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They saw the resurrected Jesus -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Easter Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today I have something very special in a box.
God is alive -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought some beautiful autumn
Witnessing about Jesus -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. This is an exciting time of the year.
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
Our body is a temple -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Love by action! -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. (Hold up the cash register
Savior, Messiah, Lord -- Luke 2:1-20 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Today I brought a campaign poster of our president. The
Keep it a secret -- Matthew 6:1-6 -- Ash Wednesday - B
Good evening! I read this story recently in the paper about
Time to change -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you who are in grade
The best ever hand-me-down -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning boys and girls. How many of you know how to
Excuses, excuses -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Good morning! I have kind of an unusual question for you
Fill up with the Spirit -- Ephesians 5:15-20 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
Good morning! I want to show you this newspaper article.
THE King! -- John 18:33-37 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
About two thousand years ago, a man who was very powerful
One plus one equals one -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we are going to talk about marriage.
Have patience -- Titus 2:11-14 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Good evening! Can anybody tell me why we are in church
Active love -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning! This morning I brought a friend of mine I love
The empty tomb -- John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today is the biggest day in our Christian year. What day is it?
Threading God's needle -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. This morning I brought a needle
The Jesus team -- John 1:43-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Good morning!
I am the good shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Have any of you ever been lost?
God's Word -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12) -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Whenever someone speaks to us, it is with words. Whenever
That's not fair! -- 1 Peter 3:18-22 -- First Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! I brought a clipping from the newspaper to
An early valentine -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I want to show you a valentine
A very important Sunday -- Luke 2:22-40 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I'm going to tell you a story
Don't be misled -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Good morning! There are a lot of different religions in the

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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.
NULL -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20 -- Ron Love -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
Juan Manuel Santos is Colombia's turnaround man.
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
NULL -- John 18:33-37 -- Ron Love -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Las Vegas is the prime destination for trade shows.
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
The problem of doubt faces us all... -- James 3:1-12 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
The problem of doubt faces us all.
NULL -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Ron Love -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
In Kasto, Minnesota, there is a business called Drive-a-Tank.
NULL -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
Herman Wouk, the novelist who wrote such best-sellers as The Caine Mutiny, Marjorie Mornin
Like David, Americans do not want to acknowledge their sin... -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
Like David, Americans do not want to acknowledge their sin.
In the comedy film The Money Pit... -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Ron Love -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
In the comedy film The Money Pit, Tom Hanks and Shelly Long play a young couple in New York C
We don't have professional foot washers... -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Craig Kelly -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2012
We don't have professional foot washers in twenty-first-century North America, so it's rather diffic
NULL -- John 18:33-37 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Pilate exemplifies what Winston Churchill once observed: "Men occasionally stumble over the truth, b
Sermon Illustrations for Reformation Day (2012) -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36 -- Ron Love, Bob Ove, Cynthia E. Cowen, Mark J. Molldrem, Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
Jeremiah 31:31-34
NULL -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
This is an uncomfortable text, no matter how one tries to read it.
NULL -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Ron Love -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
The Washington Post did a review of books about the Titanic on the 100th anniversary o
N.T. Wright tells the following story about Desmond Tutu... -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
N.T. Wright tells the following story about Desmond Tutu's prayer life.
I've grown to really enjoy cooking over the years... -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Craig Kelly -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
I've grown to really enjoy cooking over the years.
Sermon Illustrations for Good Friday (2012) -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1--19:42 -- Good Friday - B -- 2012
Isaiah 52:13--53:12
NULL -- John 18:33-37 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Three-year-old Benjamin pranced around wearing his Burger King crown.
NULL -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
On Valentine's Day romantics old or young have the opportunity to declare their love.
NULL -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
I once wrote an essay "Can none Ph.D.s be saved?" I have friends who are Ph.D.s and I know they are
NULL -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
The children of Shepherd's Preschool loved being leaders.
Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson made an insightful comment... -- John 6:1-21 -- Ron Love -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
Astrophysicist Neil DeGrasse Tyson made an insightful comment that could only come from one who stud
One of the great passions of Bono... -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
One of the great passions of Bono, the lead singer of the rock band U2 is to end Third World debts a
Ken and Carol Dorushka went to Safeway that morning... -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12 -- Ron Love -- Good Friday - B -- 2012
Ken and Carol Dorushka went to Safeway that morning to get a few items for lunch and to greet their

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Lent 4 -- Psalm 137:1-6 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
By the rivers of Babylon --
Proper 9 -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1993
David becomes king of all Israel. For 71/2 years he ruled the
First Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- John R. Brokhoff -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1993
Humankind became so corrupt that Yahweh had to destroy it
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1990
The Epiphany/Manifestation theme - "this is the Promised One, the very Son of God" - continues to be
Second Sunday after the Epiphany -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1990
In the "old" lectionary, the Sundays of Epiphany continued the manifestation theme mostly with the m
The Baptism of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- George M. Bass -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1990
Some times the Baptism of our Lord, or the First Sunday after the Epiphany, functions as the octave
Proper 7 -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 1990
Since it is now over three months since the church celebrated Easter, the memories of the joy and gl
Proper 4 -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 1990
The cycle/season of Pentecost is the time in the church during which God consolidates in the faithfu
Proper 25 -- Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28, Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Psalm 126 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1990
In the older liturgies and lectionaries, three themes - sinfulness, godliness, and loving service -
The Epiphany of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1990
The liturgical and theological function of the festival of Epiphany is to manifest the full glory of
Fifth Sunday in Lent -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- George M. Bass -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
More than any other Sunday in Lent, the fifth Sunday has lost its theological and liturgical identit
Reformation Sunday -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36 -- George M. Bass -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 1990
Virtually all Lutheran calendars and lectionaries make provision for the celebration of Reformation
Proper 28 -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Mark 13:1-8 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1990
Eschatology - the "last things" - is the order of the day on this next to the last Sunday of Penteco
The Holy Trinity -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- George M. Bass -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1990
Trinity Sunday had given its name to the entire second half of the church year; that changed almost
Fifth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- George M. Bass -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
Psalm 98 gave this Sunday its name, Cantate: "Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvellou
Proper 11 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1990
Two saints' days that occur this week remind the church what its theological task should be on Sunda
Proper 24 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1990
With the church year nearing the end of its annual cycle - and with Advent (with its eschatological
The Resurrection of Our Lord -- Isaiah 25:6-9, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43 -- George M. Bass -- Easter Day - B -- 1990
In the beginning of the Christian era, there was only the Resurrection of Our Lord.
Proper 23 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1990
It is critical, at this juncture of the church year, to remember that the lectionary and the church
The Transfiguration of Our Lord -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- George M. Bass -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1990
Prior to the adoption of the new lectionary and somewhat revised church year, the Lutheran Church fo
First Sunday after Christmas -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George M. Bass -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1990
The Sundays after Christmas (there may be one or two some years) allow the church time to reflect on
Proper 21 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1990
The theological content of every Sunday in the year focuses on the resurrection of our Lord as a "Li
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
The very numbering of the Sundays reminds every pastor that the end of the Pentecost cycle/season is
Proper 5 -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) -- George M. Bass -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 1990
Sunday provides the theological clue within the cycle and season of Pentecost.
First Sunday in Lent -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- George M. Bass -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Historically, most of the liturgical churches celebrate the First Sunday in Lent as Invocabit, as th

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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
You Can Make It Happen -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2002
Some friends invited Brenda to go rock climbing with them.
Who Can Ask For Anything More? -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2002
Those who have read Charles Dickens' famous story, Oliver Twist, will recall that little Oliver, sti
Grace In The Midst Of Weakness -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- Glenn W. Mcdonald -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2002
Over the centuries rank and file church members have grown up in the presence of stained glass saint
King Forever! -- John 6:56-69 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2002
Norman Rockwell has a painting titled Lift Up Thine Eyes.
Seeing Jesus Clearly -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2002
I'd like to begin with what might seem a rather strange question.
Joy To The World -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- Curtis Lewis -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2002
Open the hymnals. Pull out the stops on the organ, for we are going to sing a song.
First Light -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Curtis Lewis -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2002
Have you ever seen the aurora borealis?
My Life Is In You, Lord -- Proverbs 31:10-31 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2002
When we affirm that our life belongs to God, this affirmation includes every aspect of our lives.
Everybody Loves A Parade! -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2002
This is the season for parades.
For The Person Who Is Everything -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2002
One of life's interesting experiences is learning how to respond to gifts.
The Dangers Of Being Religious -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2002
Jeff Foxworthy has made a career of telling "redneck" jokes.
We Are Christ's -- That Is Enough -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2002
In today's Gospel, Mark tells us more about Jesus by showing his power over unclean spirits.
The Trinity -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2002
Today we celebrate the Festival of the Holy Trinity. God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Solid Foundation -- Proverbs 1:20-33 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2002
There was much excitement on the first night of Vacation Bible School as parents eagerly registered
Don't Fence Me In! -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2002
Goodspeed translates our text: "I may do anything I please but not everything I do is good for me.
The Real Thing -- Hebrews 9:24-28 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2002
How do you know something is a genuine article, "The Real Thing"?
To A Life Beyond -- John 6:51-58 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2002
The torches burned long into the night in the banquet hall.
The Adventure Of Discipleship -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2002
Today's Gospel is about Jesus' calling of his first four disciples.
The God Who Never Lets Go Of Us -- Joel 2:21-27 -- H. Alan Stewart -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2002
The prophets of antiquity faced problems no different from the soothsayers of today: what language c
Abundant Love -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2002
The pastor began his sermon by telling of an encounter earlier that week.
Spelling Doesn't Count -- 1 John 5:9-13 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
How many of you know what BASE jumping is?
Blood For Sale? -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Sol Levin recognized the profitable market for safe and uncontaminated blood in America.
A Landmark Event! -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2002
During World War II allied armies marched into Germany on their way to Berlin.
Making A Difference -- John 1:43-51 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2002
How many of you know someone who is partially or completely color blind?

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Living In Response To God's Gifts -- James 1:17-27 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
ASH WEDNESDAY -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, Psalm 51:1-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 -- B. David Hostetter -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIP Take joy in your salvation and be willing to
The Rich And The Poor -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
CHRIST THE KING -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8 -- B. David Hostetter -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPHoliness is the beauty of God's temple while time shall last.
The Heavens Are Telling -- Psalm 19 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use as an anthem.6 readers -- 3 women and 3 older girls
EASTER -- Acts 10:34-43 or Isaiah 25:6-9, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- B. David Hostetter -- Easter Day - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIP (responsively)This is the day on which the Lord has acted:
The Greatest -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- B. David Hostetter -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPHear and read what is written down in the gospel of John in order
You Should Pray -- James 5:13-20 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Satan Tests Job A Second Time -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 3:12-19, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- B. David Hostetter -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
*CALL TO WORSHIPGod is everywhere. Pause here to be armed with the power from
The Rich Man -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23, 1 John 3:16-24 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPApproach God with confidence. Do what God approves and ask what
The Request Of James And John -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8, Psalm 22:25-31 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPSeek the Sovereign of all nations. Praise God and be in good
Job Answers The Lord And Is Blessed -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1993
Suggestions: Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17, Psalm 98 -- B. David Hostetter -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPSing praises in God's honor with the harp and the music of the
Naomi And Ruth -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
The Coming Of The Son Of Man -- Mark 13:24-37 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19, Psalm 1 -- B. David Hostetter -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIP (responsively)How awesome is God most high,
Christ's Sacrifice -- Hebrews 9:24-28 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Words Of Hope -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- B. David Hostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPGive homage to the Christ. Bring him your treasures and offer
Jesus Speaks Of Trouble -- Mark 13:1-8 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
Final Instructions -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use as a benediction charge.
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
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Advent 4
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10 – Worship 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:

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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.
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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