Login / Signup

SermonStudio

Hold down Ctrl (Windows) / Command (Mac) for multiple selections (scroll list to see all options)

Adult study

African-American History

Bible Study

Biblical Studies

Biblical Study

Candlelighting service

Children's program

Children's Resources

Children's sermon

SermonStudio

A Lesson From A Broken Arm -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children understand the need to take time to consider important things.
You're Not Too Young -- Jeremiah 1:4-7 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: I. Today we are going to talk about the things we do as we start to get older.
What Do You Do With Dust? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children remember that we are all responsible for the kind of world we live in.
Planting Seeds -- Matthew 13:3 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Do any of you ever help your parents when they are out working in the yard?
Symbols Of Easter -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To understand why the date of Easter changes from year to year and to think about what that
Used Up -- Isaiah 26:4 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: This morning I would like to talk with you about things that seem to run out at just the wr
A Lesson From A Bouquet -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To see in a flower the greatness of God's creation and the wonder of our own individuality.
Time Flies -- Psalm 103:15, 17 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Have you noticed how sometimes the time seems to fly by very quickly and you hardly believe
A Lesson From A Mirror -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To encourage children to be willing to accept help.
Many Parts - One Body -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-13 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: The other day I was thinking about how quickly all of you are growing up!
What Do You Do When You Get Hurt? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To show children that we have a responsibility to do what we can to take care of ourselves.
Food For All -- Luke 9:16-17 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Do any of you like to go to the grocery store?
Riding A Train -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children understand why we need rules and regulations; and why they should be follo
Getting Stronger -- Exodus 15:2 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: How many of you think you are strong? Do you have big muscles? Okay, let me take a look.
A Good Deed Is Like A Candle -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To encourage children to do good things for other people.
We Belong To God -- 1 John 3:1 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Can you think back to the time when you first realized that something you had at your house
Bubbles -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To learn that making certain choices in life can make a difference in what happens to us.
How Much Do You Want? -- Proverbs 16:3 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: How many of you like to go out to eat?
Magic -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children understand that God is always with us even though we cannot see him.
Fishers Of Men -- Matthew 4:18-20 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Do any of you want to go fishing?
Freedom -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help the children understand the nature of freedom.
Creating -- Genesis 1:1-2 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Do any of you take art as one of your classes in school?
Words And Actions -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children understand that our actions must support our words.
Tears -- Revelation 21:3-4 -- Mark A. Hultquist -- 1996
Message: Can you remember the last time you cried about something?
What Is Work? -- Kenneth A. Mortonson -- 1996
Purpose: To help children understand the nature of work.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

Church Anniversary

Church Growth

Church Leaders

Church Programs

Death

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / OT 23 -- Romans 13:8-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the
Christmas 2 -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
...
Praise The LORD! Praise, O Servants Of The LORD -- Psalm 113 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Praise the LORD! ... Who is like the LORD our God, who is seated on high,
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / OT 15 -- Romans 8:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those w
Sing Aloud To God, Our Strength -- Psalm 81 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Sing aloud to God our strength; shout for joy to the God of Jacob ...
How Very Good And Pleasant It Is ... -- Psalm 133 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity! ...
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / OT 11 -- Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Is anything too wonderful for the Lord?...-- Genesis 18:14
Hear This, All You Peoples -- Psalm 49 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Hear this, all you peoples; give ear, all inhabitants of the world,
Easter 4 -- Acts 2:42-47 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions an
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / OT 31 -- Matthew 23:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
The greatest among you will be your servant.
Epiphany 7 / OT 7 -- Matthew 5:38-48 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2007
You have heard that it was said, "An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth."
Lent 2 -- Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
... "Abraham believed in God and it was reckoned to him as righteousness."
In You, O LORD, I Seek Refuge -- Psalm 31 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
... in your righteousness deliver me ...
Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / OT 23 -- Matthew 18:15-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2007
For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.
Christmas 2 -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
No one has ever seen God.
When Israel Went Out From Egypt -- Psalm 114 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
When Israel went out from Egypt ... The sea looked and fled;
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / OT 15 -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snat
God Has Taken His Place In The Divine Council -- Psalm 82 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
God has taken his place in the divine council;
Come, Bless The LORD, All You Servants Of The LORD -- Psalm 134 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
Come, bless the LORD, all you servants of the LORD,
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / OT 11 -- Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.
The Mighty One, God The LORD, Speaks -- Psalm 50 -- Robert G. Beckstrand -- 2007
The mighty one, God the LORD, speaks and summons the earth ...
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup
Proper 27 / Pentecost 25 / OT 32 -- Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
... Far be it from us that we should forsake the Lord to serve other gods....
Epiphany 8 / OT 8 -- Isaiah 49:8-16a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - A -- 2007
Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb?
Lent 2 -- John 3:1-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
What is born of the flesh is flesh, what is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Drama

SermonStudio

Alexander The Mediocre -- Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 1997
ThemeIt is never pleasant to be humbled but it is necessary to be used by God.
Priorities -- Luke 9:51-62 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 1997
Theme
The End -- Luke 21:25-31 -- Robert F. Crowley -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 1997
Theme The end times -- will we recognize them?Summary
Discipleship -- Luke 14:25-33 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 1997
Theme What is the price of discipleship?Summary
Sent Out By The Master -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 1997
Theme
The Prophet -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 1997
Theme
Sketch Practice -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 1997
ThemeWithout Jesus there will be no joy in any of our endeavors.
Transfiguration -- Luke 9:28-36 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 1997
Theme
Airmail -- Luke 3:7-18 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 1997
Theme
Waltzing With Coyotes -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 1997
ThemeLoving your enemy is not as easy as it sounds.Summary
The Trinity -- John 16:(5-11) 12-15 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 1997
Theme
The Lord's Maid Servant -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 1997
Theme
The Gift -- Acts 5:1-11 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme What are our motives as Christians? They are shown in how we give.
Reward Time -- Luke 16:1-13 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 1997
Theme
Joseph's Friend -- Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23 -- Robert F. Crowley -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 1997
Theme
Fishin' -- John 21:1-14 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme Know your Savior and do exactly what he tells you to do.Summary
MONDAY -- Matthew 21:1-11 -- C. Alton Robertson -- 1997
MONDAYTime:MorningPlace: BethanyRecommended readings:
Dives And Lazarus -- Luke 16:19-31 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 1997
Theme
Doubters All -- John 10:22-30 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme Believe in Jesus.Summary
SATURDAY -- Matthew 27:24-66 -- C. Alton Robertson -- 1997
SATURDAYTime:Early morningPlace: The house in Jerusalem
Faith -- Luke 17:5-10 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 1997
ThemeWhat is the basis of faith?Summary
Doubters All, Part II -- John 13:31-35 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme Trust Jesus.Summary
THURSDAY -- Matthew 26:1-13 -- C. Alton Robertson -- 1997
THURSDAYTime:EveningPlace: The Upper Room
Face-Lift -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 1997
Theme
Doubters All, Part III -- John 14:23-29 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1997
Theme Love Jesus.Summary

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

Illustration

Inspirational

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

Preaching

SermonStudio

Proper 18/Pentecost 16/Ordinary Time 23 -- Jeremiah 18:1-11, Philemon 1:1-21, Luke 14:25-33 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Proper 15 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- James Evans -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
(See Advent 4, Cycle A, and Advent 1, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)
The Epiphany Of Our Lord -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see also The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle A, for an
Christmas Day -- Psalm 97 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see also Easter 7, Cycle C, for an alternative app
First Sunday In Lent -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13 -- Carlos Wilton -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Psalm 93 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Ascension Of Our Lord, Cycle A, for an alt
Easter 5 -- Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stan Purdum -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Liturgy Of The Passion, Cycle A, Cycle B, and Cycle C, for alternative approaches to vv.
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Psalm 111 -- James Evans -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2006
(See Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4, Cycle B, for an alternative approach.)
Even Suffering Leads To Good -- Romans 8:15-28 -- 2006
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spiri
Epiphany 8/Ordinary Time 8 -- Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
(See Proper 20/Pentecost 18/Ordinary Time 25, Year B, for an alternative approach.)
Proper 17 / Ordinary Time 22 / Pentecost 15 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2006
This is a psalm of salvation-history.
For Children/Joy -- Zechariah 8:3-5 -- 2006
This is what the Lord says, "I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem.
Proper 19/Pentecost 17/Ordinary Time 24 -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Luke 15:1-10 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day God always offers a special welcome to those who are lost.
Proper 16 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 21 -- Psalm 71:1-6 -- James Evans -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
(See Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)
The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 -- Psalm 29 -- James Evans -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2006
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary; see The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Ti
Advent 1 -- Psalm 122 -- James Evans -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2006
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (v. 6).
Second Sunday In Lent -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35 -- Carlos Wilton -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day
Easter 7 -- Psalm 1 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
Psalm 1 has long been considered as a possible prologue to the rest of the psalter.
Easter 6 -- Psalm 66:8-20 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Proper 23/Pentecost 21/Ordinary Time 28, Cycle C, for an alternative approach to vv.
Proper 16 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 21 -- Psalm 84 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2006
This vibrant psalm celebrates the presence of God in the temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem.
Nothing Can Separate Us From God's Love -- Romans 8:31-39 -- 2006
What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
Epiphany 9/Ordinary 9 -- Psalm 96:1-9 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- 2006
Psalm 96 is an enthronement psalm.
Proper 7/Pentecost 5/Ordinary Time 12 -- Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2006
Some psalms display a clear context, a human situation that has led to the writing of the hymn.
True Prosperity/Abundant Life -- Psalm 1 -- 2006
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners
Proper 20/Pentecost 18/Ordinary Time 25 -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Luke 16:1-13 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
Theme For The Day

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Doing Christ's Work -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Nancy Kraft -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
My mom's hands were never idle. She was always doing some kind of needlework or craft.
They Call It Grace -- 2 Peter 3:8-15a -- Scott Suskovic -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not w
Salvation Has A Name! -- Acts 4:5-12 -- Ken Lentz -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
There's a story going around about a college student who stayed up all night preparing for his zoolo
Agony And Ecstasy -- John 11:32-44 -- Steven Molin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2008
Mary and Martha; remember them?
Speaking Peace -- John 20:19-31 -- John S. Smylie -- Second Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
On the evening of that day, that first Easter Day, the disciples were gathered together, but as yet
Dedicating Temples -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2008
So much is happening in chapter 8 of 1 Kings that we almost want to get dressed up for an amazing ce
Christmas Construction -- Isaiah 40:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Ancient Babylon is the setting for our text.
Abandonment -- Mark 15:34-35 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
At three o'clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani" which m
Eternal Life Is Now -- 1 John 5:9-13 -- Nancy Kraft -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Imagine describing what music is like to someone who has never heard a sound. How would you do it?
The Fred Factor -- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24 -- Scott Suskovic -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of G
Who Am I? -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Ken Lentz -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Back in the '60s, a real "hip" kid attended the morning service of worship at an upper-class church.
The Thing About Laws -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
Our nation has a lot of stupid laws!
The Five Senses -- Luke 24:36b-48 -- John S. Smylie -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
In the gospel text there is an opportunity to meet Jesus, using every one of our senses.
Joy Is For Leaping -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2008
This ode to spring and to love is almost always used at Passover.
Do You Hear What I Hear? -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Years ago, a wise teacher of preachers advised us to prepare our sermons with the Bible in one hand
I Thirst -- John 19:28-29 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
After this, when Jesus knew that all was now finished, he said (in order to fulfill the scripture
Life In The Spirit -- Romans 8:22-27 -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Chapter 8 of Paul's letter to the Romans is one of the greatest chapters in all of scripture.
But Is It True? -- Romans 16:25-27 -- Scott Suskovic -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Now to God who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Chr
Enough Spirit To Go Around! -- Acts 10:44-48 -- Ken Lentz -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
A minister once received a bottle of apricot brandy from one of his parishioners under the condition
Celebrate This! -- Mark 12:38-44 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2008
He was a Lutheran pastor from central Iowa, but with an avocation for carpentry, and that's why he w
Fred And Barney -- John 10:11-18 -- John S. Smylie -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
I grew up in the suburbs, in a community outside of lower Manhattan.
The Place Beyond Punishment -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 -- Donna E. Schaper -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
You can tell a lot about a family by finding out what happens if a child spills something.
I Wonder As I Wander -- Luke 2:1-20 -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
An angel appeared to some shepherds, Saint Luke reports.
It Is Finished -- John 19:30 -- Robert D. Cornwall -- 2008
When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and gave up h
Flesh And Spirit -- Romans 8:12-17 -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
Chapters 7-8 of Romans are among the most important words in the Bible for us in the twenty-first ce

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

A Call To Ministry -- Acts 11:1-8 -- John E. Sumwalt, Nancy Nichols -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
I joined the church when I was in junior high school.
Lipstick Pistols -- 2 Timothy 1:1-14 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2003
"We do disagreeable things," wrote novelist John le Carré in The Spy Who Came in From the Cold, "so
The Taste Of Music -- Colossians 3:1-11 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jeanne Jones -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2003
The whole thing began when I was asked to be the song leader for a Walk to Emmaus retreat in 1988.
The Mind-set -- John 17:20-26 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
Justin and Juliana, twins, are college seniors at Beloit College, Beloit, Wisconsin.
God's Prodding Fork -- Acts 16:9-15 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kay Boone Stewart -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
A silver dining fork hangs against dark blue, crushed velvet in an antique, gold box frame in my off
Gratitude Deficit Disorder (GDD) -- Luke 17:11-19 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2003
I love all these new diseases, syndromes, and disorders they've come up with in the last ten years.
Assurance -- Psalm 33:12-22 -- John E. Sumwalt, Marie Regine Redig -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2003
Always I have been guided gently by God in how and where I would be in ministry and career.
The Popcorn Fork -- John 2:1-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2003
You've rented the movie Shrek like for about the fourth time, and you're all settling in the family
Seeing The Light -- Isaiah 60:1-6 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2003
Much of my Christian experience has come through the "School of Hard Knocks," better known as prison
The Nag Factor -- Luke 18:1-8 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2003
Alex, nine, is just one kid among millions who make up the demographic group aged four to twelve, a
Lorina -- Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- John E. Sumwalt, Steve Taylor -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2003
Her name was Lorina.
The Head Light -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2003
Every once in a while, I hear from friends I had in college and seminary.
The Call Of God -- Luke 4:14-21 -- John E. Sumwalt, Roy H. Nelson -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2003
I had been struggling with the call to the ordained ministry for several years.
Croppies -- Joel 2:23-32 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2003
My wife enjoys Mel Gibson's talent. Sort of like I enjoy Jamie Lee Curtis' talent.
Witnesses To The Light -- Luke 13:10-17 -- John E. Sumwalt, Kay Boone Stewart -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2003
A year and a half ago I was diagnosed with a virulent form of breast cancer.
The English Garden -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2003
Allan Metcalf, executive secretary of the American Dialect Society, likes to think of language as a
Deus Absconditus -- Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2003
Sometimes, you just don't know where God is, or if you do, what he's up to.
Singapore Angel -- Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 -- John E. Sumwalt, Mary Demuth -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2003
"Miss, you need to step here." The woman's voice came from behind me.
Notes From A Nomad -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2003
Marti Guixe is homeless -- unless you call the world his home.
Unfinished Buildings -- Haggai 1:15b--2:9 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2003
Travel to Bangkok, Thailand, and you'll fall in love with this beautiful city of the Orient.
Safe -- Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- John E. Sumwalt, Claire Hunston -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2003
It was late September of 1990.
Can Trust In God Be Restored? -- Psalm 14 -- John E. Sumwalt, Lois Rae Carlson -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2003
It was the end of my first year as a young widow on my own with two children.
The Hated Blessed -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2003
I don't feel blessed when I am mildly disliked, let alone hated.
Preparing For The Comet -- Luke 21:5-19 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2003
Ever tried your hand at writing a novel?
The FIDO Effect -- 1 Kings 18:20-39 -- Timothy F. Merrill -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2003
In the fall of 1940, the Battle of Britain was coming to a close.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Maundy Thursday -- Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14Theme: Who's That Knockin'?
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:12-20
Proper 19/Ordinary Time 24 -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 15:1-10Theme: Looking To Find
Proper 9/Ordinary Time 14 -- Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16Theme: Carry This, Will Ya?
Other Music For Congregational Singing -- 2006
There are also many contemporary pieces of music that are appropriate for congregational singing at
Maundy Thursday -- 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26Theme: PricelessMeditation
Sixth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 6:17-26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 6:17-26Theme: Joys And WoesCall To Worship
Proper 20/Ordinary Time 25 -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 8:18--9:1Theme: Real Relief
Proper 9/Ordinary Time 14 -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 10:1-11, 16-20Theme: You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet
Choral Music -- 2006
If you are lucky enough to be able to arrange for a choir to sing here are some suggestions for anth
Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Maundy Thursday - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: John 13:1-17, 31b-35Theme: Why Is This Night So Different?
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- Genesis 45:3-11, 15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Genesis 45:3-11, 15Theme: Slow Burn
Proper 20/Ordinary Time 25 -- 1 Timothy 2:1-7 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Timothy 2:1-7Theme: Pray For Who?
Proper 10/Ordinary Time 15 -- Amos 7:7-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Amos 7:7-17Theme: Got A LifeCall To Worship
Soloist Music -- 2006
This music can be found at religious supply stores and online.
Good Friday -- Isaiah 52:13--53:12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Isaiah 52:13--53:12Theme: Vindication. Trust Me.
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50
Proper 20/Ordinary Time 25 -- Luke 16:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 16:1-13Theme: Follow The Money
Proper 10/Ordinary Time 15 -- Colossians 1:1-14 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Colossians 1:1-14Theme: Victory Parade
Helpful Websites -- 2006
Here are a few websites I found that have helpful resources for funerals.
Call To Worship -- Matthew 11:28-30 -- Gail Gaymer Martin, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
Leader: And Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I wi
Good Friday -- Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- Good Friday - C -- 2006
Second Lesson: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9Theme: Approach ...
Seventh Sunday After The Epiphany -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 6:27-38Theme: Yes, Love THAT Enemy, Too!
Proper 21/Ordinary Time 26 -- Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2006
First Lesson: Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15Theme: The Long Term
Proper 10/Ordinary Time 15 -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
Gospel Lesson: Luke 10:25-37Theme: Question And Answer

Worship Service

Youth Resources

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Baptism of Our Lord
29 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
40 – Children's Sermons / Resources
25 – Worship Resources
27 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Epiphany 3 | OT 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
Nazish Naseem
For February 1, 2026:
  • What the Lord Requires by Dean Feldmeyer. The world’s requirements are often complex and difficult. God’s requirements are simple and easy. Kinda.
  • Second Thoughts: Resisting The Storms of Winter by Chris Keating. Jesus does not offer a cheery optimism to those enduring the cold blasts of injustice. More than an insulating blanket of hope, the Beatitudes create communities of resistance.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told the people how they could be blessed by God and experience God's kingdom. In our worship today let us explore the Sermon on the Mount.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, sometimes I'm full of pride instead of being poor in spirit.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes I'm overbearing and pushy, instead of being meek.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes I'm not exactly pure in heart.
Lord, have mercy.

Reading:

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
Stories to Live By: "You Fool"/ "Us Who Are Being Saved"
Shining Moments: "A Comforting Dream" by Harold Klug
Good Stories: "Mercy, Mercy" by John Sumwalt
Scrap Pile: "The Souper Bowl of Caring" by Jo Perry-Sumwalt


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

Sandra Herrmann
John Jamison
Contents
"Child Sacrifice" by Sandra Herrmann (Micah 6:1-8)
"Ka-Chang" by John B. Jamison (Matthew 5:1-12)


* * * * * * * *


Child Sacrifice
Sandra Herrmann
Micah 6:1-8

SermonStudio

Stephen P. McCutchan
For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles....
-- 1 Corinthians 1:23-24

Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Micah 6:1--8 (C, E, L)
John N. Brittain
The other day I stumbled onto a Discovery Channel show about underwater archaeology (not basket weaving). The archaeologist described the process of identifying the probable location of an underwater wreck site, the grueling work involved in beginning the process, and the same kind of methodical work that characterizes all scientific archaeology. But then her eyes twinkled as she described the joy of uncovering the first artifact, or recognizing a significant discovery. And that of course is what it is all about, the final product of discovery.
Tony S. Everett
Late one night, Pastor Bill was driving home after spending the past 23 hours in the hospital with his wife, celebrating the birth of their son. It had been a glorious day. His wife was peacefully resting. His extended family was ecstatic. His son was healthy. Surely God was in heaven and all was right with the world.

Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
When I'm teaching a class, and want to get a discussion going, I often begin with something that's called a sentence stem. I start a sentence and let the participants complete it. This morning, if I were to ask you to complete this sentence, what would you say? "Happy are those who...." What would you use to complete the thought?
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: Demands On God
Message: All these demands don't make sense, God. Lauds, KDM
R. Glen Miles
What does God want from us? The answer is simple, but it is not easy to put into practice. What God wants is you. What God wants is me. God wants our whole selves. The prophet Micah makes it fairly clear that ultimately God does not care too much about religion and the things that come with it. Religion isn't a bad enterprise. It is okay as a way of reminding us about what God wants, but in the long run being good at religion is not what God desires. What God requires is us. It is simple to understand but not necessarily the thing we would offer to God first.
John B. Jamison
It was a strange sound. Some said it was a kind of "clanging" sound, while others said it was more of a "ka-ching," or more accurately, a "ka-chang!" It sounded like the result of metal hitting metal, which is exactly what it was.

In the valley off to the west from the hillside is a steep cliff rising up the face of Mount Arbel. The face of the cliff is covered with hundreds of caves, with no good way to get to them without climbing straight up the cliff. That's why the Zealots liked them. They were safe.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Prayer Of Dedication/Gathering
P: Our Lord Jesus calls each of us to a life of justice, kindness, and humility. We pray that in this hour before us our defenses would fall and your love would be set free within us.
Father, Son, + and Holy Spirit, your mercy knows no end.
C: Amen.

Intercessory Prayers

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Kalas
We have a prejudice in favor of things complex. Not that we necessarily desire complexity, but somehow we trust it more. We figure that complexity is the prevailing reality in our world, and so we feel obliged to be in touch with it. We would love to hear that this thing or that is really quite simple, but doctors, politicians, futurists, ethicists, economists -- and even some preachers -- keep discouraging us. It's actually quite complicated, we are told, and there is no simple answer.
People tend to say in times of personal or community disaster, "God works in mysterious ways." The point they are making is that when we can't figure out any logical answer to a situation, it must be the work of God. It is one way of making sense out of an inexplicable event.
Schuyler Rhodes
In 1993 brothers Tom and David Gardner began a financial information service they named The Motley Fool. Dressed in their trademark court jester hats, the motley fools can be seen and heard offering their advice and warnings concerning the stock market on a variety of talk shows and financial news channels.

CSSPlus

Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you have spent time around babies? (let them answer) Babies are so cute when they are happy but hard to please when they are upset. Babies can't talk, can they? (let them answer) So when they don't get what they want they cry. When they are hungry they cry. When they are sleepy they cry. When a stranger tries to hold them they cry. How do we know if babies are sick, hungry, or tired? (let them answer) Most of the time a baby's mom can figure out what's wrong even when we can't.
Teachers or Parents: Have the children sit on the floor and pretend that they are on a mountaintop and learning at Jesus' feet. Ask: "How is this classroom different from classrooms you have seen?" "How is it like them?" Read various portions of the "Sermon on the Mount" (Matthew 5-7) that they might understand (such as Matthew 7:7-11 -- prayer; 7:12 -- the Golden Rule; 7:15 -- being true). Be careful -- many parts of the Sermon on the Mount are difficult for children to understand and may lead to great misunderstanding and perhaps fear.

Special Occasion

Wildcard SSL