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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' birthday -- Titus 2:11-14 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
How many fathers? -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! I have a question for you this morning. How
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?
Like glue -- Ephesians 2:11-22 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Good morning! When the apostle Paul wrote to the church in
Transfigured! -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
This changes everything! -- Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Before Jesus, God especially spoke to certain men and women.
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
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
Authority -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
When I graduated from grade school, I received this piece of
Who is number one? -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like arithmetic?
Jesus the Vine -- John 15:1-8 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning! Jesus once said that he is a "vine." I
How many know him? -- John 1:1-14 -- The Nativity of our Lord - B
Good morning! What are we celebrating today? (Let them
He'll be back -- Revelation 1:4b-8 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
Good morning! Has your mother or father ever left you at
What the signs tell -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I have a question for you. When
Sad clowns -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Ash Wednesday - B
Greetings, boys and girls. Today is the beginning of the Lenten season.
"Let the children ..." -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Good morning! Have you ever been to an amusement park with
Giving cheerfully -- 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Good morning! Every time we meet together for a church
Time for new clothes -- Ephesians 4:17-24 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you like to go to
He understands -- Hebrews 2:14-18 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Tests show us how much we know. In school we have tests so
Why do we follow Jesus? -- John 6:24-35 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Foolishness! -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! Today I want to show you a medication. It
Heirs of God -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B
Good morning! I want to show you this legal document today.
What makes a king a king? -- John 18:33-37 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
Good morning! This is Christ The King Sunday. Let's talk
Take these things out! -- John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Do you ever get angry? (Let them

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Communicating God's Love

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Drama

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

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.
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
Paul writes to the Ephesians using the symbolism of the Christian soldier... -- Ephesians 6:10-20 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
"Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist..." (Ephesians 6:14a).
NULL -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
Martin Luther was a troubled Augustinian monk trying to gain the assurance of his personal salvation
Sermon Illustrations for Easter Day (2012) -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B -- 2012
Acts 10:34-43
Our lesson speaks of our unity... -- Ephesians 4:1-16 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
Our lesson speaks of our unity, for Christ now fills all things.
NULL -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2012
The history of swords is fascinating, spanning thousands of years and a multitude of cultures.
NULL -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Bob Ove -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
Timothy didn't fail! That is one reason the church grew so fast in those early years!
It's funny how looking at the ideal of something... -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Craig Kelly -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
It's funny how looking at the ideal of something shows us how far away we are from it.
When Jared Loughner started to randomly fire into the crowd... -- Mark 8:31-38 -- Ron Love -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When Jared Loughner started to randomly fire into the crowd with his assassination attempt on Rep.
In 2008, Rajo Devi Lohan of India made worldwide headlines... -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Craig Kelly -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
In 2008, Rajo Devi Lohan of India made worldwide headlines by becoming the world's oldest new mom at
March 25, 1965... -- John 6:56-69 -- Ron Love -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
March 25, 1965. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
NULL -- John 8:31-36 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr.
Leonard Sweet tells an old story... -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Easter Day - B -- 2012
Leonard Sweet tells an old story about three African elders visiting the West.
Tom Wright tells the story of the historian... -- John 6:24-35 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
Tom Wright tells the story of the historian who was hurrying to finish his Ph.D. dissertation.
NULL -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Ron Love -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2012
Great Britain's richest woman was American-born Eva Rausing.
NULL -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
In the tradition of what was started by Leymah Gbowee, 2012 Nobel Peace Laureate, the women of Liber
Anne Lamott in her best-selling book, Traveling Mercies... -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
Anne Lamott in her best-selling book, Traveling Mercies tells of her fear at the appearance o
NULL -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Ron Love -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2012
In July 2012 at a Sotheby's auction, Edvard Munch's painting The Scream was sold for $120 mil
In 1901 President William B. McKinley visited Niagara Falls... -- John 3:1-17 -- Ron Love -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2012
In 1901 President William B. McKinley visited Niagara Falls.
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 3 (2012) -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
Exodus 20:1-17
A 2006 Pew Foundation survey... -- John 6:56-69 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
A 2006 Pew Foundation survey and a Baylor Religion Survey of the same year found that 4 in 10 Americ
NULL -- John 8:31-36 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2012
"Please give me your attention," the flight attendant announced.
Our system of justice is... -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Craig Kelly -- Easter Day - B -- 2012
Our system of justice is based to a great degree on testimony.
An elderly lady had been waiting to pull into a parking place... -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Ron Love -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2012
An elderly lady had been waiting to pull into a parking place.

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SermonStudio

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 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 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 Lent -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21 -- George M. Bass -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1990
Under the classic plan of the church year, the Fourth Sunday in Lent brought the second section of L
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
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 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.
Good Friday -- John 18:1-19:42, Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1-19:42 -- George M. Bass -- Good Friday - B -- 1990
The readings:John 18:1--19:42
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 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
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
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 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.
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
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
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 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
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 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 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 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 Day of Pentecost -- Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27 -- George M. Bass -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1990
Just when the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the event known as Pentecost, occurred is a matter of d
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

Sermon

SermonStudio

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.
Chosen -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- David G. Rogne -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2002
It is a difficult thing not to be chosen.
Training The Heart -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Paul E. Robinson -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Not long ago I heard about one more study done with rats.
The Achilles' Heel Of The Church -- James 5:13-20 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2002
Have you ever noticed how prevalent is the number 3 in religious history?
Before It's Too Late -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2002
Actress Melanie Griffith candidly writes of her painful experiences while growing up.
Too Good To Be True? -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
Here's the scene.
The Battle Of The Wisdoms -- James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2002
In the 1960s a favorite weekend night of entertainment for many was to attend events titled "The Bat
God Knows -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2002
It's the sort of thing that yields high ratings on television and high volume of sales of supermarke
Easter For Thomas, Too -- John 20:19-31 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2002
The urge to be a part of what is going on is very powerful.
Lethal Weapon -- James 3:1-12 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2002
A popular series of movies has been the Lethal Weapon series.
God Is God And We Are Not, Thank God -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2002
In Twelve Step programs there is a popular saying, the origin of which is unknown: "God is God, and
True Worship Turns Us Upside Down And Inside Out -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2002
"To worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God, to feed the mind with the truth of
Easter Transportation -- John 20:1-18 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Easter Day - B -- 2002
The eyes of our nation have, in recent time, twice been riveted on Antarctica and the need to rescue
He Came By Night -- John 3:1-17 -- David G. Rogne -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2002
I came upon Jesus quite by accident.
People See Through Us -- James 2:1-10 (11-13), 14-17 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2002
A lasting contribution to American life was made by a simple business woman who turned a small baker
Heaven's Applause -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2002
Some words fall into the mud puddle, are never cleaned off, and become permanently tarnished by the
Missing The Point -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Paul E. Flesner -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2002
Have you ever been in a group of people where someone told a joke and everyone else laughed except y
Don't Forget What You Look Like -- James 1:17-27 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2002
A young college graduate embarked on what he hoped would be a promising career in sales.
The More -- Ezekiel 37:1-14; Acts 2:1-21 -- Linda R. Forsberg -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2002
In seminary there was a very popular saying.
The Dangerous Truth -- John 18:33-37 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2002
I'd rather hear Saint Matthew talk about Christ the King. His story of the Last Judgment is vivid.
Anxious Thanks -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2002
On Thanksgiving, isn't it odd to hear a Gospel that talks about anxiety and worry and not about, wel
Caution And Opportunity -- Ephesians 5:15-20 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2002
A university president, as was his custom, attended the mid-week worship service in his institution'
A Friend In High Places -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Robert A. Noblett -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2002
What we want to talk about is not, I am extremely sure, a theme that dominated your breakfast conver
Heart Transplant -- John 8:31-36 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2002
Imagine the scene: you are in the doctor's office, an array of EKGs, echocardiograms, and other test
Security Concerns -- Ephesians 6:10-20 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2002
Security has become big business in our world.

Stories

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Worship

SermonStudio

Jesus' healing of the deaf man who had a speech problem -- Mark 7:31 -37< -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Preparation - Getting ready for the world's savior -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 1990
Meditation:1. Beginning: How do you get ready for the coming of the world's savior into
Epiphany, the Season of the Evangel -- 1990
January 6, the beginning of Epiphany, is followed by a season which varies in length, depending on t
Peter's confession -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
the Passover, the prediction of betrayal -- John 13:1-15, Mark 14:12-26 -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 1990
Suggestion:1. Use mostly silence, including the serving of the sacrament.
The News of Birth -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
The disciples' failure to understand what Jesus was teaching, and their fear about checking it out -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
The events surrounding the last hours of Jesus' life. -- John 18:1-19:42, John 19:17-30 -- Good Friday - B -- 1990
Again, use an order of worship different from your usual order.Suggestion:
The beginning of Jesus' ministry - His baptism. -- Mark 1:1-11 -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus' rebuttal to the disciples -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationTry this:
Eastertide, the Season of the Resurrection -- 1990
Christianity focuses on, and revolves around, Easter Day (No such term as Easter Sunday exists.) Chr
Calling the disciples to a special ministry. -- John 1:35-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus deals with the question of divorce -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus' resurrection -- John 20:1-18, Mark 16:1-8, John 20:1-9 -- Easter Day - B -- 1990
1.
Jesus' preaching commands/demands change - Repentance -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus' confrontation with the rich young man and the disciples over riches -- Mark 10:17-30 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationConsider this:
The risen Christ confronts a doubting Thomas -- John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
A teaching with authority - A summary of Jesus' teaching ministry -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationConsider this:
Jesus' confrontation with James and John about sharing power -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
The Appearance of the Risen Christ, and the Disciples initial disbelief -- Luke 24:35-49 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
The preaching ministry -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
Jesus' healing of Bartimaeus, the blind beggar -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor did this:
Jesus, the Good Shepherd, by choice -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationTry this:
God the vinedresser; Jesus the vine; we the branches -- John 15:1-8 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationOne pastor began this way:
Jesus' healing of the leper -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationTry this:
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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