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Colossians 3:1-11

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

God's Surprising Ways To Love Us -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Hosea 11:1-11
Learn and Live -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
There are lessons to be learned at all levels of life.
Giving Our Full Allegiance To God -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
Today’s scriptures talk about what it means to love God and follow Christ.
Reasonable Expectations -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
Reasonable expectations -- they’re implicit in these scripture texts.
A matter of values -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
So much of the matter of living the Christian life comes down to a matter of values.
The dangers of idolatry -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Gary Thompson, Schuyler Rhodes -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
Idolatry comes in many forms. An idol is, of course, anything we put before God.
Feast of fools -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
In Harvey Cox's book, Feast of Fools, he described the yearly medieval
"Up" is not the only heavenly direction -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2001
Annual meetings, whether for a business corporation, a nonprofit agency, or a local congregation, us
Focus -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1998
A couple years ago there was a fad involving optical illusions called "Magic Eye" pictures.
Aim high -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
It comes with the territory of capitalism, for we are continually encouraged to want more, to get wh
Ambition comes with the territory. -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
It comes with the territory of capitalism, for we are continually encouraged to want more, to get wh
The Impact Of Our Self-Images -- 2 Kings 13:14-20a, Luke 12:13-21, Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A
Some great philosopher declared, "I think, therefore I am." He might well have said, I think, theref
And then what? -- 2 Kings 13:14-20a, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
The focus of the lessons for the final three Sundays in July honed in on the dimensions of responsib

Free Access

Learn and Live -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
There are lessons to be learned at all levels of life.

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Is The Church In the Throes of Adolescence? -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23, Psalm 49 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Tom Willadsen, Nazish Naseem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
For August 3, 2025:
God Is Not A Man -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
For August 4, 2019:
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
Walking The Walk -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
The overriding theme in this week’s lectionary texts is one of divine disappointment.
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
It's Not The Economy, Stupid -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Roger Lovette -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Introducing the Texts

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All in all -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Leah Thompson -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
"In that renewal there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scyt
Ready for heaven -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth ... (v. 2)
Be on top of the world -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
We've talked before about being the kind of people that make God happy.
Time for God -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Good morning! The Bible tells us that we should spend a lot
Buried and raised -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Gold is a beautiful metal. I'm so glad to have this gold with
Buried and raised -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Gold is a beautiful metal. I'm so glad to have this gold with

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 18 -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2009
So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated a

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2025) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Hosea 11: 1-13
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2022) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
Hosea 11:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2019) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
Hosea 11:1-11
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2016) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, R. Robert Cueni, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
Hosea 11:1-11
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2013) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Ron Love, Mark J. Molldrem, Bob Ove, Scott A. Bryte, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
Hosea 11:1-11
If we claim Christ... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
If we claim Christ as our Lord, then we should set our minds on heavenly things.
Scientists are always trying... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
Scientists are always trying to unify observations into theories and then gather many theories into
NULL -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
An anonymous author expressed what it means to come to Christ and discover the wonderful experience
NULL -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Leah Thompson -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
In the classic musical My Fair Lady, Professor Henry Higgins bets a friend that he can transf
NULL -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
IllustrationsHosea 11:1-11
Josiah Harlan was the first... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
Josiah Harlan was the first American to enter Afghanistan. In the 1830s, Harlan traveled
Just before the outbreak of... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
Just before the outbreak of World War I, a small ship named Endurance set sail
I grew up in a... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
I grew up in a rural community in western Iowa. Our church was a little Evangelical
One denomination has for its... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
One denomination has for its mission motto: "A world without borders." Writing to an
During his tenure as president... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2001
During his tenure as president, John Kennedy was walking through the base at Cape Canaveral.
In the summer of 1930... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2001
In the summer of 1930, a penniless Italian living in exile in Switzerland, who adopted the pseudonym
I used to visit a... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2001
I used to visit a young man of 18 years who had leukemia.
In preparation for the 2000... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2001
In preparation for the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, agents for the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) raced
A small boy visiting the... -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1998
A small boy visiting the Empire State Building for the first time was accompanied by his mother.

StoryShare

The Boy Who Would Not Tell a Lie -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have stripped off the old self with its practices and

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Sermons Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2022) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
Hosea 11:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43

The Immediate Word

God Is Not A Man -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
For August 4, 2019:
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
Walking The Walk -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
The overriding theme in this week’s lectionary texts is one of divine disappointment.
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul

Liturgy

The Immediate Word

Is The Church In the Throes of Adolescence? -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23, Psalm 49 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Tom Willadsen, Nazish Naseem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
For August 3, 2025:

Prayer

SermonStudio

PROPER 13 -- 2 Kings 13:ll-20a, Psalm 28, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP(Responsively)Hear this, all you people,

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Is The Church In the Throes of Adolescence? -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23, Psalm 49 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Tom Willadsen, Nazish Naseem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
For August 3, 2025:
God Is Not A Man -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
For August 4, 2019:
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
Walking The Walk -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
The overriding theme in this week’s lectionary texts is one of divine disappointment.
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
It's Not The Economy, Stupid -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Roger Lovette -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Introducing the Texts

SermonStudio

Proper 13/Pentecost 11/Ordinary Time 18 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 13 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2003
Seasonal ThemeJesus' acts of compassion and teaching ministry.
Proper 13 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2000
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Hosea 11:1-11 (C)
Proper 13 -- 2 Kings 13:14-20a, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1991
The Church Year Theological Clue
Proper 13 -- 2 Kings 13:14-20a, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Perry H. Biddle, Jr. -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1988
Comments on the Lessons

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Is The Church In the Throes of Adolescence? -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23, Psalm 49 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Tom Willadsen, Nazish Naseem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
For August 3, 2025:
God Is Not A Man -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
For August 4, 2019:
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
Walking The Walk -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
The overriding theme in this week’s lectionary texts is one of divine disappointment.
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
It's Not The Economy, Stupid -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Roger Lovette -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Introducing the Texts

SermonStudio

Killing What Is Already Dead -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2009
Every pastor has had this experience.
Wearing The King's Clothes -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Clayton A. Lord Jr. -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
There is nothing like putting on a new shirt and pair of pants.
The Reason For The Rules -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Gary L. Carver -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2003
When I was eleven years old I was a baseball player. Well, not really.
Renewing The New Self -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Kirk R. Webster -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2000
How do you focus on something unseen?

The Village Shepherd

Do You Have Time? -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
There's only one problem with reformed smokers - they often become quickly fanatical in their zeal

Stories

StoryShare

The Boy Who Would Not Tell a Lie -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have stripped off the old self with its practices and
Searching For God, Finding Oneself -- Luke 12:13-21, Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Sandra Herrmann, Argile Smith -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2022
ContentsWhat's Up This Week
The Way Jesus Would Have Told It -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- David O. Bales -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
Contents “The Way Jesus Would Have Told It” by David O. Bales
The Rich Fool -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- John Fitzgerald -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2016
Contents "The Rich Fool" by John FitzgeraldThe Rich Fool
Putting On Christ -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Peter Andrew Smith, C. David Mckirachan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
Contents"Putting on Christ" by Peter Andrew Smith
I Remember -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- C. David Mckirachan, Keith Hewitt -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
Contents"I Remember" by C. David McKirachan
Let The Redeemed Say So -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
A Story to Live By Let the Redeemed Say So

SermonStudio

Driving Lessons -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2003
Consider this scenario: You're driving on the local Interstate.
The Taste Of Music -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jeanne Jones -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2003
The whole thing began when I was asked to be the song leader for a Walk to Emmaus retreat in 1988.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Is The Church In the Throes of Adolescence? -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23, Psalm 49 -- Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Tom Willadsen, Nazish Naseem -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
For August 3, 2025:
God Is Not A Man -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Bethany Peerbolte, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2019
For August 4, 2019:
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
Walking The Walk -- Colossians 3:1-11, Hosea 11:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Ron Love -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2013
The overriding theme in this week’s lectionary texts is one of divine disappointment.
The Bucket List Vs. The Gutter List -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2010
This week's texts from Colossians and Luke call us to live in a Christ-like manner -- and both Paul
It's Not The Economy, Stupid -- Luke 12:13-21, Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Roger Lovette -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C
Introducing the Texts

SermonStudio

Proper 13 / Ordinary Time 18 / Pentecost 11 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21, Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2009
Zoos are no longer in people's good graces. Religion faces the same problem.
Proper 13/Ordinary Time 18 -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 3:1-11Theme: Reading Our Own Obituary
Proper 13 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2003
Theme: God's Love For His PeopleCall To Worship
Seeking the Kingdom of God -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 1997
Second Lesson: Colossians 3:1-11Theme: Seeking the Kingdom of God
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
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
24 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sandra Herrmann
Merry Christmas! The midwinter festival has come, and it calls for parties, feasting and drinking and dancing and the exchange of gifts. Like all people in the northern hemisphere, we need light in the dark days of winter. The only problem with all of this is that the pressure to be joyful can send us spiraling in the exact opposite of mind sets.
Christmas shops are not just for Christmas anymore. These stores that specialize in everything yuletide-ish do business year round and can be found everywhere. I have seen them in an outlet mall near Washington, D.C., nestled in a small village in the mountains of North Carolina and adorning the white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is born! A bright light has come into our world, so let us thank and praise God for his gift to us of Jesus, the Messiah.

Invitation to Confession:

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, make us worthy to worship at your crib.

Lord, have mercy.

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, may we remember you in today's excitement.

Christ, have mercy.

 Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, be born in our hearts today.

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
A Story to Live By: "
Christmas Stories: "Christmas Presence" by Janice Hammerquist
"Silver In His Soul"
"www.ChristmasHouse" by John Sumwalt
Scrap Pile: Great Prayer of Thanksgiving for Christmas Eve by Thom M. Shuman


What's Up on Christmas Eve

Lamar Massingill
John E. Sumwalt
Contents
"Taking His Joy unto Ourselves" by Lamar Massingill
"God Acted that We Might Act" by Lamar Massingill
"The Hopes and Fears of All the Years" by John Sumwalt
"God with Us" by Peter Andrew Smith


* * * * * * * *


Taking His Joy unto Ourselves
Lamar Massingill
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

Christmas would be incomplete without recognizing Incarnate Love's first fruit, which is joy. Johann Sebastian Bach recognized it when he, as an act of worship, composed "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring."

SermonStudio

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 9:2--7 (C, RC); Isaiah 9:2--4, 6--7 (E)
Mark Wm. Radecke
Year after year, we are drawn to this night: This night with its carols, its candlelight, its communion, and the combined fragrance of pine, poinsettia and perfume. (Is that Passion or Poison you're wearing? Or maybe it's Polo!) The gentle poetry of Luke's story draws us, too.

Why is it that we are so drawn to this night, I wonder? There are, I suppose, as many answers as there are people in this room.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
It's not an easy life, I'll tell you that. I work my small farm during the day, but that doesn't bring in enough money. I have a family to support, taxes to pay -- oy, don't get me started on taxes -- so I need more than my farm brings in. I do the only other thing I know how to do. I hire myself out for the night shift watching other people's sheep. Tending sheep would not be my first choice, you understand. First, I have to stay awake all night. Then, there's counting the sheep to make sure one or two haven't wandered off. Thieves are always a problem.
Timothy J. Smith
There is a special feeling from being in church on Christmas Eve. For many of us it feels like coming home for Christmas. We come to hear the familiar story of Mary and Joseph making their way to the little town of Bethlehem. We hear once again of Baby Jesus born in stable. Soon after an unexpected encounter with angels, the shepherds head to the manger to see Jesus for themselves. Children have creatively acted out this story for generations complete with the wise men offering their gifts. Living Nativities complete with live animals are portrayed in church parking lots in many communities.
Frank Luchsinger
"The grace of God has appeared ... training us ... to await our blessed hope" (Titus 2:11-13), and oh, how we have waited! The air is filled with anticipation, the Holy Night has come. We each wait for different things: the lighting of candles, the singing of carols, loved ones returning home, feasting, and forgetting ferment, for the Prince of Peace is coming. We wait for delight in the eyes of someone we love as he or she opens that special gift. We wait in awe in the hope that one star's strong light lingers still and will lead us home to him who redeems us.
John B. Jamison
He stood on the steps and waved. He nodded to those cheering to him from below, and took a deep breath as if to soak up their praise.
Susan R. Andrews
At the risk of putting you to sleep, I'd like to ask each one of you to close your eyes. Right now, for just a minute. Please close your eyes. And now imagine with me. Imagine that you are holding a newborn baby. Imagine how this baby feels - skin touching skin, curves touching curves - harmonious heartbeats as life surges between you. Imagine the smell - the earthy sweetness of breath and body perfuming the air. Imagine the sound - the silent melody of sighing, stretching, settling. Right now, for just a minute, let your imagination go. Feel the baby. Smell the baby. Hear the baby.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Gathering
P: Born into this world,
C: born into our lives,
P: God made flesh.
C: O Emmanuel, we praise you now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Of Praise
O Come, All Ye Faithful or Jesus, What A Wonderful Child

Gospel Procession
Have the children (dressed as Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds) process and then read the gospel from the center of the congregation.

Intercessory Prayers
After each petition:
L: O God of love,
C: be born in us today.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Sing A New Song To The Lord (PH216)
Angels From The Realms Of Glory (UM220, PH22, NCH126)
Born In The Night (PH30, NCH152)
Once In Royal David's City (PH49, UM250, NCH145)
The First Nowell (PH56, UM245, CBH199, NCH139)
On This Day Earth Shall Ring (UM248, PH46, CBH192)
What Child Is This? (UM219, PH53, CBH215, NCH148)
Silent Night (PH60, UM229, CBH193, PH134)
The Friendly Beasts (UM227, NCH138)
That Boy--Child Of Mary (PH55, UM241)
Frank Ramirez
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 9:2-7)

One: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light -

All: Those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shone.

Women: You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.

Men: For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders -

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Merry Christmas, boys and girls. (Show one of your signs). Do any of you know what this sign means? (Let them answer.) That's right, it means (provide answer). (Show another sign and ask what it means. Let them answer.) Very good. Signs are very important aren't they? They give us direction. They tell us what to do and what not to do. The Bible gives many signs also.

You all know the story about the shepherds on Christmas Eve. The shepherds were in the field watching their sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared to them. The Bible says that the shepherds
Leah Thompson
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all… (v. 11)

Good morning, boys and girls! How are you today? (allow answers) Who can tell me what today is? (allow answers) That's right -- it's finally here! Today is Christmas [Eve]! We have spent the whole season of Advent preparing for right now. The long preparation is finally over. Christmas is here!

Special Occasion

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