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Change -- Isaiah 43:19 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Do you notice anything different this morning? Has anything been changed?
God Looks At The Heart -- 1 Samuel 16:7 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
The Bible tells us a story about a time when Israel needed a new king.
Serendipity! -- Matthew 6:33 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
There are some words in the English language that are just plain fun to say and hear.
Judge Not -- Matthew 7:1-5 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I would like to tell you a story this morning about a brother and a sister, Mary and Jack.
Expectations -- Romans 15:7 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
How many of you love to go to school? Raise your hands. Suppose you loved to go school.
Something To Hang On To -- 2 Corinthians 12:9a -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Have you ever seen any of these? (Display poles.) Do you know what they are used for?
Gifts For Mom -- Proverbs 31:28 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Today is a special day for us. Who knows what today is?
The Inside And The Outside -- 1 Corinthians 15:50 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Let's see what we've got in here. A bar of soap, what do we do with this?
Thanks, Dad -- Exodus 20:12 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
There are many special days in a year and today is one of those days. Who knows what today is?
The Right Answer -- Lamentations 3:24 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
You are going to have to think this morning in order to help me with our lesson.
Remembering Something Important -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Have you ever taken a picture of someone or something?
Nothing Is Impossible With God -- Luke 1:37 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I know it's not Christmastime, but this morning we are going to talk about the very beginning of the
Rise Again! -- Matthew 28:5-6 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
I want you to watch my hands as I talk this morning. Are you watching?
Where Do Our Words Come From? -- Matthew 12:34b -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Where do words come from? When you say something, where do you get the words? (Children respond.
The Messenger -- Luke 2:8-14 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Christmas is coming! You can feel it in the air.
Spice It Up -- Matthew 5:13 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
What kinds of foods do you like to put salt on? (Children respond.
I'm Somebody! -- Luke 2:8-11 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Look at my little shepherd friend here.
Sharing The Warmth -- 1 John 4:21 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
When you have been out in the snow building a snowman and you come inside with wet mittens and a red
Giving What You've Got -- Luke 2:1-14 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Help me remember some of the characters from the Christmas story.
Harmony -- Colossians 3:14 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Music has a lot to teach us about how to get along with one another.
The Power Source -- Acts 1:8 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
(Display battery.) Do you know what this is? It's a battery. What do batteries do?
The Kite And The Sailboat -- Romans 8:28 -- Teresa L. Major -- 1998
Has anything bad ever happened to you?
The Call To Follow -- Matthew 4:19, Matthew 16:24 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.
Sacrificial Giving -- Mark 12:43 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls. What does it mean to be poor?
Be A Doubting Thomas -- John 20:19-31 -- Erskine White -- 1997
Last week we talked about ghosts and how hard it was for even Jesus’ best friends to believe that He

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Christ The King / Proper 29 -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
...
Vindicate Me, O God, And Defend My Cause -- Psalm 43 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me;
Proper 4 / Pentecost 2 / OT 9 -- Romans 1:16-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith....
Easter 2 -- 1 Peter 1:3-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
...
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.
Proper 25 / Pentecost 23 / OT 30 -- Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2007
Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.
Epiphany 6 / OT 6 -- Psalm 119:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord.
To You, O LORD, I Lift Up My Soul -- Psalm 25 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach my your paths.
Happy Is Everyone Who Fears The LORD -- Psalm 128 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways ...
My Heart Is Steadfast, O God -- Psalm 108 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
My heart is steadfast, I will sing and make melody. Awake, my soul ...
Lent 1 -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
"Did God say, 'You shall not eat from any tree in the garden'?" The woman said to the serpent, "W
Proper 17 / Pentecost 15 / OT 22 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
Seek the Lord and his strength; seek his presence continually.-- Psalm 105:4
Christmas 1 -- Psalm 148 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for he commanded and they were created.
In Judah God Is Known, His Name Is Great In Israel -- Psalm 76 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
His abode has been established in Salem, his dwelling place in Zion.
Proper 9 / Pentecost 7 / OT 14 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
...
I Love The LORD, Because He Has Heard My Voice -- Psalm 116 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
When I was brought low, he saved me. Return, O my soul, to your rest,
We Have Heard With Our Ears, O God -- Psalm 44 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
We have heard with our ears, O God, our ancestors have told us,
Proper 4 / Pentecost 2 / OT 9 -- Matthew 7:21-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
Not everyone who says to me, "Lord, Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who
Easter 2 -- John 20:19-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are r
Proper 25 / Pentecost 23 / OT 30 -- 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2007
... we speak, not to please mortals, but to please God who tests our hearts.
Epiphany 6 / OT 6 -- 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
And so, brothers and sisters, I could not speak to you as spiritual people, but rather as people
Vindicate Me, O LORD -- Psalm 26 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity,
Often Have They Attacked Me From My Youth -- Psalm 129 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
"Often have they attacked me from my youth ...
Do Not Be Silent, O God Of My Praise -- Psalm 109 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
For wicked and deceitful mouths are opened against me ...
Lent 1 -- Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
... and in whose spirit there is no deceit.-- Psalm 32:2

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Josiah Speaks: An Ancient King Brings Greetings -- 2 Chronicles 34:8-14, 29-33 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
THEME:
The Bible Study -- Matthew 10:24-33 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 1998
Theme
Jesus Is Alive and Well -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Edward W. Thorn -- 1998
Jesus is alive and well. I know, for I saw Jesus face to face.
O. J. T. -- Matthew 10:34-42 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 1998
Theme
Saturday Night At The Fights -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Marriage, marriage battles, dysfunctional couples, relationships, arguments
The Night Talker -- John 3:1-17 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Theme
The Fool On The Hill -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Spiritual power, prayer, wisdom, seekingCharacters: Woman and a guru
The Future Of The Church! A Speech By Barney Willis -- Matthew 11:25-30 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1998
Theme
Get With The Program -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Ambitions, organization, potential, career, budgeting
A Drink Of Water -- John 4:5-42 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Theme
The Mission -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Evangelism, soulwinning, evangelism programs, evangelism training, prayer
A Light Verse -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 1998
ThemeDoes knowing Jesus change a person's life?Summary
Born Leader -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Unselfishness, head of church, leadership, ministry teams, servanthood, dictator
A Blind Man Sees -- John 9:1-38 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Sometimes the blind can see better than those who have sight.Summary
Because It Is There -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Obstacles, trials, troubles, preparationCharacters: 2 males
The Lesser Commission -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 1998
ThemeDoubting what the Lord says is not a recent phenomenon.
Fruit Or Twinkies? -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Fulfillment through the fruit of the spiritCharacters: Husband and wife
Talk Show II -- John 11:1-44 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 1998
Theme
It's A Dog's Life -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Friendship, relationship, appreciation, responsibility,
Orders Are Orders -- Luke 2:1-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 1998
Theme
Here I Am, Lord; Send Somebody Else! -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Missions, inner-city, summer missionsCharacters: 4
The Lord, The Holy Spirit -- Acts 2:1-11 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 1998
Theme: The baptism of the Holy Spirit for service.Summary:
Pass The Buck -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Responsibility of knowing Christ, salvation, temptation, evangelism
AIDS -- Matthew 5:21-24, 27-30, 33-37 -- Robert F. Crowley -- 1998
ThemeBelievers stumble too. How does a believer handle that?Summary
Everybody Plugs Into Something -- Timothy W. Ayers -- 1998
Topic: Salvation

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Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17 -- Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
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
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
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 5 / Pentecost 2 / Ordinary Time 10 -- Psalm 138 -- James Evans -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2006
Attempting to use mere language to discuss and describe the workings of God is not an easy task.
Proper 6/Pentecost 4/Ordinary Time 11 -- Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2006
The lectionary editors' decisions as to the carving of biblical texts are not always well advised.
Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Psalm 1 -- James Evans -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2006
(See Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
We Can Trust Jesus' Words -- John 7:14-17 -- 2006
Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach.
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Jeremiah 17:5-10, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Luke 6:17-26 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17 -- Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2006
(See Proper 14/Pentecost 12/Ordinary Time 19, Cycle A, for an alternative approach to vv.
Lent 2 -- Psalm 27 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
(See Epiphany 3/Ordinary Time 3, Cycle A, for verses 1, 4-9.)
Seeking And Finding Understanding -- Proverbs 2:1-8 -- 2006
My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom an
Proper 13/Pentecost 11/Ordinary Time 18 -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Epiphany 7/Ordinary Time 7 -- Psalm 41 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - B -- 2006
This psalm is often identified as a prayer of individual thanksgiving but it reads more as a plea fo
Advent 2 -- Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Stan Purdum -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2006
(See The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle A, and The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle B, for alternative ap
Streets Of Gold/Beauty In The Next Life -- Revelation 21:9-27 -- 2006
One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to m
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Psalm 20 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2006
Among the greatest political speeches ever written is Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address
Good Friday -- Psalm 22 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Good Friday - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see Good Friday, Cycle B; Lent 2, Cycle B; and Pro
Proper 21 / Pentecost 19 / Ordinary Time 26 -- Psalm 124 -- James Evans -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2006
(See Proper 16/Pentecost 14/Ordinary Time 21, Cycle A, for an alternative approach.)
Do We Really Believe? -- John 11:20-27 -- 2006
When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home.
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- Genesis 45:3-11, 15, 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50, Luke 6:27-38 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day Forgiving requires a very special sort of forgetting.
Proper 12/Pentecost 10/Ordinary Time 17 -- Psalm 128 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2006
This Psalm is difficult to preach in our modern culture, because of the central section (vv.
Lent 3 -- Psalm 63:1-8 -- James Evans -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Psalm 63 is particularly well-suited for helping Christians take stock of their commitment.
Seasons Of Life/The Beauty Of A Simple Life/A Heart For Eternity -- Ecclesiastes 3:1-14 -- 2006
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born a

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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
The Heart Of The Matter Is The Heart! -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2008
These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
Praying In Boldness And Faith -- Hebrews 4:12-16 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2008
It is the holiest of days.
Clearing Out The Pipes -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- John S. Smylie -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2008
Ash Wednesday, which begins the season of Lent, is a time when we have an opportunity to squarely fa
The Story That Shapes Us -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- Nancy Kraft -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2008
Note: This sermon is intended to be presented before the reading of the Passion narrative
The Divine Deal ... -- Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 -- Ken Lentz -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
The priest challenged the rabbi at lunch: "Rabbi Cohen, when are you going to eat a piece of this de
The Inconcealable Christ! -- Mark 7:24-37 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
He could not keep his presence secret.-- Mark 7:24
Filling The Job Description -- Hebrews 5:1-10 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2008
It was probably one of the most difficult and certainly one of the most embarrassing moments of my l
On Your Mark, Get Set, Go! -- Mark 1:9-15 -- John S. Smylie -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
Mark doesn't waste any time getting us involved in the beginning of our Lord's ministry.
On The Night When He Was Betrayed -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Nancy Kraft -- Maundy Thursday - B -- 2008
Have you ever been betrayed by one of your closest friends?
God, The Good Ally -- Exodus 20:1-17 -- Ken Lentz -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
A group of American tourists once listened to a story told by their Jewish guide.
The Real Underdog! -- 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- William J. Carl, III -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2008
Every boy I knew growing up in the Midwest loved this story. We acted it out.
Worth The Wait -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Robert J. Elder -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2008
... I am bringing you good news of great joy for all people: to you is born this day ...
Light In Darkness, Speech From Silence -- Isaiah 9:2-7, John 1:1-14 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
This season, the boundaries of darkness are pushed back.
The Great Inescapable Question Of Eternity -- Mark 8:27-38 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
Who do you say I am? -- Mark 8:29
Interceding For Us Now -- Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2008
Heads bowed, hands clasped, the words are spoken softly and gently.
The Elephant In The Living Room -- Mark 8:31-38 -- John S. Smylie -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
There are times when we do everything we can to avoid the obvious.
How Do We Make Sense Of This? -- Hebrews 10:16-25 -- Nancy Kraft -- Good Friday - B -- 2008
Good Friday is a hard day. It's depressing and it's confusing.
Hope Lifted Up -- Numbers 21:4-9 -- Ken Lentz -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
It was a mystery.
Getting Through The Grief -- 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- William J. Carl, III -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2008
Getting through grief may be one of the hardest things we do as human beings.
The Thoughts Of Our Hearts -- Luke 2:22-40 -- Robert J. Elder -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
Luke wrote his gospel to a man we know only by name.
Ironies, Contrasts, Paradoxes, And Reversals -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Luke 2:1-20 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
Saint Luke's narrative of the Christmas story has been read and heard and cherished this season in m
The Way Up Is Down! -- Mark 9:30-37 -- Robert Leslie Holmes -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the

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Forsaken? -- Psalm 22 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2004
Judith B. Brain
Peace with the FHP -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2003
This text includes a reference to all three persons of the Trinity.
A Prayer For Help -- Psalm 5:1-8 -- John E. Sumwalt, Patricia C. Joyce -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2003
On May 3, 2002, I was engaged to narrate the historical Williamsburg tour.
Pure Blood -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2003
The following is a discussion about blood -- human blood -- and if you can get over the ick factor a
The Stuttering Syndrome -- Colossians 3:12-17 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2003
Sean Lebowitz is an eighteen-year-old freshman at SUNY-Binghampton. He is also a stutterer.
Stranger On A Fence Post -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- John E. Sumwalt, Bonnie Compton Hanson -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2003
Pulling his coat tight against the bitter wind, the old man stopped at the crest of Blue Bank Hill,
A Song Of Mary -- Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2003
During the fourteenth century, the greatest pestilence swept through Europe that has ever been recor
How Can I Do This? -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kai M. Mcclinton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
In 1995, at the age of 25, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
God's Resolutions -- Jeremiah 31:7-14 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2003
Last year, I decided to get in better shape.
An Offer Of Comfort -- Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lori Hetzel -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2003
Not more than two months after my mother passed away, and I had my vision, I went to the grave of my
On The Transplant List -- Luke 23:1-49 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2003
In August of 1988, Shelly Arrollo was told by doctors that she had a rare disease called "polyarteri
I Saw The Lord -- Isaiah 6:1-8, 9-13 -- John E. Sumwalt, Bill Penaz -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2003
In 1965, I attended a Lenten worship service at my church.
The Re-gifting Dilemma -- Jeremiah 33:14-16 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
I confess.
The Voice Of The Broken Branch -- Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- John E. Sumwalt -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall
Healing -- Psalm 30 -- John E. Sumwalt, Robert Murdock -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2003
In the fall of 1999, I went into the hospital, supposedly for just a couple of days, only to find ou
Fake Fire -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2003
I live in Colorado, a beautiful place to live.
The Gift Of Trees -- Jeremiah 17:5-10 -- John E. Sumwalt, Pamela J. Tinnin -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2003
I remember the first time I planted trees.
Cheerleading At Christmas -- Philippians 1:3-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
Cheerleading is big -- especially in Texas and Oklahoma.
A Tender Mercy -- Luke 1:68-79 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jenee Woodard -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
Our son Phil has autism. He is ten years old and is severely handicapped by his disability.
The Silver Wolf -- Colossians 1:1-14 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2003
It was June 16, 1998.
Cigarette Taxes And Toy Bears -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2003
Come July 1 of every year, new laws go into effect in many states across the country.
God Stories -- 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 -- John E. Sumwalt, Judy Snyder Stout -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2003
My father was my life, and in 1989 he and Mom came to live with me, literally to die.
The Holy Land Experience -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
No one in their right mind would want to visit the Holy Land now.
Christmas Tears -- Isaiah 12:2-6 -- John E. Sumwalt, Christina Seibel -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2003
I think nothing breaks our hearts as badly as does the broken hearts of our children.
The Presence Of Angels -- Genesis 18:1-10a -- John E. Sumwalt, Jeanne Jones -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2003
Several years ago, before we moved to Wisconsin, I was an honorary nanny for our pastor's son, Jonat

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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!
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10Theme: The Meaning, With Interpretations
Proper 5/Ordinary Time 10 -- Luke 7:11-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 7:11-17Theme: Believe It Or Not!
A Service For Hunters -- Frank Ramirez -- 2006
One: We have come to the season of harvest, and have gathered many good things grown in the s
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 62:6-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 62:6-12Theme: Looking Back To Look Forward
Sixth Sunday Of Easter -- John 14:23-29 -- Frank Ramirez -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 14:23-29Theme: I Need A Hero
Christmas Eve -- Psalm 96 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas EveFor Psalm 96
First Tomato, First Apple, First Fruits -- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17
Fourth Sunday In Lent -- Joshua 5:9-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Joshua 5:9-12Theme: Today I Have Taken Away Your Shame
Responsive Reading -- John 6:51-58 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Leader: God, the Father, sent his Son to die for our sins and give us an eternal home in heaven.
Proper 16/Ordinary Time 21 -- Luke 13:10-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 13:10-17Theme: Joy In Healing
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31aTheme: Eye, Ear, Nose, And Throat
Proper 6/Ordinary Time 11 -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21aTheme: Justice Or Just Us?
Christmas Day -- Titus 3:4-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Titus 3:4-7Theme: The Hope Of Eternal Life
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Acts 1:1-11Theme: View From A Height
Christmas Eve -- Titus 2:11-14 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas EveFor Titus 2:11-14
Proper 27/Ordinary Time 32 -- Luke 20:27-38 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 20:27-38Theme: Smart Aleck Questions, Smart Answers
Fourth Sunday In Lent -- 2 Corinthians 5:16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 2 Corinthians 5:16-21Theme: Ambassadors Of Hope
Responsive Reading -- Isaiah 61:1-2 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Reader: The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me;
Proper 17/Ordinary Time 22 -- Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 2:4-13Theme: Memory AidCall To Worship
Third Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 4:14-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 4:14-21Theme: True Is True
Proper 6/Ordinary Time 11 -- Galatians 2:15-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Galatians 2:15-21Theme: The Past Through The Present
Christmas Day -- Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 2:(1-7) 8-20Theme: The Present You Never Dreamed Of
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Ephesians 1:15-23Theme: That's Him!
Christmas Eve -- Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Robert S. Jarboe -- 2006
Christmas EveFor Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

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

Invitation to Confession:

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

Christ, have mercy.

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

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

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


What's Up on Christmas Eve

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


* * * * * * * *


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

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

SermonStudio

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CSSPlus

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

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

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

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