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The Immediate Word

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The Immediate Word

It Pays To Advertise -- Mark 1:40-45, 2 Kings 5:1-14, 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, Psalm 30 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2012
Another Super Bowl extravaganza is now in the rearview mirror, and for many people the most anticipa
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
Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
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
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
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
From Ashes To Rainbow -- Genesis 9:8-17, Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When God tells Noah that "I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you" (Ge
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
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Should We Give Up Calm Instead Of Chocolate? -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary gospel passage features Jesus's celebrated outburst in which he clears out
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
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
Faithfulness And Righteousness On The Campaign Trail -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
It was rather startling to find discussions on theology in the headlines last week.
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
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
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
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
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
The Untold Christmas Story -- Matthew 2:16-18, Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7 -- Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2012
The news was stunning and almost unimaginable -- a bustling elementary school in a well-to-do commun
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
Old Clothes -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2012
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

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The Immediate Word

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
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
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
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
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
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
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
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
The Untold Christmas Story -- Matthew 2:16-18, Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7 -- Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2012
The news was stunning and almost unimaginable -- a bustling elementary school in a well-to-do commun
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
Old Clothes -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2012
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
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
You Give Them Something To Eat -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Roger Lovette, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2011
As August 3rd approaches, our government leaders are locked in a struggle over how to keep America f
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
Fear And Faith -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2011
When the news came of a bombing in the heart of downtown Oslo, many people's first reaction was to a
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Our Maps Are Too Small -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Genesis 45:1-15, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2011
The images are heart-wrenching, as the world's attention has slowly become focused on the ongoing dr
The Main Thing -- Matthew 6:24-34, 1 Corinthians 4:1-5, Isaiah 49:8-16a, Psalm 131 -- Roger Lovette, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary gospel text, Jesus warns about the dangers of an excessive devotion to mat

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
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
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
From Ashes To Rainbow -- Genesis 9:8-17, Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When God tells Noah that "I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you" (Ge
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
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
Should We Give Up Calm Instead Of Chocolate? -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary gospel passage features Jesus's celebrated outburst in which he clears out
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
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Faithfulness And Righteousness On The Campaign Trail -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
It was rather startling to find discussions on theology in the headlines last week.
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
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
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
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
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
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
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
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
The Untold Christmas Story -- Matthew 2:16-18, Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7 -- Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2012
The news was stunning and almost unimaginable -- a bustling elementary school in a well-to-do commun
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
Old Clothes -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2012
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

Sermon

The Immediate Word

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
Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
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
From Ashes To Rainbow -- Genesis 9:8-17, Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When God tells Noah that "I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you" (Ge
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
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
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
Should We Give Up Calm Instead Of Chocolate? -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary gospel passage features Jesus's celebrated outburst in which he clears out
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
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
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
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
Faithfulness And Righteousness On The Campaign Trail -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
It was rather startling to find discussions on theology in the headlines last week.
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
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
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
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
The Untold Christmas Story -- Matthew 2:16-18, Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7 -- Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2012
The news was stunning and almost unimaginable -- a bustling elementary school in a well-to-do commun
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
Old Clothes -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2012
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

Worship

The Immediate Word

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
Discipleship As Mentorship -- Mark 9:2-9, 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, 2 Kings 2:1-12 -- George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2012
The lectionary texts for Transfiguration Sunday offer an interesting set of homiletical challenges.
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
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
From Ashes To Rainbow -- Genesis 9:8-17, Mark 1:9-15, 1 Peter 3:18-22, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
When God tells Noah that "I am establishing my covenant with you and your descendants after you" (Ge
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
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
Should We Give Up Calm Instead Of Chocolate? -- John 2:13-22, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Exodus 20:1-17, Psalm 19 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
This week the lectionary gospel passage features Jesus's celebrated outburst in which he clears out
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
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- All Saints Day - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Faithfulness And Righteousness On The Campaign Trail -- Mark 8:31-38, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2012
It was rather startling to find discussions on theology in the headlines last week.
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
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
Living An Ascending Hope -- Psalm 127, Mark 12:38-44 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2012
As the Northeastern U.S.
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
A New Provocation -- Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, Mark 13:1-8, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2012
The voting is now over and this past week President Obama was re-elected to another four-year term.
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
Out Of This World -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2012
Our world is one of deep divisions and seemingly endless conflict.
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
The Untold Christmas Story -- Matthew 2:16-18, Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a, Psalm 80:1-7 -- Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2012
The news was stunning and almost unimaginable -- a bustling elementary school in a well-to-do commun
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
Old Clothes -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26, Psalm 148 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2012
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
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Advent 4
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120+ – Illustrations / Stories
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10 – Worship Resources
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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Nazish Naseem
Mary Austin
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 4-6, 2026:
Nazish Naseem
Mary Austin
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 4-6, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
I was only just full-grown when we set out on the journey, but I was strong and eager for adventure. And by the time we returned to our own land after many years, I was older and wiser than my age might have you believe.

Don't get me wrong. I was happy in my home, living in the paddock with my brothers and sisters and the rest of the herd, for we were well looked after. We always had food and water, and the camel master almost never beat us, even when occasionally we'd spit at him, just for fun.

StoryShare

David O. Bales
Frank Ramirez
Timothy F. Merrill
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Sons from Far Away, Daughters in Nurses' Arms" by David O. Bales
"Tenting Among Us" by Frank Ramirez
"God's Resolutions" by Timothy F. Merrill


What's Up This Week
C. David Mckirachan
Larry Winebrenner
Keith Hewitt
Contents
"A Time for Everything" by Larry Winebrenner
"A Word of Hope" by Larry Winebrenner
"You Were Adopted" by C. David McKirachan
"Behold the Man" by Keith Hewitt


* * * * * * * *


A Time for Everything
Larry Winebrenner
Ecclesiastes 3:1-13

Henry didn't like Jack.

Oh, he loved him like a brother. He would die for his friend. But oh, the arrogance. He always thought he was right. And he would always use authority, authority of some kind, to support his claims.

SermonStudio

Mark Wm. Radecke
This season, the boundaries of darkness are pushed back. A light shines in the darkness and the darkness is powerless to extinguish it.

Darkness has always been a potent metaphor for those things in life that oppress and enthrall us, frighten and intimidate us, cause us worry and anxiety and leech the joy from our lives.

We know darkness in our physical lives when illness is close at hand, when we lack the basic necessities of life -- food, shelter and clothing.
Paul E. Robinson
Early in January in northern Canada the sun peeks above the horizon for the first time after six weeks of hiding. An important dawn for Canada. Imagine how the lives of people in the northern latitudes would be different if they got used to the darkness and never even expected that a dawn would ever lighten their horizon again.
John N. Brittain
We lived in Florida for a while in the 1980s and it was then that we learned about Tarpon Springs. Not a large city, it has the highest percentage of Greek Americans of any place in the US. This dates back to the 1880s, when Greek immigrants moving into the area were hired as sponge divers, a trade they had plied back in the old country. Today Tarpon Springs' main claim to fame is the Greek Orthodox Church's Epiphany celebration, which is held every January 6, with the blessing of the waters and the boats.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
Early January always feels like a fresh start. The Christmas whirlwind has settled down. We still have a fighting chance to keep our resolutions for the new year. Cartoons always depict the New Year as a baby, full of possibilities and innocence. We hope that with a new year we can leave the baggage behind us, stretching toward a brighter future.

Stephen M. Crotts
Many things are written with all of the excitement of some fresh truth recently received. Other things are written from anger. And there is much these days in any pastorate to make one mad. Still other messages are delivered from depression. I'm convinced that the majority of preachers I know are over the edge into burnout. And what of this particular study? Where am I coming from? Today, I'm writing from a broken heart, a heart shattered by a fallen comrade.
William B. Kincaid, III
Did you notice that bad things did not stop happening through the holidays? And is any warning necessary that bad things will happen in every season of this year? Surely there is better news than that, but we ought to be honest about the bad news. Not even the holidays generate enough good will to stop people from blowing up airplanes and destroying people's reputations and abusing children and selling drugs to teenagers and gunning down their neighbors.
Robert A. Beringer
"So, what's new?" he asked. It happens all the time. You meet someone on the street you have not seen for awhile. "What's new?" "Oh, nothing much, really.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

(Myrna and Robert Kysar are the co-authors of "Charting The Course." Myrna is pastor of Christ Lutheran Church [ELCA], Oakwood, Georgia. She holds a Master of Divinity degree from Yale Divinity School and a Doctor of Ministry from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia. She is the co-author with her husband of three books.
Mark J. Molldrem
Schuyler Rhodes
These are the longest hours of darkness. Although the winter solstice is passed, the darkness lingers for many more weeks. The season becomes a symbol for the longing of the human spirit to "see the light." It becomes difficult to catch sight of the light, however, when so many shadows lurk at every turn of a corner we make. We claim to be an enlightened people; yet settle for clap-trap on television and spend countless hours absorbing it like a sponge under a dripping faucet. We call athletes heroes for nothing more than being good at what they do.
Cathy Venkatesh
In many countries, January 6 is a public holiday with parades, parties, and festivities celebrating the visit of the wise men. For some Christian churches, the main celebration of Christ's incarnation occurs on this day. But in the United States, Monday, January 6, 2014, is nothing special in the public sphere. For most of us, this day marks the beginning of our first full week back at work or school after the Christmas and New Year's holidays.

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Teachers: Most youngsters (and many adults) have a misconception of the wise men. The Bible does not state that the wise men visited Jesus at the manger. Even so, our tradition of gift giving at Christmas may relate to the wise men's gifts. The church celebrates the arrival of the wise men's visit to Jesus 12 days after Christmas. This event is called "Epiphany."

Take a moment to explain to your students the significance of Epiphany, the wise men, and Jesus. The lesson from Matthew states three gifts that the wise men gave Jesus: gold, frankincense and
Today we are going to be like the wise men from the East who looked for baby Jesus. They were told the wonderful story about a promised Messiah who would save the world. He was the "king of the Jews" and would be king of all people. They traveled a great distance. They wanted to see the baby. They had to see the baby! So they left and ended up in Jerusalem. There they asked about the promised king.

The man who was king became very jealous. Even though they were looking for a spiritual king -- a king of our hearts, minds,
Teachers or Parents: Have an Epiphany pageant to close off the Christmas season and the twelve days of Christmas with the children of your church. Have people stationed in various parts of the home or church building where you might go to ask the question, "Are you the Messiah?" They will, of course, say, "No." The first group might add, "Look for the star." Involve as many children as possible. Let them ask the question. Let them get into the role of wise men from the East. Help them relive the story and see that Jesus is more than king of the Jews or king of

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