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Hand Signals -- Matthew 11:28-30 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Let's see if you can read my hand signals this morning. What does this mean? (Wave.
Keep Growing! -- 1 Peter 2:2-3 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Do any of you have baby brothers or sisters at home? Have all of you seen a little baby?
Traffic Signals -- Colossians 4:2 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Look what I've got today. (Display picture.) Do you know what this is?
The Right Thing To Do -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
There are many ways to tell if you're growing up. One way is to measure how tall you've gotten.
Figuring The Answers -- Proverbs 3:5-6 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Have you ever used a calculator?
Learning To Behave -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Does anyone know what this is? (Hold up hair spray. Children respond.) It's hair spray.
False Advertising -- Matthew 23:27-28 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
What is a commercial?
Believing What God Says -- Genesis 6:22 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Have you ever heard someone say, "You can't believe everything you read," or "You can't believe ever
A Light In The Darkness -- Matthew 5:14-16 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Have you ever been someplace that is dark? I mean really dark.
What Hat Do You Wear? -- Proverbs 20:11 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Look what I have this morning: all kinds of hats. What kind of job uses this hat?
A Missing Piece -- 1 Corinthians 12:14 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Do you like puzzles? I have a puzzle for us to work together this morning.
How Much Protection Do You Have? -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Do you know what this stuff is? (Children respond.) It's sunscreen.
Do It To Them, Do It To Me -- Matthew 25:40, 45 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
(Before the service, enlist an adult seated near the front to help you.) This is Mr.
All Tangled Up -- James 4:7 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I need a helper this morning. (Choose one youngster to assist.
Doing What You Were Meant To Do -- Jeremiah 29:11 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I'm not much of an artist, but I'm going to draw you a picture this morning.
A Fresh Start -- Romans 3:23-24 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
If you were trying to draw a picture and messed up, you would want to start over, wouldn't you?
Being Ready -- Matthew 24:36-44 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
A few years ago, my sister and I went to the beach for the weekend.
Big Sin, Little Sin -- Luke 6:37-42 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I need a helper this morning. (Choose a youngster to assist you.) Let's see how tall you are.
Stain Remover -- 1 John 1:9 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Do you know what this is? (Children respond. Offer help if needed.) It's stain remover.
Trouble -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Can you read this word? (Children read from the game.) Trouble.
Don't Forget Jesus -- Luke 2:10-11 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
In my family, we love to decorate for Christmas.
Too Close To The Edge -- Proverbs 4:14-15 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I have a story for you today.
Tug-Of-War -- Ephesians 4:1-3 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I need a few helpers this morning.
Discrimination -- Galatians 3:28 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Hmm, let me look you over this morning. Here, you don't have blonde hair, you can have a present.
Pieces And Parts -- 1 Corinthians 12:14-21 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
(Display pictures one at a time, or if you have enough children, have four of them stand in front an

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Proper 4 / Pentecost 2 / OT 9 -- Genesis 6:9-22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
Now the earth was corrupt in God's sight, and the earth was filled with violence.
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all....-- Titus 2:11
Christ The King / Proper 29 -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church
Easter 2 -- Psalm 16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
I keep the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.
When The LORD Restored The Fortress Of Zion -- Psalm 126 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing,
Proper 24 / Pentecost 22 / OT 29 -- Matthew 22:15-22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2007
...
Praise The LORD, O Give Thanks -- Psalm 106 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Who can utter the mighty doings of the LORD, or declare all his praise? ...
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- 2 Peter 1:16-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2007
This is my Son, my Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.-- 2 Peter 1:17
Proper 16 / Pentecost 14 / OT 21 -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
... Who do people say that the Son of Man is?-- Matthew 16:13
O God, Why Do You Cast Us Off Forever? -- Psalm 74 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O God, why do you cast us off forever? Remember your congregation,
The LORD Is My Shepherd -- Psalm 23 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want ...
Epiphany 5 / OT 5 -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how can its saltiness be restored
Proper 9 / Pentecost 7 / OT 14 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
...
As A Deer Longs For Flowing Streams -- Psalm 42 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and behold
Proper 4 / Pentecost 2 / OT 9 -- Psalm 46 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
"Be still, and know that I am God!..." -- Psalm 46:10
Christmas Eve/Christmas Day -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered.
Christ The King / Proper 29 -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
...
Easter 2 -- 1 Peter 1:3-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
...
Unless The LORD Builds The House -- Psalm 127 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest,
Proper 25 / Pentecost 23 / OT 30 -- Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2007
... I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not cross over there.
O Give Thanks To The LORD, For He Is Good -- Psalm 107 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2007
Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, o
Proper 17 / Pentecost 15 / OT 22 -- Exodus 3:1-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
... I must turn aside and look at this great sight, and see why the bush is not burned up.
We Give Thanks To You, O God -- Psalm 75 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
"At the set time that I appoint I will judge with equity.
The Earth Is The LORD's -- Psalm 24 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The earth is the LORD's and all that is in it,

Drama

SermonStudio

To Climb A Mountain -- Matthew 4:12-23 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 1998
Theme As the disciples learned, following Jesus is not easy, but it is rewarding.
The Invitation -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Inviting others, evangelism, encouragement, caring
It's Hell, I Say: Herod Speaks -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
The Glory Of The Lord -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 1998
ThemeTo God be the glory.Summary
Be About It -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1998
Theme
The Other Side Of The Fence -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Materialism, priorities, greed, shortness of life, treasures in heaven
A Handful Of Dandelions -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Mother's Day, motherhood, joy of childrenCharacters: One woman
Poolside Blessing: Monologue of a Paralytic -- John 5:2-16 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
Fatherhood -- Matthew 6:24-34 -- Robert F. Crowley -- 1998
ThemePeople get their idea of God from their relationship with their fathers.
You And The Law -- Matthew 5:13-20 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 1998
Theme
How Do You Spell Stress? -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Tranquillity, serenity, marriage, work, children, bills, troubles
I Am Zacchaeus -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
House On Sand -- Matthew 7:21-27 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 1998
Theme
Robin Hood? -- Matthew 5:21-24, 27-30, 33-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 1998
Theme
Behind My Back -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Reputation, ethics, lying, truth, testimony, deacons, leadership, services, giving, business
Reuben: I'm not a Sandwich -- Genesis 37:19-34 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
Super Christian I -- Matthew 9:9-13 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 1998
Theme
The Tooth Fairy -- Matthew 5:38-48 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 1998
Theme
McChurch -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Food for spiritual health, growth, church, church attendance, Bible doctrine
Boaz: I Am Blessed! -- Ruth 3:1-5 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
The Elevator -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23) -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 1998
Theme
Servant And Two Masters -- Matthew 6:24-34 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 1998
ThemeWe make a choice whom we will serve -- God or the world.Summary
Punctuation -- Acts 3:6-8 -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Message: Have you ever noticed that you can often tell what a person is going to say by the tone of
The Mask -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Sincerity, truthfulness, lying, deceit, ethics, slander
Josiah Speaks: An Ancient King Brings Greetings -- 2 Chronicles 34:8-14, 29-33 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:

Easter

Faith Development

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SermonStudio

PROPER 25 -- Zephaniah 3:1-9, Psalm 3, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Luke 18:9-14 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIPGlorify God with me, and let us exalt God's name together.
EASTER SUNDAY -- Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 118:14-24, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, John 20:1-18 -- B. David Hostetter -- Easter Day - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIPThis is the day of the Lord's victory. Let us celebrate and be happy.
PROPER 26 -- Haggai 2:1-9, Psalm 65:1-8, Luke 19:1-10 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 5.27-32, Psalm 2, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4-8 -- B. David Hostetter -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
THE DAY OF PENTECOST -- Genesis 11:1-9, Psalm 104:24-34, Acts 2:1-21, John 14:8-17 (25-27) -- B. David Hostetter -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 9:1-20, Psalm 30:4-12, Revelation 5:11-14, John 21:1-14 -- B. David Hostetter -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP(Responsively)Sing a psalm to our God, all loyal servants.
PROPER 27 -- Zechariah 7:1-10, Psalm 9:11-20, Luke 20:27-38 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 13:15-16, 26-33, Psalm 23, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP(RESPONSIVELY)Come into God's presence with singing.
PROPER 28 -- Malachi 4:1-6, Psalm 82, 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13, Luke 21:5-19 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 14:8-18, Psalm 145:13b-21, Revelation 21:1-6, John 13:31-35 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP(Responsively)God is great and greatly to be praised.
SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 15:1-2, 22-29, Psalm 67, Revelation 21:10, 22-27, John 14:23-29 -- B. David Hostetter -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP
SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 16:16-34, Psalm 97, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20, John 17:20-26 -- B. David Hostetter -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP(Responsively)Sing praises to God,SING PRAISES!
CHRIST THE KING -- 2 Samuel 5:1-3, Psalm 95, Colossians 1:11-20, John 12:9-19 -- B. David Hostetter -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 1985
CALL TO WORSHIP

Preaching

SermonStudio

Darkness Does Not Overcome Light/Death Does Not Overcome Life -- John 1:1-5 -- 2006
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Luke 4:14-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 18 -- Psalm 51:1-12 -- James Evans -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2006
(See Ash Wednesday, Cycle A, and Lent 5, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)
Proper 4/Pentecost 2/Ordinary Time 9 -- Psalm 46 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2006
Categorized as both a "song of Zion" and "a psalm of confidence," Psalm 46 celebrates God's choice t
Atonement/Forgiveness/Scapegoat -- Leviticus 16:9-10, 15-16, 20-22 -- 2006
Aaron shall bring the goat ... to the Lord and sacrifice it for a sin offering.
Proper 10/Pentecost 8/Ordinary Time 15 -- Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Luke 10:25-37 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Tribulation Leads To Joy/The Rewards Of Faithfulness -- Revelation 7:13-17 -- 2006
Then one of the elders asked me, "These in white robes -- who are they, and where did they come f
Proper 22/Pentecost 20/Ordinary Time 27 -- Psalm 19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2006
Psalm 19 celebrates two different media through which God is revealed: nature and the law.
Christ The King/Proper 29 -- Luke 1:68-79 -- James Evans -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
(See Advent 2, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
Proper 27 / Pentecost 25 / Ordinary Time 32 -- Psalm 127 -- James Evans -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2006
It is not possible in a single sermon -- or even a psalm -- to answer the question, "What is the mea
Epiphany 5/Ordinary Time 5 -- Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Stan Purdum -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2006
(For an alternative approach to vv. 12-20, see Christmas 2, Cycle A.)
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see also Epiphany, Cycle B, for an alternative app
Ash Wednesday -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2006
The superscription to this psalm identifies its origins with David's prayer after the prophet Nathan
The Water Of This Life Changed Into The Wine Of The Next -- John 2:1-11 -- 2006
On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee.
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Luke 4:21-30 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 4 / Pentecost 2 / Ordinary Time 9 -- Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2006
(See Epiphany 2/Ordinary Time 2, Cycle B. For an alternative approach to vv.
Proper 5 / Ordinary Time 10 -- Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2006
Psalm 33 praises the God in whom the righteous trust.
For A Christian Parent -- Deuteronomy 6:4-9 -- 2006
Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.
Proper 11/Pentecost 9/Ordinary Time 16 -- Amos 8:1-12, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Spiritual Hunger Satisfied/Tears Wiped Away -- Revelation 21:1-8 -- 2006
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away
Proper 11 / Ordinary Time 16 -- Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2006
(See Epiphany 2/Ordinary Time 2, Cycle B, and Proper 4/Pentecost 2/Ordinary Time 9, Cycle B, for
Thanksgiving Day -- Psalm 100 -- Carlos Wilton -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
This brief psalm is among the most familiar in the psalter, but that is primarily because its verses
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / Ordinary Time 33 -- 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- James Evans -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2006
Hannah's song is probably best-known and most frequently associated in the liturgy as an accompanyin
Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6 -- Psalm 30 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2006
(For alternative approaches, see Easter 3, Cycle C, and Proper 9/Pentecost 7/Ordinary Time 14, Cy
The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 -- Psalm 29 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Baptism Of Our Lord, Cycle B, and Trinity

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Keeping The Main Thing The Main Thing -- Luke 9:51-62 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
They were 5,000 feet in the air in a two-seat Cessna when suddenly the pilot slumped over.
The Beautiful Attitude Of Mercy -- Matthew 5:7 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.-- Matthew 5:7
On Loan From God -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
Sometimes it is hard to understand what it is in human nature that allows people to become so crass
Living In Chains -- 2 Timothy 2:8-15 -- Scott Suskovic -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2009
"... suffer as I do" (2 Timothy 1:12).
A New Life -- Isaiah 43:1-7 -- Derl G. Keefer -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
The old traditional idea of camping out under the stars with only a blanket or sleeping bag next to
Meal Of Death -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2009
There it is. No one can enter this sanctuary without noticing it.
Appointed And Sent! -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
The wheat harvest was glorious that year on our farm in South Dakota.
The Bliss Of A Clean Heart -- Matthew 5:8 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.-- Matthew 5:8
At Points Of Despair -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
It seems almost inevitable that people who experience the highs of life are also going to experience
The Word Alone -- 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5 -- Scott Suskovic -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2009
"All scripture is inspired by God" (2 Timothy 3:16).
A New Name -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2009
Let's play a game. I am going to say a name and you think about that person.
A Bloody Sacrifice -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Good Friday - C -- 2009
It is a sad commentary on the state of our world that we are far too familiar with those who have sh
Checked The Ditch Lately? -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2009
We were driving west on Highway 16 from Custer to Newcastle, Wyoming, when Pam and I spotted this ma
Peacemaking: The Seventh Beatitude -- Matthew 5:9 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.-- Matthew 5:9
Seeing A Chariot Of Fire -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
I think that we are in a battle for the soul of the church.
Endurance -- 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18 -- Scott Suskovic -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2009
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
The Winning Word -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2009
Tom Barnard tells of his great love for sports stories, especially where an athlete survives an ugly
But...! -- 1 Corinthians 15:19-26 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Easter Day - C -- 2009
I think anyone who has tried to teach a class or make a presentation to a group has experienced some
Sister Act(s) -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
Today's gospel from Luke 10 follows the parable of the good Samaritan.
The Bliss Of A Martyr's Way -- Matthew 5:10-12 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven
The Naaman Syndrome -- 2 Kings 4:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
The healing of Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Aram, seems to me to provide a metaphor
Saint And Sinner -- Romans 3:19-28 -- Scott Suskovic -- Reformation Sunday - C -- 2009
"Since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
The Call Of God -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2009
Jeremiah had a task, a vision, and a promise from God.
Cracking The Code -- Revelation 1:4b-8, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Have you ever seen one of those prison break movies? They all seem to follow a formula.
Forgive Us -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
I'm ashamed to say that too often I behave like the guy laying in bed with his family refusing to ge

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Discerning God's Direction -- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2004
Jane Moschenrose
Forgiving Enough -- Matthew 18:21-35 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2004
Then Peter came and said to him, "Lord, if another member of the church sins against me, how ofte
A Cup Of Coffee -- Matthew 10:40-42 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2004
Tom Kadel
I Will Not Forget You -- Matthew 6:34 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2004
J. Michael Mansfield
Walk The Walk -- Matthew 21:23-32 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2004
"What do you think?
Who's Pressing On? -- Philippians 3:4b-14 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2004
For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that
Is God Listening? -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
Barbara Frank
Metacosmic Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2004
...
Rejoice? -- Philippians 4:1-9 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2004
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice." (v. 4)
A Choice To Make -- Romans 3:19-28, Psalm 119 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2004
Susan Monnarjahn
Still Learning Not To Wobble -- Psalm 32 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
God does not die on the day when we cease to believe in a personal deity, but we die on the day when
Poor God! -- Matthew 22:15-22 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2004
Then he said to them, "Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor's, and to Go
Charlie Is Glowing -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2004
Deb Alexander
Born Again -- John 3:1-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Kathy Raines
Pranky, Cranky Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2004
He said to him, " 'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul,
God Created Death? -- Genesis 1:1-2:4a -- John E. Sumwalt -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2004
John Sumwalt
Water Sign -- John 4:5-42 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Anne Sunday
Lessons In Humility -- Matthew 23:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2004
The greatest among you will be your servant.
Christmas Presence -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- John E. Sumwalt -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2004
Janice Hammerquist
The Gift Of Myself -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Jim Eaton
The Perfect Opportunity -- Matthew 25:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2004
Keep awake therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour. (v. 13)
Warnings -- Matthew 2:13-23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2004
Vickie Eckoldt
The Wandering Eye -- Romans 8:6-11 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
Paul Calkin
Investing Talents -- Matthew 25:14-30 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2004
"For it is as if a man, going on a journey, summoned his slaves and entrusted his property to the
A Dog Came For Christmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2004
Neighbors and people from the church had come by in the weeks and months after Margaret had died, bu

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Christmas Eve -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 9:2-7Theme: The Prequel
Fifth Sunday Of Easter -- John 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 13:31-35Theme: Just So You're Sure
Proper 15/Ordinary Time 20 -- Luke 12:49-56 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 12:49-56Theme: The Real Weather Channel
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Fourth Sunday In AdventFor Hebrews 10:5-10
Third Sunday In Lent -- Isaiah 55:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 55:1-9Theme: For God Will Abundantly Pardon
Proper 5/Ordinary Time 10 -- 1 Kings 17:8-16 (17-24) -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: 1 Kings 17:8-16 (17-24)Theme: Your Word Is Truth
Thanksgiving Day -- John 6:25-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 6:25-35Theme: Real Bread -- Real Good
Responsive Reading -- Isaiah 58:8-11 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Leader: Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up quickly;
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11Theme: I See It Now
Proper 26/Ordinary Time 31 -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 19:1-10Theme: What's It Worth To Ya?
Christmas Eve -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Titus 2:11-14Theme: It Will Happen Again
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 16:9-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 16:9-15Theme: A Dream For Salvation
Proper 16/Ordinary Time 21 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 1:4-10Theme: Too Many Excuses
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Fourth Sunday In AdventFor Luke 1:39-45 (46-55)
Third Sunday In Lent -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13Theme: There's Always A Way Out
Proper 5/Ordinary Time 10 -- Galatians 1:11-24 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Galatians 1:11-24Theme: Major League Turn Around
A Service For Mother's Day -- John 1:1, John 1:14, John 13:34-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2006
Call To Worship (based on John 1:1; John 1:14; John 13:34-35)
Responsive Reading -- Isaiah 53:3-5 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Leader: He was despised and rejected by others; a man of suffering and acquainted with infirmity;
Second Sunday After The Epiphany -- John 2:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 2:1-11Theme: Mother Knows Best
Proper 27/Ordinary Time 32 -- Haggai 1:15b--2:9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Haggai 1:15b--2:9Theme: You Ain't See Nothin' Yet!
Christmas Eve -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)Theme: Once More, With Feeling
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5Theme: Game Over
Proper 16/Ordinary Time 21 -- Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Hebrews 12:18-29Theme: This Is Doable!
Christmas Eve -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas EveFor Isaiah 9:2-7
Third Sunday In Lent -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 13:1-9Theme: Towers Fall, God Endures

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Advent 3
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The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

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What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

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