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Matthew 5:1-12

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Children's Activity

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Fair play -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Leah Thompson -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Pure in heart -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Leah Thompson -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2010
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOME
Never hungry -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A -- 2008
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:
A great reward -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Children love to be rewarded when they do the right things. We probably all do.
Comforting mourners -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A
Materials Large puzzle pieces Popsicle sticks Glue Polaroid camera
Blessed are the persecuted -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Teachers and Parents: A little-known fact about Christian
"On becoming a saint" -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A
Teachers or Parents: The word "saint" in modern English has
Jesus the teacher -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Teachers or Parents: Have the children sit on the floor and
Meek saints -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A
Teachers or Parents: Grief work is immensely important work
Children Of God -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Teachers: This lesson offers you a chance to do role-playing.
Blessed are ... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A
Teachers: The lesson is the beatitudes. Read the list to your
Turning the world upside-down -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Materials:

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Fulfillment in Darkness -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- David Coffin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained along the path of righteousness.
Inspired By the Saints and Love of God -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
The text for this festival concerns how in our walk of faith we are inspired by the saints and love
Long Term Change -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
An epiphany is a moment of clarity.
Us and Them -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3 -- David Kalas -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
You have no doubt seen, as I have, the lingering effect of the songs that are sung at a loved one’s
The Surprising Profile -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- David Kalas -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
We’ve all read job postings and help-wanted ads.
"Making it" into heaven -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Sandra Herrmann -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
What is a saint?
It's a dog's life -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Ron Love -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
Pope Francis was selected as Time magazine's "Person of the Year." Regarding his selection, N
White grave markers -- white robes -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Ron Love -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
The Arlington House was a mansion built as a living memorial to George Washington by the first presi
Greatness finding itself -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Wayne Brouwer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
Erik Erikson's book about the early years of Martin Luther is called Greatness Finding Itself
Fools for Christ or just plain fools? -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Psalm 15 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2010
In 1993 brothers Tom and David Gardner began a financial information service they named The Motley F
The church triumphant -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Timothy B. Cargal -- All Saints Day - A -- 2002
A little knowledge can be a dangerous (or at least a humorous) thing.
What's to become of us? -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A -- 1999
(Myrna and Robert Kysar are the co-authors of "Charting The Course." Myrna is pastor of Christ Lu
The ways of God -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1999
People tend to say in times of personal or community disaster, "God works in mysterious ways." The p
Saints Alive -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - B -- 1996
Is there a book of the Bible more abused than Revelation?
Christ crucified -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1996
For all the saints -- Isaiah 26:1-4, 8-9, 12-13, 19-21, Revelation 21:9-11, 22-27, Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - C
"For all the saints who from their labors rest...!" Today we sharpen our memories, and focus our att
Saints dead or alive -- Deuteronomy 6:2-6, Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - B
It would be easy for a person to assume that a saint is a great Christian who is dead, usually for a
Of simplicity and simpletons -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Psalm 15 -- David Kalas -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
We have a prejudice in favor of things complex.

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Fulfillment in Darkness -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- David Coffin -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
“Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is attained along the path of righteousness.

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Bulletin (ages 8-10) -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Bulletin (ages 5-7) -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Children's Activity Bulletin: Matthew 5:1-12 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- All Saints Day - A

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

John And Jane -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Janice B. Scott -- All Saints Day - A
Call to Worship:

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John and Jane -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Janice B. Scott -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Call to Worship:

Children's sermon

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The Bee-Attitudes -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Object:  A jar of honey.
God Bless You! -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- John Jamison -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
Object: A handkerchief.
Pick the Last First -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bethany Peerbolte -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
Jesus turns the theology of the day on it’s head by saying the people who you thought were left out
Blessings? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- John Jamison -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against
Worth Waiting For! -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Mary Kay Eichelman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
Can anyone tell me what all of these items have in common?
Who's The Greatest? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Wesley T. Runk -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
The greatest among you will be your servant.
The Learning Curve -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Anna Shirey -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
First Thoughts
True Happiness -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
The Point: Happy and blessed are the children of God.
Fair play -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Leah Thompson -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. (v. 7)

The Immediate Word

Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
Jesus Gives the Job Description -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta, Elena Delhagen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A, All Saints Day - A -- 2023
For November 1/5, 2023:
What Did He Say? -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
For February 2, 2020:
Shining in Glory -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
For November 8, 2020:
The Power To Pardon -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
In his final week in the White House, Barack Obama announced that he was
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
Race To The Rear? -- Matthew 23:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2011
One of the most fundamental aspects of American culture is competition.
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De

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Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
The Bee-Attitudes -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- John Jamison -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Object:  A jar of honey.
Who's The Greatest? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Wesley T. Runk -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
The greatest among you will be your servant.
True Happiness -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
The Point: Happy and blessed are the children of God.

Devotional

SermonStudio

Epiphany 4 / OT 4 -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying....-- Matthew 5:2

Drama

SermonStudio

The Foolishness Of God -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- John A. Tenbrook -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2001
Thespian Theological Thoughts
Be About It -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1998
Theme

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 4 | OT 4 (2023) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Micah 6:1-8
Illustrations for All Saints Day (2023) -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
Revelation 7:9-17
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 4 | OT 4 (2020) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
Micah 6:1-8
Illustrations for All Saints Day (2020) -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
Revelation 7:9-17
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 4 | Ot 4 (2017) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love, Bob Ove, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
Micah 6:1-8
Sermon Illustrations for All Saints Day (2017) -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
Revelation 7:9-17
When Jesus saw... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bob Ove -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
When Jesus saw the crowd he went on a mountain so he could be heard better -- like us preachers from
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 (2014) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Derl G. Keefer, Ron Love -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
Micah 6:1-8
Sermon Illustrations for All Saints Day (2014) -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bob Ove, Derl G. Keefer, Mark Ellingsen, Ron Love -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Revelation 7:9-17
In the Sermon on the Mount... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Derl G. Keefer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus explains the root of authentic sainthood.
Some translations say "happy"... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bob Ove -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Some translations say "happy" instead of blessed.
Many of the most powerful, influential documents in history... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Craig Kelly -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
Many of the most powerful, influential documents in history have famous first lines.

The Immediate Word

Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
Jesus Gives the Job Description -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta, Elena Delhagen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A, All Saints Day - A -- 2023
For November 1/5, 2023:
What Did He Say? -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
For February 2, 2020:
Shining in Glory -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
For November 8, 2020:
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
The Power To Pardon -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
In his final week in the White House, Barack Obama announced that he was
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of

StoryShare

Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Teresa stood reading the new sign outside of the church.
Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
John sat in the park bench and watched the people going into church.

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Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
Sermon Illustrations For Epiphany 4 | OT 4 (2023) -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Micah 6:1-8
Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Teresa stood reading the new sign outside of the church.

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

Transforming God... -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Janice B. Scott -- All Saints Day - A
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Jesus Gives the Job Description -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta, Elena Delhagen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A, All Saints Day - A -- 2023
For November 1/5, 2023:
Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
What Did He Say? -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
For February 2, 2020:
Shining in Glory -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
For November 8, 2020:
The Power To Pardon -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
In his final week in the White House, Barack Obama announced that he was
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
Race To The Rear? -- Matthew 23:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2011
One of the most fundamental aspects of American culture is competition.
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De

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Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:

SermonStudio

All Saints Day -- Matthew 5:1-12, 1 John 3:1-3, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Mark Ellingsen -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayInspired by the saints and the love of God.
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany / Fourth Sunday In Ordinary Time -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2010
Theme For The Day
All Saints -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- All Saints Day - A -- 2010
Theme For The DayThe saints in heaven glory in an eternal sabbath.
Character Is A Lifetime Job -- Ecclesiasticus 44:1-10, 13-14, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- All Saints Day - A -- 2009
Some of them have left behind a name, so that others declare their praise.
All Saints' Sunday -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- John R. Brokhoff -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
THE LESSONSLesson 1: Revelation 7:9--17 (C); Revelation 7:2--4, 9--12 (RC)
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2004
Fourth Sunday After The EpiphanyFourth Sunday In Ordinary Time
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme
All Saints Sunday -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- All Saints Day - A -- 2001
Seasonal Theme See theme for this day, below.Theme For The Day
All Saints' Sunday -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- All Saints Day - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS
Fourth Sunday After The Epiphany -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1998
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Micah 6:1-8 (C, E)
The saints of God, past, present and future -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Russell F. Anderson -- All Saints Day - A -- 1995
Lesson 1: Revelation 7:9-17 (C); Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14 (RC)
God's saints are humble in spirit -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1995
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Micah 6:1--8 (C, E, L)

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
Jesus Gives the Job Description -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta, Elena Delhagen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A, All Saints Day - A -- 2023
For November 1/5, 2023:
What Did He Say? -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
For February 2, 2020:
Shining in Glory -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
For November 8, 2020:
The Power To Pardon -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
In his final week in the White House, Barack Obama announced that he was
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
Race To The Rear? -- Matthew 23:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2011
One of the most fundamental aspects of American culture is competition.
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De

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Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:

The Village Shepherd

Will The Meek Inherit The Earth? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Janice B. Scott -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
Every so often in our national press, there's a call for a return to the Ten Commandments, a cal

SermonStudio

Hallelujah! Come On, Get Happy -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- David G. Rogne -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to
Those Who Most Need A Blessing -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Charles L. Aaron, Jr. -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Can a child pass up a tasty marshmallow? A researcher who wanted to know set up an experiment.
All Who Share This Hope -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Chris Ewing -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
There's nothing like a week with two funerals, a wedding, Halloween celebrations, a community farewe
Dead, Deified, Or Different? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Michael D. Wuchter -- All Saints Day - A -- 2006
Blest are the lowly; they shall inherit the land.
Faith's Curious Dynamic -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- George L. Murphy -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
You know that old saying, "Be careful what you wish for, because it might come true"?
Rejoicing In Reality -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Susan R. Andrews -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2004
Our text says that Jesus "went up to the mountain" and, oh, what a beautiful mountain it is!
Jesus' Inaugural Address -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Mary Sue Dehmlow Dreier -- All Saints Day - A -- 2001
Commotion At The Communion RailTommy didn't budge.
Are You Happy? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Linda Schiphorst Mccoy -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2001
When I'm teaching a class, and want to get a discussion going, I often begin with something that's c
Blessed Are Those Who Mourn -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- William B. Kincaid, III -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 1998
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."
Self-Sacrifice And Personal Suffering Reveal Life At Its Best -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Joseph M. Freeman -- All Saints Day - A -- 1998
Could one of the greatest mysteries of life be connected to whether or not one truly appreciates and
Double Image -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- William G. Carter -- All Saints Day - B -- 1996
"You know why I want to join the church?" The speaker was a father in his thirties, holding an infan

Stories

StoryShare

Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Teresa stood reading the new sign outside of the church.
Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- All Saints Day - A -- 2023
John sat in the park bench and watched the people going into church.
Pup -- Matthew 5:1-12, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- David O. Bales -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
Contents “Pup” by David O. Bales
Worship And Service -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- John Fitzgerald -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
Contents "Worship and Service" by John Fitzgerald
A Face In The Crowd -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3 -- Keith Hewitt, Keith Wagner -- All Saints Day - A -- 2017
Contents "A Face in the Crowd" by Keith Hewitt
The Man With The Power -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Keith Hewitt, John Fitzgerald -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
Contents"The Man with the Power" by Keith Hewitt
Wearing Masks -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3 -- John Fitzgerald -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Contents"Wearing Masks" by John Fitzgerald* * * * * * *
Child Sacrifice -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Sandra Herrmann, John Jamison -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
Contents "Child Sacrifice" by Sandra Herrmann (Micah 6:1-8)
Dying For A Cookie -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Diane Henderson, John E. Sumwalt -- All Saints Day - A -- 2005
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "Dying for a Cookie"
A Comforting Dream -- Matthew 5:1-12, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 150 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
Contents What's Up This Week

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Blessed Are You -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Peter Andrew Smith -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
Teresa stood reading the new sign outside of the church.

SermonStudio

A Comforting Dream -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2004
Harold KlugMy healing vision from God came in a dream.
The Fullness Of Life -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Constance Berg -- All Saints Day - A -- 2001
Some in our generation grew up hearing about World War II.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
Jesus Gives the Job Description -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Matthew 23:1-12, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, George Reed, Quantisha Mason-Doll, Katy Stenta, Elena Delhagen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A, All Saints Day - A -- 2023
For November 1/5, 2023:
What Did He Say? -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2020
For February 2, 2020:
Shining in Glory -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Bethany Peerbolte, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- All Saints Day - A -- 2020
For November 8, 2020:
The Power To Pardon -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2017
In his final week in the White House, Barack Obama announced that he was
Swamp Cleaning 101 -- Matthew 23:1-12, Matthew 5:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A, Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2017
In the lectionary gospel text for Proper 26 (Matthew 23:1-12), Jesus shames the scribes and the Phar
A Tale Of Two Mountains -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2014
A key theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the contrast between what the world sees as streng
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
Race To The Rear? -- Matthew 23:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2011
One of the most fundamental aspects of American culture is competition.
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De

Free Access

Beyond the Rule -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Thomas Willadsen, Katy Stenta, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2023
For January 29, 2023:
All Saints -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: At all times we are called to bless God's name.

SermonStudio

Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4 -- Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 15 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of Dedication/Gathering
All Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
Gathering
Epiphany 4 -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: We are blessed when we hunger for justice
All Saints -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
Call To WorshipOne: At all times we are called to bless God's name.
More Than You Can Count -- Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
Call To Worship
The Best Offering -- Micah 6:1-8, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2004
Call To Worship (based on Micah 6:6-8)
All Saints' Sunday -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Psalm 34:1-10, 22, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- All Saints Day - A -- 2004
HymnsCrown Him With Many Crowns (NCH301, UM327, CBH116, PH151)
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany -- Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2004
HymnsWhat Does The Lord Require (UM441, CBH409, PH405)
Fourth Sunday After Epiphany -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2001
Theme: Life Under The Reign Of GodCall To Worship
All Saints Sunday -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- All Saints Day - A -- 2001
Theme: The Cost Of BlessingsCall To Worship
The Communion of the Saints with the Beatitudes -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Wayne H. Keller -- All Saints Day - A -- 1998
The Source Of Our SainthoodInvitation to the Celebration
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Advent 3
30 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 4
32 – Sermons
120+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Christmas!
24 – Sermons
100+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
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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