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The Immediate Word

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Snakes And Scorpions -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray -- and, he sugg
Living In A Selfie Culture -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary texts have a great deal to say about the misplaced priorities of contemporary
The Viral Jesus -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2016
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of
Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
The Neighbor Next Door -- Luke 10:25-37, Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Psalm 82 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2016
It seems that each day in the last week has brought us news of another horror somewhere around the w
Eeny, Meeny, Miney, Moe -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus rails that he has not come to bring peace but rather division -
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
Repairers Of The Breach -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2016
As the world enjoys the enthralling spectacle of the Olympics, a nagging feeling remains that many o
Fully Pardoned -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lection from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah -- communicating God’s judgm
Humility -- It's What's For Dinner -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells guests at a party -- who’ve been competing for pr
Hungry For Peace -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Christopher Keating -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Isaiah offers his vision of the “peaceable kingdom” -- a world wher
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
Silent Songs -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2016
Psalm 137, as well as both of this week’s Lamentations passages, expresses the pain and sadness of t
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
Eeny, Meeny, Miney, Moe -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus rails that he has not come to bring peace but rather division -
Fully Pardoned -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lection from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah -- communicating God’s judgm
Repairers Of The Breach -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2016
As the world enjoys the enthralling spectacle of the Olympics, a nagging feeling remains that many o
Hungry For Peace -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Christopher Keating -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Isaiah offers his vision of the “peaceable kingdom” -- a world wher
Humility -- It's What's For Dinner -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells guests at a party -- who’ve been competing for pr
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap
Silent Songs -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2016
Psalm 137, as well as both of this week’s Lamentations passages, expresses the pain and sadness of t
Lemonade -- 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Luke 17:11-19, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2016
In this week’s Old Testament passage, God -- through the prophet Jeremiah -- addresses the people of
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
Persisting In The Struggle -- Luke 18:1-8, Psalm 119:97-104, Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2016
The key themes in this week’s lectionary epistle and gospel texts are the value and necessity of pat
Word, Light, And Life -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 1:3-14, Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2016
This Sunday offers us a choice of texts -- some congregations will use the readings for the Second S
#whatafaithfulpersonlookslike -- Luke 18:9-14, Joel 2:23-32, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Psalm 65 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells the familiar parable of the Pharisee and the t
That's My Boy! -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Christopher Keating, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2016
As we observe Jesus’ baptism this Sunday, the lectionary texts celebrate our being welcomed into and
All Along The Watchtower -- Luke 19:1-10, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 119:137-144 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage, the prophet Habakkuk pleads: “O Lord, how long shall I cry for he
Sometimes You Have To Shout -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2016
The prophet Isaiah declares in this week’s Old Testament passage that “For Zion’s sake I will
Like A Shepherd, Lead Us -- Jeremiah 23:1-6, Colossians 1:11-20, Luke 1:68-79, Psalm 46 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2016
On this final Sunday of the church year, all of the lectionary readings address the reign of Christ
Not Too Young To Speak -- Luke 4:21-30, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, God tells the young Jeremiah that “I a
Something's Coming -- Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Psalm 122 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
As we turn to Advent and the first Sunday of the church year and a new lectionary cycle, the foremos
The Devil Is Quick -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
This week’s gospel text recounts Jesus’ sojourn in the wilderness, where he was tempted by the devil

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Snakes And Scorpions -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray -- and, he sugg
Living In A Selfie Culture -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary texts have a great deal to say about the misplaced priorities of contemporary
The Viral Jesus -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2016
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of
Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
The Neighbor Next Door -- Luke 10:25-37, Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Psalm 82 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2016
It seems that each day in the last week has brought us news of another horror somewhere around the w
Eeny, Meeny, Miney, Moe -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus rails that he has not come to bring peace but rather division -
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
Repairers Of The Breach -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2016
As the world enjoys the enthralling spectacle of the Olympics, a nagging feeling remains that many o
Fully Pardoned -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lection from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah -- communicating God’s judgm
Humility -- It's What's For Dinner -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells guests at a party -- who’ve been competing for pr
Hungry For Peace -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Christopher Keating -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Isaiah offers his vision of the “peaceable kingdom” -- a world wher
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
Silent Songs -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2016
Psalm 137, as well as both of this week’s Lamentations passages, expresses the pain and sadness of t
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap
Lemonade -- 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Luke 17:11-19, Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2016
In this week’s Old Testament passage, God -- through the prophet Jeremiah -- addresses the people of

Sermon

The Immediate Word

An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Snakes And Scorpions -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray -- and, he sugg
Living In A Selfie Culture -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary texts have a great deal to say about the misplaced priorities of contemporary
The Viral Jesus -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2016
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of
Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
The Neighbor Next Door -- Luke 10:25-37, Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Psalm 82 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2016
It seems that each day in the last week has brought us news of another horror somewhere around the w
Eeny, Meeny, Miney, Moe -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus rails that he has not come to bring peace but rather division -
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
Repairers Of The Breach -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2016
As the world enjoys the enthralling spectacle of the Olympics, a nagging feeling remains that many o
Fully Pardoned -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lection from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah -- communicating God’s judgm
Humility -- It's What's For Dinner -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells guests at a party -- who’ve been competing for pr
Hungry For Peace -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Christopher Keating -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Isaiah offers his vision of the “peaceable kingdom” -- a world wher
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
Silent Songs -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2016
Psalm 137, as well as both of this week’s Lamentations passages, expresses the pain and sadness of t
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap

Worship

The Immediate Word

An Ultimate Ultimatum -- Deuteronomy 30:15-20, Matthew 5:21-37, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from the Hebrew scriptures, Moses confronts the Israelites with a
Cloud Theology -- Matthew 17:1-9, Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Psalm 2 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain -- and wh
Walls And Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-27; 3:1-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel reading, Jesus faces a time in the wilderness where he is repeatedl
Who Do You Trust? -- Genesis 12:1-4a, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 121 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary reading from Genesis, God promises Abram that “I will make of you a great
Affordable Living Water -- John 4:5-42, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95, Romans 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
Health care reform is a hot topic in Washington these days, with the Republican Congress and the Tru
See The Light, Live The Light, Shine The Light -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2017
In a world riven by divisions of many kinds, it seems more imperative than ever for us to find what
Demonstrations, Marches, And Rallies / Bewitched, Bothered, Bewildered, And Betrayed -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2017
In this installment of The Immediate Word, we’re offering two main essays -- one fo
Looking Into The Tomb -- John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:1-10, Colossians 3:1-4, Acts 10:34-43 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Easter Day - A -- 2017
When the grief-stricken women discover the empty tomb on Easter morning, it is so unexpected and bey
Snakes And Scorpions -- Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus teaches the disciples how to pray -- and, he sugg
Living In A Selfie Culture -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
This week’s lectionary texts have a great deal to say about the misplaced priorities of contemporary
The Viral Jesus -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), Luke 2:1-20, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2016
In Hebrews 1:3, Christ is described as “the reflection of God’s glory and the exact imprint of
Constructing A Platform For Justice -- Luke 12:32-40, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 -- Christopher Keating, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2016
The news cycle during the past two weeks has been dominated by the political conventions -- gatherin
The Neighbor Next Door -- Luke 10:25-37, Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Psalm 82 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2016
It seems that each day in the last week has brought us news of another horror somewhere around the w
Eeny, Meeny, Miney, Moe -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2016
In this week’s gospel passage, Jesus rails that he has not come to bring peace but rather division -
Mulligan Theology -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2016
A major theme in this week’s lectionary texts is how faith completely redefines our lives -- changin
Repairers Of The Breach -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2016
As the world enjoys the enthralling spectacle of the Olympics, a nagging feeling remains that many o
Fully Pardoned -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lection from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah -- communicating God’s judgm
Humility -- It's What's For Dinner -- Luke 14:1, 7-14, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary gospel text, Jesus tells guests at a party -- who’ve been competing for pr
Hungry For Peace -- Matthew 3:1-12, Romans 15:4-13, Isaiah 11:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Christopher Keating -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2016
This week’s lectionary text from Isaiah offers his vision of the “peaceable kingdom” -- a world wher
Weeping Day And Night For The Slain -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Amos 8:4-7 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Beth Herrinton-Hodge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2016
In this week’s lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures, the prophet Jeremiah describes God’s f
The State Of The Church Body -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2016
When Paul addresses the fractiousness of the church -- and specifically of the Corinthian congregati
The Apex Of Hope -- Luke 16:19-31, Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Psalm 91 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2016
In the past several weeks’ lectionary passages, the prophet Jeremiah has painted a bleak picture of
Next At Bat... -- Luke 7:11-17, Galatians 1:11-24, 1 Kings 17:17-24, Psalm 146 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2016
What happens when a valued member of a family or community dies?
Silent Songs -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Lamentations 3:19-26 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2016
Psalm 137, as well as both of this week’s Lamentations passages, expresses the pain and sadness of t
Water: Bottled, Filtered, And Living -- Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2016
The imagery of Christ as the living water that satisfies the thirst of our souls is a thread that ap
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Baptism of Our Lord
29 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
40 – Children's Sermons / Resources
25 – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 3 | OT 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 25, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus called Simon and Andrew, James and John, to follow him. They immediately made their decision and dropped everything, for they knew the importance of their call. When Jesus calls us, do we hear him and do we respond?

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when I'm busy I find it difficult to hear you.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy, I find it difficult to respond to you.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy I'm not sure whether I want to follow you.
Lord, have mercy.
Janice B. Scott
I remember years ago watching an old film, which I think was "The Nun's Story." The young nun who was the heroine of the story had all sorts of difficulties in relationships with the other nuns. The problem was that she was super-intelligent, and the other nuns resented her. In the end the young nun went to the Mother Superior for advice, and was told that as a sign of humility she should fail her coming exams!

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
A Story to Live By: "Angel of Mercy"
Shining Moments: "A Dog's Life" by David Michael Smith
Good Stories: "God's Call" by Stephen Groves
Scrap Pile: "The Way Less Taken" by Garry Deverell


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

C. David Mckirachan
Sandra Herrmann
Contents
"Ordinary Time" by C. David McKirachan
"Who's the Fool?" by C. David McKirachan
"Sharing the Light" by Sandra Herrmann


* * * * * * *


Ordinary Time
by C. David McKirachan
Isaiah 9:1-4

SermonStudio

John N. Brittain
How familiar Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1 sound! Chloe's people had reported quarreling among the believers. Imagine that -- disagreements in a church! There were rivalries and backstabbing even in the very earliest days of the Christian community.
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
A few years ago, I was on a retreat in northern Michigan, and I knew that some of our friends from home were sailing in the vicinity. One evening I went to the local boat dock, and walked through the lines of boats calling out the names of our friends, hopeful that they might be there. I remember the joy I felt when I yelled their names, and they answered! They were actually there, and they responded to my call!
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: In Christ's Name
Message: What on earth will bring us together, God? Lauds, KDM

How long must we wait, God,
for people to stop fighting
nations and nations
buyers and sellers
big ones and little ones
in-laws and relatives
husbands and wives
sisters and brothers
for me to stop fighting with me?
How long must we wait, God,
before we let the Christ Child come here?1
William B. Kincaid, III
In some parts of the country it doesn't matter, but in many areas the snow which falls during this time of the year can bring things to a decisive halt. Schools close. Events are canceled. Travel becomes tricky. If the conditions become severe enough, the decision may be made that not everybody should try to get to work. Only those who are absolutely necessary should report.
R. Glen Miles
"There will be no more gloom." That is how our text begins today. For the ones who were in anguish, glory will replace the gloom. Light will shine in darkness. Celebration will replace oppression. A new day will dawn.

In one sense these verses offer a summary of the overall message of the scriptures, "The darkness will pass. The light of a new day is dawning and there will be joy once again." At the end of the Bible, almost as if the original collectors of these sacred texts intended to remind us again of this word of hope, the Revelation of John tells us:
Robert A. Beringer
After a service of ordination to the Christian ministry, a sad-faced woman came up to the newly-ordained pastor and said, "It's a grand thing you are doing as a young man - giving up the joys of life to serve the Lord." That woman's attitude reflects a commonly held belief that to be serious about our faith means that we expect all joy to be taken out of living. For many, Christianity appears to be a depressing faith, with unwelcome disciplines, that cramps our lifestyle and crushes our spirits.
John T. Ball
All religions offer salvation. Eastern religions offer salvation from the illusion of being separated from ultimate reality - as in Hinduism, or from the pains of desire, as in Buddhism. Nature religions preach a salvation by calling us to realize we are linked to the natural world. Humanistic religions offer a salvation tied to the call to live in dignity and justice without divine aid. The biblical religions - Judaism, Islam, and Christianity - describe salvation in somewhat different ways. Judaism sees salvation primarily as an earthly and corporate affair.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Discord, dissention, strife,
C: anger, violence, hatred;
P: we confess to you, O God,
C: our schemes, our willful rebellion,
our hidden hostilities toward your children.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our lack of trust in your presence,
our need to control, our insatiable appetite for praise.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our fear of speaking the truth in love,
our self-hatred, our moments of utter despair
when we no longer believe you are at work in us.
Wayne H. Keller
Adoration And Praise

Invitation to the Celebration
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
Canticle Of Light And Darkness (UM205)
To Us A Child Of Hope Is Born (CBH189)
God Of Our Strength (CBH36)
Beneath The Cross Of Jesus (CBH250, UM297, NCH190, PH92)
In The Cross Of Christ I Glory (CBH566, UM295, NCH193--194, PH84)
Lord, You Have Come To The Lakeshore (CBH229, NCH173, PH377, UM344)
Where Cross The Crowded Ways Of Life (PH408, CBH405, UM42, NCH543)
Jesus Calls Us, O'er The Tumult (UM398, NCH171--172, CBH398)

Anthems

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wayne Brouwer
In 1882 George MacDonald wrote a fascinating story that powerfully illumines the thought behind today's lectionary passages. MacDonald called his tale "The Day Boy and the Night Girl: the Romance of Photogen and Nycteris" (it is available online at http://www.ccel.org/m/macdonald/daynight/daynight.html). In MacDonald's fable a witch steals a newborn girl and raises her in the total darkness of a cave. The witch experiences both light and darkness, but not the girl. She is completely immersed in the black world.
Wayne Brouwer
"Politics are almost as exciting as war, and quite as dangerous!" said Winston Churchill. "In war you can only be killed once, but in politics many times."

In one of his essays, Albert Camus describes a powerful scene. John Huss, the great Czech reformer of the church, is on trial. His accusers twist all his ideas out of shape. They refuse to give him a hearing. They maneuver the political machine against him and incite popular passion to a lynch-mob frenzy. Finally, Huss is condemned to be burned at
David Kalas
Schuyler Rhodes
I was in the home of a church member the other day where I saw a marvelous family portrait. The picture had been taken on the occasion of a fiftieth wedding anniversary, and the entire family had gathered for the occasion. The celebrating husband and wife were seated in the center of the picture, flanked by their adult children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. It was a magnificent full-color illustration of God's design.

Special Occasion

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