Login / Signup

The Immediate Word

Hold down Ctrl (Windows) / Command (Mac) for multiple selections (scroll list to see all options)

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

It Is Evening... -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, Psalm 9:9-20 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
When the first storm of the 2006 hurricane season posed a threat to Florida last week, many media st
Living With Anger -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
The furor surrounding Mel Gibson and his outburst toward a police officer has been a major item in t
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
What Would You Do? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Oftentimes one sees crosses placed along side the highway denoting the place where a tragic death oc
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20, Titus 3:4-7, Isaiah 62:6-12, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
Struggling With Depression -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C
It is a depressing world out there.
Just A Glimpse -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - C
"Moses did not know the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God." "And while he
Scott Suskovic
Scott Suskovic is the senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
From Quid Pro Quo To Heck No! -- Israel Strikes Back -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
It's often said that "anything is possible if you truly put your mind to it," but the offbeat experi
Barbara Jurgensen
Barbara Jurgensen is a retired pastor and professor who taught for many years at Trinity Luth
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Paul Bresnahan
Paul Bresnahan is the rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
Not A Chance -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George L. Murphy
Dear Immediate Word subscribers,
2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican

Illustration

The Immediate Word

What Would You Do? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Oftentimes one sees crosses placed along side the highway denoting the place where a tragic death oc
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20, Titus 3:4-7, Isaiah 62:6-12, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
Struggling With Depression -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C
It is a depressing world out there.
Just A Glimpse -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - C
"Moses did not know the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God." "And while he
Scott Suskovic
Scott Suskovic is the senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
From Quid Pro Quo To Heck No! -- Israel Strikes Back -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
It's often said that "anything is possible if you truly put your mind to it," but the offbeat experi
Barbara Jurgensen
Barbara Jurgensen is a retired pastor and professor who taught for many years at Trinity Luth
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Paul Bresnahan
Paul Bresnahan is the rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
Not A Chance -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George L. Murphy
Dear Immediate Word subscribers,
2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
'just As You Did It To The One Of The Least Of These' -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Psalm 27 -- Carter Shelley -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
Even though all of us at times experience life as a "vale of tears," we in the First World realize t
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them

Preaching

The Immediate Word

What Would You Do? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Oftentimes one sees crosses placed along side the highway denoting the place where a tragic death oc
Living With Anger -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
The furor surrounding Mel Gibson and his outburst toward a police officer has been a major item in t
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20, Titus 3:4-7, Isaiah 62:6-12, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
Struggling With Depression -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C
It is a depressing world out there.
Just A Glimpse -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - C
"Moses did not know the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God." "And while he
Scott Suskovic
Scott Suskovic is the senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
From Quid Pro Quo To Heck No! -- Israel Strikes Back -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
It's often said that "anything is possible if you truly put your mind to it," but the offbeat experi
Barbara Jurgensen
Barbara Jurgensen is a retired pastor and professor who taught for many years at Trinity Luth
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Paul Bresnahan
Paul Bresnahan is the rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
Not A Chance -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George L. Murphy
Dear Immediate Word subscribers,
2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
What Would You Do? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Oftentimes one sees crosses placed along side the highway denoting the place where a tragic death oc
Living With Anger -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
The furor surrounding Mel Gibson and his outburst toward a police officer has been a major item in t
Struggling With Depression -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C
It is a depressing world out there.
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20, Titus 3:4-7, Isaiah 62:6-12, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
Just A Glimpse -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - C
"Moses did not know the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God." "And while he
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
Scott Suskovic
Scott Suskovic is the senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a
From Quid Pro Quo To Heck No! -- Israel Strikes Back -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
It's often said that "anything is possible if you truly put your mind to it," but the offbeat experi
Barbara Jurgensen
Barbara Jurgensen is a retired pastor and professor who taught for many years at Trinity Luth
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Paul Bresnahan
Paul Bresnahan is the rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George L. Murphy
Dear Immediate Word subscribers,
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
Not A Chance -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:

Worship

The Immediate Word

It Is Evening... -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, Psalm 9:9-20 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
When the first storm of the 2006 hurricane season posed a threat to Florida last week, many media st
Living With Anger -- Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Psalm 130 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
The furor surrounding Mel Gibson and his outburst toward a police officer has been a major item in t
The "real Presence" Of The Church -- Luke 24:36b-48, 1 John 3:1-7, Acts 3:12-19 -- George Reed, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - B
D
What Would You Do? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B
Oftentimes one sees crosses placed along side the highway denoting the place where a tragic death oc
The Hope For Peace -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20, Titus 3:4-7, Isaiah 62:6-12, Psalm 97 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - C
Hope is all around us this time of year.
When The Darkness Deepens -- John 6:51-58, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B
The shocking news of the thwarting of a major plot to blow up several trans-Atlantic flights -- and
Struggling With Depression -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a, Luke 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C
It is a depressing world out there.
Just A Glimpse -- Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a), 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Exodus 34:29-35, Psalm 99 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - C
"Moses did not know the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God." "And while he
Scott Suskovic
Scott Suskovic is the senior pastor of Christ Lutheran Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, a
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
From Quid Pro Quo To Heck No! -- Israel Strikes Back -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B
It's often said that "anything is possible if you truly put your mind to it," but the offbeat experi
Barbara Jurgensen
Barbara Jurgensen is a retired pastor and professor who taught for many years at Trinity Luth
Hey! What's The Deal? -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B
Although Jesus was God's only begotten Son he was not spared the endurance of pain, agony, suffering
Paul Bresnahan
Paul Bresnahan is the rector of St. Mark's Episcopal Church in St. Albans, West Virginia.
The Two Towers And The Prince Of Peace And Light -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- George L. Murphy
Dear Immediate Word subscribers,
So, Jesus Rides Into Jerusalem And... -- Luke 22:14--23:56, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Thom M. Shuman, Scott Suskovic -- Passion Sunday - C
Palm Sunday coincides this year with April Fool's Day -- and while there might be a temptation to in
Not A Chance -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8 -- Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
Dear Fellow Preacher,
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
The Stone Has Been Rolled Away -- John 20:1-18, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Easter Day - C
On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the victory of the resurrection over the power of death -- yet the lo
2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Carter Shelley -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
Dear Fellow Preachers,
Every Perfect Gift -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
The recent arrest of a suspect in the JonBenet Ramsey murder case has reignited a media frenzy -- on
Her Name Is Philip -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B
This coming Sunday is Mother's Day in the U.S.
Who, Me? -- John 21:1-19, Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - C
In this week's Gospel lesson (John 21:1-19), Jesus commands the repentant Peter to "feed my sheep."
2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B
Dear Fellow Preacher:
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Signup for FREE!
(No credit card needed.)
Easter 4
28 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
23 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
5 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 5
33 – Sermons
140+ – Illustrations / Stories
34 – Children's Sermons / Resources
30 – Worship Resources
35 – Commentary / Exegesis
5 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 6
30 – Sermons
180+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
23 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
5 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Signup for FREE!
(No credit card needed.)

New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Kalas
In the sometimes-tiresome debate over science and scripture with respect to creation, it’s easy to become distracted. While the argument typically requires a focus on the how, we may lose sight of the what. And so, for just a moment, let me invite us to think for a moment about what God created.
Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 8:26-40
As a local church pastor, I was often asked if I would baptize a child whose family were not members of the church. Some churches rebelled against this, but I remember this scripture — the hunger for understanding and inclusion of the Eunuch and Philp’s response — to teach and share and baptize in the name of our God. How could we turn anyone away from the rite of baptism?

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Dad, I think you worked a miracle.” Rolf slowly walked around the tree. “After that windstorm, I assumed this tree was as good as gone.”

“We just needed to give the branches time to heal and come back,” Michael replied.

 “I know, but so many of them were battered and broken I figured that it couldn’t recover. Now though it looks just like it did before the storm.” Rolf paused. “Do you think it will bear any fruit this summer?”

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A live plant that produces fruit, and a broken branch from that plant. I used a tomato plant from a local greenhouse. Ideally, find a plant with blossoms or small fruit already growing. If you use a different kind of fruit-producing plant, just change the script to fit.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent!

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Katy Stenta
Thomas Willadsen
Mary Austin
Elena Delhagen
Dean Feldmeyer
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For April 28, 2024:
  • On The Way To Gaza by Chris Keating based on Acts 8:26-40. On the way to Gaza, Philip discovers the startling ways the Spirit of God moves across borders, boundaries, customs, and traditions.
  • Second Thoughts: Abiding by Katy Stenta based on John 15:1-8.
  • Sermon illustrations by Mary Austin, Tom Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is the vine, we are the branches. In our service today, let us absorb from the vine all the nourishment we need.

Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes our branches become cut off from the vine.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes our branches are withered.
Christ, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we fail to produce good fruit.
Lord, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
We will meet Psalm 22 in its entirety on Good Friday, but here the lectionary designates just verses 23-31. The lectionary psalms generally illuminate the week's First Lesson, which in this case is about the covenant initiated by God with Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 17. The nine verses from this psalm, while not inappropriate, nonetheless leave us looking for an obvious connection with the First Lesson.

John S. Smylie
I think some people are natural-born gardeners. Our Lord grew up in a society that was familiar with agriculture. The images that he used to explain the ways of his Father in heaven are familiar to his audience. Growing up, my closest experience to agriculture was living in, "the Garden State." Most people, when they pass through New Jersey, are surprised to see that expression on the license plates of vehicles registered in New Jersey. Most folks traveling through New Jersey experience the megalopolis, the corridor between New York City and Washington DC.
Ron Lavin
A pastor in Indiana went to visit an 87-year-old man named Ermil, who was a hospital patient. A member of his church told the pastor about this old man who was an acquaintance. "He's not a believer, but he is really in need," the church member said. "I met him at the county home for the elderly. He's a lonely old man with no family and no money."

Paul E. Robinson
"Love is a many splendored thing...." Or so we heard Don Cornwall and the Four Aces sing time and again. Of course you or I might have other words to describe love, depending on our situation.

Love. "I love you." "I love to play golf." "I just love pistachio lush!" "It's tough to love some people." "Jesus loves me, this I know."

Love.

Special Occasion

Wildcard SSL