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I have great news! -- John 1:43-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have one of
A personal message -- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
No illusion here! -- John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
I want to show you something here. (Show them the optical
Sent on a mission -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning! In today's Gospel, we read about a man named
A seed multiplies -- John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Authority from heaven -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought something called a
The baptism of Jesus -- Mark 1:4-11 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
Good morning! Did you know that we are in the season of Epiphany? Can you say Epiphany?
From within -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
We use our hands for many things and one way we use our
No more bad habits -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like candy bars?
Finding what's right -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. This morning we are going to talk about testing ourselves.
View from the manger -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
(Note: Before you begin your story, remove the figurines from
Seeing Jesus as he is -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Good morning! In the gospel reading we heard about a really
Our Redeemer -- Titus 2:11-14 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Many of you have seen coupons before. Chances are your parents use them. But how do coupons work?
I'll believe it when I see it -- John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Has anyone ever told you
A ... Z -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
Good morning! Today is the last Sunday of the church year.
Drawn by the Father -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Good morning! I want us to try a little experiment this
Who gave the most? -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Good morning! We have a project here at the church that we are raising money for.
What time is it? -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you know how to tell
From rough wood a treasure comes -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we are going to talk about something that makes us sad.
God's family -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Babies are so cute. Do you all like babies? (Let them
God's mystery novel -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning! I brought this book to show you this morning.
The name of Jesus -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Passion Sunday - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we are going to learn about names and what they mean.
Peter means "the rock" -- John 1:29-42 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Our body is a temple -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Our weakness; God's strength -- 2 Corinthians 12:2-10 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
I have always admired men and women who can lift heavy

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Ali Ferzat spent years drawing political cartoons... -- Mark 6:14-29 -- Ron Love -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2012
Ali Ferzat spent years drawing political cartoons that denounced the autocratic reign of Syria's lea
NULL -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
Does prayer work? Hannah prayed and trusted God; she received a son.
NULL -- Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
The British poet Lord Byron wrote, "They never fail who die in a great cause." Over the centuries ma
George Washington was sent by the governor of Virginia... -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Ron Love -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2012
George Washington was sent by the governor of Virginia to inform the French they must leave the Alle
The tongue, which James describes as... -- James 3:1-12 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
The tongue, which James describes as a world of iniquity, also is a world of germs.
NULL -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Louis Cassels, in his Christian Primer, explains why God revealed himself in the way he did b
NULL -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Eugene Peterson not only produces Bible translations, he also is a poet.
We live in a politically correct world... -- 1 John 5:9-13 -- Craig Kelly -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
We live in a politically correct world. Tolerance is a key word in today's society.
NULL -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Ron Love -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
The harbor in Charleston, South Carolina, has engaged in a $15 million project to deepen the channel
So many different holidays... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Craig Kelly -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2012
It's interesting how we have so many different holidays on our calendar, many of which have little r
There is an uncompromising difference between Catholics and Protestants... -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Ron Love -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2012
There is an uncompromising difference between Roman Catholics and Protestants in the interpretation
Jesus desired to heal all who came to him... -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2012
Jesus desired to heal all who came to him, but his disciples tended to feel that there were some peo
NULL -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
"God's not answering my prayer. Why don't my children call me or visit?
NULL -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
A Russian pilgrim in the nineteenth century wandered into a church service and heard the pastor prea
Life is difficult in America given our present economic realities... -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2012
Life is difficult in America given our present economic realities, not unlike the hopelessness felt
Neighborhood Watch volunteer George Zimmerman was arrested... -- James 3:1-12 -- Ron Love -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
Neighborhood Watch volunteer George Zimmerman was arrested on second-degree murder for the shooting
NULL -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Famed preacher of the early church John Chrysostom [known as the one with a golden mouth] offers an
NULL -- John 18:33-37 -- Bob Ove -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
There is no jihad in Christianity.
In classic western films... -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Craig Kelly -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
In classic western films, there is the cliché ending of riding off into the sunset.
NULL -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
The book of Proverbs begins with wisdom personified as a woman, and it ends with a canticle of prais
Christopher H. Evans, co-author of the book... -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2012
Christopher H.
Douglas Steere taught philosophy at Haverford College... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2012
Douglas Steere taught philosophy at Haverford College near Philadelphia for many years, but Steere w
Some children were taken to a nursing home... -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Ron Love -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
Some children were taken to a nursing home to sing to the residents and share some time with them.
NULL -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Ron Love -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
Juan Manuel Santos is Colombia's turnaround man.
NULL -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
Martin Luther suggests that Bartimaeus represents all of us who want a closer walk with God: "The bl

Intercession

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SermonStudio

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1993
The light of God's glory has appeared.
Epiphany 5 -- Psalm 147:1-11 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1993
Praise the Lord!How good it is to sing praises to our God;
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
This is the first of two selections from the book of Ruth. The
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- John R. Brokhoff -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1993
The universe was created by God out of chaos and darkness
Epiphany 6 -- Psalm 32 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1993
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Proper 27 -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 1993
With the guidance of Naomi, Ruth gets Boaz as a husband. She
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1993
In the temple at Shiloh, the boy Samuel is serving the priest
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1993
Jonah refuses to obey God's command to preach to Nineveh, the
Epiphany 7 -- Psalm 41 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1993
Happy are those who consider the poor; the Lord delivers them in the day of trouble.
Proper 28 -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1993
Lesson 1: 1 Samuel 1:4-20 Elkanah had two wives.
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1993
The book of Deuteronomy came out of the reform movement during
Epiphany 8 -- Psalm 103:1-13 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1993
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Proper 4 -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1993
Samuel was a special gift of Yahweh to his mother, Hannah, who
Fifth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1993
Chapter 40 is the opening chapter of Deutero-Isaiah written in
Good Friday -- Psalm 22:1-18 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Good Friday - B -- 1993
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me,
Proper 5 -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 1993
Samuel became the religious and political leader of Israel. He
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1993
Elisha was a prophet of Israel in the ninth century. He was
Lent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.O my God, in you I trust;
Proper 6 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1993
The Lord rejected Saul as king because he disobeyed the divine
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1993
The Jews are in exile in Babylon. Deutero-Isaiah sees hope in
Lent 2 -- Psalm 105:1-11 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples.
Proper 7 -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 1993
Two armies were facing each other in the Elah Valley. The
Eighth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Hosea 2:14-20, 2 Corinthians 3:1-6, Mark 2:13-22 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1993
Hosea was an eighth century prophet in Israel (Northern
Lent 3 -- Psalm 19:7-14 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;
Proper 8 -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 1993
In a battle with the Philistines King Saul and his sons lost

Sermon

SermonStudio

The Destination Of All Journeys -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41) -- H. Alan Stewart -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2002
Today we encounter one of the most sacred moments for every single one of us.
Grace In The Midst Of Limited Resources -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Glenn W. Mcdonald -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2002
Year after year Stumpy and Martha attended the fair in their home state, and every summer it was the
Our Hope For Years To Come -- John 1:1-18 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2002
On January 1, 2001, our world marked the beginning of a new millennium in human history.
Cross Connections -- John 18:1-19:42 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Good Friday - B -- 2002
Good Friday is not an easy day on which to preach, nor is what happened on Good Friday easy to expla
No Salt In The City? -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2002
Last fall the phone rang in my study.
The Answer Waiting For A Question -- 2 Corinthians 1:18-22 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2002
A number of years ago some Christians placed bumper stickers on their vehicles stating, "Christ is t
The Roads Less Traveled -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2002
A lecturer was talking about what he called "the most dangerous road in the world." Most people in t
What Changes And What Doesn't? -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- H. Alan Stewart -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2002
(Before speaking, the speaker puts on a pair of "cool shades" [dark sunglasses] and takes them off w
Grace In The Midst Of The Crush Of Time -- 2 Corinthians 6:1-13 -- Glenn W. Mcdonald -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2002
In the year 2000 Forbes Magazine featured a special edition on a single topic that it called "the bi
Waiting And Witnessing -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Paul E. Flesner -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
My message this morning is about two biblical senior citizens and what we can learn from them about
New Wine In New Wineskins -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2002
We humans are often schizophrenic when it comes to the old and the new.
Is Your Love Shy? -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2002
When I was in college my post office box was right next to a pretty little blonde's.
Congratulations, You've Made The Team! -- Hebrews 12:1, 2, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2002
Perhaps you remember, in high school or college, trying out for the varsity or junior varsity baseba
Waiting For Godot? -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Frederick R. Harm -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2002
As we embark on another Advent Adventure we pause to remind ourselves that this sacred season holds
The Unanswered Question: Will God Be Fair? -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 -- H. Alan Stewart -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2002
Ancient people were terrorized by the thought of God.
Grace In The Midst Of Judgment -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Glenn W. Mcdonald -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2002
In his book Making Life Work, Chicago area pastor Bill Hybels cites a study that was published under
God Is Now Here -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Paul E. Flesner -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2002
Theologian Reinhold Niebuhr once observed that the Christmas event can only be spoken about in poetr
The Wideness In God's Mercy -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2002
Many fundamentalist Christian groups would have us believe that the Bible has all the answers to the
Have You Gone Far Enough? -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2002
When I was in divinity school some student had written graffiti on the bathroom wall.
What Are You Going To Do With My World? -- 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2002
A friend tells of his son who asked for a globe of the world as one of his Christmas gifts last year
With A Bang Or A Whimper? -- 2 Peter 3:8-15a -- Frederick R. Harm -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2002
Back in 1925, T. S.
God Is Good All The Time -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2002
Imagine a person standing in the rain without an umbrella.
Grace In The Midst Of Suffering -- 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1 -- Glenn W. Mcdonald -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2002
For several years an earnest and energetic woman has been attempting to make August 8 a national hol
A Song, A Dance, A Savior -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Curtis Lewis -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2002
Simon Wiesenthal in his book, The Sunflower, relates a discussion that took place at the Mauthausen
Your Sins Are Forgiven -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2002
This morning Mark tells us about the healing of a paralyzed man.

Stories

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Worship

SermonStudio

The Lord Appears To Samuel -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
MAUNDY THURSDAY -- B. David Hostetter -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 1993
* THE EXTINGUISHING OF EACH OF SEVEN CANDLES* ORGAN PRELUDE
True greatness -- servanthood not status -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note:
Jesus The Healer -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Jonah Obeys The Lord -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
NEW YEAR'S EVE/DAY -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46, Psalm 8 -- B. David Hostetter -- New Year's Day - C -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPWorship God, our Sovereign, with reverence for the majesty of
FIRST SUNDAY IN ADVENT -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- B. David Hostetter -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPWait expectantly for our Lord Jesus Christ to reveal himself. He
Jesus Feeds The Five Thousand and Jesus Walks On Water -- John 6:1-21 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
A Man With An Evil Spirit -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PENTECOST -- Acts 2:1-21 or Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- B. David Hostetter -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPLook to our Creator who gives breath to all breathing creatures
SECOND SUNDAY IN ADVENT -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- B. David Hostetter -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPHear the words of the Lord. Are they not words of peace, peace
The Bread Of Life -- John 6:24-35 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Israel's God -- Isaiah 40:21-31 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with interested, lively voices as they
PROPER 10 -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:14-29, Psalm 24 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPBelievers/Priests, you are clothed with the garments of
THIRD SUNDAY IN ADVENT -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- B. David Hostetter -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPTell out the greatness of the Lord. Rejoice in God your Savior.
The New Life In Christ -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
The Curing Of Naaman -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PROPER 11 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Psalm 89:20-37 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPRelax. You have heard the invitation of the Christ to come to
FOURTH SUNDAY IN ADVENT -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11,16, Romans 16:25-27 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPHappy are the people who have learned to give acclaim to God, and
Solomon Succeeds David As King -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Jesus Heals A Paralyzed Man -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
PROPER 12 -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPCome without concealment to confess your sins. Return to your
ALL SAINTS' -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Psalm 24, Revelation 21:1-6a -- B. David Hostetter -- All Saints Day - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPGod has spoken. Let us be glad and rejoice in the salvation of
The Whole Armor Of God -- Ephesians 6:10-20 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
ASCENSION DAY -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53, Psalm 47 -- B. David Hostetter -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIP and INVOCATIONLet us worship God.Let us pray
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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