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SermonStudio

Camp Fire -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. We missed you on Girl Scout Sunday.
Puzzled -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: (Trying to play a hand-held computer game) Now, let's see.
New Year's -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter!
Anniversary Sunday -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, boys and girls. Good morning to you, too, Peter.
Talk To The Shepherd -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter!
Moms Are Like That -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. Why are you looking so sad?
Fight The Good Fight -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Wow, what happened to you, Peter?
"Wait Upon The Lord" -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
(Today the puppet is wearing the "girl's wig." I call her Petra.
Sin Protection -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Peter: Get your sin protection here! "Sin Protectors" -- only $5 each or two for $15.
"A Star Is Born" -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Hi, Peter!
Honoring Mothers -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Peter: Good morning, Pastor. Are we honoring mothers today?
Goin' Fishin' -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: (Calls) Peter! Peter! Oh, hi, Peter!
"Just Say No" -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: What's that big button you're wearing for, Peter?
Paul The Pie Maker -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Well, Peter, how are you getting along in Sunday school?
"Just Say No" II -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter! What's that shirt you're wearing?
"The Bread Of Life" -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. How are you today?
Camp Presentation -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. What have you been up to?
God Hates Lying -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. It's good to have you here this morning.
Rise And Shine -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Hello, everyone. Today I've asked Peter to lead us in a prayer.
The Memory Verse -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Peter: Good morning, Pastor. May I say a memory verse?
The Good Shepherd And The Flock -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. It's good to have you with us this morning.
The Prayer Chain -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter!
Our Silent Partner -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. It's good to have you with us again.
What Do You Want Installed? -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Today is a very important time for our church as we have the installation service for
Keeping In Touch -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
(Puppet should pause between lines)

Christian

Christian Faith

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Devotional

SermonStudio

The Holy Trinity -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago.
Epiphany 5 / Ordinary Time 5 -- 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
Whether then it was I or they, so we proclaim and so you have come to believe.
Easter 2 -- Psalm 118:14-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2009
Long ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the prophets, but in these last d
Proper 24 / Pentecost 22 / Ordinary Time 29 -- Jeremiah 31:27-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2009
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Isra
Proper 11 / Pentecost 9 / Ordinary Time 16 -- Psalm 52 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
See the one who would not take refuge in God, but trusted in abundant riches, and sought refuge i
Proper 16 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 21 -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
... I appointed you a prophet to the nations.-- Jeremiah 1:5c
Lent 3 -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ.
The Holy Trinity -- Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth!-- Psalm 8:1a
Epiphany 5 / Ordinary Time 5 -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man!-- Luke 5:8
Easter 2 -- Revelation 1:4b-8, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
To him who loves us and freed us from our sins by his blood, and made us to be a kingdom, priests
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day -- John 1:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2009
The light shines in darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.-- John 1:5
Proper 24 / Pentecost 22 / Ordinary Time 29 -- Psalm 119:97-104 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2009
Oh, how I love your law! It is my meditation all day long.-- Psalm 119:97
Proper 11 / Pentecost 9 / Ordinary Time 16 -- Colossians 1:15-28 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that
Proper 16 / Ordinary Time 21 / Pentecost 11 -- Psalm 71:1-6 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
Upon you I have leaned from my birth; it was you who took me from my mother's womb.
Lent 3 -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
... do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem?
The Holy Trinity -- Romans 5:1-5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings....-- Romans 5:3a
Epiphany 6 / Ordinary Time 6 -- Jeremiah 17:5-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
Cursed are those who trust in mere mortals and make mere flesh their strength ...
Easter 2 -- John 20:19-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you."-- John 20:19
Christmas 1 -- 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2009
May the Lord repay you with children by this woman for the gift that she made to the Lord.
Proper 24 / Pentecost 22 / Ordinary Time 29 -- 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2009
All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for
Proper 16 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 21 -- Hebrews 12:18-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us give thanks, by which w
The Holy Trinity -- John 16:12-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.
Epiphany 6 / Ordinary Time 6 -- Psalm 1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2009
They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their
Easter 3 -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
He asked, "Who are you, Lord?" The reply came, "I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.

Drama

SermonStudio

Love Finds A Way -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) Singer 1 Singer 2 Singer 3
Jesus At The Age Of Twelve -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Jesus Joseph Mary Priest
Captive To Love -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
When All You've Got ... Is Gone -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
When our loss is so intense that we lose even our hope, we have a shepherd who can find it.
Jesus And The Mother Of James And John -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Mother James John Jesus
Partytime -- Gary W. Fehring -- 2006
Characters
It Wasn't The Hilton, You Know -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) Child 1 (Lead Shepherd) Child 2 (Mary)
Jesus And John The Baptist -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Woman John Rabbi Pharisee
Pass The Wine -- John 2:1-11 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
Just Look At Yourself! -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
Because of a wrong turn in space and in time, two deliverymen leave a very large screen television a
Jesus' Parable Of The Good Samaritan -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Teacher (male) Jesus Robber Merchant
Youth Retreat -- Gary W. Fehring -- 2006
CharactersGroupPerson 1Person 2
If We Do It, It Will Work -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) God (offstage voice) Gabriel
Jesus And The Devil -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Jesus DevilQuestions
Who You Callin' A Big Baby? -- 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
A Risky Gamble -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
In "A Risky Gamble" we listen in on a conversation in a casino.
Jesus And Blind Bartimaeus -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Man 1 Bartimaeus Man 2 Man 3
The Evening "Good" News -- Gary W. Fehring -- 2006
CharactersDanus RatherusShopper 1Salesman 1
Christmas Eve At Angel School -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) Teacher Angel 1st Angel 2nd Angel
Jesus Calls Peter -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Jesus Peter Andrew
More Than Skin Deep -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
You Think I'm What? -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
Are you entitled to your employer's paper clips, cars, time, coffee, and pencils for your personal u
Jesus And Lazarus -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Thomas Jesus Martha Mary
Room At The Inn -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) Narrator Innkeeper
Jesus' Parable Of The Four Soils -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Jesus Peter Soil 1 Soil 2

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

SermonStudio

Bible -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The Sunday school teacher had just finished a detailed account
Nervous -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
It's an old one and variously told. But, a woman entered a
Farm And Farmers -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The proverbial city child was getting his first glimpse of
Theology -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The late Gerald Kennedy once told about an old lady who heard
Bragging -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Bragging may not bring happiness, but did you ever see a man,
Offering -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
A certain church was taking a missionary offering. As the
Father -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The teacher asked the new arrival in kindergarten what her father's name was.
Tongue Twisters -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
According to Guiness Book of Records, the worst tongue twister
Bumper Stickers -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
While there are many bumper stickers appearing today which are
One-Liners -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Yogi Berra: "If people don't want to come to the ball game,
Fire -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
An oil well caught fire in Oklahoma. The owners called in
Viewpoint -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Various viewpoints:His sister: "Oh, his nose is broken!"
Bureaucracy -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Leo Aikman reports that when the Lord told Moses he was to
Parachutes -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The small plane was carrying three passengers -- a Boy Scout,
Fishing -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Mark Twain once said, "Do not tell fish stories where the
Vocabulary -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
"Expedite: to compound confusion with commotion."
Camel -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Three camels tried to get on board Noah's Ark. He stopped them
Perfection -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The legendary Ted Williams had had a particularly great day
Flattery -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
An office boy noticed two women at lunch with his boss. Later
Weather -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
A property survey was made of an old lady's property which was
Campus And College Students -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
A professor in a class on religion was trying to explain the
Politics -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The candidate had given a stirring but fact-filled speech. He
Flood -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
A man who had survived the Johnstown Flood, and ever since
World Problems -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The guy had been shipwrecked years before and had lived alone
Cemetery -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The village council had a proposal to build a wall around the

Illustration

Inspirational

SermonStudio

The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak -- Matthew 26:41 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak
Ears shall tingle -- 2 Kings 21:12 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Ears shall tingleLocation: 2 Kings 21:12
Wisdom is more precious than jewels -- Proverbs 3:15 -- Ellis Dillard Thompson -- 1998
Expression: Wisdom is more precious than jewels

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

SermonStudio

Advent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, how grateful we are that you determined to visit us.
Ash Wednesday -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, we thank you for the promise of springtime; for infant birds breaking out of their shells; fo
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
We come before you this morning, O God, out of deep concern for our world.
The New Year -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
A new year is just ahead, O Holy Spirit, and we wonder what it holds.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
It was a morning last week, our Creator, when the sun, preceded by a multi-colored sky, rose with su
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our Master, we tried going through life under our own rule.
Advent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
It is difficult for us, O God, to understand how the people of the first century didn't, or wouldn't
Ash Wednesday -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
It is not easy, heavenly Spirit, owning up to our mistakes -- honestly presenting ourselves to you w
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our heavenly God, you love us when we fail to love ourselves.
The New Year -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Now, our Creator, we turn to a clean white page.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Gracious God, we search for new words to tell you how much we treasure worshiping you every Sunday m
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our heavenly Creator, we deeply desire to live lives that will be in harmony with your plan for our
Advent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Some time ago, O God, we watched a filmed account of how a badly burned Russian boy was flown to Gal
Ash Wednesday -- Luke 23:34, 1 John 1:9 -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
You know our hearts, gracious God, how they carry guilt from the past.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
There are times, dear Creator, when we are sure we know what is right and what is wrong.
The New Year -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
One of the inescapable dimensions of our lives is time, a gift, our Creator, from you.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Sometimes, Eternal God, we take our friends for granted.
Sundays in Lent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
You, Holiest One, see us for the sinners we are, yet love us still.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
One of the limitations your creation places upon us, O God, is time.
The New Year -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
We are an impatient people, Lord. We want what we want, today!
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
There are times, O God, when we are convinced that we are doing the right thing and yet the result o
Sundays in Lent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Sometimes, O God our Creator, we seem so inadequate and so ineffective.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, our Creator, it must have been a grand and overwhelming moment when Moses brought the childre
Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
We wonder, our heavenly Ruler, about the three wise men who brought gifts of frankincense and myrrh
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, our Creator, giver of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, have we told you lately how much we l

Preaching

SermonStudio

The Antidote To Anger -- John 2:13-22 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2009
The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
What a prayer is uttered here!
Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth" (v. 1).
Psalm 146:5-10 -- Psalm 146:5-10 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
In this season of waiting there is a prior question that comes to mind.
Psalm 19 -- Psalm 19 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Many preachers use the last verse of this psalm as a prayer before launching into Sunday's sermon.
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It's Easter. For us, this is a day of new beginnings. It is the ultimate moment. Christ is risen!
Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16 -- Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Go ahead. Take a coin from your pocket.
Gathering Up The Fragments -- John 6:4-14 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- 2009
Now the Passover, the festival of the Jews, was near.
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
This psalm takes aim, not only at a once and long ago world, but also places the contemporary scene
Psalm 36:5-10 -- Psalm 36:5-10 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
There is nothing quite so wonderful as someone you can trust.
Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Psalm 147:1-11, 20c -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Sometimes life gets to be simply too much.
Psalm 20 -- Psalm 20 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2009
Everyone wants a protector.
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Power is basic to our existence as human beings.
Psalm 95 -- Psalm 95 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
In democratic culture, individualism reigns supreme.
A Different Kind Of Power -- Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- 2009
They went to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I pray." He
Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
A wise teacher once pointed out that much of scripture is said in dialogue.
Psalm 40:1-11 -- Psalm 40:1-11 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
There is an unwritten law in lines at the local supermarket.
Psalm 148 -- Psalm 148 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Into everyone's life comes a moment of complete abandonment of all the careful boundaries and filter
Psalm 22 -- Psalm 22 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The opening words of this psalm are the same ones uttered by Jesus as he hung near death on the cros
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Today, Christian people everywhere celebrate an incredibly absurd notion.
Psalm 96 -- Psalm 96 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"Say to the nations, 'The Lord is king!' "
Trusting The Rope Will Hold -- Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- Easter Day - A -- 2009
Then Peter began to speak to them: "...
Psalm 1 -- Psalm 1 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It would be an easy thing to read through this psalm and nod in assent before moving on to the next.
Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It's one thing to talk the talk. Everyone knows people who are good at rhetoric.
Psalm 41 -- Psalm 41 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Most of us love the church.

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Baptizing in the Spirit -- Mark 1:4-11 -- Richard A. Hasler -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2011
In Alex Haley's pioneer study, Roots, there is a poignant scene when Kunta Kinta, a slave, dr
Going to the Dogs -- Mark 7:24-37 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2011
There are some Bible stories that embarrass me and this is one of them.
Seeing Is Believing -- John 1:43-51 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2011
Eugene Peterson tells about his boyhood days growing up in the "Big Sky" country of Montana.
A Glance and a Sigh -- Mark 7:24-37 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2011
There is a scripture text that I would commend to all of us.
Testifying Among Other Shrines -- Mark 8:27-38 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2011
The tourist bus rolled into the parking lot at Caesarea Philippi.
Proclaiming the Good News -- Mark 1:14-20 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2011
In Washington Irving's Sketch Book he tells of a whimsical character by the name of Rip Van W
Welcoming the Child -- Mark 9:30-37 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2011
"Hey you! Get out of here!"
Recognizing the Voice of Authority -- Mark 1:21-28 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2011
This story may be apocryphal, but I heard of a professor who was not only popular on campus but also
For Us or Against Us? -- Mark 9:38-50 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2011
On a day like World Communion Sunday, we remember the world is much bigger than we think.
Developing a Quiet Center -- Mark 1:29-39 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2011
Kathleen Norris tells of an experiment she tried with elementary school children when she taught art
Welcome to the Household -- Mark 10:2-16 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2011
Some years ago, theologian Edward Farley raised a good question for preachers: "When we stand up on
Daring to Touch -- Mark 1:40-45 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - B -- 2011
Sam Keen in his book, To a Dancing God, tells of accidentally tripping over a rock one day wh
Holy Spirit: Guide and Guarantee -- John 15:26-27, John 16:4b-15 -- David R. Cartwright -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2011
"Listen, Galileo! The science of the world was built on the pillars of Aristotelian wisdom.
Facing the Future with Hope -- Mark 9:2-9 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Transfiguration Sunday - B -- 2011
A euphemism according to the dictionary is the "substitution of an agreeable expression for somethin
The Teacher Who Wanted to Learn -- John 3:1-17 -- David R. Cartwright -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2011
It's about time we stopped being so hard on Nicodemus.
Does Anybody Tell the Truth Anymore? -- Mark 3:20-35 -- David R. Cartwright -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2011
I was watching an interview on television concerning the ENRON scandal -- a scandal that stole the l
Lift High the Cross -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2010
There might be times in our lives when we are confused and unsure about what direction to go next.
Discerning in Love -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Many people have come to rely on Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to travel from one place to anothe
On Speaking Terms -- Exodus 33:12-23 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2010
Do you ever have moments in your life when you feel that God must have decided somehow not to be on
Looking for Ducklings: Kissing the Sidewalk -- Acts 7:55-60 -- Tony S. Everett -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
Poor Daryl.
Grow Up! -- 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2010
The best way to jump-start your spiritual life, according to a recent survey, is to serve others in
Going Home -- Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2010
At the end of a long trip, home always looks appealing!
Stuck in Park -- Acts 17:22-31 -- Tony S. Everett -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
Martha had lived alone for several years, except, that is, for her dog, Otto, a three-year-old minia
Building a Solid Foundation -- 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2010
The long-awaited dream would soon become a reality. Ground was broken for the family's new home.
Who's the Real Leader? -- Joshua 3:7-17 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2010
At an office meeting, Ben got the official news that he would become the manager of one of the most

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Joseph Of Arimathea And Of Jerusalem -- Luke 23:50-56 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: Resurrection SundayChapter 19
Resolutions For A New Year -- 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Happy New Year! No, the calendar is not one month off. Today is New Year's Day ...
God's Battleship -- John 17:6-19 -- David E. Leininger -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Several years ago, there was a convention of clergy gathered at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta under th
The Whole Truth -- Luke 24:36-48 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: Resurrection SundayChapter 20
The True Israelite -- John 1:43-51 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: Doubt Chapter 21
Surprise! -- Luke 1:26-38 -- David E. Leininger -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Do you like surprises? Some folks do.
Beating Babel -- Acts 2:1-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Once upon a time, in the dim and distant past, a little Jewish child asked, "Mommy, Daddy, why do pe
Upside Down -- John 2:13-22 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Chapter 22Upside DownJohn 2:13-22
Christmas In The Crossfire -- Titus 2:11-14 -- David E. Leininger -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2008
One Monday, a couple of years ago, my wife and I crossed the driveway from the manse to the church t
Expressing The Inexpressible -- Isaiah 6:1-8 -- David E. Leininger -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
What can we ever say about God that is adequate?
Fifty Feet Below Molly's Face -- John 3:6-8 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: ChristmasChapter 23
Simeon -- Luke 2:22-40 -- David E. Leininger -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
I am old and ready to die.
Never, Never, Never, Never Give Up! -- 2 Corinthians 4:5-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
"Never give up. Never give up.
And What Else? -- John 6:1-21 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
"The wind was squealing through the rigging," Peter said.
Merry Xmas -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday after Christmas - B -- 2008
This is a glorious time of year.
Be Careful What You Wish For ... You Just Might Get It! -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
This is graduation time in many communities.
Lazarus: Second Death, Third Life -- John 11:1-13, 38-44 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: Resurrection SundayChapter 25
Gifts For The Christ Child -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2008
The three wise men.
The Day God Voted -- 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2008
Are you ready to vote? These days it seems as if that were a perpetual question.
John's Final Revision -- John 21:20-25 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Chapter 26John's Final Revision
Power! -- Mark 1:4-11 -- David E. Leininger -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - B -- 2008
In a former congregation of mine, a Sunday school teacher told me of an incident that happened there
Peace In The Midst Of The Storm -- Mark 4:35-41 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2008
Suppose for a few minutes that you are one of them.
The Seminarian -- 1 Corinthians 2:12 -- David O. Bales -- 2008
Emphasis or special occasion: OrdinationChapter 27
The Voice -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2008
Someone has suggested that the title for a sermon about this incident in the life of Samuel should b
"If I But Touch ..." -- Mark 5:21-43 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2008
Happy ending. Two wonderful healing stories, one sandwiched in the middle of the other.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Prayer

Unison Prayer

Wedding Vow

Women's Day

Worship

SermonStudio

Christmas Candlelight Service -- Mark Wm. Radecke -- 2008
Christmas Candlelight ServiceThe Entrance Rite
Have Mercy, Lord, I Cry -- Psalm 51:1-18 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2008
1. Have mercy, Lord, I cry, Lord, hear my every sigh, Forgive my sin.
Shattering Christmas To Find Christmas -- Rod Tkach -- 2008
Introduction
To You, O Lord, Most Holy (O God Of My Salvation) -- Psalm 25:1-9 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- First Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
1. To you, O Lord, most holy, I turn in every need. I trust in you to guide me,
Bread For The Journey -- Genesis 3:17-19 -- Rolf Svanoe -- 2008
Some of the best memories I have as a child are associated with the sense of smell.
People Of God, In Holy Fear -- Psalm 22:22-30 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
1. People of God, in holy fear, Give forth great praise in worship here.
Welcome Bread -- Genesis 18:1-16 -- Rolf Svanoe -- 2008
When I was a college junior, a music group I played in took a trip to Europe.
Creation Bears The Sight Of God's Eternal Light (A Glory Without End) -- Psalm 19 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Third Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
1. Creation bears the sight Of God’s eternal light: A glory without end.
Unleavened Bread -- Exodus 12:1-11 -- Rolf Svanoe -- 2008
The other day, I picked up my daughter at high school and took her out for lunch.
O Give Thanks Unto The Lord -- Psalm 107:1-3, 17-22 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
1. O give thanks unto the Lord for all the wonders he has done.
Daily Bread -- Exodus 16:1-21, Luke 11:1-4 -- Rolf Svanoe -- 2008
A few years ago, a young American man was lost in the Australian desert.
My Life Is Fashioned By God's Word -- Psalm 119:9-16 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2008
1. My life is fashioned by God’s word, So full of grace and wonder,
Christmas Day -- John 1:1-14 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Proper 13/Pentecost 11/Ordinary Time 18 -- Matthew 14:13-21, Isaiah 55:1-5, Romans 9:1-5 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Stewardship -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 12 -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come, to proclaim God's majesty,
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Romans 1:1-7 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Proper 14 / Ordinary Time 19 -- Matthew 14:22-33, 1 Kings 19:9-18, Romans 10:5-15, Psalm 85:8-13 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2007
Gathering Prayer/Prayer Of Preparation
Times Of Difficulty -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
While written for congregational use, this prayer is also easily used for communion with shut-ins
The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 -- Matthew 3:13-17, Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Psalm 29 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
A Service Of Renewal
Proper 13 -- Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Matthew 14:13-21 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We come to this place of worship,
The Baptism Of Our Lord -- Isaiah 42:1-9, Acts 10:34-43, Matthew 3:13-17 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: When the floods and storms of the world threaten
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Matthew 1:18-25 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Proper 15 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Isaiah 56:1, 6-8, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 67 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Celebration Of Women's Groups -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.

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
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Epiphany 2 | OT 2
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
39 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
30 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Epiphany 3 | OT 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
31 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
25 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
Christopher Keating
For January 25, 2026:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus called Simon and Andrew, James and John, to follow him. They immediately made their decision and dropped everything, for they knew the importance of their call. When Jesus calls us, do we hear him and do we respond?

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when I'm busy I find it difficult to hear you.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy, I find it difficult to respond to you.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when I'm busy I'm not sure whether I want to follow you.
Lord, have mercy.
Janice B. Scott
I remember years ago watching an old film, which I think was "The Nun's Story." The young nun who was the heroine of the story had all sorts of difficulties in relationships with the other nuns. The problem was that she was super-intelligent, and the other nuns resented her. In the end the young nun went to the Mother Superior for advice, and was told that as a sign of humility she should fail her coming exams!

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
A Story to Live By: "Angel of Mercy"
Shining Moments: "A Dog's Life" by David Michael Smith
Good Stories: "God's Call" by Stephen Groves
Scrap Pile: "The Way Less Taken" by Garry Deverell


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt

C. David Mckirachan
Sandra Herrmann
Contents
"Ordinary Time" by C. David McKirachan
"Who's the Fool?" by C. David McKirachan
"Sharing the Light" by Sandra Herrmann


* * * * * * *


Ordinary Time
by C. David McKirachan
Isaiah 9:1-4

SermonStudio

John N. Brittain
How familiar Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 1 sound! Chloe's people had reported quarreling among the believers. Imagine that -- disagreements in a church! There were rivalries and backstabbing even in the very earliest days of the Christian community.
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
A few years ago, I was on a retreat in northern Michigan, and I knew that some of our friends from home were sailing in the vicinity. One evening I went to the local boat dock, and walked through the lines of boats calling out the names of our friends, hopeful that they might be there. I remember the joy I felt when I yelled their names, and they answered! They were actually there, and they responded to my call!
Dallas A. Brauninger
E-mail
From: KDM
To: God
Subject: In Christ's Name
Message: What on earth will bring us together, God? Lauds, KDM

How long must we wait, God,
for people to stop fighting
nations and nations
buyers and sellers
big ones and little ones
in-laws and relatives
husbands and wives
sisters and brothers
for me to stop fighting with me?
How long must we wait, God,
before we let the Christ Child come here?1
William B. Kincaid, III
In some parts of the country it doesn't matter, but in many areas the snow which falls during this time of the year can bring things to a decisive halt. Schools close. Events are canceled. Travel becomes tricky. If the conditions become severe enough, the decision may be made that not everybody should try to get to work. Only those who are absolutely necessary should report.
R. Glen Miles
"There will be no more gloom." That is how our text begins today. For the ones who were in anguish, glory will replace the gloom. Light will shine in darkness. Celebration will replace oppression. A new day will dawn.

In one sense these verses offer a summary of the overall message of the scriptures, "The darkness will pass. The light of a new day is dawning and there will be joy once again." At the end of the Bible, almost as if the original collectors of these sacred texts intended to remind us again of this word of hope, the Revelation of John tells us:
Robert A. Beringer
After a service of ordination to the Christian ministry, a sad-faced woman came up to the newly-ordained pastor and said, "It's a grand thing you are doing as a young man - giving up the joys of life to serve the Lord." That woman's attitude reflects a commonly held belief that to be serious about our faith means that we expect all joy to be taken out of living. For many, Christianity appears to be a depressing faith, with unwelcome disciplines, that cramps our lifestyle and crushes our spirits.
John T. Ball
All religions offer salvation. Eastern religions offer salvation from the illusion of being separated from ultimate reality - as in Hinduism, or from the pains of desire, as in Buddhism. Nature religions preach a salvation by calling us to realize we are linked to the natural world. Humanistic religions offer a salvation tied to the call to live in dignity and justice without divine aid. The biblical religions - Judaism, Islam, and Christianity - describe salvation in somewhat different ways. Judaism sees salvation primarily as an earthly and corporate affair.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Discord, dissention, strife,
C: anger, violence, hatred;
P: we confess to you, O God,
C: our schemes, our willful rebellion,
our hidden hostilities toward your children.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our lack of trust in your presence,
our need to control, our insatiable appetite for praise.
P: We confess to you, O God,
C: our fear of speaking the truth in love,
our self-hatred, our moments of utter despair
when we no longer believe you are at work in us.
Wayne H. Keller
Adoration And Praise

Invitation to the Celebration
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
Canticle Of Light And Darkness (UM205)
To Us A Child Of Hope Is Born (CBH189)
God Of Our Strength (CBH36)
Beneath The Cross Of Jesus (CBH250, UM297, NCH190, PH92)
In The Cross Of Christ I Glory (CBH566, UM295, NCH193--194, PH84)
Lord, You Have Come To The Lakeshore (CBH229, NCH173, PH377, UM344)
Where Cross The Crowded Ways Of Life (PH408, CBH405, UM42, NCH543)
Jesus Calls Us, O'er The Tumult (UM398, NCH171--172, CBH398)

Anthems

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Wayne Brouwer
In 1882 George MacDonald wrote a fascinating story that powerfully illumines the thought behind today's lectionary passages. MacDonald called his tale "The Day Boy and the Night Girl: the Romance of Photogen and Nycteris" (it is available online at http://www.ccel.org/m/macdonald/daynight/daynight.html). In MacDonald's fable a witch steals a newborn girl and raises her in the total darkness of a cave. The witch experiences both light and darkness, but not the girl. She is completely immersed in the black world.
Wayne Brouwer
"Politics are almost as exciting as war, and quite as dangerous!" said Winston Churchill. "In war you can only be killed once, but in politics many times."

In one of his essays, Albert Camus describes a powerful scene. John Huss, the great Czech reformer of the church, is on trial. His accusers twist all his ideas out of shape. They refuse to give him a hearing. They maneuver the political machine against him and incite popular passion to a lynch-mob frenzy. Finally, Huss is condemned to be burned at
David Kalas
Schuyler Rhodes
I was in the home of a church member the other day where I saw a marvelous family portrait. The picture had been taken on the occasion of a fiftieth wedding anniversary, and the entire family had gathered for the occasion. The celebrating husband and wife were seated in the center of the picture, flanked by their adult children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren. It was a magnificent full-color illustration of God's design.

Special Occasion

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