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Children's sermon

SermonStudio

All Kinds Of Doubts -- Mark 9:24 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
A father came to Jesus with his son who needed healing. He begged Jesus, "Help us!"
The Mustard Seed -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
(Ask the children's choir or congregation to sing "Hymn of Promise" by Natalie Sleeth, #707, The Uni
The Seed -- Mark 4:1-9 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
There once was a seed and in that seed was life. The seed was buried in the earth.
Knowing God -- Psalm 116:1-2 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
It was a new room for Zachary. It was his first Sunday in the three-year-old nursery.
The House On The Rock -- Matthew 7:24-27 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Jesus told a story about a man who built his house upon a rock and another man who built his house u
"Come And See" -- John 1:29-42 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Once a teacher asked the children at church to draw a picture of God. But they had never seen God.
The Loving Father -- Luke 15:11-32 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"Alan, you are late again!" Alan's father's jaw twitched, which meant Alan's father was not pleased.
All God Does, God Does Well -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Some things we can't explain, and we call them mysteries and trust God's love no matter what.
Jesus' Resurrection -- Mark 16:6 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The small, furry, green caterpillar ate its way up the stalk of grass.
Transfiguration Sunday -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Leader, wearing dark glasses, asks the children, "Do you know why I am wearing dark glasses?" (Pause
Everywhere There Was God -- John 4:5-42 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
One day Jesus stopped at a well where he asked a Samaritan woman for a drink of water.
Ask Me, I Will Do It -- John 14:1-14 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Brad was a good student.
God Is Great, God Is Good -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Every Sunday one of Betsy's parents drove into the circular drive of the church to deliver their chi
Listening -- Mark 1:35 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Jesus was a healer.
The Christmas Tree -- John 1:5 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Martin Luther stood silently under the cold, starry night, surrounded by the fir and pine trees of t
Little Wind -- Luke 2 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Little Wind floated silently to the foot of God's throne.
God's Mercy -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The psalms (Show the Psalms in the Bible.) were the prayer poems of the people.
Intercession -- Matthew 5:43-48 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
There was once a man who dreamed of a beautiful home, and soon all of his time, energy, money, and a
God's Steadfast Love -- Psalm 66:8-20 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
One night a mother, praying with her daughter, asked her how she felt when she prayed.
A Sunny Day -- Romans 8:26b -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"It's raining!" Brad said, sadly.
Good Luck? Bad Luck? Who Knows? -- Psalm 78:1-7 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
An old Chinese farmer had an old horse for tilling his fields.
Brother Lawrence -- Psalm 150:6 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The greasy, sticky pots and pans were piled precariously on the sink.
A Prince In Disguise -- Matthew 25:31-46 (44-45) -- Richard J. Coleman -- 2002
Appropriate Day: All Saints' Day, any Sunday
Have Mercy Upon Us! -- Psalm 123 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The two-year-old was visiting her grandparents, and as they gathered around the table, holding hands
The Shepherd And His Sheep -- John 10:14, 26-27 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2001
Jesus is the Good Shepherd of those who listen and follow him.

Christian

Christian Faith

Christian Life

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Devotional

SermonStudio

Giving Thanks -- Philippians 4:6-7 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving le
Enjoying The Job That Never Ends -- Philippians 3:13-14 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting wha
Easter 5 -- Acts 8:26-40, 1 John 4:7-21, John 15:1-8, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Acts 8:26-40
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Baptism: Blessed For The Journey -- Luke 2:21 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
After eight days had passed, it was time to circumcise the child; and he was called Jesus, the
Easter 7 -- Acts 1:15-17, 21-26, 1 John 5:9-13, John 17:6-19, Psalm 1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
Acts 1:15-17, 21-26
Proper 19 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Psalm 19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 1:20-33
Joy And Responsibility -- Ephesians 6:1-4 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53, Psalm 47 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2008
Acts 1:1-11
Proper 20 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37, Psalm 1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2008
Proverbs 31:10-31
Partners In Parenting -- Luke 2:43-46 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
When the festival was ended and they started to return, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusal
The Day Of Pentecost -- Acts 2:1-21, Romans 8:22-27, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2008
Acts 2:1-21
Proper 21 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2008
Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22
Flying Solo -- Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, 12b -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil.
The Holy Trinity -- Isaiah 6:1-8, Romans 8:12-17, John 3:1-17, Psalm 29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2008
Isaiah 6:1-8
Proper 22 -- Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Mark 10:2-16, Psalm 26 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2008
Job 1:1; 2:1-10
Reflecting On A Miracle -- Psalm 139:13-14 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
For it was you who formed my inward parts; you knit me together in my mother's womb.
Advent 1 -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Proper 4 -- 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20), 2 Corinthians 4:5-12, Mark 2:23--3:6, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - B -- 2008
1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20)
Proper 23 -- Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Hebrews 4:12-16, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B -- 2008
Job 23:1-9, 16-17
Time For A Change -- Deuteronomy 6:4-7 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
Hear, O Israel: The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.
Advent 2 -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
Isaiah 40:1-11
Proper 5 -- 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, Mark 3:20-35, Psalm 138 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2008
1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15)
Proper 24 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45, Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2008
Job 38:1-7 (34-41)
The Fear Of Parenting -- Luke 1:30 -- Steven Molin -- 2008
The angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God." And Mary s

Drama

SermonStudio

The Burglar's Christmas -- Luke 15:22-24 -- Matthew Powell, O.p. -- 2004
This play, based on a short story by Willa Cather, is an allegorical retelling of the story of the p
Jacob And Esau: Trickery In The Genes -- Genesis 25-29 -- Pat Betteley -- 2004
This play is designed to be read and discussed with no scenery, or produced easily with a few simple
Five Advent Candle Dramas -- Anne W. Anderson, Nelson Chamberlain, Sharon Cathcart, Linda Buff, Pamela Honan Peterson -- 2004
Advent 1 -- He's Coming! ... I HopeAdvent 2 -- I Can't Wait!
The Savior Of The World -- Nelson Chamberlain -- 2004
CharactersVoice (from offstage) Narrators (six in three pairs)
Time Travelers' Tales Of The Carols -- Anne W. Anderson, Nelson Chamberlain, Sharon Cathcart, Linda Buff, Pamela Honan Peterson -- 2004
Time Travelers' Tales Of The CarolsCharactersLisa (a teenager)
I Have Seen The Lord! -- John 20:1-18 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Bass M. MitchellMary Magdala as the first witness to the resurrection.
Dust Thou Art ... Art Thou Dust? -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, Psalm 103 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
In preparing to write this, the third Ash Wednesday homily/drama, I was running out of ideas -- unti
Rock The Boat! -- John 21 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Maybe I should not read the Bible just before I go to sleep at night. "Why?" you ask.
Jesus Is Risen ... So What? -- Acts 10:34-43, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Luke 24:1-12, Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
This homily/drama was written -- with much more than the usual amount of blood, sweat, and tears --
Even The Gentiles -- Acts 10 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. Perry
But I Wasn't There ... Ya Gotta Show Me! -- Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4b-8, John 20:19-31, Psalm 150 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
You Are There was a real television show in the '50s: back in the days when even commercial t
Onesimus -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. Perry
Just Do It! -- Acts 9:1-6 (7-20), Revelation 5:11-14, John 21:1-19 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Hey, the Bible doesn't say anything about who ol' Ananias was, so he might have been the proprietor
Herod -- The First Christmas Grinch -- Matthew 2:1-2, 8, 16-18 -- Bass M. Mitchell -- 2004
This works well if you have costumes but it's not necessary.
Paradox -- Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30, Psalm 100 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
I hope those groaner puns won't detract from the discussion of paradox.
Leaving Egypt For Home -- Matthew 2:19-23 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
You Shall Be Holy -- Acts 13:44-52, Revelation 21:1-6, John 13:31-35 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Me, be holy? Me, with all my horrid habits and stinky sins? I can't do that!
Never Too Late -- Matthew 3:1-12 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
Some Day, My Prince Will Come .. -- Acts 16:9-15, Revelation 21:10, 22--22:5, John 14:23-29, Psalm 67 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
As I perused the readings for Easter 6, I was struck by their focus on the future glory of God -- an
My Name Is Levi -- Mark 2:13-17 -- Pamela J. Tinnin, Bass M. Mitchell, Peter K. Perry -- 2004
Peter K. PerryThe tax collector Levi, who becomes Matthew, tells his story.
Let Everyone Who Is Thirsty Come -- Acts 16:16-34, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21, John 17:20-26 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Everyone, Lord? Even those (fill in the denomination) who (fill in the alleged heresy)?
Living Water -- John 4:7-30 -- Pamela J. Tinnin -- 2004
Pamela J. Tinnin
The Temptation Of Sally Vation -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13, Psalm 91 -- John A. Tenbrook -- 2004
Saint Paul reminds us that "Satan disguises himself as an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14) and
When He Calls ... -- Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Luke 5:1-11, Psalm 85 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts"What is God calling me to do?"
What's In It For M-E-E-E-E? -- Jeremiah 17:5-10, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Luke 6:17-26, Psalm 1 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2003
Thespian Theological Thoughts

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

SermonStudio

FOR THE FATHER AND US -- John 18:1-14 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:1-14
SECOND CHANCE -- John 8:1-11 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:1-11
LITTLE MATTERS THAT MATTERED -- John 18:15-27 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:15-27
HEAVENLY FATHER -- John 8:12-30 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:12-30
MEMBERSHIP IN ANOTHER WORLD -- John 18:28-40 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:28-40
HEIRS -- John 8:31-38 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:31-38
LOOKING AT US WITH LOVE -- John 19:1-7 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:1-7
USING FAITH FOREVER -- John 8:39-59 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:39-59
NO DECISION AT ALL -- John 19:8-16a -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:8-16a
GETTING THE MUD OUT -- John 9:1-12 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 9:1-12
KING JESUS -- John 19:16b-25a -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:16b-25a
EYES EARTHWARD -- John 9:13-41 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 9:13-41
LET DEATH COME, LORD JESUS -- John 19:25b-27 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:25b-27
KNOWN BY NAME -- John 10:1-10 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:1-10
ACCOMPLISHED -- John 19:28-30 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:28-30
SLIPPING OVER CLIFFS -- John 10:11-21 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:11-21
BLOOD AND WATER -- John 19:31-37 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 19:31-37
NEVER ALONE -- John 10:22-42 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 10:22-42
NOONTIME PRAYER SERVICE -- Gennifer Benjamin Brooks -- 1996
GATHERING
The demands of discipleship -- Luke 9:51-62 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The demands of discipleshipGospel Note:
The basis of blessedness -- Luke 1:39-45 (46-55) -- Dennis Koch -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The basis of blessednessGospel Note:
The urgency of the Christian message -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:The urgency of the Christian message
Commitment to a calling -- Luke 4:1-13 -- Dennis Koch -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Commitment to a callingGospel Note:
Awaiting the power that authenticates -- Dennis Koch -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Awaiting the power that authenticatesGospel Note:
Different paces and paths to resurrection faith -- John 20:1-18 -- Dennis Koch -- Easter Day - C -- 1994
Gospel Theme:Different paces and paths to resurrection faith

Preaching

SermonStudio

Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Today is Pentecost. The creative power of God's Spirit (v. 30) flows today like no other day.
Psalm 51:1-12 -- Psalm 51:1-12 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Forgiveness -- it's the Christian buzzword. We talk about it a lot.
Psalm 27 -- Psalm 27 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Little children love to walk on the edge.
Forty Days -- A Long Time But Not Too Long -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- 2009
The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bone
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Forgiveness is a concept common to most everyone. It covers a vast landscape, to be sure.
Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Sometimes it's hard to keep the big picture in mind.
Psalm 51:1-17 -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It may not seem like a big deal, but has anyone noticed that confession has fallen out of favor in a
Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
German playwright, Bertolt Brecht, writes in one of his immortal tunes that "magic fear puts the wor
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"Patience," the old ditty goes, "is a grace, and Grace is a little girl who doesn't wash her face."
Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45c -- Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The power of these words is rooted in memory.
Psalm 51:1-17 -- Psalm 51:1-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
As this Lenten season begins, it might be a good thing to think deeply about confession.
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Anyone who has ever worked with other people knows that it's important to give credit where it's due
Psalm 130 -- Psalm 130 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Back in the '60s, there was a phenomenon known as trading stamps.
Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Here is a psalm, like many, which leans into praise and rejoicing.
Psalm 52 -- Psalm 52 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Schoolyard bullies populate the memory of a lot of people.
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Certain people have unforgettable voices.
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Riding out a storm can be an amazing experience.
Psalm 131 -- Psalm 131 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Humility is at the core of faith. Nice statement, that. But what does it mean?
Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
One hears much these days about "seekers." The word in contemporary usage usually refers to people w
Psalm 62:5-12 -- Psalm 62:5-12 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The storybooks of our faith are full of heroes and martyrs who have insisted on the sovereignty of G
Psalm 30 -- Psalm 30 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
One hears a lot these days about habits, good and bad. Most everyone has given up smoking.
Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The scholars tell us that this psalm was likely a liturgical piece used in the celebration of the Lo
Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The opening lines of this psalm proclaim the love of God that is both trustworthy and lasting.
Psalm 63:1-8 -- Psalm 63:1-8 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
At the core of our faith is the basic tenet that we must surrender ourselves to God.
Psalm 30 -- Psalm 30 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
What is the difference between happiness and joy?

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

It's A Good Thing He's Gone! -- Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
Today I want you to participate in the proclamation of today's message.
But I Really Like The Best Seat In The House! -- Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2009
Years ago I was a director of alcohol and drug programs in a neighboring county.
Jesus -- The Leader Of Our Team -- Philippians 1:3-11 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
One day a young girl came home from school in tears because she had only been given a small part in
There's Still Time -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Frank Ramirez -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2009
Nowadays the cost of a dinner and a movie keeps going up, and a vacation can be especially expensive
Adultery: Saying No And Knowing Why! -- Matthew 5:27 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
You have heard that it was said, "You shall not commit adultery."-- Matthew 5:27
When God Calls -- Jeremiah 1:4-10 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2009
Today, and for the next several weeks, the Revised Common Lectionary devotes attention to one of the
Don't Burn The Cookies! -- Luke 21:25-36 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Today we enter the season of Advent.
A Wonderful Conversion Story -- Acts 8:26-40 -- David H. Webb -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
In our first lesson today, we hear yet another Easter faith story.
The Radiant Life -- Exodus 34:29-35 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2009
We are not citizens of this world trying to make our way to heaven; we are citizens of heaven try
All In God's Time -- Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
"Why do bad things happen to good people?" is the way we say it today.
Finish What You Start -- Luke 14:25-33 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
I remember as I was growing up, before gas became more precious than gold, that our family would go
Rejoicing Brings Peace -- Philippians 4:4-7 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Mora Naba, a Mossi emperor in Burkina Faso, had conquered a powerful ethnic group in the south calle
Hit Me With Your Best Shot -- Luke 4:1-13 -- Frank Ramirez -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Harry Houdini (1874-1926) was an expert at sleight of hand, a skeptic when it came to the spirituali
Lust: The Fire Inside -- Matthew 5:27-30 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
But I say to you that every one who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery wit
Finding Fault With God -- Jeremiah 2:4-13 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2009
It is never a pleasant prospect to deal with someone who has a complaint with you.
Go, Johnny, Go, Go, Go! -- Luke 3:1-6 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Every Sunday, a church broadcasts a one-hour service over the waves of 1450 WMIQ, the local radio st
Our Salvation In Being Loved -- Acts 10:44-48 -- David H. Webb -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
All of a sudden, the Holy Spirit fell on everyone, even the Gentiles.
Trumpet Medley -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- David Kalas -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2009
Listen to the sound of the trumpet. What do you hear?
Getting The Big Picture -- Romans 8:14-17 -- April Yamasaki -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
A "global positioning system" can tell you the fastest way to drive from Point A to Point B -- which
Where Would You Go To Meet Jesus? -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Rick McCracken-Bennett -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
I remember reading in a church development book some time ago of the experiences of a church planter
Obedience: Our Gift To Jesus -- Hebrews 10:5-10 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
One day a man went to his son's bedroom and found him sitting on his bed with a whole stack of comic
Oh, Jerusalem -- Luke 13:31-35 -- Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Nowadays we have 24-hour news stations, satellite radio, email alerts, and other ways of finding out
Divorce: The Deadlock Of Wedlock -- Matthew 5:31-32 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- 2009
It was also said, "Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce." But I s
In The Potter's Hands -- Jeremiah 18:1-11 -- Chrysanne Timm -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
I am not a potter, and I do not play one on television!
The Coat Off Your Back -- Luke 3:7-18 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
Thanksgiving -- cornucopias, fall harvests, turkey and pumpkin pie, corn stalks, and scarecrows -- o

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

Better Not Get Gekko -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2006
Zacchaeus stood there and said to the Lord, "Look, half of my possessions, Lord, I will give to t
Speaking Up For What's Right -- Galatians 3:23-29 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2006
As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.
The Magi Got A Gift, Too -- Matthew 2:1-12 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2006
Then Herod secretly called for the wise men and learned from them the exact time when the star ha
Are You My Husband? -- Luke 20:27-38 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2006
Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him and asked him a question, "Te
Guiding Angels -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2006
When they had crossed, Elijah said to Elisha, "Tell me what I may do for you, before I am taken f
What Do The Voices Say? -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2006
Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the
The Church Is Not A Welfare State -- 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2006
Now we command you, beloved, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from believers wh
You Win Some -- You Lose Some -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2006
After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town
Not Forsaken -- Isaiah 62:1-5 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2006
For Zion's sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her vindi
It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over -- Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- All Saints Day - C -- 2006
As for me, Daniel, my spirit was troubled within me, and the visions of my head terrified me.
Living The Lesson Of The Good Samaritan -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2006
But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" Jesus replied, "A man w
Please Don't Amputate The Body -- 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2006
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, a
Rocky -- Psalm 100 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Thanksgiving Day - C -- 2006
Know that the Lord is God.
Lost In Jesus -- Luke 10:38-42 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2006
Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed
The Gift Of The Love -- 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - C -- 2006
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a
The Greathearted Monkey King -- Luke 23:33-43 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - C -- 2006
And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let
Mrs. Tolle's Persistent Prayer -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2006
I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, at lea
Catching People -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2006
When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep water and let down your n
And Yet The Stars Shined -- Psalm 107:1-9, 43 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2006
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever.
Get Busy Living In Hope -- 1 Corinthians 15:12-20 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C -- 2006
If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.
The Faith Factor -- Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2006
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen....
Love Your Enemies -- Luke 6:27-38 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2006
But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who c
Running With The Holy -- Hebrews 11:29--12:2 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2006
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every
Songs Of Thanksgiving -- Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2006
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your
Being Right Versus Doing Right -- Luke 13:10-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2006
But the leader of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had cured on the sabbath, kept saying to

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Christmas Eve -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
GreetingOne: The people walking in darkness have seen a great light;
Easter 2 -- Acts 2:14a, 22-32, 1 Peter 1:3-9, John 20:19-31 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Lent 4 -- John 9:1-41, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Confessional LitanyDivide the congregation into two voices.
Baptism Of Jesus (C) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Christmas 2 -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Gathering Litany P: O God, who created our world with a single word,
Proper 26 -- Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Some have come a great distance,
Proper 27/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 32 -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Psalm 70 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
Gathering
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), John 1:1-14 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Wonder of wonders, God has come to us!
Easter 3 -- Acts 2:14a, 36-41, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Luke 24:13-35 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Where shattered hearts are made whole,
Lent 5 -- John 11:1-45, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Romans 8:6-11, Psalm 130 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Litany: A Conversation With The Psalmist L: The abyss, the unknown, the feared:
Transfiguration (1) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
These prayers all focus in on the Transfiguration texts but can also be used during the season of
First Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 2:1-5 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Proper 27 -- Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Matthew 25:1-13 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: If we will but listen,
Proper 28 / Ordinary Time 33 / /Pentecost 25 -- Matthew 25:14-30, Zephaniah 1:7, 12-18, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christmas 1 -- Isaiah 63:7-9, Hebrews 2:10-18, Matthew 2:13-23 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: All God's people -- boys and girls, women and men,
Easter 4 -- Acts 2:42-47, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: This is God's church: the gate to discernment.
Passion/Palm Sunday (Lent 6) -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
Prayer For Procession With Palms
Transfiguration (2) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you.And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
First Sunday In Advent -- Psalm 122 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.)Date:Reader A:
Proper 28 -- Judges 4:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Matthew 25:14-30 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Before there was any time,All: there was God.
Christ The King/Proper 29 -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Ephesians 1:15-23, Psalm 100 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christmas 2 -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: On this day, we remember the gift of God's Word
Easter 5 -- Acts 7:55-60, 1 Peter 2:2-10, John 14:1-14 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We are God's household,
Maundy Thursday -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35, Exodus 12:1-4 (5-10) 11-14, 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2007
Offertory Prayer

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Christ the King Sunday
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New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
George Reed
For November 30, 2025:
  • Time Change by Chris Keating. The First Sunday of Advent invites God’s people to tell time differently. While the secular Christmas machine keeps rolling, the church is called to a time of waiting and remaining alert.
  • Second Thoughts: What Time Is It? by Tom Willadsen based on Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
According to Martin Luther our thanksgiving is brought about only by justification by grace:

But bringing of tithes denotes that we are wholly given to the service of the neighbor through love…  This, however, does not happen unless, being first justified by faith. (Luther’s Works, Vol.9, p.255)

The Reformer also wants us to be happy, what with all the generous gifts we have been given.  He wrote:
Wayne Brouwer
A schoolteacher asked her students to make a list of the things for which they were thankful. Right at the top of Chad’s list was the word “glasses.” Some children resent having to wear glasses, but evidently not Chad! She asked him about it. Why was he thankful that he wore glasses?

“Well,” he said, “my glasses keep the boys from hitting me and the girls from kissing me.”

The philosopher Eric Hoffer says, “The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings!” That’s true, isn’t it?
William H. Shepherd
Christianity is, among other things, an intellectual quest. The curriculum to know God truly. The lesson plans interact creatively with other aspects of faith: worship is vain if not grounded in truth, while service is misguided if based on faulty premises. While faith certainly cannot be reduced to knowledge, it cannot be divorced from it, either.

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (v. 6)

We just received word about the passing of our friend, Rosmarie Trapp. We had lost touch with her in recent years, so I was shocked when I stumbled onto her obituary in The New York Times from May 18, 2022.
David E. Leininger
John Jamison
Contents
What's Up This Week
"The Reason for the Season" by David Leininger
"Time's Up" by John Jamison


What's Up This Week

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John Jamison
Object: The activity for this message is the Be Thank You! game.

* * *

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Rosemary was 33 years old. She'd been married to James for four years and they had two children, Sam who was two and the baby, Elizabeth, who was just three weeks old. Apart from the baby blues and extreme fatigue, both of which got her down a bit when James was at work, Rosemary was happy. They had recently moved to the London suburbs and James commuted each day by train.

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
This brief psalm is among the most familiar in the psalter, but that is primarily because its verses have been excerpted in so many hymns and liturgical texts. There is something to be gained from looking at Psalm 100 in its entirety, and trying to recover its ancient liturgical context.

James Evans
"Pray for the peace of Jerusalem" (v. 6). What better way could there be for us to begin the Advent season than by focusing our prayers on peace? The word, shalom, translated "peace," means much more than the mere absence of conflict. And of course, it is not only Jerusalem that is in need of peace; the whole world needs the shalom that the psalmist dreams about. So perhaps we should expand the breadth of this prayer, and deepen it with our awareness of the various meanings of the Hebrew idea of peace.

John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 2:1--5 (C, RC, E)
Tony S. Everett
A popular skit at church camps involves about a dozen folks lined up side-by-side, looking anxious and frustrated facing the audience. Each person rests a left elbow on the right shoulder of their neighbor. Then, from left to right, each member asks, "Is it time yet?" When the question arrives at the end of the line, the last person looks at his/her wristwatch and responds, "No." This reply is passed, one-by-one each with bored sighs, back to the first questioner. After a few moments, the same question is passed down the line (left elbows remaining on the right shoulders).
Linda Schiphorst Mccoy
Just a few days before writing this message, I conducted a memorial service for a 60-year-old man who was the picture of health until three months before his death. He was active, vibrant, only recently retired, and looking forward to years of good life with his wife and family and friends. Nonetheless, pancreatic cancer had done its work, and quickly, and he was gone. It was the general consensus that it was too soon for his life to end; he was too young to die.
John W. Clarke
In this the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, Jesus begins to withdraw to the east side of the Sea of Galilee. He has fed the 5,000, and he has walked on water. The press of the crowds had become all consuming and he needs some solitude to prepare himself for what lay ahead. Considering that the crowds that followed him more than likely knew of the feeding of the 5,000, and some may even have heard of the miraculous walking on water, it is difficult to explain why in these verses, they would doubt anything he had to say -- but they do.
Robert R. Kopp
My favorite eighth grader just confessed his aspiration for becoming President of the United States.

When I foolishly asked the inspiration of his lofty goal, he replied, "Bill Clinton." Then my hormone-raging adolescent proceeded to list perceived presidential perks that have nothing to do with God or country.

My prayer list has been altered.

And my attitude about prayer in public schools has changed too.

I used to be against prayer in public schools.
John E. Berger
Thanksgiving, according to one newspaper columnist, has kept its original meaning better than any other holiday. That original meaning, he wrote, was family reunions around large dinner tables.

In contrast, Christmas has changed into Santa Claus and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Easter has come to emphasize new spring clothes and the Easter bunny. Even our national holidays -- Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day -- have become cook-outs and summer travel get-aways.
Mark Ellingson
Thanksgiving: How do we say thanks authentically and not lapse into the platitudes so often associated with this holiday? There are several dangers associated with the holiday. Ever since it was instituted as a national holiday by Abraham Lincoln, and even before when various state governors instituted it in their states, Thanksgiving has not been a strictly Christian holiday. There has been a lot of nationalism and self-congratulations associated with this day. What is the distinctively Christian way to give thanks to God for all the good things that we have?

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