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Taking the hard way -- John 6:56-69 -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
Make me clean! -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B
Good morning! Do you ever have any clothes as dirty as this?
Hold fast and don't let go! -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Good morning! I want to read to you a statement about what
Jesus, the true vine -- John 15:1-8 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought two vines with me this
"I can see!" -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B
Once Jesus entered the town of Jericho. Jesus and his
Dirty hands, clean heart -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. What's the most fun you ever had
Poured out -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Passion Sunday - B
Jesus was the Son of God. He could have set up his kingdom
Stuck together by love -- John 3:14-21 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
A leader is needed -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Good morning! Let's play a game today. Would you like to
FAITH and GRACE -- Romans 4:13-25 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
Good morning! Today we hear about two words that are popular
Doing the job -- James 1:17-27 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Good morning, boys and girls.
God says, "Yes" -- 2 Corinthians 1:18-22 -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B
Good morning! I brought something good for you this morning!
With God, it's easy -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Good morning! I'd like to play a game with you this morning.
Love by action! -- 1 John 3:16-24 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. (Hold up the cash register
We "fall short ..." -- Romans 3:19-28 (L) -- Reformation Sunday - B
I have a problem. There is a door that needs to be kept
The truth -- John 8:31-36 -- Reformation Sunday - B
Good morning! I brought a picture of an eagle with me today
Christians help others -- 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-14 -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. (Hold up the envelope and pass
Remembering -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Maundy Thursday - B
Today I brought a piece of string. Why would I bring a
News about heaven -- 1 John 3:1-7 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How does God think of us today?
God gives us understanding -- Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Good morning! Do all of you speak English? (Let them
Taking up the cross -- Mark 8:31-38 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
Lent is a time when many people give up something. Do you
Pretty packages -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I want to share with you a package that I received this morning.
The sin-disease connection -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B
Good morning! Once Jesus healed a man who was a paralytic,
Obedience can be tough -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Good morning! Have you ever seen pictures of a tall building
Children of God -- 1 John 5:1-6 -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought (name the person) with

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The Immediate Word

God Is Great -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2012
Keeping up with the news is often a very depressing endeavor -- with so much bad news dominating the
It Pays To Advertise -- Mark 1:40-45, 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Psalm 30 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2012
Another Super Bowl extravaganza is now in the rearview mirror, and for many people the most anticipa
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
From Ashes To Rainbow -- Genesis 9:8-17, Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When God tells Noah that "I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you" (Ge
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
Should We Give Up Calm Instead Of Chocolate? -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary gospel passage features Jesus's celebrated outburst in which he clears out
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
Le Monde Noir? -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
The ongoing strife in Syria has been a bracing reminder to the world of just how inhumane we can be
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
Whose Economy? -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
In the lectionary's gospel text this week, Jesus foreshadows his coming death and tries to communica
Ticker Tape Charade -- Mark 11:1-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 22 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2012
This Sunday we face the delicate task of how much emphasis to place on the Palm Sunday texts, with t
Do-It-Yourself Resurrection? -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2012
On Easter Sunday we celebrate God's triumph over the power of death -- but while we are all mor
Finding Fellowship -- Acts 4:23-37, John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
The resurrection was a startling event that completely turned the lives of the disciples upside down
Of Fear And Superstition -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
In the gospel text appointed by the lectionary for the Third Sunday of Easter, Luke depicts a group
Shepherds And Crooks -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
This Sunday is often colloquially referred to as "Good Shepherd Sunday" because of the lectionary te
By This We Know -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Last week the lectionary texts focused on the Good Shepherd, and identified a key aspect of shepher
O God, It Is Mother's Day... <I>Or</i> Oh Gawd, It's Mother's Day -- 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- George Reed, Ron Love -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Mother's Day typically offers a conundrum for us -- should we accede to the wishes of many in our co
Here Or There? -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, Acts 1:15-26, Acts 1:1-11 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
This Sunday offers a choice for those who follow the lectionary -- some congregations will observe A
Together In One Place -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
A quick perusal of the daily headlines is all you need to see how bitterly divided we are as a socie
Awesome! -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2012
In the passage from the Hebrew scriptures appointed by the lectionary for this week, Isaiah comes fa
The Light Of The World -- Luke 2:22-40, Matthew 25:31-46, Isaiah 60:1-6, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- New Year's Day - A, New Year's Day - B, New Year's Day - C -- 2012
This Sunday offers those who follow the lectionary a massive buffet -- you can select from as many a
Faithfulness And Righteousness On The Campaign Trail -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
It was rather startling to find discussions on theology in the headlines last week.

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Cousins -- Mark 1:21-28, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Psalm 111 -- Larry Winebrenner, Keith Hewitt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2012
Contents"Cousins" by Larry Winebrenner

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Preaching

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But The End Is Not Yet -- Mark 13:1-8 -- James Evans -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
It Just Doesn't Feel Like Christmas This Year -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Is It Good To Be King? -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, John 18:33-37 -- Carter Shelley -- Thanksgiving Day - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Anticipation Or The Best Christmas Present Ever -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28, Psalm 126 -- Carter Shelley -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Pastors,
Is It Good To Be King? -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, John 18:33-37 -- Carter Shelley -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
"prepare Him Room" -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Null -- 1 Kings 2 10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Null -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Reign In-Reign Out -- Mark 7:1-23 -- Ronald J. Allen -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
You Are What You Say: The Word Incarnate And Human Words -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Carter Shelley -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Divine And Human Partiality: A Christian Dilemma -- Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
New Life - From The Laboratory Or The Font? -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- George L. Murphy -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
"did You Call?" -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
What Kindness Teaches -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13-18 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Prayer For Public Consumption? -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Carter Shelley -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
The Hiddenness Of God And God's Human Witnesses -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Mark 9:38-50 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
A Sword Will Pierce Your Own Soul Also -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B
Dear fellow preachers,
What's A Marriage For? -- Mark 10:2-16, Genesis 2:18-24 -- James Evans -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Christian Perspectives On War -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- Carter Shelley -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Can You Handle The Truth? -- Mark 10:17-31, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16 -- George L. Murphy -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
The Prophet's Prescription -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Mark 1:40-45 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers
When Jesus Says "no" -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Who Needs Forgiveness? -- Isaiah 43:18-25, 2 Corinthians 1:18-22, Mark 2:1-12 -- George L. Murphy -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Why Is It Called The "world" Series? -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Psalm 126 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
Sometimes God Is There -- So Quickly! -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Carter Shelley -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Dear fellow preachers,

Sermon

SermonStudio

Take Up Your Ministry -- Mark 9:38-50 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 1999
Several years ago at my previous congregation I remember a discussion I had with the church council.
Standing Room Only Religion And Roof Repair -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 1999
I long have enjoyed this story of Jesus' healing of the paralytic.
Who Wuda Thunk It? -- 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Gary L. Carver -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1999
In 1969 the New York Mets won the World Series, becoming the world champions of baseball.
Anti-Venom Serum -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- Wayne Brouwer -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1999
Years ago, when we lived in Alberta, Sunday nights were very special for us.
The Sadness Of God -- Isaiah 52:13 - 53:12 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Good Friday - B -- 1999
Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel tells a haunting story from the concentration camps.
Home For Christmas -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Wayne Brouwer -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1999
Beverly Elliot hadn't seen her son Russell Love in more than four years.
A New Name -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Paul W. Kummer -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
What names did people call you as you were growing up?
Hard and Soft Hearts -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 1999
Probably one of the most frustrating responsibilities I have as a parish pastor is officiating at we
Overcoming The Anxiety Of An Inadequate Background -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 1999
Americans are increasingly concerned about backgrounds.
Calling, Condemnation, And Charred Stumps -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Gary L. Carver -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 1999
Snoopy, of Peanuts comic strip fame, was sitting on his dog house writing another novel.
Rainbow In The Sky -- Genesis 9:8-17 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
"My heart leaps up when I behold a rainbow in the sky: So was it when my life began; so it is now ."
Anti-Venom Serum -- Galatians 4:4-7 -- Wayne Brouwer -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 1999
Years ago, when we lived in Alberta, Sunday nights were very special for us.
Our Jealous Husband -- Exodus 20:1-17 -- Paul W. Kummer -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
These are Ten Commandments that little children know to be true:
Through the Eye of a Needle -- Mark 10:17-31 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 1999
"It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich man to enter the k
Jesus And The Competition -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Maurice A. Fetty -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 1999
Perhaps no artist in history has expressed the tenderness and beauty, as well as the majesty and glo
Friendship? Yes, Please! -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 1999
According to a recent poll only about ten percent of American males say they have a good friend.
Wonderful Story -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
There's a great story being used in business circles to define the buzz-word "paradigm." It seems a
Finding The Right Superlatives -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 1999
When Bob Zuppke was football coach at the University of Illinois, the team thrived under his enthusi
Just What The Doctor Ordered -- Numbers 21:4-9 -- Paul W. Kummer -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
A wealthy entrepreneur was consternated to find a fisherman sitting lazily beside his boat.
"What's in It for Me?" -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1999
One of the most dominating characteristics of our modern American culture is our worship of the free
The Hidden Power Of Small Beginnings -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Maurice A. Fetty -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 1999
Jesus was born during the golden age of the Roman Empire, under the reign of Caesar Augustus.
How To Affair-Proof Your Marriage! -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 1999
Country singer Gene Watson croons:Slip into something soft,
Rules For A Happy Life -- Exodus 20:1-17 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
America's premier Protestant preacher of the early part of this century, Dr.
Something Old, Something New -- Jeremiah 31:31-34 -- Paul W. Kummer -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 1999
It's amazing how fast things change.
Shameless Passion -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Paul W. Kummer -- Passion Sunday - B -- 1999
Today is Palm Sunday.

Stories

The Political Pulpit

Worship

The Immediate Word

If He Comes Back ... -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- George L. Murphy -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Too Good To Be True? -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Timothy B. Cargal -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Null -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
The Good Shepherd And The Good Mother:a Tough Job Description -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Carter Shelley -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
You Are What You Say: The Word Incarnate And Human Words -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Carter Shelley -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
The Gospel Reloaded -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- George L. Murphy -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
New Life - From The Laboratory Or The Font? -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- George L. Murphy -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
American Individualism And Christian Community:contradiction, Compromise, Or Challenge? -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Carter Shelley -- Ascension of the Lord - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
"did You Call?" -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
I Will Pour Out My Spirit On All Flesh -- Acts 2.1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Richard A. Jensen -- Day of Pentecost - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Prayer For Public Consumption? -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Carter Shelley -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
"who's Your Daddy?" -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
All Trees Are Christmas Trees -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- George L. Murphy, Larry Hard, Wesley T. Runk -- First Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
It Just Doesn't Feel Like Christmas This Year -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Anticipation Or The Best Christmas Present Ever -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28, Psalm 126 -- Carter Shelley -- Third Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Pastors,
"prepare Him Room" -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Null -- 1 Kings 2 10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Reign In-Reign Out -- Mark 7:1-23 -- Ronald J. Allen -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Divine And Human Partiality: A Christian Dilemma -- Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Living With Anger -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
The furor surrounding Mel Gibson and his outburst toward a police officer has been a major item in t
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican
What Does It Mean To Be Ready -- Mark 8:27-38, James 3:1-12, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
The fact that such a beloved spokesperson for animals, Steve Irwin, died in such an accident, althou
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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