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Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Woulda Coulda Shoulda -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
There’s no use having vain regrets because we didn’t.
Wood Across the Back -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- David Kalas -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
When I was a boy, I heard a preacher remind his congregation about the true nature of the cross.
What Are We Looking For? -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
“Wisdom is vindicated by her deeds.” This week, we have the story of Abraham’s servant going “back h
A faith journey -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Ron Love -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
Two players. Two teammates. Same team. One is known for "Tebowing." One is known for murder.
A journey of a thousand miles -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
There are many books describing amazing journeys, but one of the most fascinating for me was Endu
A marriage made in heaven -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
In 1967, a psychologist named Kinch reported a rather bizarre experiment conducted by
A journey of a thousand miles -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2002
There are many books describing amazing journeys, but one of the most fascinating for me was Enduran
Let's have a parade! -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1996
Unless you happen to serve in a recreation/vacation area where you are blessed with summertime visi
Covenant: the next generation -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- William H. Shepherd -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
One of the central concepts of the Bible is the "covenant." A covenant is a contract-plus.

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

The Good We Cannot Do -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
For July 9, 2023:
Say You Love Me (But Stay Six Feet Away) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
For July 5, 2020:
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Illustrations For July 6, 2008 From The Immediate Word -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
His Dad's Recliner
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 9 / Pentecost 7 / OT 14 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
...

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 (2023) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 (2020) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bill Thomas, M Adryael Tong -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 or Song of Solomon 2:8-13
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 (2017) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Bob Ove, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bill Thomas -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 (2014) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Bob Ove, Derl G. Keefer, Scott A. Bryte, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
The custom in that day... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
The custom in that day was for the parents to select a mate for their son or daughter.
It was a complicated... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Derl G. Keefer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
It was a complicated and time-intensive search for a wife for Isaac, son of Abraham and Sarah.
A spy sits down at a bar... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Scott A. Bryte -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
A spy sits down at a bar ready to pass along the secrets he has learned; secrets that must not ever
NULL -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
NULL -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Leah Thompson -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
Farming families know what it means to have strong women.
NULL -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Ron Love -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
Loft 107 is a sober-living facility located in the heart of Brooklyn.
Union forces named it the... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
Union forces named it the Battle of Antietam (Maryland). Confederates dubbed it the
Abraham gave his servant a... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
Abraham gave his servant a tricky assignment. Would you like the job of finding a wife
Jacob was 78 years old... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
Jacob was 78 years old and hadn't had true romance yet. His father, Isaac, said in effect:
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67... -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Courtship customs have changed since... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Courtship customs have changed since those days of Isaac and Rebekah, but one thing remains constant
A pastor's car had broken... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
A pastor's car had broken down just as a tow truck came by.
When you love you should... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
When you love you should not say, "God is in my heart,"
Moderns have a difficult time... -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Moderns have a difficult time appreciating the ancient custom requiring the oldest daughter to be ma

The Immediate Word

The Good We Cannot Do -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
For July 9, 2023:
Say You Love Me (But Stay Six Feet Away) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
For July 5, 2020:
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Illustrations For July 6, 2008 From The Immediate Word -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
His Dad's Recliner
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,

Preaching

The Immediate Word

The Good We Cannot Do -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
For July 9, 2023:
Say You Love Me (But Stay Six Feet Away) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
For July 5, 2020:
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Illustrations For July 6, 2008 From The Immediate Word -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
His Dad's Recliner
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,

SermonStudio

Proper 9 / Pentecost 7 / Ordinary Time 14 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Zechariah 9:9-12 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
God has promised Abraham that he will be the forebear of many descendants.
Proper 9, Pentecost 7, Ordinary Time 14 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme The teaching and ministry of Jesus the Christ.
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 (C)
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1992
Lesson 1: Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 (C)

Free Access

Proper 9 | OT 14 | Pentecost 5 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Zechariah 9:9-12 -- Elizabeth Achtemeier -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
God has promised Abraham that he will be the forebear of many descendants.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

The Good We Cannot Do -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
For July 9, 2023:
Say You Love Me (But Stay Six Feet Away) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
For July 5, 2020:
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Illustrations For July 6, 2008 From The Immediate Word -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
His Dad's Recliner
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,

SermonStudio

Choosing To Love -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
The popular notion in our society is that the best way to choose a marriage partner is to wait until
The Way To Happy Endings -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- James L. Killen, Jr. -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
Genesis 24 is like a short novel that is set into the end of the story of Abraham.
Isaac And Rebekah: A Marriage Made In Heaven -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Kristin Borsgard Wee -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2001
Early one morning several years ago, I was having coffee with a friend in her kitchen.
A Right Use Of Angels -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Leonard W. Mann -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1998
Abraham and Sarah's son Isaac was old enough to have a wife, but he didn't have one yet, not even on

Stories

StoryShare

Mumbling Hope -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- David O. Bales -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
Contents "Mumbling Hope" by David O. Bales
Jesus And Religious Know-It-Alls -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Zechariah 9:9-12 -- David O. Bales, Keith Wagner -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
Contents "Jesus And Religious Know-It-Alls" by David O. Bales
The Inner Struggle -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Psalm 45:10-17 -- John Fitzgerald, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
Contents"The Inner Struggle" by John Fitzgerald
The Girl In 410 -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Keith Hewitt, Larry Winebrenner -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2011
Contents"The Girl in 410" by Keith Hewitt
Holy Games -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Frank Ramirez, Scott Dalgarno -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There are many facets to the life we have in Christ, but one of the most important is joy.
The Shadow Knows -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "How to Carry Heavy Burdens"

Worship

The Immediate Word

The Good We Cannot Do -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Katy Stenta, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2023
For July 9, 2023:
Say You Love Me (But Stay Six Feet Away) -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Zechariah 9:9-12, Song of Solomon 2:8-13 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2020
For July 5, 2020:
Addicted To Sin -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Beth Herrinton-Hodge, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary text from Romans, Paul laments his inability to completely live up to the
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Illustrations For July 6, 2008 From The Immediate Word -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
His Dad's Recliner
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
Damned If We Do, Damned If We Don't! -- Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A
Dear Fellow Preachers,

SermonStudio

Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Come to our God, all who hunger for life,
An Arranged Marriage -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
Call To Worship (Psalm 45:6-7)
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2004
Hymns
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2001
Theme: Love And MarriageCall To Worship
Proper 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67Theme: LifemateCall To Worship
PROPER 9 -- Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17, Romans 7:15-25a, Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
UPCOMING WEEKS
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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
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

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

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

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

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

StoryShare

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


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

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

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

Special Occasion

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