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Worship

SermonStudio

The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2009
The light of truth is in the skies. Or it may be only a shadow.
Lent 4 -- Joshua 5:9-12, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Psalm 32 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
You shall pass judgment on yourself. That is the hardest thing of all ...
Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
A Maundy Meal For The Whole Family Goals
Easter 5 -- Acts 11:1-18, Revelation 21:1-6, John 13:31-35, Psalm 148 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.
Epiphany 5 / Ordinary Time 5 -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11, Psalm 138 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
A single song is being inflected through all the colorations of the human choir.
Ash Wednesday -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Psalm 51:1-17 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2009
A single song is being reflected through all the colorations of the human choir.
Easter Day -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, John 20:1-18, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Easter Day - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.
The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, Romans 5:1-5, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
Zoos are no longer in people's good graces. Religion faces the same problem.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53, Psalm 47 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
Our lives end in the middle of the story.
Easter 4 -- Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.

Drama

SermonStudio

The Eyes Of Jesus -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Psalm 116 -- Amy Jo Jones -- 2008
Introduction
Hosanna! Save Now! -- Amy Jo Jones -- 2008
Character This is intended for the pastor to deliver to the congregation.
Alexander And Rufus: Sons Of Simon Of Cyrene -- Matthew 27:32-37 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Characters
Innocent Of The Blood Of Jesus -- Matthew 27:1-31 -- Joe Barone -- 2008
Character Pontius Pilate Props None required
Nicodemus And Joseph Of Arimathea -- John 3:1-9 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Characters Narrator Nicodemus Joseph Props
Zacchaeus -- Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Luke 19:1-10 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Characters Zacchaeus Narrator Grandchild 1 Grandchild 2
Crippled Woman -- Luke 13:10-17 -- Diana M. Morris -- 2008
Character Rachel -- middle-aged woman Props
Dirty Jobs: Bethlehem -- Keith Hewitt -- 2008
Characters Producer Micah Lydia Esther Customer 1
Bethlehem Blues -- Keith Hewitt -- 2008
Characters (in order of appearance) Archangel Afriel Barbiel
A Night For News -- Keith Hewitt -- 2008
Characters (in order of appearance) Director Offstage Voice (Bumper)

Sermon

SermonStudio

Terms Of Endearment -- John 12:1-8 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2021
In his short story, “The Capital of the World,” Ernest Heming-way reported an event they talk about
Faces At A Funeral -- John 18:1--19:42 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Good Friday - C -- 2021
During the nineteenth century, all Oxford graduates were required to translate a portion of the Gree
Into The Wilderness -- Luke 4:1-13 -- Wayne Brouwer -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2021
Jesus was tempted.
Creation Reborn -- John 20:1-18 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Easter Day - C -- 2021
When I was a pastor in rural southern Alberta, we held our Easter Sunrise worship services in a ceme
The Gift Of — Darn It! — Waiting -- Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Mary Austin -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, our season of waiting is almost over.
God's Evite: Wait! -- Philippians 1:3-11 -- Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
On this second Sunday of Advent, we hear Paul’s words to the church at Philippi, a church he knew we
It's All About The Messiah -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Derl G. Keefer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2018
I read an old legend about a Christmas party that Satan and his pack of demons were having in hell.
Ordering Up A Set Of False Gods On Amazon -- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 -- Mary Austin -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
As this Advent season begins, what have you promised yourself about the holidays this year?
The Song Of Servanthood -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Derl G. Keefer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
Weddings are beautiful and exciting events with an abundance of anticipation.
Joy On An Elephant -- Philippians 4:4-7 -- Mary Austin -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2018
On this third Sunday of Advent, we hear again from Paul’s letter to the believers at Philippi.

Children's sermon

SermonStudio

Can I Give Enough? -- Mark 12:41-44 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
What's In A Name? -- Acts 11:26b -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Willing -- Judges 6:15-16a -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
What Does Heaven Look Like? -- John 14:2 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Science And The Bible -- Isaiah 40:22a -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture References It is he who sits above the circle of the earth....
Handmade By God -- Jeremiah 1:5a -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference Before I formed you in the womb I knew you.
Love Your Neighbor As Yourself -- Matthew 22:39b -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference Love your neighbor as yourself.
If You're Angry -- Matthew 18:15 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Like Iron Sharpens Iron -- Proverbs 27:17 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference
Thankful -- Two -- Ephesians 5:20 -- Marti Kramer Suddarth -- 2007
Scripture Reference

Worship Service

Preaching

SermonStudio

Lent 2 -- Genesis 17:1-7, Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Remembering the spiritual roots of grace.
Easter 7 -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day The awesome ways of God. Collect of the Day
Proper 11 / Pentecost 8 / Ordinary Time 16 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-14a, Ephesians 2:11-22, Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day All are one. Collect of the Day
Easter 4 -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Baptism of Our Lord -- Genesis 1:1-5, Acts 19:1-7, Mark 1:4-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Baptism and new life! Collect of the Day
Lent 3 -- Exodus 20:1-17, 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Look! God doesn't do things our way.
Maundy Thursday / Holy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day What God does to get us to love.
Proper 10 / Pentecost 7 / Ordinary Time 15 -- 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Ephesians 1:3-14, Mark 6:14-29 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day It's all in God's hands! Collect of the Day
Proper 6 / Pentecost 3 / Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 4:26-34 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day A way out of no way. Collect of the Day
Good Friday -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12, Hebrews 10:16-25, John 18:1--19:42 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Good Friday - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day A vulnerable God struggles to overcome our sin.

Stories

SermonStudio

Dorcas -- Acts 9:36-43 -- David E. Leininger -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Women have always been uniquely important in the life of the church, whether or not men want to admi
Eyes Up! -- Luke 21:25-36 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
A bit of a contrast, isn't it? The sweet strains of "Away In A Manger" followed by "...
Choosing A God -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2009
For sheer drama, there is little in fact or fiction that can surpass the stories of Elijah in 1 King
A Time To Laugh -- John 20:19-31 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Easter is a time of surprises.
The Jump To Judgment -- Luke 6:39-49 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2009
Mr.
Life After Life -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
In an ever-lengthening pastoral ministry, I have had occasion to officiate more funerals than I can
Silly Goose -- Colossians 3:12-17 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2009
Great words -- as succinct a description as can be found anywhere of what we are called to be and do
The Fig Tree -- Luke 13:1-9 -- David E. Leininger -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
An intriguing text.
The Uniquely Christian Commandment -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- David E. Leininger -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
Maundy Thursday is a strange term.
Going For The Gold -- Philippians 3:4b-14 -- David E. Leininger -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
The apostle Paul must have been a sports junkie.

Prayer

SermonStudio

University Alumni Founders Day -- 2003
We are thankful, O Lord, for the days of our lives that are
Personal Prayer (1) -- 2003
How like me to go off to write a book of prayersand forget to pray.
Prayers On The Run -- 2003
A. At Breakfast O God of the morning,
Prayers Of The Morning (1) -- 2003
O Lord of Life,out of the night the new day is given.We wake to its call.
Prayers Of The Evening (1) -- 2003
In the stillness of the evening,in the quiet of the night
Prayers For Courage And Hope (1) -- 2003
O God of Hope,the turbulent waters of life wear us out.
Wedding Prayer -- 2003
God of grace and glory,You have brought together _____________ and ______________
Prayers For Deliverance (1) -- 2003
Teach us to know your patience, O God, and to trustyour deliverance.
For Social Responsibility (1) -- 2003
O Lord, we have seen your faceshining through the dark, wet eyes of African children
For Strangers And Enemies (1) -- 2003
God of our ancestors, Lord of our lives,

Devotional

SermonStudio

The Day of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place.
The Holy Trinity -- John 16:12-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
The Holy Trinity -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings.... -- Romans 5:3a
The Holy Trinity -- Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth! -- Psalm 8:1a
The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago.
The Day of Pentecost -- John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
This is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows
The Day of Pentecost -- Romans 8:14-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. -- Romans 8:14
The Day of Pentecost -- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
When you send forth your spirit, they are created; and you renew the face of the ground.
The Ascension of Our Lord -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the city until you have b
Easter 7 -- Acts 16:16-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
One day, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divinat

Poems

SermonStudio

Pentecost -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 -- Andrew Daughters -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 1990
Come, Holy Spirit.Come, Holy Guide.Teach me to follow and turn not aside.
Proper 11 -- Mark 6:30-34 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 1990
The sheep has been domesticatedfor so many years,that a sheep without a shepherd
Proper 10 -- Mark 6:7-13 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 1990
When Jesus called a dozenfrom the field and shop and shore,
Proper 9 -- Mark 6:1-6 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 1990
‘We knew him when,' the people cried.'We saw him grow to manhood.
Proper 26 -- Mark 12:28-37 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
Love God and love your neighbor.'How simple it would seem
Pentecost 26 -- Mark 13:1-13 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1990
The time of God and that of manare very different things,
Proper 27 -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 1990
Of the people who came to the temple, there were many whose vesture was grand.
Proper 28 -- Mark 13:24-32 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 1990
Who knows when it will happenthat the end of time will come?
Proper 25 -- Mark 10:46-52 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 1990
Blind Bartimaeus, hearing Jesus pass,let out a shout,'You Son of David, pity me
Proper 24 -- Mark 10:35-45 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 1990
James and John were fishermen,the sons of Zebedee.

Pastoral Resources

SermonStudio

Breaking Pots -- Jeremiah 19:1-11 -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Appropriate Day: Independence Day, any Sunday
Show Me How Strong You Are -- Luke 23:34, Matthew 5:38-42 -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Season: Lent, any time
Jim, The Promise-Mender -- Hosea 1:2; 2:19-23 -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Appropriate Day: Any Sunday
Stilling The Storm -- Matthew 8:23-27 -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Season: Any
A Book Of Words/The Book Of Love -- John 20:30-31 -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Given in the tradition of the parable, these sermons require the listeners' actual participation in
The Five Percent Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
Despite the pious things we say, at any given thne, less than five percent of any group of people in
The Pastor Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
The ultimate principle for pastors is a "tough love" that looks beyond the irritation of the moment
The Tweaking Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
This principle lies at the heart of the matter! But what does it mean?
The Creative Ignorance Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
In the ministry it is better not to know some things, even if you have to forget them forcefully.
The Ecclesiastical Friction Principle -- David S. Belasic, Paul M. Schmidt -- 1986
There is a friction in the church that burns up enormous energy, consumes endless hours, smothers cr

Children's program

SermonStudio

Why Are You Frightened? (April) -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 1977
Order of ServiceGathering to rYorshipOpening RemarksSong: "Kum Ba Yah"
DECORATIONS -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
1. Hanging of the Greens. (see special service)
Halloween -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
Beside Halloween parties, one of the greatest things a youth group can do is to cooperate with UNICE
Youth Sunday and/or Youth installation Day -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
This is to suggest that both might be done at the same time.
Lent and Easter -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
Lent is the fourty days exclusive of Sundays before Easter. It begins on Ash Wednesday.
Earth Day and Arbor Day -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
Arbor Day, which began in Nebraska in 1872, is celebrated on the last Friday in April, by Presidenti
NEW YEAR'S EVE -- Larry Eisenberg -- 1974
Many youth groups make a big evening of New Year's Eve.

Pageant

Adult study

SermonStudio

Clarity Versus Charity -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
As a parish pastor, I often find myself acting as a sort of go-between.
The People And The Pope -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
It's October 1995.
Lessons In Virtue That Books Can't Teach -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
There's no question, virtue is a hot topic these days.
Finding Room In God's House -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
"My oldest daughter was married from that church; my husband was buried from that church." The voice
Abraham And Moses Run For President -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
George W. Bush is Abraham. Bill Clinton is Moses.
Foundations -- Deuteronomy 5:1, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Matthew 5:17-18 -- Ron Lavin -- 2005
An expert on the Jewish Law once tried to challenge Jesus and trick him.
What You Lose By Looking On Your Own -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
While surveys tell us that 95 percent of Americans claim to believe in God, it's no secret that chur
When The Minister Is A Mother -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
On a break from seminary in 1984, I earned a few bucks by preaching a sermon at my home church in Bo
Separation Is For The Church, Not The State -- Henry G. Brinton -- 2005
The Senate chaplain opens every workday of the U.S. Senate with a prayer.
James: The Unknown Disciple -- Matthew 10:3 -- 2004
It is fascinating to visit some of our historical landmarks in Washington, D.C., like the Lincoln Me

Youth Resources

Monologues

SermonStudio

The Lepers' Friend -- John 15:12-17 -- David G. Rogne -- 2001
When I was a child, we used to ice skate for hours in the winter on the canals near my home.
Abraham -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
In spite of everything that has been said about me as a man of faith, I haven't exactly been a perfe
The Faithful Men Of God -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
Worship ServiceCall To WorshipP: Oh Lord, you are our mighty King!
Joseph -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
I am better than you are, aren't I? I assumed I was superior to everyone when I was growing up.
Moses -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
I had never wanted importance or a prominent leadership position. It never occurred to me.
Wise Man -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
I come from the East (points).
Chuza -- Lynda PujadÓ -- 1997
It was business as usual in the palace.
Philip: The Non-Organization Man -- Acts 6:1-6; 8:4-6, 26-40 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
Close your eyes for a moment. Let your mind take you back 1,940 years.
Why, Paul, Why? -- Acts 26:1-29 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
The place is a dungeon in Caesarea, a seacoast city, Roman administrative center for Palestine.
Unlimited God, Unlimited Love -- Luke 7:1-10 -- Robert F. Scott -- 1996
The small house in Jerusalem was overcrowded with guests, for this was the house where Paul and his

Church Programs

Meditations

Candlelighting service

Biblical Studies

Humor

SermonStudio

They All Loved Wally -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
It was corn picking time, fall of the year, when the air was a bit frosty and a new leather jacket f
Sleeping Through A Revolution -- Acts 20:9-12 -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
It was startling news to Rip Van Winkle to find out he was awakening to a new era in American life.
Gold For The King -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
When the wise men came from the East to see Jesus (Matthew 2:1), they brought lavish gifts for the n
Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
It was just before World War II. Dusk had fallen, and Christmas Eve begun.
The Gates Of Hell Shall Not Prevail -- Matthew 16:18 -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
It was recognition time for visitors at a service club dinner when the president of the club tried s
From Pop Cans To Countryside YMCA -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
Ralph J.
He Got Our Men To Singing -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
In the 1970s a likeable person to know in Circleville, Ohio, was the chief radio announcer for WNRE,
But Communism Failed ... -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
As the historic events took place, leading to World War II, serious questions were in the minds of t
Here I Am, Lord, Speak To Me -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
When God chooses to change the destiny of a nation he sometimes does it in a most unusual manner.
The Cross In A Man's Pocket -- Don R. Yocom -- 2000
When Don Rummel opened his welding and repair shop in Wapakoneta, Ohio, in the 1960s, God led him to

Faith Development

Bible Study

SermonStudio

At Peace In A Fearful World -- Psalm 27 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2008
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
Intensive Care -- Part Two -- Psalm 23:4-6 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2008
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil; for thou art with m
An Island In A Sea Of Hate -- John 19:26-27 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing beside her, he said to his moth
Humanity Revealed -- John 19:28-29 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished, he said (in order to fulfill the scripture
Cry Of The Forsaken -- Mark 15:33-34 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
A Last-Minute Reprieve -- Luke 23:39-43 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah
What Changed Because He Lives? -- Mark 16:1-8 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When the sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices
What Am I Worth To Him? -- Mark 15:33-41 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
A Voice Of Triumph -- Luke 23:44-46, John 19:30 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while
A Rose Among Thorns -- Luke 23:32-34 -- Bill Thomas -- 2008
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him.

Children's Resources

SermonStudio

Koans And Miracles -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
Ambiguity and unanswerable questions abound in this way of teaching.
Death -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
Death will always be the archetype of the unknown.
Art -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
For our next clue let us consider art.
Symbols -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
As we consider the many things that call us to God and worship, one powerful item may be overlooked,
Music -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
For many people, their religious faith is closely tied to music.
Sounds -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
Encounters with God occur in the NOW moment. If we are to experience God it must be now.
Movement -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
As we continue our journey into the mysteries of God these words from an ancient mystic ring out: "O
Words -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
To name something is to acknowledge its existence.
Poetry -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
For some people poetry is a clue to the mystery of God. Just what is poetry?
Nature -- Judy Gattis Smith -- 2005
Nature is a constant source of messages and surprises from God if we have eyes to see.

Self Help

Liturgy

Illustration

Spirituality

Biblical Study

Inspirational

SermonStudio

Separate the sheep from the goats -- Matthew 25:32 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Separate the sheep from the goats
Shout for joy -- Psalm 5:11 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Shout for joy Location: Psalm 5:11
Signs of the times -- Matthew 16:3 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Signs of the times Location: Matthew 16:3
Smoother than butter -- Psalm 55:21 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Smoother than butter Location: Psalm 55:21
Some to honor and some to dishonor -- 2 Timothy 2:20 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Some to honor and some to dishonor
Sour grapes -- Ezekiel 18:2 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Sour grapes Location: Ezekiel 18:2
Spare the rod and spoil the child -- Proverbs 13:24 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Spare the rod and spoil the child
The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak -- Matthew 26:41 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak
Stick out your tongue -- Isaiah 57:4 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Stick out your tongue Location: Isaiah 57:4 (NRSV)
Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also -- Matthew 6:21 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also

Christian Life

Easter

Lent/Easter

Church Growth

Sacrament

Healing

Death

Funeral

Memorial

Observance

Christian

African-American History

Thanksgiving Day

Marriage Ceremony

Wedding Vow

Home Blessing

Church Anniversary

Women's Day

Men's Day

Church Leaders

Mother's Day

Gathering Prayer

Unison Prayer

Thanksgiving Prayer

Intercession

Fellowship

Christian Faith

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Ascension of the Lord
28 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
29 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
26 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Easter 7
22 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
24 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
21 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Pentecost
29 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
30+ – Children's Sermons / Resources
20+ – Worship Resources
28 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

SermonStudio

Frank Luchsinger
Huckle the Cat and his school teacher Miss Honey the Bear, Bananas Gorilla, Captain Salty, Pig Will and Pig Won't, Sergeant Murphy the Police Dog, and my favorite, Lowly the Worm; if you know these names then you are familiar with the work of Richard Scarry, author and illustrator of children's books, who passed away in '94 at age 75. Scarry wrote over 250 books, which in thirty languages have sold over 100 million copies. He said, "The greatest compliment I can receive is to be told that some of my books are held together with more Scotch tape than there is paper in the original book.
David E. Leininger
We reflected earlier on Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code and its assertion that Jesus and Mary Magdalene were married and were parents of a daughter. True, there is nothing at all in scripture to back up such a claim, but can you imagine what kind of parent Jesus would have been?
Constance Berg
Pastor Wallace was loved by many, many people. He had come to a rural, agricultural area and stayed for 41 years. He and his wife Bea had four children, three of whom would become pastors themselves. The fourth was a missionary teacher in Madagascar. Pastor Wallace's second and last call was to another rural church he started only thirty miles away. He stayed fifteen years. His reputation was tough but fair; disciplined but compassionate; strong but just.
Jerry L. Schmalenberger
Seasonal Theme
Jesus out of the grave and alive and with us.

Theme For The Day
We are prayed for by Jesus that we might be unified with each other and with our God. A summary of the Season of Easter.

First Lesson
Acts 1:1-11
Return To The Upper Room
Stan Purdum
At first reading, this psalm presents a scattering of themes. Some scholars think it was not a psalm at all, but a listing of headings to a number of liturgical pieces. Most, however, see in Psalm 68 the underlying theme of the victory and reign of God, the Divine Warrior -- the God who was with the people of Israel in the wilderness (v. 7). Psalm 68 calls the kingdoms of the world to acknowledge that God is the warrior king who reigns over all. It presents God as the power and strength of the chosen people.
Carlos Wilton
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary. See The Ascension Of Our Lord, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)

The brief Psalm 93 seems archaic, from the standpoint of our culture. The Lord is enthroned, here, as a cosmic king. The accoutrements of royalty are front and center: the robe of majesty, the girding-on of strength (suggesting a royal broadsword), the throne, the royal decree. Its message, loudly declared from the first verse onward, is simplicity itself: the Lord reigns!
George M. Bass
The church year theological clue
Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Acts 1:1--11 (C, RC, E, L)
David O. Bales
In 1936, near the beginning of the Spanish Civil War one horrible center of fighting was the Alcázar fortress near Toledo. In the middle of horrific fighting, however, every day the firing stopped twice in order to allow a blind beggar to tap his way on the street between the firing lines. We can imagine how welcome those few minutes were to the men on both sides. They probably hoped that the blind man walked slower to give them a few more seconds of peace. Then the reprieve ended and the slaughter again engulfed the two armies that were struggling to kill each other.1
Schuyler Rhodes
I love this story. It doesn't matter how many times I hear it, or how it's told, it never fails to grab me in a new and different way. It's really an incredible tale. And by incredible I mean just that. Without credibility! Who could actually buy a story like this? The disciples, cowardly and virtually faithless, abandoned the Master and scattered in the chaos of his arrest and execution.
Lee Griess
It's one of those stories that circulates around the internet. I don't know if it's true or not but it's so interesting that I have to share it with you. It seems that a woman came home to find her husband in the kitchen, shaking frantically with what looked like a wire running from his waist toward the electric outlet in the wall. Intending to jolt him away from the deadly electricity, she grabbed a piece of wood that was leaning by the back door, and gave him a good whack, breaking his arm in two places. It was a shame. He was not being electrocuted at all.
Richard L. Sheffield
I want to take the text seriously this morning. It would be easy not to, because Luke's story of the ascension of Jesus is not easy no matter how you take it. For you and me, twenty centuries later, this story may be very hard to take very seriously.

Our take on the ascension of Jesus might be on the order of liturgy as lift-off: Jesus being lifted up to the Air Force song: "Off we go into the wild blue yonder, climbing high into the sky!"

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Nazish Naseem
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
For May 17, 2026:
  • When Jesus Prays by Chris Keating. Jesus’ high priestly prayer is rooted in the authority of God’s love, and not from a posture of authoritarian control.
Christopher Keating
Dean Feldmeyer
Nazish Naseem
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
For May 17, 2026:
  • When Jesus Prays by Chris Keating. Jesus’ high priestly prayer is rooted in the authority of God’s love, and not from a posture of authoritarian control.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus prayed for us all, that we might be protected and united. In our worship today let us explored what it means to be one just as Jesus and the Father are one.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, sometimes we are more ready to criticise other Christians than to be united with them.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes we get hung up on small details instead of seeing the big picture.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes we are too selfish to open up and welcome other people.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
Charles D. Reeb
John S. Smylie
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Wayne's Deployment" by Argile Smith
"In The Event of Power Failure" by Charles D. Reeb
"Where's the Finish Line?" by John Smylie


What's Up This Week
John E. Sumwalt
Frank Ramirez
Contents
"The God of All Grace" by John Sumwalt
"Keeping the Word" by Frank Ramirez


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The God of All Grace
by John Sumwalt
1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11

And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you.
-- 1 Peter 5:10

CSSPlus

Cynthia E. Cowen
The Point: Jesus has the authority to give eternal life.

Special Occasion

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