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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
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
That's not fair! -- 1 Peter 3:18-22 -- First Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! I brought a clipping from the newspaper to
Time and eternity -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Does anyone here wear a watch?
Children of God -- 1 John 3:1-2 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Have you ever stopped to think
The sword of the Spirit -- Ephesians 6:10-20 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Good morning! What is this thing I have in my hand? (Show
Forgive each other -- Colossians 3:12-17 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning, boys and girls. What does it mean to forgive
My favorite teacher -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have ever given
God's BECAUSE -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
The apostle Paul talks about God's grace. We hear that word
Tell everybody -- Luke 2:1-20 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Good evening! How many of you know how to work with a
Give Thanks! -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Thanksgiving Day - B
Today is Thanksgiving and I want to ask each of you what you
A special honor -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. We are almost at the end of Advent and very near to Christmas.
Rich in so many ways -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you know what it means to be wealthy?
Silly! -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Let's pretend this morning. Let's pretend that we believe
The good shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning. Today's reading says something very unusual.
Nailprints -- John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
When do you pray? -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have said a
Only one -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Thanksgiving Day - B
Good morning! The Bible tells us that there is only one
Repent and believe -- Mark 1:9-15 -- First Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! Have you ever seen one of these? (Show the
Fish for people -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Did anyone bring a friend with you this 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?
There's only one ticket -- John 6:56-69 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Good morning! I want you to imagine that you are planning a
The gospel free of charge -- 1 Corinthians 9:16-23 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like to blow
Jesus, who are you? -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought a mask with me this
Like glue -- Ephesians 2:11-22 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Good morning! When the apostle Paul wrote to the church in

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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
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
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
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2012) -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16
NULL -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
There is an ecological dimension to this text (concern with the land).
NULL -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
John was furious! "Jane, how could you have done this?" Jane was mortified.
Leslie Weatherhead was an outstanding English Methodist preacher... -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
Leslie Weatherhead was an outstanding English Methodist preacher and writer who tells of a visit to
NULL -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
I went with a friend to a gigantic healing service in Sacramento years ago.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 (2012) -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Mark Ellingsen, Richard A. Hasler, Cynthia E. Cowen, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2012
Job 23:1-9, 16-17
From the early years of the church... -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Good Friday - B -- 2012
From the early years of the church people of faith have been responding to the call of the writer of
An article in a 2010 issue of Nature magazine indicated... -- John 6:1-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
An article in a 2010 issue of Nature magazine indicated that we have the food resources to fe
Angelo Siciliano was a 97-pound weakling from Brooklyn... -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Ron Love -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
The story is true. Angelo Siciliano was a 97-pound weakling from Brooklyn.
NULL -- Joel 2:21-27 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
A couple traveling in Europe wanted to stop in and see a famous Jewish rabbi who happened to live ne
NULL -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Ron Love -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
Alecia Beth Moore, whose stage name is Pink, wrote an essay on her admiration for the singing talent
Why do we live as Christians?... -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Craig Kelly -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
Why do we live as Christians?
NULL -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
Jesus probably had a home base in Capernaum, which no doubt involved a house.
NULL -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2012
Like Job, Americans do not like to admit that they are sinners, but rather like to think of themselv
I love going to concerts... -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- Craig Kelly -- Good Friday - B -- 2012
I love going to concerts. It always thrills me to hear bands I love playing my favorite songs live.
As Nathan told his story about the rich man... -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
William J.
In the May 2012 publication of Time magazine... -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
In the May 2012 publication of Time magazine, the editors devoted a special double issue to t
John O'Hara was a novelist whose historical settings... -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
John O'Hara was a novelist whose historical settings were based on life during the first half of the
NULL -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
One year Thanksgiving plans were cancelled for the Husings.
NULL -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
The heart of the Reformation message is that righteousness/salvation is not something we achieve by
In the movie Star Wars... -- Romans 8:22-27 -- Ron Love -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
Paul wrote "that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains" in expectation of a Savior.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 (2012) -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Richard A. Hasler, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Cynthia E. Cowen, Mark J. Molldrem, Ron Love -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22

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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.
Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- George M. Bass -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 1990
In addition to the emphasis of reconciliation between God and his people, a central motif of the Mau
First Sunday of Advent -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- George M. Bass -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
Wake up and watch is the biblical/liturgical theme for this First Sunday of Advent.
Proper 27 -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 1990
The end of the Pentecost cycle/season is rapidly approaching; the calendar - church and secular - te
Third Sunday after the Epiphany -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1990
Those who look at the lectionaries for the remainder of Epiphany will notice that the semi-continuou
Fourth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- George M. Bass -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
This is Good Shepherd Sunday, which occurs, as earlier commentary has pointed out, one week later in
Proper 16 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1990
In 1991 , this will be the pivotal Sunday in the Pentecost cycle/season; thirteen Sundays precede it
Proper 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1990
Since every Sunday of the church year is a "Little Easter," and since John 6 is being read as the Go
Third Sunday in Lent -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22 -- George M. Bass -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
In the ancient liturgy, this Sunday was known as Oculi - "Eyes" or "Vision" Sunday - from the fourte
Fourth Sunday of Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- George M. Bass -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
Prior to the revision of the church year and lectionary, the Fourth Sunday of Advent really was "Chr
Proper 6 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, Mark 4:26-34 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1990
The Sunday celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ - with the promise of his ultim
Proper 14 -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1990
The theological clue contained in this part of the church year continues to be kerygmatic, informing
Third Sunday of Advent -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- George M. Bass -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
"New Age" Sunday might be one name that could be given to this Third Sunday of Advent.
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1990
The Epiphany - the manifestation of the person of Jesus as the One promised by God - continues on th
Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1990
The Epiphany - the manifestation of the person of Jesus as the One promised by God - continues on th
Proper 22 -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1, 2:1-10 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1990
The early Christian Church could sustain its cry of "Christ is risen!
Third Sunday of Easter -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- George M. Bass -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
It was suggested in the Lectionary Preaching Workbook III, Cycle A, that the Third Sunday of Easter
Proper 6 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, Mark 4:26-34 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1990
The Sunday celebration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ - with the promise of his ultim
Fourth Sunday of Advent -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- George M. Bass -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
Prior to the revision of the church year and lectionary, the Fourth Sunday of Advent really was "Chr
Third Sunday of Easter -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- George M. Bass -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
It was suggested in the Lectionary Preaching Workbook III, Cycle A, that the Third Sunday of Easter
Proper 15 -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1990
Since every Sunday of the church year is a "Little Easter," and since John 6 is being read as the Go
Proper 16 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1990
In 1991 , this will be the pivotal Sunday in the Pentecost cycle/season; thirteen Sundays precede it
Fourth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- George M. Bass -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
This is Good Shepherd Sunday, which occurs, as earlier commentary has pointed out, one week later in
Third Sunday after the Epiphany -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- George M. Bass -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1990
Those who look at the lectionaries for the remainder of Epiphany will notice that the semi-continuou
Proper 14 -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1990
The theological clue contained in this part of the church year continues to be kerygmatic, informing

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Going, Going, Gone -- 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Curtis Lewis -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2002
Recently, a friend of mine went to Wrigley Field in Chicago to watch an afternoon baseball game.
Where Have All The Flowers Gone? -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2002
The Song of Solomon is a collection of some of the world's greatest love poems.
What Goes On When He Comes In? -- 2 Timothy 1:6, 7, Acts 19:1-7 -- Frederick R. Harm -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2002
As we grapple with the meaning of our first text for today, Acts chapter 19, how appropriate is the
The Crawl Of The Ages -- Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2002
The young mother sat nervously in the office of the Christian counselor.
The Dark Didn't Catch Me! -- John 6:24-35 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2002
Remember how it was in grade school when your class went out on the playground during recess?
A Vision And A Voice -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Paul E. Flesner -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2002
Today we remember the baptism of Jesus.
Covenant Of The Heart; Sacred Signature -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- H. Alan Stewart -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2002
Marriage is a covenant.
Promises, Promises -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2002
George recalls the time many years ago when he and his wife were about to have their first child.
The World's Still Point -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Just this past week I received an e-mail from a gentleman I do not know.
Finding God In A Seller's Market -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2002
An elementary principle in the business world is the law of supply and demand.
Making Compassion A Verb -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- David G. Rogne -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2002
The Superintendent of Schools was having a bad year.
Entrustment -- John 17:6-19 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Over thirty years ago, the late David H. C.
By What Power Did You Do This? -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2002
When I was growing up, my family belonged to St.
Where Do We Go From Here? -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2002
It was a critical time in the life of the people. Their beloved king had died.
Easy To Say; Hard To Do -- 1 John 4:7-21 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
"Love is a many splendored thing...." Or so we heard Don Cornwall and the Four Aces sing time and ag
Laid Bare, Laid Out, And Laid Back -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2002
Today's sermon to the Hebrews hits close to home for us in contemporary America.
The Hillside And The Basket -- John 6:1-21 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2002
There is a certain rock known as a geode. From the outside it is but a dull-looking stone.
Called To Love, Not Like -- John 15:9-17 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
The humorist Will Rogers told us that he never met a man he didn't like.
The Light Shines In The Darkness, And The Darkness Cannot Overcome It -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2002
Lament. What a powerful biblical word. Lament.
The Power Of Confession -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2002
A man wrote to Dear Abby admitting an affair with another woman that cost him dearly.
Learning From The Spider -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
I've always been amazed by spiders. I love to watch them spin their webs and catch their prey.
Calling A Halt To The Angel Craze -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2002
Some stout claims are made in today's lesson.
The Fox -- Mark 6:14-29 -- David G. Rogne -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2002
I know that I don't have much status up here in Gaul, but will you do me the favor of listening to m
Together, But Not Enmeshed -- John 15:1-8 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Jesus describes the community gathered in his name -- and that would be all of us -- using the image
What Are Your Goliaths? -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2002
I chaperoned a fourth grade class on a field trip to the Olde Mystic Village and Seaport.

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Final Instructions -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use as a benediction charge.
Jesus calling the disciples and sending them out two by two -- Mark 6:7-13 -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus' invitation to the disciples to leave the crowd and to rest -- Mark 6:30-34 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
The Transfiguration of Jesus -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
Jesus' attempt to be alone with his disciples -- John 6:1-15 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationConsider this:
The Baptism, Temptation, Message of Jesus -- Mark 1:9-15 -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
Jesus, the Bread of Life -- John 6:24-35 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
Jesus' awareness of the cost of discipleship -- Mark 8:31-38, Mark 9:2-10 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
Jesus' response to, his critics, and his reiteration of the Bread of Life theme -- John 6:35, 41-51 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
The cleansing of the temple; the promise of Jesus' resurrection. -- John 2:13-25 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
Jesus' insights into his body and blood -- John 6:51-58 -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 1990
Order of Worship HeadingsConsider this:
God's love for the world to which the son came to bring light and judgment. -- John 3:14-21 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationConsider this:
Jesus, the living Bread and Wine -- John 6:55-69 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus' moving toward his death and glorification; the call to die in order to live -- John 12:20-33 -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationTry this:
Jesus' insight into his death because of the people's attitudes -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationTry this:
The final events of Jesus' life -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1990
The idea for this Holy Week celebration came from an idea suggested by a pastor in a church periodic
Christmastide, the Season of the Nativity -- John 14:9 -- 1990
The most popular of all the Christian festivals is the season of Christmas.
Jesus' entry into Jerusalem -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationConsider this:
Advent, the Season of Expectancy -- 1990
The church regulates its church year, not by the civil or astronomical calendar, but by the events i

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The self-sacrifice of the Good Shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
Gospel Note:
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
The Birth Of Jesus Announced -- Luke 1:26-38 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - 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
Second Sunday of 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 Village Shepherd

Parables of the Kingdom -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 1990
Note: There is no content for Proper 6 / OT 11 / Pentecost 4 from The Village Shephe
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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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