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Matthew 20:1-16

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Children's Activity

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Doin' time -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Leah Thompson -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
God's best friends -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:
God loves us all -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Materials
"That's not fair!" -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Teachers or Parents: Many adults have trouble understanding
Not fair! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Teachers or Parents: Young children especially have an acute
Kingdom of heaven clock -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Teachers: Jesus tells a parable, which involves different times of

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 20:1-16 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 20:1-16 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Belonging Grace -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- David Coffin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2023
At first glance, one common thread that ties all three of these texts together is that of God’s grac
Complaint Department -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
A woman who works at Weight Watchers said that a new client had begun her diet.
Who's On First? -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- David Kalas -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
I heard a story once of a custodian who worked at a certain university.
Getting what we (don't) deserve -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Cathy Venkatesh -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
God is not just by our human ways of accounting.
Are you satisfied? -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
When my wife was younger, her father typically ended meal times by declaring loudly that he was "suf
So who will you be voting for? -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- R. Craig Maccreary -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
Needless to say, I suspect that I have captured your attention at this point. Most of the
The trouble with grace -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1999
Let's face it. Not everyone is happy about God's generosity.

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 20:1-16 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 20:1-16 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

Henry's Hurdle -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Call to Worship:

Children's sermon

CSSPlus

Two Kingdoms -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- John Jamison -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2023
Object: A cut-out Roman denarius.
It’s Not Fair! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- John Jamison -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
So the last will be first, and the first will be last. (v. 16)
Math – Jesus' Style -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
...I chose to give to this last the same as I give to you...so the last will be first and th
How Sweet Is Grace -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
The Point: God's gift of grace makes heaven available to all.
Doin' time -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Leah Thompson -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
Take what belongs to you and go; I choose to give to this last the same as I give to you. (v.
God's best friends -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? (v. 15a)
God loves us all -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Good morning! Is everyone here as happy as you look? (let them answer)
That's not fair! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Good morning! I've decided that I will give everybody some
Not fair! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Jesus told a story once to tell us something about God. He
It's not fair! Or is it? -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Good morning, boys and girls. I brought a bottle of dish detergent

The Immediate Word

But That’s Not Fair -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
For September 20, 2020:
Did I Get to the Vineyard Too Late? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Mary Austin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a parable that at first glance seems antitheti
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b
Some Good News About Crime -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Dear fellow preachers,

SermonStudio

It Isn't Fair -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Brett Blair, Tim Carpenter
Exegetical Aim: Acceptance of the inequities in life.
The Last Is First -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Wesley T. Runk
Object: a circle of children holding hands

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

Living Like Animals -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Timmy and Angela glared at each other.

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / OT 25 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
... Or are you envious because I am generous?-- Matthew 20:15

Drama

SermonStudio

Payday -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
ThemeGod's generosity to all.Summary

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2023) -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2023
Exodus 16:2-15
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2020) -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
Exodus 16:2-15
Sermon Illustrations For Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2017) -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
Exodus 16:2-15
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Ron Love, Mark Ellingsen, Derl G. Keefer, Bob Ove -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
Exodus 16:2-15
Bebe has been called the... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Ron Love -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
Bebe has been called the "Father of English History." At the age of seven he entered monastic life.
A 2006 Barna Group poll found... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A 2006 Barna Group poll found that Americans have a good opinion of themselves.
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2011) -- Exodus 16:12-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
Exodus 16:12-15
If you have seen the movie Amadeus... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
If you have seen the movie Amadeus about the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, you probably re
You've probably heard about deathbed conversions... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Craig Kelly -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
You've probably heard about "deathbed conversions" where someone comes to faith in Christ just befor
Even when we know that... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
Even when we know that the blessings that come to us have been delivered to the wrong
Life seems so unfair!br... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
Life seems so unfair!
First Church had been declining... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
First Church had been declining in membership and attendance for years. Twenty years
A recent website offering labor... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
A recent website offering labor advice cites this scenario: A nurse was hired to work at a
Exodus 16:2-15 Some... -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2008
Exodus 16:2-15
Benjamin Franklin is the founder... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2002
Benjamin Franklin is the founder of the first lending library.
Workers who were paid piecework... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2002
Workers who were paid piecework harvested the crops grown on our family's fruit farm.
Kids are constantly shouting out... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2002
Kids are constantly shouting out, "It's not fair!" A brother or a sister gets something and they don
I was the pastor to... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2002
I was the pastor to a family involved only on the fringes of the church.
Jim was angry. His Christmas... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1999
Jim was angry. His Christmas bonus was the usual $2,500. Cody's bonus was also $2,500.
If the pay was the... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1999
If the pay was the joy and satisfaction of being a blessing, then the workers by the thousands who s

The Immediate Word

But That’s Not Fair -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
For September 20, 2020:
Did I Get to the Vineyard Too Late? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Mary Austin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a parable that at first glance seems antitheti
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b

StoryShare

Coming to Jesus -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
Helen’s picked up her phone to look at the new message.

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

Overwhelmingly Generous God... -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

Preaching

The Immediate Word

But That’s Not Fair -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
For September 20, 2020:
Did I Get to the Vineyard Too Late? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Mary Austin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a parable that at first glance seems antitheti
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b
Some Good News About Crime -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Dear fellow preachers,

SermonStudio

Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2010
Theme For The DayThe rear window shows us nothing worth looking at.
More Than Fair! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard L. Sheffield -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
I ran across a website a while back that said something that we all know, intuitively: "A roll of th
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2004
THE LESSONSLesson 1: Exodus 16:2--15 (C)
Hours And Wages -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2004
1. Text
Equally Saved -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Robert D. Prescott-Ezickson -- 2004
To understand this parable, it is necessary to review the passage before this parable.
Grace Isn't Fair -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2001
So this fellow up in Sonoma County, not far from wine-growing Napa County, anxiously watched the wea
Proper 20, Pentecost 18, Ordinary Time 25 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme The teaching and ministry of Jesus the Christ.
It's Never Too Late -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
"For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers fo
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Exodus 16:2-15 (C)
Proper 20 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard A. Jensen -- 1998
We come this week to one of the most memorable stories in all of Matthew's Gospel: the parable of th
The grace of God -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Exodus 16:2--15 (C)
Service And Reward -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- William E. Keeney -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1995
"For The kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1992
Lesson 1: Exodus 16:2-15 (C)
Proper 20 -- Exodus 32:1-14, Matthew 20:1-16 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1989
The church year theological clue

Sermon

The Immediate Word

But That’s Not Fair -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
For September 20, 2020:
Did I Get to the Vineyard Too Late? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Mary Austin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a parable that at first glance seems antitheti
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b
Some Good News About Crime -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Dear fellow preachers,

SermonStudio

Why Is God Unfair? -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
One of my favorite courses to teach is "Introduction to Biblical Literature." It is a 200-level cour
Radically Unfair -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- 2006
In a Walker Percy novel, a white physician is arrested for illegally selling drugs to truck drivers
As Long As It Is Day! -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2004
The greatest sorrow is to have no cause, no work, no sacrifice for which to live.
Is God Fair? -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Marilyn Saure Breckenridge -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2001
Introduction
It's Not Fair -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard E. Zajac -- 2001
If I were to catalog the most frequent expressions mouthed by hospital patients, at the top or near
It's Never Too Late -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
The term "late-bloomers" refers to people who respond later in life to an invitation, but still mana
Surprised By Grace -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Donald William Dotterer -- 1994
Let us pray: Gracious and eternal Father, we come to you this
The Unfairness of God -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- William J. Carl, III -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Have you ever noticed how sometimes life just isn't fair?

Free Access

Why Is God Unfair? -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Wayne Brouwer -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
One of my favorite courses to teach is "Introduction to Biblical Literature." It is a 200-level cour

The Village Shepherd

Indiscriminate Generosity - It's Hard To Take -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Recently I noticed in the media that the government are planning to give each teenager in Englan

Stories

StoryShare

Coming to Jesus -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
Helen’s picked up her phone to look at the new message.
Redefining Fair -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
Contents "Redefining Fair" by Peter Andrew Smith
The Nature Of Grace -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Peter Andrew Smith, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
Contents"The Nature of Grace" by Peter Andrew Smith
So What Is It Anyway? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45 -- Frank Ramirez, John E. Sumwalt -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
Contents"So What Is It Anyway?" by Frank Ramirez

SermonStudio

Erring On The Side Of Compassion -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2001
When I worked as an emergency assistance coordinator for Lutheran Social Services, I made many error
Ed's Vacation -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
Ed and Darlene were looking forward to their summer vacation.
The Contractor"s Choice -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Merle G. Franke -- 1993
Parallel Parable: Matthew 20:1-16The Laborers In The Vineyard
The Contractor's Choice -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Merle G. Franke -- 1993
George Gustafson had been a builder in central Texas nearly 40 years.

Worship

The Immediate Word

But That’s Not Fair -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Bethany Peerbolte -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2020
For September 20, 2020:
Did I Get to the Vineyard Too Late? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Mary Austin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2017
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a parable that at first glance seems antitheti
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b
Some Good News About Crime -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A
Dear fellow preachers,

SermonStudio

Proper 20/Pentecost 18/Ordinary Time 25 -- Matthew 20:1-16, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: Here, we gather in preparation
What Is It? -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2004
Call To WorshipOne: What is this?
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2004
HymnsEat This Bread (CBH471, UM628)
Proper 20 -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2001
Theme: Workers For GodCall To Worship
The Laborers in the Vineyard -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Wayne H. Keller -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
Remembering Whose We AreInvitation to the Celebration
Proper 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1998
First Lesson: Exodus 16:2-15Theme: ProvideCall To Worship
Parable Of The Workers In The Vineyard -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1992
Suggestions:Use as an anthem.5 readers - 1 woman, 2 mature men, 2 younger men
PROPER 20 -- Exodus 16:2-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 37-45, Philippians 1:21-30, Matthew 20:1-16 -- B. David Hostetter -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Service -- Matthew 20:1-16 -- Robert A. Allen -- 1991
All: The kingdom of heaven is like,Dark Solo: like a landowner
Selfless intercession -- Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 106, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: Modern readers will have difficulty with a view of God that allows for the divine w
PROPER 20 -- Exodus 32:1-14, Matthew 20:1-16 -- Norman A. Beck -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 1986
The goodness of God is the dominant theme in the First Lesson texts, in the Psalms readings, and in
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sandra Herrmann
Merry Christmas! The midwinter festival has come, and it calls for parties, feasting and drinking and dancing and the exchange of gifts. Like all people in the northern hemisphere, we need light in the dark days of winter. The only problem with all of this is that the pressure to be joyful can send us spiraling in the exact opposite of mind sets.
Christmas shops are not just for Christmas anymore. These stores that specialize in everything yuletide-ish do business year round and can be found everywhere. I have seen them in an outlet mall near Washington, D.C., nestled in a small village in the mountains of North Carolina and adorning the white sand beaches of the Alabama Gulf Coast.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is born! A bright light has come into our world, so let us thank and praise God for his gift to us of Jesus, the Messiah.

Invitation to Confession:

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, make us worthy to worship at your crib.

Lord, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, may we remember you in today's excitement.

Christ, have mercy.

Lord Jesus, we are thrilled by your birth, be born in our hearts today.

Lord, have mercy

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
A Story to Live By: "
Christmas Stories: "Christmas Presence" by Janice Hammerquist
"Silver In His Soul"
"www.ChristmasHouse" by John Sumwalt
Scrap Pile: Great Prayer of Thanksgiving for Christmas Eve by Thom M. Shuman


What's Up on Christmas Eve

Lamar Massingill
John E. Sumwalt
Contents
"Taking His Joy unto Ourselves" by Lamar Massingill
"God Acted that We Might Act" by Lamar Massingill
"The Hopes and Fears of All the Years" by John Sumwalt
"God with Us" by Peter Andrew Smith


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Taking His Joy unto Ourselves
Lamar Massingill
Luke 2:1-14 (15-20)

Christmas would be incomplete without recognizing Incarnate Love's first fruit, which is joy. Johann Sebastian Bach recognized it when he, as an act of worship, composed "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring."

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John R. Brokhoff
THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Isaiah 9:2--7 (C, RC); Isaiah 9:2--4, 6--7 (E)
Mark Wm. Radecke
Year after year, we are drawn to this night: This night with its carols, its candlelight, its communion, and the combined fragrance of pine, poinsettia and perfume. (Is that Passion or Poison you're wearing? Or maybe it's Polo!) The gentle poetry of Luke's story draws us, too.

Why is it that we are so drawn to this night, I wonder? There are, I suppose, as many answers as there are people in this room.
Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
It's not an easy life, I'll tell you that. I work my small farm during the day, but that doesn't bring in enough money. I have a family to support, taxes to pay -- oy, don't get me started on taxes -- so I need more than my farm brings in. I do the only other thing I know how to do. I hire myself out for the night shift watching other people's sheep. Tending sheep would not be my first choice, you understand. First, I have to stay awake all night. Then, there's counting the sheep to make sure one or two haven't wandered off. Thieves are always a problem.
Timothy J. Smith
There is a special feeling from being in church on Christmas Eve. For many of us it feels like coming home for Christmas. We come to hear the familiar story of Mary and Joseph making their way to the little town of Bethlehem. We hear once again of Baby Jesus born in stable. Soon after an unexpected encounter with angels, the shepherds head to the manger to see Jesus for themselves. Children have creatively acted out this story for generations complete with the wise men offering their gifts. Living Nativities complete with live animals are portrayed in church parking lots in many communities.
Frank Luchsinger
"The grace of God has appeared ... training us ... to await our blessed hope" (Titus 2:11-13), and oh, how we have waited! The air is filled with anticipation, the Holy Night has come. We each wait for different things: the lighting of candles, the singing of carols, loved ones returning home, feasting, and forgetting ferment, for the Prince of Peace is coming. We wait for delight in the eyes of someone we love as he or she opens that special gift. We wait in awe in the hope that one star's strong light lingers still and will lead us home to him who redeems us.
John B. Jamison
He stood on the steps and waved. He nodded to those cheering to him from below, and took a deep breath as if to soak up their praise.
Susan R. Andrews
At the risk of putting you to sleep, I'd like to ask each one of you to close your eyes. Right now, for just a minute. Please close your eyes. And now imagine with me. Imagine that you are holding a newborn baby. Imagine how this baby feels - skin touching skin, curves touching curves - harmonious heartbeats as life surges between you. Imagine the smell - the earthy sweetness of breath and body perfuming the air. Imagine the sound - the silent melody of sighing, stretching, settling. Right now, for just a minute, let your imagination go. Feel the baby. Smell the baby. Hear the baby.
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Gathering
P: Born into this world,
C: born into our lives,
P: God made flesh.
C: O Emmanuel, we praise you now and forever. Amen.

Hymn Of Praise
O Come, All Ye Faithful or Jesus, What A Wonderful Child

Gospel Procession
Have the children (dressed as Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds) process and then read the gospel from the center of the congregation.

Intercessory Prayers
After each petition:
L: O God of love,
C: be born in us today.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Sing A New Song To The Lord (PH216)
Angels From The Realms Of Glory (UM220, PH22, NCH126)
Born In The Night (PH30, NCH152)
Once In Royal David's City (PH49, UM250, NCH145)
The First Nowell (PH56, UM245, CBH199, NCH139)
On This Day Earth Shall Ring (UM248, PH46, CBH192)
What Child Is This? (UM219, PH53, CBH215, NCH148)
Silent Night (PH60, UM229, CBH193, PH134)
The Friendly Beasts (UM227, NCH138)
That Boy--Child Of Mary (PH55, UM241)
Frank Ramirez
Call To Worship (based on Isaiah 9:2-7)

One:
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light -

All:
Those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shone.

Women:
You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as people exult when dividing plunder.

Men:
For a child has been born for us, a son given to us; authority rests upon his shoulders -

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Merry Christmas, boys and girls. (Show one of your signs). Do any of you know what this sign means? (Let them answer.) That's right, it means (provide answer). (Show another sign and ask what it means. Let them answer.) Very good. Signs are very important aren't they? They give us direction. They tell us what to do and what not to do. The Bible gives many signs also.

You all know the story about the shepherds on Christmas Eve. The shepherds were in the field watching their sheep. Suddenly an angel appeared to them. The Bible says that the shepherds
Leah Thompson
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all… (v. 11)

Good morning, boys and girls! How are you today? (allow answers) Who can tell me what today is? (allow answers) That's right -- it's finally here! Today is Christmas [Eve]! We have spent the whole season of Advent preparing for right now. The long preparation is finally over. Christmas is here!

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