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SermonStudio

God's Word Became A Person Like Us -- John 1:14; 12:49; 8:12 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2002
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1)
The Seed -- Mark 4:1-9 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
There once was a seed and in that seed was life. The seed was buried in the earth.
The Mustard Seed -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
(Ask the children's choir or congregation to sing "Hymn of Promise" by Natalie Sleeth, #707, The Uni
The House On The Rock -- Matthew 7:24-27 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Jesus told a story about a man who built his house upon a rock and another man who built his house u
Knowing God -- Psalm 116:1-2 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
It was a new room for Zachary. It was his first Sunday in the three-year-old nursery.
The Loving Father -- Luke 15:11-32 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"Alan, you are late again!" Alan's father's jaw twitched, which meant Alan's father was not pleased.
"Come And See" -- John 1:29-42 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Once a teacher asked the children at church to draw a picture of God. But they had never seen God.
Jesus' Resurrection -- Mark 16:6 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The small, furry, green caterpillar ate its way up the stalk of grass.
All God Does, God Does Well -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Some things we can't explain, and we call them mysteries and trust God's love no matter what.
Transfiguration Sunday -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Leader, wearing dark glasses, asks the children, "Do you know why I am wearing dark glasses?" (Pause
Everywhere There Was God -- John 4:5-42 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
One day Jesus stopped at a well where he asked a Samaritan woman for a drink of water.
Ask Me, I Will Do It -- John 14:1-14 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Brad was a good student.
God Is Great, God Is Good -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Every Sunday one of Betsy's parents drove into the circular drive of the church to deliver their chi
Listening -- Mark 1:35 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Jesus was a healer.
The Christmas Tree -- John 1:5 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Martin Luther stood silently under the cold, starry night, surrounded by the fir and pine trees of t
Little Wind -- Luke 2 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Little Wind floated silently to the foot of God's throne.
God's Mercy -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The psalms (Show the Psalms in the Bible.) were the prayer poems of the people.
Intercession -- Matthew 5:43-48 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
There was once a man who dreamed of a beautiful home, and soon all of his time, energy, money, and a
God's Steadfast Love -- Psalm 66:8-20 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
One night a mother, praying with her daughter, asked her how she felt when she prayed.
A Sunny Day -- Romans 8:26b -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"It's raining!" Brad said, sadly.
Good Luck? Bad Luck? Who Knows? -- Psalm 78:1-7 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
An old Chinese farmer had an old horse for tilling his fields.
A Prince In Disguise -- Matthew 25:31-46 (44-45) -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Appropriate Day: All Saints' Day, any Sunday
Brother Lawrence -- Psalm 150:6 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The greasy, sticky pots and pans were piled precariously on the sink.
Have Mercy Upon Us! -- Psalm 123 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The two-year-old was visiting her grandparents, and as they gathered around the table, holding hands
The Shepherd And His Sheep -- John 10:14, 26-27 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2001
Jesus is the Good Shepherd of those who listen and follow him.

Christian

Christian Faith

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Devotional

SermonStudio

Easter 4 -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Acts 4:5-12
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Enjoying The Job That Never Ends -- Philippians 3:13-14 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting wha
Baptism: Blessed For The Journey -- Luke 2:21 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the
Easter 5 -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Acts 8:26-40
Proper 19 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 1:20-33
Joy And Responsibility -- Ephesians 6:1-4 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
Easter 7 -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19, Psalm 1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Proper 20 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37, Psalm 1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 31:10-31
Partners In Parenting -- Luke 2:43-46 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusal
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53, Psalm 47 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
Acts 1:1-11
Proper 21 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2008
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22
Flying Solo -- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12b -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.
The Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Acts 2:1-21
The Holy Trinity -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
Isaiah 6:1-8
Advent 1 -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Proper 22 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16, Psalm 26 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2008
Job 1:1; 2:1-10
Reflecting On A Miracle -- Psalm 139:13-14 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
Proper 4 -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20)
Advent 2 -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Isaiah 40:1-11
Proper 23 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2008
Job 23:1-9, 16-17
Time For A Change -- Deuteronomy 6:4-7 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.
Proper 5 -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, Mark 3:20-35, Psalm 138 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15)
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28, Psalm 126 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Proper 24 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2008
Job 38:1-7 (34-41)

Drama

SermonStudio

The Burglar's Christmas -- Luke 15:22-24 -- Matthew Powell, O.p. -- 2004
This play, based on a short story by Willa Cather, is an allegorical retelling of the story of the p
Jacob And Esau: Trickery In The Genes -- Genesis 25-29 -- Pat Betteley -- 2004
This play is designed to be read and discussed with no scenery, or produced easily with a few simple
Five Advent Candle Dramas -- Anne W. Anderson, Nelson Chamberlain, Sharon Cathcart, Linda Buff, Pamela Honan Peterson -- 2004
Advent 1 -- He's Coming! ... I HopeAdvent 2 -- I Can't Wait!
The Savior Of The World -- Nelson Chamberlain -- 2004
CharactersVoice (from offstage) Narrators (six in three pairs)
Time Travelers' Tales Of The Carols -- Anne W. Anderson, Nelson Chamberlain, Sharon Cathcart, Linda Buff, Pamela Honan Peterson -- 2004
Time Travelers' Tales Of The CarolsCharactersLisa (a teenager)
I Have Seen The Lord! -- John 20:1-18 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Bass M. MitchellMary Magdala as the first witness to the resurrection.
Dust Thou Art ... Art Thou Dust? -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Psalm 103 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
In preparing to write this, the third Ash Wednesday homily/drama, I was running out of ideas -- unti
Rock The Boat! -- John 21 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Maybe I should not read the Bible just before I go to sleep at night. "Why?" you ask.
Jesus Is Risen ... So What? -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Luke 24:1-12, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
This homily/drama was written -- with much more than the usual amount of blood, sweat, and tears --
Even The Gentiles -- Acts 10 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. Perry
But I Wasn't There ... Ya Gotta Show Me! -- Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 20:19-31, Psalm 150 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
You Are There was a real television show in the '50s: back in the days when even commercial t
Onesimus -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. Perry
Just Do It! -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, John 21:1-19 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Hey, the Bible doesn't say anything about who ol' Ananias was, so he might have been the proprietor
Herod -- The First Christmas Grinch -- Matthew 2:1-2, 8, 16-18 -- Bass M. Mitchell -- 2004
This works well if you have costumes but it's not necessary.
Paradox -- Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30, Psalm 100 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
I hope those groaner puns won't detract from the discussion of paradox.
Leaving Egypt For Home -- Matthew 2:19-23 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
You Shall Be Holy -- Acts 13:44-52, Revelation 21:1-6, John 13:31-35 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Me, be holy? Me, with all my horrid habits and stinky sins? I can't do that!
Never Too Late -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
Some Day, My Prince Will Come .. -- Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, John 14:23-29, Psalm 67 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
As I perused the readings for Easter 6, I was struck by their focus on the future glory of God -- an
My Name Is Levi -- Mark 2:13-17 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. PerryThe tax collector Levi, who becomes Matthew, tells his story.
Let Everyone Who Is Thirsty Come -- Acts 16:16-34, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, John 17:20-26 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Everyone, Lord? Even those (fill in the denomination) who (fill in the alleged heresy)?
Living Water -- John 4:7-30 -- Pamela J. Tinnin -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
The Temptation Of Sally Vation -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13, Psalm 91 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Saint Paul reminds us that "Satan disguises himself as an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14) and
When He Calls ... -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11, Psalm 85 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts"What is God calling me to do?"
What's In It For M-E-E-E-E? -- Jeremiah 17:5-10, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Luke 6:17-26, Psalm 1 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

Illustration

Inspirational

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

SermonStudio

FOR THE FATHER AND US -- John 18:1-14 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:1-14
SECOND CHANCE -- John 8:1-11 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:1-11
LITTLE MATTERS THAT MATTERED -- John 18:15-27 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:15-27
HEAVENLY FATHER -- John 8:12-30 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:12-30
MEMBERSHIP IN ANOTHER WORLD -- John 18:28-40 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:28-40
HEIRS -- John 8:31-38 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:31-38
LOOKING AT US WITH LOVE -- John 19:1-7 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:1-7
USING FAITH FOREVER -- John 8:39-59 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:39-59
NO DECISION AT ALL -- John 19:8-16a -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:8-16a
GETTING THE MUD OUT -- John 9:1-12 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 9:1-12
KING JESUS -- John 19:16b-25a -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:16b-25a
EYES EARTHWARD -- John 9:13-41 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 9:13-41
LET DEATH COME, LORD JESUS -- John 19:25b-27 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:25b-27
KNOWN BY NAME -- John 10:1-10 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:1-10
ACCOMPLISHED -- John 19:28-30 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:28-30
SLIPPING OVER CLIFFS -- John 10:11-21 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:11-21
BLOOD AND WATER -- John 19:31-37 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:31-37
NEVER ALONE -- John 10:22-42 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:22-42
NOONTIME PRAYER SERVICE -- Gennifer Benjamin Brooks -- 1996
GATHERING
The demands of discipleship -- Luke 9:51-62 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The demands of discipleshipGospel Note:
The basis of blessedness -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Dennis Koch -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The basis of blessednessGospel Note:
The urgency of the Christian message -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The urgency of the Christian message
Awaiting the power that authenticates -- Dennis Koch -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Awaiting the power that authenticatesGospel Note:
Commitment to a calling -- Luke 4:1-13 -- Dennis Koch -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Commitment to a callingGospel Note:
Different paces and paths to resurrection faith -- John 20:1-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Easter Day - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Different paces and paths to resurrection faith

Preaching

SermonStudio

Psalm 51:1-12 -- Psalm 51:1-12 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Forgiveness -- it's the Christian buzzword. We talk about it a lot.
Psalm 127 -- Psalm 127 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
There is a story about a pastor who worked for years to revive and grow a failing downtown church.
Psalm 27 -- Psalm 27 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Little children love to walk on the edge.
Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Today is Pentecost. The creative power of God's Spirit (v. 30) flows today like no other day.
Psalm 51:1-17 -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It may not seem like a big deal, but has anyone noticed that confession has fallen out of favor in a
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Forgiveness is a concept common to most everyone. It covers a vast landscape, to be sure.
Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
German playwright, Bertolt Brecht, writes in one of his immortal tunes that "magic fear puts the wor
Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Sometimes it's hard to keep the big picture in mind.
Psalm 51:1-17 -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
As this Lenten season begins, it might be a good thing to think deeply about confession.
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"Patience," the old ditty goes, "is a grace, and Grace is a little girl who doesn't wash her face."
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Anyone who has ever worked with other people knows that it's important to give credit where it's due
Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c -- Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The power of these words is rooted in memory.
Psalm 52 -- Psalm 52 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Schoolyard bullies populate the memory of a lot of people.
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Back in the '60s, there was a phenomenon known as trading stamps.
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Certain people have unforgettable voices.
Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Here is a psalm, like many, which leans into praise and rejoicing.
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Riding out a storm can be an amazing experience.
Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
One hears much these days about "seekers." The word in contemporary usage usually refers to people w
Psalm 62:5-12 -- Psalm 62:5-12 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The storybooks of our faith are full of heroes and martyrs who have insisted on the sovereignty of G
Psalm 131 -- Psalm 131 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Humility is at the core of faith. Nice statement, that. But what does it mean?
Psalm 30 -- Psalm 30 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
One hears a lot these days about habits, good and bad. Most everyone has given up smoking.
Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The opening lines of this psalm proclaim the love of God that is both trustworthy and lasting.
Psalm 63:1-8 -- Psalm 63:1-8 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
At the core of our faith is the basic tenet that we must surrender ourselves to God.
Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The scholars tell us that this psalm was likely a liturgical piece used in the celebration of the Lo
Psalm 30 -- Psalm 30 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
What is the difference between happiness and joy?

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Garden Gone Bad -- Isaiah 5:1-7 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2009
This summer I decided to take up some simple vegetable gardening. I knew it would happen someday.
A New Resolve -- Philippians 4:4-9 -- Scott Suskovic -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2009
"Stand firm in the Lord" (Philippians 4:1).
Strengthening Your Grip On Prayer -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Derl G. Keefer -- 2009
In 1982, Chuck Swindoll wrote a book titled Strengthening Your Grip.
It's A Good Thing He's Gone! -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
Today I want you to participate in the proclamation of today's message.
But I Really Like The Best Seat In The House! -- Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2009
Years ago I was a director of alcohol and drug programs in a neighboring county.
Rejoicing Brings Peace -- Philippians 4:4-7 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Mora Naba, a Mossi emperor in Burkina Faso, had conquered a powerful ethnic group in the south calle
Hit Me With Your Best Shot -- Luke 4:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Harry Houdini (1874-1926) was an expert at sleight of hand, a skeptic when it came to the spirituali
Lust: The Fire Inside -- Matthew 5:27-30 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery wit
A Wonderful Conversion Story -- Acts 8:26-40 -- David H. Webb -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
In our first lesson today, we hear yet another Easter faith story.
When God Calls -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
Today, and for the next several weeks, the Revised Common Lectionary devotes attention to one of the
Don't Burn The Cookies! -- Luke 21:25-36 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Today we enter the season of Advent.
The Radiant Life -- Exodus 34:29-35 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2009
We are not citizens of this world trying to make our way to heaven; we are citizens of heaven try
All In God's Time -- Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
"Why do bad things happen to good people?" is the way we say it today.
Finish What You Start -- Luke 14:25-33 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
I remember as I was growing up, before gas became more precious than gold, that our family would go
Obedience: Our Gift To Jesus -- Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
One day a man went to his son's bedroom and found him sitting on his bed with a whole stack of comic
Oh, Jerusalem -- Luke 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Nowadays we have 24-hour news stations, satellite radio, email alerts, and other ways of finding out
Divorce: The Deadlock Of Wedlock -- Matthew 5:31-32 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
It was also said, "Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce." But I s
Our Salvation In Being Loved -- Acts 10:44-48 -- David H. Webb -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
All of a sudden, the Holy Spirit fell on everyone, even the Gentiles.
Finding Fault With God -- Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2009
It is never a pleasant prospect to deal with someone who has a complaint with you.
Go, Johnny, Go, Go, Go! -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Every Sunday, a church broadcasts a one-hour service over the waves of 1450 WMIQ, the local radio st
Trumpet Medley -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- David Kalas -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2009
Listen to the sound of the trumpet. What do you hear?
Getting The Big Picture -- Romans 8:14-17 -- April Yamasaki -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
A "global positioning system" can tell you the fastest way to drive from Point A to Point B -- which
Where Would You Go To Meet Jesus? -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
I remember reading in a church development book some time ago of the experiences of a church planter
Leading Others To Jesus -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2009
It was the Christmas season and thus the time for the local elementary school to present its annual
The Tower Of Siloam -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
It was over forty years ago, in the middle of December 1963, when my aging father retired from the N

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

The Magi Got A Gift, Too -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star ha
Better Not Get Gekko -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2006
Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to t
Speaking Up For What's Right -- Galatians 3:23-29 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2006
As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
What Do The Voices Say? -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2006
Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the
Are You My Husband? -- Luke 20:27-38 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2006
Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him and asked him a question, "Te
Guiding Angels -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2006
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, "Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken f
Not Forsaken -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindi
The Church Is Not A Welfare State -- 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2006
Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers wh
You Win Some -- You Lose Some -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2006
After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town
Please Don't Amputate The Body -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, a
It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over -- Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- All Saints Day - C -- 2006
As for me, Daniel, my spirit was troubled within me, and the visions of my head terrified me.
Living The Lesson Of The Good Samaritan -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man w
Lost In Jesus -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2006
Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed
The Gift Of The Love -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a
Rocky -- Psalm 100 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
Know that the Lord is God.
Mrs. Tolle's Persistent Prayer -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2006
I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at lea
Catching People -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2006
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your n
The Greathearted Monkey King -- Luke 23:33-43 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let
And Yet The Stars Shined -- Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
Get Busy Living In Hope -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.
The Faith Factor -- Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2006
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen....
Love Your Enemies -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who c
Running With The Holy -- Hebrews 11:29--12:2 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every
Songs Of Thanksgiving -- Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your
Being Right Versus Doing Right -- Luke 13:10-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to

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All Saints -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: At all times we are called to bless God's name.
Christmas 1 -- Matthew 2:13-23, Isaiah 63:7-9, Hebrews 2:10-18, Psalm 148 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
Greeting And Opening Litany P: Brothers and sisters, we gather on this day
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 7:10-16 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Easter 2 -- Acts 2:14a, 22-32, 1 Peter 1:3-9, John 20:19-31 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Proper 27/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 32 -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Psalm 70 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
Gathering
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), John 1:1-14 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Wonder of wonders, God has come to us!
Lent 5 -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Romans 8:6-11, Psalm 130 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Litany: A Conversation With The Psalmist L: The abyss, the unknown, the feared:
Transfiguration (1) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
These prayers all focus in on the Transfiguration texts but can also be used during the season of
Proper 26 -- Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Some have come a great distance,
Christmas 2 -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Gathering Litany P: O God, who created our world with a single word,
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Easter 3 -- Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Where shattered hearts are made whole,
Proper 28 / Ordinary Time 33 / /Pentecost 25 -- Matthew 25:14-30, Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christmas 1 -- Isaiah 63:7-9, Hebrews 2:10-18, Matthew 2:13-23 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: All God's people -- boys and girls, women and men,
Passion/Palm Sunday (Lent 6) -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
Prayer For Procession With Palms
Transfiguration (2) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 27 -- Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Matthew 25:1-13 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: If we will but listen,
First Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 2:1-5 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Easter 4 -- Acts 2:42-47, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: This is God's church: the gate to discernment.
Christ The King/Proper 29 -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Ephesians 1:15-23, Psalm 100 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christmas 2 -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: On this day, we remember the gift of God's Word
Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2007
Offertory Prayer
Lent -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The references in this prayer to the covenant makes it especially applicable to Lectionary Cycle
Proper 28 -- Judges 4:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Matthew 25:14-30 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Before there was any time,All: there was God.
First Sunday In Advent -- Psalm 122 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:

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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

When to accommodate and when not to accommodate? That's the question we face today. Most likely, the minds and hearts of our congregations will be focused on the new year. They will have just celebrated the advent not only of a new year but in this case a new millennium. With all the hype about the year 2000, our attention will doubtless be engrossed in the calendar. On the other hand, today is also an important liturgical celebration of the naming of Jesus. It provides us opportunity to acknowledge the importance of that name which has become sacred in our tradition.
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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