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Children's Activity

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Seeing Jesus as he is -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Teachers or Parents: Our children need to be reminded continually
The good shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Teachers or Parents: This Sunday is often called "Good
A special honor -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B
Materials Craft foam (pre-cut into angel wings to save time if needed)
John the Baptist -- Mark 1:1-8 -- Second Sunday of Advent - B
Teachers or Parents: John the Baptist is a biblical figure
Happy times -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Teachers: Tell your students today's Bible story. Jesus took
Never a king like Jesus -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Passion Sunday - B
Teachers: This week's lesson tells the story of Jesus' Passion.
An amazing plan -- Mark 1:9-15 -- First Sunday in Lent - B
Materials:Heavy tape (duct tape is fine, it is not seen)
Denying yourself -- Mark 8:31-38 -- Second Sunday in Lent - B
Materials: Popsicle (craft) sticks Thick craft glue
A house of worship -- John 2:13-22 -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Following Instructions -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B
Materials None Instructions
Come into the light -- John 3:14-21 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B
Materials: Black construction paper White crayons or chalk
Bearing fruit -- John 12:20-33 -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
Materials: Styrofoam cups Potting soil Marigold seeds
Before the cock crows twice -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Passion Sunday - B
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
A new life -- John 20:1-18 -- Easter Day - B
Materials: Clean, empty baby food jars with lids Glue
Christ is risen -- John 20:19-31 -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Have you anything here to eat? -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
Materials: Fish pattern(s) large enough to fit an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper
The Good Shepherd -- John 10:11-18 -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Materials: Black construction paper Popped popcorn Glue
Follow the Leader -- John 1:43-51 -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B
Teachers or Parents: Being a disciple of Jesus is not an easy task.
I am the vine -- John 15:1-8 -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Materials: Tissue paper in bright colors, cut into 8" x 10" pieces
Two by two -- Mark 6:1-13 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
Teachers or Parents: Jesus instructed his disciples to go out
Gates of Heaven -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B
Teachers or Parents: The gospel, in the narrowest sense of its use, is the good news that Jesus died

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 1:40-45 -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 1:40-45 -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Response to mystery -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- David Coffin -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Well, the “cat is out of the bag”!
Wordsmithing -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2015
A Jewish rabbi was officiating at the funeral of a woman from his congregation.
Moksha -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Ron Love -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2015
Evagrius Ponticus (also known as Evagrius the Solitary) was a Christian monk and ascetic who resi
Wisdom's gifts, God's embrace -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2015
We are blessed today with inspiring words from the Wisdom tradition in both the Hebrew and Christian
Baptism Pictures -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- David Kalas -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In some Christian traditions the expectation is that babies should be baptized.  In other Christi
What righteousness means -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2015
In our day, “righteousness” is often mistakenly interpreted as “self-righteousness.” This i
New Creations -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In each of our lessons today, we encounter God’s people starting over and finding their way into
360 review -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16 -- David Kalas -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2015
The logic is simple: you understand a thing better if you are able to see it from all sides.
Choosing our path -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
When I started reading the passages for this week, I could not help but remember the Robert Frost
Beyond consumerism -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2015
I know a mother who remembers an embarrassing moment that happened when she went with her daughter’s
Glorifying God in difficult times -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, John 12:20-33 -- David Coffin -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Today’s texts afford the preacher an opportunity to identify which difficult times people in our con
Making sense of suffering -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
All of our lessons today address suffering -- of humans and of Jesus in his passion and death.
The well-traveled path of suffering -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
There is an exquisite tension on Palm Sunday, which is also known as Passion Sunday.
A place at the table -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2015
Here’s a parable: a man is convicted of a criminal act.
The 'big questions' -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
Every child asks her mother “Where did I come from?” Every teenager asks “Who am I?” Every man and w
Climbing in the light -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1--19:42 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Good Friday - B -- 2015
The story of God's love in the Bible focuses on Jesus. But Jesus did not appear in a vacuum.
Locating the heart -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
The Q&A is familiar.
Life eternal transforms us -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
Our scriptures today remind us that Easter is more than a welcoming of spring, and that our Easter m
God's rewards are for the living -- Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9, Revelation 21:1-6a, John 11:32-44 -- Frank Ramirez -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
Books that describe visits to heaven are very popular these days.
Tradition reworked -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, Romans 3:19-28, John 8:31-36 -- David Coffin -- Reformation Sunday - B -- 2015
It finally has happened!
So that you may come to believe -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- David Coffin -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The challenge for those who preach from the lectionary every year is that we have the “Doubting Thom
The good voice of poverty -- Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Mark 12:38-44 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
In my times of great energy and passionate success, I never think about death. I was born to live!
The lessons of Easter are meant for us -- Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Luke 24:36b-48 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Two of the Founding Fathers, John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, were once fast friends, comrades in th
The end... and the beginning -- 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
Advent is a season of anticipation, but as we near the end of the season of Pentecost our readings a
The posture of love -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- David Kalas -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
One of the popular songs of the mid-1960s sweetly declared, “What the world needs now is love.” That

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The Truth! -- John 18:33-37 -- John Jamison -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2021
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world.
Starting Over! -- John 3:1-17 -- John Jamison -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2021
Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again
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:
Follow Me! -- Mark 1:14-20 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2021
After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God.
Outside and Inside! -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- John Jamison -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2021
He replied, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:
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:
United -- Mark 3:20-35 -- John Jamison -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2021
So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in parables: “How can Satan
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:
Waiting on the Lord -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39, Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2021
For February 7, 2021:
God's Thinking -- Mark 8:27-38 -- John Jamison -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2021
He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the e
The Price of Admission -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2021
For September 26, 2021:
Hype Man for Disruption -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For December 6, 2020:
Who Are You? -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For December 13, 2020:

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Are We There Yet? Part 3 -- John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- John Jamison -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
Note: This sermon is the third in a series you can continue through Advent.
Are We There Yet? Part 4 -- Luke 1:26-38 -- John Jamison -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
IMPORTANT: This sermon is the fourth in a series to go through Advent.
Are We There Yet? Part 5 -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- John Jamison -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2020
Important Note: Set the alarm!!!
The Wait is Over -- Luke 2:22-40 -- John Jamison -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2020
There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher.
Are We There Yet? -- Mark 13:24-37 -- John Jamison -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
Objects: You will need three objects:
Are We There Yet? Part 2 -- Mark 1:1-8 -- John Jamison -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
Note: This sermon is the second in a series you can continue through Advent.
Sad to Glad -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2018
“...all who touched it were healed...” (v. 56b)

The Immediate Word

Hype Man for Disruption -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For December 6, 2020:
Who Are You? -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For December 13, 2020:
Angels At The Doorway -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55, Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For December 20, 2020:
Passing The Torch -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Psalm 148, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Chris Keating, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2020
For December 27, 2020:
What Are We Waiting For? -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2020
For November 29, 2020:

Children's Story

Communicating God's Love

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Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Easter Day (2021) -- Isaiah 25:6-9, Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, John 20:1-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Easter Day - B -- 2021
Acts 10:34-43
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 (2021) -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2021
Job 23:1-9,16-17
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 14 | OT 19 (2021) -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:34, 41-51 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2021
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 (2021) -- Deuteronomy 18:15-20, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Mark 1:21-28 -- Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2021
Deuteronomy 18:15-20
Sermon Illustrations for Second Sunday of Easter (2021) -- Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, John 20:19-31 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2021
Acts 4:32-35
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 (2021) -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2021
Job 38:1-7 (34-41)
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 5 (2021) -- Isaiah 40:21-31, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Mark 1:29-39 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2021
Isaiah 40:21-31
Sermon Illustrations for Pentecost (2021) -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2021
Acts 2:1-21
Sermon Illustrations for Trinity Sunday (2021) -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2021
Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalms 29
Sermon Illustrations for The Transfiguration (2021) -- 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2021
2 Kings 2:1-12
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 15 | OT 20 (2021) -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-4, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2021
1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14
Sermon Illustrations for Ash Wednesday (2021) -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2021
Joel 2:1-2, 12-17
Illustrations for Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 (2021) -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20, Psalm 138, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, Mark 3:20-35 -- Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2021
1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15)
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 (2021) -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2021
1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 1 (2021) -- Genesis 9:8-17, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Mark 1:9-15 -- Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
Genesis 9:8-17
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 (2021) -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2021
Song of Solomon 2:8-13
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 6 | OT 11, Cycle B (2021) -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34, Psalm 20 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2021
1 Samuel 15:3--16:13
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 7 | OT 12, Cycle B (2021) -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41, Psalm 9:9-20, Psalm 133 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2021
1 Samuel 17: (1a, 4, 11, 19-23) 32-49
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 | Pentecost 15 (2021) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2021) -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16

The Immediate Word

Called to the Cross -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2021
For February 28, 2021:
Waiting for the Lord -- and People -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, Mark 5:21-43, Psalm 130, Psalm 30, Lamentations 3:22-33 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Dean Feldmeyer, Bethany Peerbolte, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2021
For June 27, 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:
Controlling the Narrative -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2021
For September 12, 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:

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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
Dual Citizenship -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2012
In this week's Old Testament lectionary passage, the elders of Israel approach a clearly displeased
Even God Has Some Regrets, Apparently -- 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Mark 4:26-34, Psalm 20 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2012
In the lectionary epistle text for Proper 6 (2 Corinthians 5:6-17), Paul addresses the attitude we o
Running Quickly Into Battle… With Five Smooth Stones? -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, Mark 4:35-41 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary passage from the Old Testament features one of the Bible's most enduring st
Bring Me The Head Of John The Baptizer -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2012
Historically speaking, we should currently be in the summer doldrums of this year's presidential cam
Strangers And Aliens In The Voting Booth -- Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2012
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul addresses the squabble that had arisen in the Ephesi
Joe's Halo -- 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Ephesians 3:14-21, John 6:1-21, Psalm 14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2012
If the "printer-friendly" link doesn't work for you (which it won't if you are not a subscriber
Wealth: Boon Or Bane? -- Mark 10:17-31, Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Psalm 22:1-15 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2012
Most people in our society look forward to retirement -- and one of the main attractions is the free
Drones: Ancient And Modern -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
As the world watches the casualties mount in the conflict in Syria, we wonder -- when is it appropri
Enduring Much Under Many Physicians -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2012
Healing -- especially for our bodies -- is a primary concern in our lives.
Loving Wisely -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2012
This week's lectionary text from the Hebrew scriptures brings us David's heart-wrenching lament over
Where Everyone Is Above Average -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2012
The recent spate of mass shootings has been very troubling.
The Court Of Public Opinion -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2012
This week's lectionary scripture texts all feature the twin themes of power and weakness.
This Church Is Difficult; Who Can Accept It? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
Jesus tells us in this week's lectionary gospel passage that "those who eat my flesh and drink my bl
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
Tradition Vs. Twitter -- 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, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2012
We all know that tradition is an important influence in human affairs...
Proclaiming The Beloved... Or The Frontrunner -- Mark 1:4-11, Acts 19:1-7, Genesis 1:1-5, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2012
This week the 2012 presidential campaign begins in earnest as voters in Iowa and New Hampshire actua
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec

Sermon

SermonStudio

Making Sense -- John 17:6-19 -- John Jamison -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Have you ever come across a piece of scripture that you really just didn’t know what to do with?
Defeating Discouragement -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
Yard sales are interesting to me.
Does Prayer Make Any Difference? -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
I want to address a subject that many of us struggle with — prayer.
Unstoppable Love -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2015
If I could only preach one sermon, my point would be Jesus loves us more than we could ever imagine
Prayer Changes Things -- Mark 2:1-12 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2015
Dr.
Learn to Play Again -- Mark 2:13-22 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - B -- 2015
A group of theologians and scholars once cornered C.S.
True North -- Mark 2:23--3:6 -- Charles D. Reeb -- 2015
Sha Jahan was the emperor of India during the 1600s. When he lost his wife he was devastated.
The Cost of Discipleship -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Sha Jahan was the emperor of India during the 1600s. When he lost his wife he was devastated.
Actors -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- John Jamison -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2015
Whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and
Simple Faith? -- Mark 1:9-15 -- John Jamison -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
It all sounds so simple. It’s just so nice, so easy, and so straightforward; almost comfortable.
The Bethsaida Boys -- Mark 8:31-38 -- John Jamison -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
After Jesus was baptized by John, he went to spend time in the desert lands east of the Jordan River
Zeal! -- John 2:13-22 -- John Jamison -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Have you ever had one of those times when you had just had enough?
Rebirth -- John 3:14-21 -- John Jamison -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
The city of Jerusalem was packed with strangers during the Passover feast, so you could walk a long
Some Greeks -- John 12:20-33 -- John Jamison -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Jesus was back in Jerusalem for another Passover.
The Week -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- John Jamison -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
Note to the preacher:
Where It Ends -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- John Jamison -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2015
All of the plans and preparation had been completed and they were all gathering together in the room
Out of Control -- John 18:1--19:42 -- John Jamison -- Good Friday - B -- 2015
Note to the preacher:

Free Access

Making Sense -- John 17:6-19 -- John Jamison -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Have you ever come across a piece of scripture that you really just didn’t know what to do with?
Tangled Up in the Vines -- John 15:1-8 -- John Jamison -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This passage from John is one that has created great comfort for many people, and at the same time h
Defeating Discouragement -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Charles D. Reeb -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
Yard sales are interesting to me.
The Week -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- John Jamison -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
Note to the preacher:

The Immediate Word

Second-Coming Living -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
Are you awake, or are you drowsing off?
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren

Stories

StoryShare

How You Play The Game -- Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Romans 4:13-25, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Frank Ramirez, Keith Hewitt -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Contents "How You Play The Game" by Frank Ramirez
Forgive And Forget -- Mark 12:38-44, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Hebrews 9:24-28, Psalm 127 -- Keith Wagner -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
Contents "Forgive and Forget" by Keith Wagner
Maintaining The Sacred -- John 2:13-22 -- John Fitzgerald -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Contents "Maintaining the Sacred" by John Fitzgerald
Honest, Not Courteous, Prayer -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- David O. Bales, John Fitzgerald -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
Contents "Honest, Not Courteous, Prayer" by David O. Bales
Canary In A Coal Mine -- Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
Contents "Canary in a Coal Mine" by Frank Ramirez
The Royal Hostage -- John 3:14-21, Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Sandra Herrmann, Keith Wagner -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Contents "Changing Our Focus" by Keith Wagner
A Good Man? -- John 18:33-37, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Revelation 1:4b-8, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Frank Ramirez, Keith Hewitt, C. David Mckirachan -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Contents "A Good Man?" by Keith Hewitt
They All Forsook Him... -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Psalm 31:9-16 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2015
Contents "They all forsook him..." by C. David McKirachan
The Power Of Now -- Matthew 6:25-33, Joel 2:21-27, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Psalm 126 -- Keith Wagner -- Thanksgiving Day - B -- 2015
Contents "The Power of Now" by Keith Wagner
Dirty Jobs -- 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 -- John Fitzgerald, Keith Wagner -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2015
Contents "Dirty Jobs" by John Fitzgerald "A Deeper Love" by Keith Wagner
The Pastor's Past -- John 20:1-18, Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Easter Day - B -- 2015
Contents "The Pastor's Past" by Sandra Herrmann* * * * * * *
Written On Our Hearts -- John 12:20-33, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Keith Hewitt -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
Contents "Written on our Hearts" by Peter Andrew Smith
The Bitter End -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Psalm 22 -- Keith Hewitt, Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - B -- 2015
Contents "The Bitter End" by Keith Hewitt
God Is Awesome -- Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Psalm 47 -- Keith Wagner -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
Contents "God is Awesome" by Keith Wagner
Believing Without Seeing -- John 20:19-31, Acts 4:32-35, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Psalm 133 -- John Fitzgerald -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "Believing without Seeing" by John Fitzgerald
To Make New -- John 17:6-19, Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, Psalm 1 -- Peter Andrew Smith, John Fitzgerald -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "To Make New" by Peter Andrew Smith
A Piece Of Fish -- Luke 24:36b-48, Acts 3:12-19, 1 John 3:1-7, Psalm 4 -- Keith Hewitt -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "A Piece of Fish" by Keith Hewitt * * * * * * *
On The Mountaintop -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Kings 2:1-12, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Psalm 50:1-6 -- Keith Hewitt -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2015
Contents "On The Mountaintop" by Keith Hewitt* * * * * * *
Ordinary And Uneducated -- Acts 4:5-12, John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Psalm 23 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "Ordinary and Uneducated" by Frank Ramirez
Who Are You? -- Mark 10:35-45, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Keith Hewitt, Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
Contents "Who Are You?" by Keith Hewitt
Pruning -- John 15:1-8, Acts 8:26-40 -- C. David Mckirachan, Sandra Herrmann -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "Pruning" by C. David McKirachan
Law And Justice -- John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Contents "Law and Justice" by Frank Ramirez
That Awkward Moment -- John 15:9-17, Acts 10:44-48, 1 John 5:1-6, Psalm 98 -- Keith Hewitt, Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
Contents "That Awkward Moment" by Keith Hewitt
But Honey... -- Mark 6:14-29, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Ephesians 1:3-14, Psalm 24 -- C. David Mckirachan, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
Contents "But Honey..." by C. David Mckirachan
The Gift -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Keith Hewitt -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
Contents "The Gift" by Keith Hewitt

The Political Pulpit

Worship

The Immediate Word

Drones: Ancient And Modern -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2012
As the world watches the casualties mount in the conflict in Syria, we wonder -- when is it appropri
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
Loving Wisely -- 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2012
This week's lectionary text from the Hebrew scriptures brings us David's heart-wrenching lament over
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
Where Everyone Is Above Average -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2012
The recent spate of mass shootings has been very troubling.
This Church Is Difficult; Who Can Accept It? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2012
Jesus tells us in this week's lectionary gospel passage that "those who eat my flesh and drink my bl
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
Tradition Vs. Twitter -- 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, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2012
We all know that tradition is an important influence in human affairs...
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
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
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
James And The Giant... Picket Line? -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2012
Teaching has always been a difficult and often thankless task, as James pointedly observes in the op
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
Girl Talk -- Eavesdropping On The Capable Wife And Today's Woman -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
Over the last century, the role of women in American society has been completely transformed.
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
The Politics Of Division -- Or Addition -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
Making conclusions based on anecdotal evidence is a tricky proposition -- while it can often powerfu
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
Women And Children First -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Jesus' response to the Pharisees' question about divorce in this week's lectionary gospel passage of
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
Asking The Right Questions -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
The questions we ask -- of ourselves, of one another, and even of God -- tend to reveal the underlyi
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
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
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
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
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
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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For February 15, 2026:

CSSPlus

Bethany Peerbolte
The disciples see Jesus transfigured with Moses and Elijah, and then Jesus tells them to tell no one. I don’t think I would have been up for the task of keeping that secret. I know this because the first time I played The Green Wall a friend told me the secret and I had the hardest time not telling everyone else the answer.
Good morning, boys and girls. Kermit the Frog came along with me this morning. How many of you watch Kermit on public television? (Let them answer.) I've watched a bit of Kermit myself. One of the things he does that I like the best is when he pre tends that he is a television newscaster. When he does this he always reports events as an eyewitness. How many of you like his eyewitness TV reports? (Wait for a show of hands.) Can anyone tell me what it means to be an eyewitness? (Let someone answer.) It means that someone actually saw an event take place. That
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME

Materials:
Blue construction paper
White cotton balls
Glue
Alphabet pasta

Directions:

1. Give each of the children a piece of blue construction paper.

2. Tell the children to use the cotton balls to make clouds and glue them onto the paper.

3. Have the children use the pasta letters to spell, "Listen to him," by gluing the letters on the blue construction paper under the cotton ball clouds.
And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. (v. 2)

Good morning, boys and girls. Today is the Transfiguration of our Lord and it is one of the special days of the church year. Today we talk about Jesus changing in several ways while three of his disciples -- Peter, James, and John -- watched. How did he change? The Bible says that the face of Jesus became as bright as the sun and his clothes became gleaming white. There were other things that happened that the disciples remembered and

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Transfiguration is a celebration of God’s glory and how that glory is revealed in Christ when he was transfigured. The festival was observed as early as the sixth century in Eastern Christianity, but did not become a festival in the Catholic Church and its Protestant heirs until just 70 years prior to the Reformation. Sermons in line with this festival will aim to focus the flock on coming to appreciate a bigger, more majestic picture of God and Christ than what they brought to church. Assurance will be provided that this majestic God overcomes all evil.
William H. Shepherd
It was the most boring sermon I ever heard, until it became the most interesting.

At first, I did not understand what had come over my student. Up to this point in the class, I thought she had been getting it. She laughed when I quoted Kierkegaard, "Boredom is the root of all evils." She nodded her head when I said that the dullest presentation would not be redeemed by the soundest content. Her critiques of the other students' sermons were right on target.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
When Jesus was transfigured up on the mountain, God said, "This is my son whom I love, listen to him." In our worship today, let us listen to Jesus.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, sometimes I find it difficult to hear your voice.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes I hear so many voices that I don't know which voice is yours.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes I turn away from your voice because I don't want to hear it.
Lord, have mercy.

Reading:

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
A Story to Live By: "Seeing Clearly"
Shining Moments: "Charlie Is Glowing" by Deb Alexander
"The Horse Whisperer" by William Lee Rand
Scrap Pile: "Picture This" by John Sumwalt


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

Argile Smith
Keith Hewitt
Peter Andrew Smith
David O. Bales
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Glenda's Surprise" by Argile Smith
"It Was Just My Imagination" by Keith Hewitt
"The Terrible Dark Day" by Peter Andrew Smith
"In Secret" by David Bales


What's Up This Week

SermonStudio

Mark Wm. Radecke
You go into the movie theatre, find a seat that's suitable, clamber over some poor innocent slumbering in the aisle seat, taking pains not to step on toes or lose your balance. You find a place for your coat, sit down, and get ready to watch the movie. The house lights dim; the speakers crackle as the dust and scratches on the soundtrack are translated into static, and an image appears on the screen. It is not the film you came to see. It is the preview of coming attractions, a brief glimpse of the highlights of a film opening soon.
John N. Brittain
Leslie D. Weatherhead, the great British preacher who served many years at City Temple on Holborn Viaduct in London, told the story of the elderly gentlemen who sat on the benches near the church trading stories. As one might expect, in addition to the good old days, a popular topic of conversation was their aches, pains, and ailments. "I have heard that such-and-such a clinic has a very effective regimen of treatment for this," one fellow would say. "Well, I understand that Dr. So-and-So is very efficacious in dealing with this particular ailment," another would counter.
Stephen M. Crotts
Grandma was well into her eighties when she saw her first basketball game. It was a high school contest in which two of her great-grandsons played. She watched the action with great interest. Afterwards everyone piled into the van to get some ice cream, and a grandson inquired, "Grandmama, what did you think of the game?" "I sure liked it fine," she chirped. And then a little hesitantly she added, "But I think the kids would have had more fun if somebody had made the fellow with the whistle leave the players alone!"
R. Glen Miles
Whenever I read from the book of Exodus, especially a text which includes a visit by Moses to the mountaintop to be in the presence of God, I get an image in my mind of Charlton Heston in the movie version of The Ten Commandments. I'll bet you have that problem too, don't you? It doesn't matter if you were born a decade or two since that movie was first released. It gets a lot of play on television, especially during "holy seasons" of the year like Easter.
Joe E. Pennel, Jr
Remember that fog we had last November? I had to venture into it early that Sunday morning. I left home about 6:00 a.m., long before most people even thought about getting up. The fog was dense. My automobile headlights would not cut it. Visibility was reduced to about ten feet. I turned on my dimmer lights and hoped that on-coming traffic would do the same. As I drove, I felt like my car was pushing through a tunnel of smoke.
John T. Ball
There is an old story about a Sunday school teacher who asked a young girl in her class why her little brother wasn't coming to Sunday school any longer. The girl replied, "Well, to tell the truth, he just can't stand Jesus!" Her brother had more of Jesus than he wanted.
Thom M. Shuman
Call To Worship
One: We gather as the faithful of God,
we come to listen to what God has to say to us.
All: God has invited us to this place;
may our faces reflect our hopes and our hearts.
One: We gather as the faithful of God,
people of the new covenant of hope and promise.
All: We boldly enter into the presence of God,
hoping to be transformed into new people.
One: We gather as the faithful of God,
our fears melting away in the heart of God.
All: We come to share in the freedom of the Spirit,
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Gathering Litany
Divide the congregation into two parts (left and right would be easiest here) with the choir or assisting minister as a third voice besides the pastor (marked "L" in this litany).

L: Looking for the Light.
I: Looking for the Light.
II: Looking for the Light.
P: This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.
L: Looking for the Light.
I: Looking for the Light.
II: Looking for the Light.
P: Do not be afraid.

Intercessory Prayers

Special Occasion

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