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James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17

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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Embodied Faith -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- David Coffin -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
In many church circles, the cry goes out for, “We need good leadership!” Growing pressure is placed
The Poor and Their Maker -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- David Kalas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
How close are you to poverty? We might answer that question in a variety of ways.
Christianity 101 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
All three of our readings for this Sunday point in the direction of inclusion, rather than the exclu
Don't judge people by their covers -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
Shorthand might be an efficient way to take quick notes, but it’s a lousy way to typecast people.
Human price tags -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Soren Kierkegaard once wrote of a strange break-in at a large store in his native Denmark where the
Practically Christian -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- David Kalas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
I parked next to a car yesterday that looked like a bit of a junker. It was pretty banged up
Playing favorites -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2000
Many of us know the feeling of being excluded or unwanted by another who plays favorites.

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Women Who Won't Be Quiet -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
For September 8, 2024:
Hearing Our Siblings' Cries -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125, Genesis 2:15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
For September 5, 2021:
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican

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Does God care? -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the
What it is to be poor -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. Today we are going to talk about being poor.
Both are needed -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Good morning! I have here a flashlight and some batteries.
Believe and Do -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B
If I were in the Army, I would have to wear an Army uniform.
Faith has no favorites -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought a pair of glasses with
Does God care? -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters. Has not God chosen the poor in the

Devotional

SermonStudio

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

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 | Pentecost 16 (2024) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
Proverbs 22: 1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 | Pentecost 15 (2021) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 (2018) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 (2015) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | OT 23 (2012) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Ron Love, Bob Ove, Mark J. Molldrem, Cynthia E. Cowen, Mark Ellingsen, Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23
Statistics released by the Corporation for Economic Development... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Statistics released by the Corporation for Economic Development reveal the number of poor families h
Leonard Sweet brings the Letter of James up-to-date... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Leonard Sweet brings the Letter of James up-to-date in his criticism of those who favor the rich ove
The man on the street... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
The man on the street asking for money was easy to ignore. He was not attractive. He
In today's world, following James... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
In today's world, following James' advice of accepting all others can be risky. Certainly,
Suppose you learned that actress... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
Suppose you learned that actress Julia Roberts was coming to your worship service next
Courtney worked hard in math... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2006
Courtney worked hard in math while in high school. Every good grade she got, she
Charles Schulz, the recently... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2003
Charles Schulz, the recently deceased creator of the comic strip Peanuts and recipient
On October 18, 2002... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2003
On October 18, 2002, Jake Porter, 17, scored a touchdown in a game between McDermott (Ohio) No
Our friends moved recently... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2003
Our friends moved recently to a retirement village.
Charles Schulz, the recently deceased... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2003
Charles Schulz, the recently deceased creator of the comic strip Peanuts and recipient of the
On October 18, 2002, Jake... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2003
On October 18, 2002, Jake Porter, 17, scored a touchdown in a game between McDermott (Ohio) Northwes
There is a constant and... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2000
There is a constant and unending temptation to bend our behavior to honor the wealthy.
Horace Greeley was the newspaper... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2000
Horace Greeley was the newspaper editor famous for saying, "Go west, young man." He was also famous
We chose a mongrel, but... -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2000
We chose a mongrel, but our neighbor chose a purebred.

The Immediate Word

Women Who Won't Be Quiet -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
For September 8, 2024:
Hearing Our Siblings' Cries -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125, Genesis 2:15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
For September 5, 2021:
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec

StoryShare

Rich Toward God -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters.

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Women Who Won't Be Quiet -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
For September 8, 2024:
Hearing Our Siblings' Cries -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125, Genesis 2:15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
For September 5, 2021:
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican

SermonStudio

Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayGod cares for the poor. Collect of the Day
Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 or Isaiah 35:4-7a3, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Revised Common Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 or Isaiah 35:4-7a3
Proper 18 (C, E) -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 (C)
Faith active in good works -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Faith active in good works.
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1993
It is obvious that this pericope was chosen because of its
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1990
At this juncture in the church year, which is now well into the second half of Pentecost, the preach
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1990
At this juncture in the church year, which is now well into the second half of Pentecost, the preach
Proper 18, Pentecost 16, Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Seasonal Theme

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Women Who Won't Be Quiet -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
For September 8, 2024:
Hearing Our Siblings' Cries -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125, Genesis 2:15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
For September 5, 2021:
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican

SermonStudio

Yielding To Spiritual Maturity -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Thomas W. Lentz -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2008
Peter Drucker has conducted management seminars for both businesses and churches.
Strength Through Diversity -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
A wealthy businessman decided to take a walk and eat his lunch at the same time.

Stories

StoryShare

Rich Toward God -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
Listen, my beloved brothers and sisters.
Putting On The Purpole -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Contents “Putting On The Purpole” by Frank Ramirez
Room At The Table -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Keith Hewitt -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
Contents "Room at the Table" by Keith Hewitt
Two Men -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Keith Hewitt, Lamar Massingill -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
Contents"Two Men" by Keith Hewitt
Mercy Triumphs -- Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Psalm 125 -- David O. Bales, C. David Mckirachan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2009
ContentsWhat's Up This Week "Mercy Triumphs" by David O. Bales
Being Richly Alive -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 146 -- Frank R. Fisher, Sil Galvan, Dallas A. Brauninger, Constance Berg -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
ContentsWhat's Up This Week

SermonStudio

Paying With Love -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
My brothers and sisters, do you with your acts of favoritism really believe in our glorious Lord

Worship

The Immediate Word

Women Who Won't Be Quiet -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2024
For September 8, 2024:
Hearing Our Siblings' Cries -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125, Genesis 2:15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer, Quantisha Mason-Doll -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2021
For September 5, 2021:
Better Than Silver or Gold -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte, Thomas Willadsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2018
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Some Citizens United -- James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2012
After the conclusion of this week's Democratic convention, two months remain until the November elec
Faithing Our Fears -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B
Fear -- and our varying responses to it -- will likely be one of the enduring legacies from Hurrican

SermonStudio

Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37, Psalm 125 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom Psalm 125.
All God's Children -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Proper 18 -- Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Mark 7:24-37 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 1996
Call To WorshipLeader: Let all who would stand true for the Lord gather now for worship!
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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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