993
I have found my servant David; with my holy oil I have anointed him;
All Saints' Sunday -- Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44, Isaiah 25:6-9 -- John R. Brokhoff -- All Saints Day - B -- 1993
We have here the eschatological feast of God. It is to be held
Proper 17 -- Psalm 121 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
I lift up my eyes to the hills -- from where will my help come?
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
Proper 17 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
According to tradition the Song of Solomon was written by
Thanksgiving -- Psalm 126 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 1993
When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
Christ The King -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1993
Scholars are divided on the question whether David actually
Proper 18 -- Psalm 119:129-136 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
Your decrees are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them.
Easter 5 -- Psalm 22:25-31 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
From you comes my praise in the great congregation;
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
It is obvious that this pericope was chosen because of its
Trinity -- Psalm 29 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1993
Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
The Resurrection Of Our Lord (Easter Day) -- Acts 10:34-43 or Isaiah 25: 6-9, John 20:1-18 or Mark 16:1-8 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Easter Day - B -- 1993
This passage looks forward to the day when God will offer a
Proper 19 -- Psalm 125 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1993
Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion,
Easter 6 -- Psalm 98 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things.
Proper 19 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1993
Lesson 1: Proverbs 1:20-33 Israel is warned against rejection of wisdom.
Tuesday Of Holy Week -- Psalm 71:1-12 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- 1993
In you, O Lord, I take refuge; let me never be put to shame.
Second Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Here is a picture of the apostolic church. In this passage we

Sermon

SermonStudio

Lord Of All! -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Ron Lavin -- Easter Day - B -- 2005
A post-resurrection story is told about Lazarus, the man Jesus brought back from the dead.
Prayer: A Way Of Life -- James 5:13-20 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2005
Once there was a monastery in the woods that had fallen upon hard times.
Birthing The Kingdom -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2002
I for one am heartily glad that the millennium (and its attendant madness) is well behind us.
The Amazing Holy Week Equation -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2002
One of the typical difficulties of days like today is connecting the ritual and annual stories of Pa
The Story Behind The Glory -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- Frederick R. Harm -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
Welcome to the Sunday after Christmas! Tell me, has the glory begun to fade?
Do You Hear What I Hear? -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Easter Day - B -- 2002
I'm a bird lover, and spring time is prime time to get excited about our feathered friends.
When Nothing Is Everything -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2002
I was startled by a recent analysis of per capita charitable contributions by state.
The Source -- Hebrews 5:5-10 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
One of the most precious and indispensable needs you and I have is to be able to have at least one p
Bedlam Or Bethlehem? -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Frederick R. Harm -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2002
I wonder if you have ever realized how the word "bedlam" entered our language?
Out Of Control! -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2002
Recently some 900 teenagers and adult advisors from all over New England gathered at Hammonasset Sta
The Ministry Of Fading -- John 12:20-33 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
We could spend our sermon time talking with you about John's Christology and how our text indicates
The Joy Of Shared Truth -- 1 John 1:1--2:2 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
The chasm between the realities in which two different people live can be vast.
Will The Real Blind Beggar Please Stand Up? -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2002
It's easy to slap some people down.
So Great A Love -- Ephesians 2:1-10 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2002
Lent 4Ephesians 2:1-10So Great A Love
Grace In The Midst Of Exasperation -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2002
Spiritual storytelling (a.k.a.
God Calling You! -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2002
One Friday I had kind of a rough morning.
Extravagant Gestures In A Cost-Effective World -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2002
Families of faith that dwell in older buildings eventually have to struggle with the issue of restor
Running Home In The Dark -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2002
Our liturgical calendar stands poised on the verge of a commercial feeding frenzy.

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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
Grace To You, And Peace -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2005
The weeklong pastor's training event was about halfway through its course and the pastor coordinatin
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.
Engage Mind Before Putting Mouth In Gear -- James 3:1-12 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2005
When we were children our parents often quoted us the expression, "Sticks and stones can break my bo

The Immediate Word

You Are What You Say: The Word Incarnate And Human Words -- Ephesians 3:1-12, John 1:1-18 -- Carter Shelley, George L. Murphy, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton, Larry Hard -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2003
(Originally published for January 5, 2003)
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George L. Murphy, Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Charles Cammarata -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
(Originally published for December 29, 2002)
Can We 'let Heaven And Nature Sing'? -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George L. Murphy, Carter Shelley, Terry Cain -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
(Originally published for January 1, 2006)

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First -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Frank R. Fisher, Constance Berg, Cynthia E. Cowen, Gregory L. Tolle -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
Contents What's Up This Week
The Two Churches -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Psalm 127 -- Charles Cammarata, Constance Berg, John A. Stroman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
ContentsWhat's Up This Week
Man Of Discipline -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- C. David Mckirachan, Charles Cammarata, David O. Bales, Terry Cain -- Passion Sunday - B
Based on Revised Common Lectionary texts:Passion/Palm Sunday
The Voice Of The Broken Branch -- Mark 13:28-29 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Contents
One Day In Paradise -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Frank R. Fisher, David O. Bales, C. David Mckirachan, Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
ContentsWhat's Up This Week
Singing To Resurrection -- Mark 16:1-8, John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Frank R. Fisher, Sil Galvan, Steven E. Burt, Kenneth Carlson -- Easter Day - B
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "Maybe It's Just Too Good"
Cameron's Story -- Isaiah 40:5 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Cameron's Story by Todd Chrisler (as told to John Sumwalt)
A Thanksgiving Reflection -- Matthew 6:25-33, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Joel 2:21-27, Psalm 126 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett, C. David Mckirachan, David O. Bales, Frank R. Fisher -- Thanksgiving Day - B
NOTE: This installment covers both Thanksgiving Day and Christ The King Sunday.
The Mighty Metaphor Machine -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Stan Purdum, C. David Mckirachan, Sandra Herrmann -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
Contents What's Up This Week
The Whole Truth -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4 -- David O. Bales, Terry Cain -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "We Are Family"
As Much As Jesus Loves His Sheep... -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Constance Berg, Charles Cammarata, Peter C. Garrison -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Contents What's Up This Week

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PROPER 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58, Psalm 111 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPPraise the LORD! Give thanks to the LORD with all your heart.
FIFTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPO praise the Lord. How good it is to sing psalms to our God!
SIXTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45, Psalm 30 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPRejoice and be glad, good people, sing aloud before our
David's Last Words -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Jairus' Daughter and The Woman Who Touched Jesus' Cloak -- Mark 5:21-43 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
A Prayer For Guidance And Protection -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use before the pastoral prayer.
PROPER 16 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69, Psalm 84 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPCome to Christ whose words are words of eternal life.
SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12, Psalm 41 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPIn Christ Jesus every one of God's promises is a "Yes." For this
The Empty Tomb -- John 20:1-18 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Easter Day - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading or
Jesus Rejected in Nazareth and Jesus Sends Out The Disciples -- Mark 6:1-13 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Jesus Speaks About His Suffering And Death -- Mark 8:31-38 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PROPER 17 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPGive yourselves wholly to prayer . . . always interceding for all
EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Hosea 2:14-20, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Mark 2:18-22, Psalm 103:1-13, 22 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPBless God from your innermost heart and hallow God's name,
Jesus Appears To His Disciples -- John 20:19-31 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading or as a call
Do Not Worry -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use before the pastoral prayer.
Christ The Power And The Wisdom Of God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PROPER 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPPraise the Lord as long as you live. Sing psalms to God all your
NINTH SUNDAY AFTER EPIPHANY -- Deuteronomy 5:12-15, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6, Psalm 81:1-10 -- B. David Hostetter -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPWorship the God who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," who
Children Of God -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use as an anthem.3 readers -- a trio of young womenKey:
The Lord Takes Elijah Up To Heaven -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
The Snake Made Of Bronze -- Numbers 21:4-9 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PROPER 19 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPLove the Lord, who has heard us and listens to our prayers. God
FIRST SUNDAY IN LENT -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15, Psalm 25:1-10 -- B. David Hostetter -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPLook for signs of the covenant which God makes with us and our
Let Us Love -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
The Voice Of The Lord -- Psalm 29 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
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...

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

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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.
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.
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!
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.
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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