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Children's Activity

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Heart, soul, mind, strength -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Teachers: Use the portion of scripture, "Love the Lord with
From within -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
Teachers or Parents: The various postures for prayer serve
A leader is needed -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Teachers or Parents: Jesus emphasizes in this text the need
He's got the whole world -- John 18:33-37 -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B
Materials Scissors Blue craft foam Craft foam of another color Glue
Who am I? -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Teachers or Parents: To Christians Jesus is more than an
The truth makes us free -- John 8:31-36 -- Reformation Sunday - B
Teachers: For this activity you will need sticky labels, or
No boxes! -- Mark 6:1-13 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
Teachers or Parents: We are constantly tempted to put
There's always enough -- John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Teachers or Parents: We need to make our children aware that
The most valuable thing -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Thanksgiving Day - B
Instructions
God's valentine -- John 3:13-17
Teachers or Parents: Today is God's valentine's day -- Holy
Be open! -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Teachers: This week's lesson tells about Jesus healing a deaf
Our Good Shepherd too! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
Teachers or Parents: In our urban society, most of us and
He'll be back! -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Ascension of the Lord - B
Teachers or Parents: The focus of our attention as we
One plus one equals one -- Mark 10:2-16 -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B
Materials Thick string or yarn (2" lengths) Pony beads -- different colors
We're welcome here! -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B
Teachers or Parents: The church should be a safe and
Who is Jesus -- who am I? -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B
Teachers: Jesus asks his disciples the question: "Who do
Prophet Jesus -- John 6:1-21 -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
Teachers or Parents: Jesus fed the people and healed them
A guide to the truth -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Day of Pentecost - B
Teachers or Parents: Our Gospel reading focuses on the work
Mark 10:17-31 -- Rich in so many ways -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
Materials Different size cardboard boxes Ribbon Tape Wrapping paper
Chosen -- Matthew 9:9-13
Teachers or Parents: Jesus' choice of disciples would most
Jesus and children -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B
Teachers: Jesus talks about children in this lesson. He took a
Related to Jesus -- Mark 3:20-35 -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B
Teachers or Parents: Share with your children the fact that
A mystery -- Mark 4:26-34 -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
Teachers or Parents: The kingdom of God is a mystery. Who
Who is the Spirit? -- John 3:1-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
Teachers or Parents: The "Trinity" will always be a mystery,
Defining greatness -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Materials White craft foam or felt Markers Instructions

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

It's More Than You Think -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2018
Esther is not just the winner of a beauty contest.
'Tis Pleasant to Repeat -- Isaiah 25:6-9, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- David Kalas -- Easter Day - B -- 2018
Paul’s starting place in 1 Corinthians 15 is our starting place on Easter Sunday.
The Love God Creates Makes Life Better -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16, Psalm 26 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2018
All the lessons for this Sunday will lead to reflections on the love of God – in creation, human nat
The Goodness of God -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
Historically the Third Sunday of Easter has been a Sunday to celebrate the Goodness of God.
Living on purpose -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1-2:2, Acts 4:32-35 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
Note: This installment is from the Emphasis archives.
An Upside-Down World -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2018
Søren Kierkegaard once wrote of a strange break‑in at a large store in his native Denmark where the
God's love pursues us relentlessly -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
The after-Easter scriptures are wonderful to preach.
Hearing God's Voice -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- David Coffin -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2018
It is a dark, damp, raining Wednesday night in a certain pastor’s church study.
Turn Away From A False View -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2018
Most translations have it wrong. Job doesn’t repent in dust and ashes.
Do You Understand? -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
“If you don’t know where you are going,” says an ancient source, “any road will get you there.”
Christ conquers death -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44 -- Mark J. Molldrem, Elizabeth Achtemeier -- All Saints Day - B -- 2018
Note: Because of a scheduling error, we are highlighting this commentary from 2000 by Mark J.
All in the family -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
The three scriptures are tied together by the idea that through Jesus Christ we create new bonds of
Values clarification -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
Note: Because of a scheduling error, we are highlighting this commentary from 2006 by David Kala
God does not abandon us -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2018
Transpiring in the week when the Festival of Jesus’ Ascension is commemorated, it is not surprising
Turn of Fortune -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2018
In 1954, Marcelle Maurtette wrote a play called Anastasia.
Resting in the love of God -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Ezekiel 37:1-14 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2018
Pentecost is the Birthday of the Church. The descent and indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
God's Entrance -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8 -- David Coffin -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2018
Another cold, autumn Wednesday evening as the sun sets early and the church council gathers into the
Glory -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 29 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2018
Victor Hugo called his masterpiece Misérables, a religious work. So it is.
4-D glasses -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2018
(Note: This commentary was originally published in 1994.)
Three Impossible Things Before Breakfast -- Joel 2:21-27, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Matthew 6:25-33, Psalm 126 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2018
In the book “Through the Looking Glass,” by Lewis Carroll, the chess pieces come to life, including
God Is Present, No Matter What You Think. -- Mark 2:23--3:6, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
What does it look like when God is present with us? What do God's emissaries look like?
Christ and His Love are In Charge -- 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 18:33-37, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2018
The theme for the final Sunday of the church year is a reminder that Christ already reigns!
The Devil's Deal -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, Mark 3:20-35 -- David Kalas -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2018
The old television game show, Let’s Make a Deal, featured a studio audience full of oddly d

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God Is Present, No Matter What You Think -- Mark 2:23--3:6, 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2018
What does it look like when God is present with us? What do God's emissaries look like?
We Can Change the World -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2018
Our three readings for this week hang together very well.

Children's bulletin

Children's Liturgy and Story

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Flipping Tables Sunday -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
For March 7, 2021:
Not Suffering Alone -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c, Isaiah 53:4-12, Psalm 91:9-16 -- Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, Christopher Keating, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2021
For October 17, 2021:
Message or Miracle? -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Chris Keating, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2021
For August 1, 2021:
The Hard Work of the Spirit -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Chris Keating, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
For May 2, 2021:
Vision Check -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52, Psalm 34:1-8 (19-22), Jeremiah 31:7-9, Psalm 126 -- Christopher Keating, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2021
For October 24, 2021:
Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
One Nation Under God? -- Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, John 15:9-17, Psalm 98 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
For May 9, 2021:
The Loss Before Life -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12, Psalm 119:9-16 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Chris Keating, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
For March 21, 2021:
Do Not Make Room for the Devil -- 2 Samuel 19:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, Psalm 130 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Quantisha Mason-Doll, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2021
For August 8, 2021:
The Ingathering -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Psalm 147:12-20, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B, Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2021
For January 3, 2021:
Whatever Happened to Justus? -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19, Psalm 1, Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Katy Stenta -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
For May 16, 2021:
Our Super Powers -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44, Psalm 24, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44, Psalm 127 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B, All Saints Day - B -- 2021
For November 7, 2021:
No Quick Fix -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Psalm 31:9-16, Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2021
For March 28, 2021:
Are We There Yet? -- Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Romans 8:22-27 -- Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2021
For May 23, 2021:
Not One Stone -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 2:1-10, Daniel 12:1-3, Psalm 16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Quantisha Mason-Doll, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2021
For November 14, 2021:
Wisdom with Humility -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58, Psalm 111 -- Thomas Willadsen, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Katy Stenta, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2021
For August 15, 2021:
Chaos Into Order -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2021
For January 10, 2021:
Heading For The Exits -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69, Psalm 84 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2021
For August 22, 2021:
Negotiating the Power of Life -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 29 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2021
For May 30, 2021:
Time Lapse Easter -- Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 25:6-9, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18, Mark 16:1-8, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Easter Day - B -- 2021
For April 4, 2021:
There’s Bad News and There’s Good News -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2021
For January 17, 2021:
Heartwork -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Katy Stenta, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll, George Reed, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2021
For August 29, 2021:
Skeptical Thomas -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
For April 11, 2021:
And Immediately, God’s Mind Is Finally Changed -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2021
For January 24, 2021:
Walking the Line -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15, Psalm 138, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2021
For June 6, 2021:

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Preparing for the Future -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2023
John stared out the window at the softly falling snow.
A Soldier Waits for God -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
From ages past no one has heard,    no ear has perceived,
Fruits of Repentance -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
“I think that was probably the best dinner we’ve ever had with your parents.” Stephen finished wipin
Loving Our Transgender Children -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2022
You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the LORD,
I Could Have Been an Anti-vaxxer -- Luke 6:17-26 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2022
Contents “I Could Have Been an Anti-vaxxer” by John Sumwalt
The World to Come -- Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, Psalm 67 -- John E. Sumwalt, Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2022
Contents “The World to Come” by John Sumwalt
Hope for Our Gay and Trans Children -- Amos 8:1-12, Colossians 1:15-28, Psalm 52, Psalm 15 -- John E. Sumwalt, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2022
Contents “Hope for Our Gay and Trans Children” by John Sumwalt
Valley of the Shadow -- Psalm 112, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 -- John E. Sumwalt, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2022
Contents “Valley of the Shadow” by John Sumwalt

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Awakened by Hope -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
For December 3, 2023:
A Soldier Waits for God -- Isaiah 64:1-9 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
From ages past no one has heard,    no ear has perceived,
Sermon Illustrations for Advent 1 (2023) -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
Isaiah 64: 1-9
Mea Culpa -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
For December 10, 2023:
Fruits of Repentance -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
“I think that was probably the best dinner we’ve ever had with your parents.” Stephen finished wipin
Sermon Illustrations for Advent 2 (2023) -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2023
Isaiah 40:1-11

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 (2021) -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19, Song of Solomon 7:26--8:1 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2021
Proverbs 1:20-33
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 8 | OT 13 (2021) -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2021
2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27
Sermon Illustrations for New Year's Day (2021) -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Revelation 21:1-6a, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- New Year's Day - B -- 2021
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13
Sermon Illustrations for Christmas 2 (2021) -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2021
Jeremiah 31:7-14
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 9 | OT 14 (2021) -- 2 Samuel 5:1-15, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Mark 6:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2021
2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10
Sermon Illustrations for the Third Sunday of Easter (2021) -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
Acts 3:12-19
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 (2021) -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2021
Job 42:1-6, 10-17
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 3 (2021) -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
Exodus 20:1-17
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2021) -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37, Psalm 1 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2021
Proverbs 31:10-31
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of Our Lord (2021) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2021
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Easter 4 (2021) -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
Acts 4:5-12

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Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Seeing As God Sees -- 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Psalm 20, Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2015
A recurring theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the great things that come in unexpected
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Authority And Power -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle pericope Paul takes on a dispute among the Corinthian church over whether
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
Back To School Blues -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2015
This week’s Old Testament and Psalm readings proclaim the importance of discerning the voice of the
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...
Peanuts, Paste, And Pathways To God -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, James 1:17-27, Song of Solomon 2:8-13, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel reading, Jesus loses his patience (yet again) with a group of scribes and Phar
Urgent Message -- 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20, Jonah 3:1-5, 10, Psalm 62:5-12 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passages contain a pair of warnings about the urgency of changing our beha
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
The Emperor's Clothes -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Who's On First? -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, James and John ask Jesus to secure preferred seating for them in heaven
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Seeing As God Sees -- 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Psalm 20, Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2015
A recurring theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the great things that come in unexpected
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Authority And Power -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle pericope Paul takes on a dispute among the Corinthian church over whether
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
Back To School Blues -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2015
This week’s Old Testament and Psalm readings proclaim the importance of discerning the voice of the
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
The Emperor's Clothes -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2015
Many congregations will observe this coming Sunday as Epiphany Sunday -- so this installment of
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
There's Something In The Water -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text is Mark’s bare-bones account of Jesus’ baptism...

Stories

StoryShare

Hearing the News -- Mark 10:46-52, Job 42:1-6, 10-17 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2018
Contents “Hearing the News” by Peter Andrew Smith
Serving Light -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, Psalm 48 -- David O. Bales, John Fitzgerald -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2018
Contents “Serving Light” by David O. Bales
Where’s the Chorus? -- Mark 6:14-29, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Ephesians 1:3-14, Psalm 24 -- C. David Mckirachan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2018
Contents “Where’s the Chorus?” by C. David McKirachan
Building in Love -- 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2018
Contents "Building in Love" by Peter Andrew Smith
Living Within Limits -- Ruth 1:1-18, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Keith Wagner -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
Contents “Living Within Limits” by Keith Wagner
Why We Need Shepherds -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Psalm 23, Jeremiah 23:1-6 -- Frank Ramirez, Peter Andrew Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2018
Contents “Why We Need Shepherds” by Frank Rairez
A New Strength -- Mark 1:29-39, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Keith Wagner, John Fitzgerald -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2018
Contents "A New Strength" by Keith Wagner
Blessings Of Unconventional Marriage -- Mark 12:38-44, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Psalm 127 -- David O. Bales -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2018
Contents “Blessings Of Unconventional Marriage” by David O. Bales
Visiting Asaph -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12, Psalm 50:1-6 -- David O. Bales, Keith Hewitt -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2018
Contents "Visiting Asaph" by David O. Bales
Mom -- Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2018
Contents “Mom” by C. David McKirachan
The Lord Will Provide -- Psalm 145:10-18, 2 Kings 4:42-44, John 6:1-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21 -- Keith Wagner, John Fitzgerald -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2018
Contents “The Lord Will Provide” by Keith Wagner
Giving Thanks -- Matthew 6:25-33 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2018
Morris stared at the plain white tiles of the hospital ceiling and wondered how much longer he would
Prophetic Jitters -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a -- David O. Bales -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2018
Contents “Prophetic Jitters” by David O. Bales
Looking for the Rainbow -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Keith Wagner -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Contents "Looking for the Rainbow" by Peter Andrew Smith
Pilate's Point Of View -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8 -- David O. Bales -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2018
Contents “Pilate’s Point Of View” by David O. Bales
With Malice Towards None and Kindness Towards Your Enemy -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, Psalm 130, 1 Kings 19:4-8, Psalm 34:1-8, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Frank Ramirez, C. David Mckirachan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2018
Contents
An Acceptable Time To Open Our Eyes -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Psalm 51:1-17 -- Frank Ramirez, C. David Mckirachan -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2018
Contents "An Acceptable Time To Open Our Eyes" by Frank Ramirez
Living Bread -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20 -- Keith Wagner, Peter Andrew Smith -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2018
Contents “Living Bread” by Keith Wagner
Peter's Painful Memories -- Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25 -- David O. Bales, John Fitzgerald -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Contents “Peter’s Painful Memories” by David O. Bales
Kicking Over the Pulpit -- John 2:13-22 -- C. David Mckirachan -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Contents "Kicking Over the Pulpit" by C. David McKirachan
Raised Up -- John 3:14-21, Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Contents “Raised Up” by Peter Andrew Smith
A God of Second Chances -- John 12:20-33, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Keith Wagner, John Fitzgerald -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2018
Contents “A God of Second Chances” by Keith Wagner
Beyond Comparison -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- David O. Bales -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2018
Contents “Beyond Comparison” by David O. Bales
Fast Food -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2018
Contents “Fast Food” by C. David McKirachan
For Our Sakes -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Psalm 22, John 18:1--19:42, Hebrews 10:16-25 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Keith Wagner -- Good Friday - B -- 2018
Contents “For Our Sakes” by Peter Andrew Smith

The Political Pulpit

Worship

The Immediate Word

Unveiled -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Mark’s account of the transfiguration takes center stage in this week’s lectionary texts.
Not Changed But Transformed -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary passage from the letter to the Hebrews delves into Christology, ranking Chris
What's Your Good News Source? -- Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Genesis 9:8-17, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, God tells Noah that “I am establishing my covenant w
Anger, Anguish, And Faith's Vanishing Act -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
Last Thursday it happened again -- another in a long line of violent outbursts, leaving multiple vic
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
Who's On First? -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, James and John ask Jesus to secure preferred seating for them in heaven
Wiser Than Wisdom, Stronger Than Strength -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, John 2:13-22, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
As we know all too well from the headlines, many places in our world are extremely dangerous.
Alive Together With Christ -- John 3:14-21, Ephesians 2:1-10, Numbers 21:4-9, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Paul lays out for the Ephesians in this week’s lectionary passage a chilling distillation of the dea
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Remembering No More -- John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s Jeremiah text, God communicates through the prophet about the coming of “a new cov
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Treading The Crimson Trail / No One Gets Out Alive -- Mark 11:1-11, Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
We’re offering a pair of main articles in this installment of The Immediate Word
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Jesus Has Left The Building / Not Here -- Mark 16:1-8, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
When the women coming to anoint Jesus’ body discover that his tomb is empty, their first reaction (u
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Seeing (Each Other) Is Believing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:23-37, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
John’s gospel paints a striking portrait of the resurrection’s aftermath -- the disciples, terrified
We're All Witnesses -- Luke 24:36b-48, Psalm 4, 1 John 3:1-7 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s gospel text features Luke’s version of the same events John depicted last week: Jesus
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
Greener Pastures -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary texts center around the theme of the Good Shepherd, who “restores [our] so
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Beloving -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle text from First John (4:7-21) presents us with a mandate to “love one another
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Baby Steps And Bending The Arc -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The primary theme of recent weeks continues, with a focus on the subject of love.
Authority And Power -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle pericope Paul takes on a dispute among the Corinthian church over whether
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
UPCOMING WEEKS
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John Jamison
Object: You may present this message as a simple story, or have the children act it out as a role-play. I will show the role-play version, but you can ignore the acting pieces and just tell the story if you prefer.

Note: For the role-play version, you will need to select two girls and one boy to play the roles. You might also have a broom and a dust rag if you want to.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Great! Let’s get started.

The Immediate Word

Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
For July 20, 2025:

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52
Amos proclaims the word from God that punishes the people. The people are to be punished for their lack of faith, for their focus on practicing deceit, betraying honesty to their neighbors, and being impatient for the time after the Sabbath when they can focus on profit and selling their crops and wares. Oh, my! What a terrible message for people. You have been unfaithful so I will punish you. And then in the psalm, God is proclaimed to be the olive tree, that which brings blessing.
David Kalas
I have tried to find different ways of saying it so that my children don’t tire of hearing it. But the basic principle remains the same, and my kids have heard it a ton. “First things first.” They ask if they can do this or they start to do that, and I will endeavor to redirect them, saying, “Why don’t we make sure we’re doing first things first!”

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
I am now rejoicing in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am completing what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church. (v. 24)

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
One of Martha's earliest memories was of her little sister Mary singing and dancing in the middle of an admiring crowd of friends. Mary had always been a dancer, from the time she could walk. Privately, Martha thought she'd always been something of a show-off and ought to go on the stage, for Mary loved an audience.

SermonStudio

John E. Sumwalt
Jeanne Jones
Several years ago, before we moved to Wisconsin, I was an honorary nanny for our pastor's son, Jonathan. I took care of him from the time he was able to walk until our pastor moved, when Jonathan was about five. We had wonderful times together. One time, when I was at their house, and we had been doing some spiritual direction together, Pastor Michael asked me if I knew the name of my guardian angel.
James Evans
We are not surprised when we learn about crooks and robbers boasting about "mischief done against the godly" or "plotting destruction" all day long. The image we have in our minds about who "bad" people are, and how they conduct themselves, make such accusations completely plausible. We are less inclined to believe such things about leaders, especially respected leaders among us. We have difficulty believing someone with wealth and power would deliberately plot to do someone else harm.
Arley K. Fadness
Today's gospel from Luke 10 follows the parable of the good Samaritan. Luke positions the good Samaritan and the Mary-Martha story back to back for good reason. The parable and the story are examples of the Great Commandment "to love the Lord your God with all your heart and your neighbor as yourself." The good Samaritan parable illustrates "love to neighbor," whereas the Mary-Martha story illustrates "love to God."
Kirk R. Webster
In the early 1990s, Wesley Nunley of Dallas completed a project he had dreamed of for decades. "I tell you, this could be a big thing," he explained. Wes then walked out to a concrete octagon in the middle of his backyard. With a beaming smile, arms raised up in excitement, the energetic retiree said, "This welcomes the UFO to land, which has never been done before."
John W. Wurster
It was the best of times. A time of prosperity and confidence, a time of relative peace, a time when most everything looked pretty good, a time when most everyone felt pretty good. It was a time maybe not unlike our own time.
H. Burnham Kirkland
Words Of Assurance
Our God is both wise and caring: afflicting the comfortable and comforting the afflicted.

Pastoral Prayer
God, we bow before you this morning, knowing that you hear every prayer. We know that in all of Creation, you are the source of life. You are the one who set the light swirling between the galaxies. The breath of your Spirit pulses through all life. You have even become flesh among us. We praise you, Lord, that in all your wonder, you have not forgotten us.

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