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Stephen P. McCutchan

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Communicating God's Love

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Loving God -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2011
" 'You should love the Lord your God with all of your heart, and with all your soul, and with all yo
Defusing a time bomb -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2010
(Information for this article is drawn with permission from the ToolBox of the Presbytery Pastora

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / Ordinary Time 33 -- Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered o
Easter 6 -- Psalm 67 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us....
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Psalm 29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
... and in his temple, all say glory!-- Psalm 29:9
Proper 19 / Pentecost 17 / Ordinary Time 24 -- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overfl
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Luke 7:36--8:3 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
I entered your house; you gave me no water for my feet, but she has bathed my feet with her tears
Lent 3 -- Psalm 63:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you.
Lent 3 -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
For they drank from the spiritual rock that followed them, and the rock was Christ.
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / Ordinary Time 33 -- Isaiah 12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.-- Isaiah 12:3
Easter 6 -- John 14:23-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives.
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Acts 8:14-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
... they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.-- Acts 8:16
Proper 19 / Pentecost 17 / Ordinary Time 24 -- Luke 15:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him.
Epiphany 9 / Ordinary Time 9 / Proper 4 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2009
Likewise when a foreigner, who is not of your people Israel, comes from a distant land because of
Advent 1 -- Jeremiah 33:14-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will fulfill the promise I made to the house of
Proper 12 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 17 -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
He disarmed the rulers and authorities and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
He asked that he might die: "It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life, for I am no better tha
Lent 3 -- Luke 13:1-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2009
... do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem?
Proper 28 / Pentecost 26 / Ordinary Time 33 -- 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - C -- 2009
For we hear that some of you are living in idleness, mere busybodies, not doing any work.
The Ascension Of Our Lord -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2009
They asked him, "Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?" He replied,
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning J
Proper 20 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2009
For the hurt of my poor people I am hurt, I mourn, and dismay has taken hold of me.
Epiphany 3 / Ordinary Time 3 -- Psalm 19 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2009
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O Lord, my rock an
Advent 1 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.-- Psalm 25:1
Proper 12 / Pentecost 10 / Ordinary Time 17 -- Luke 11:1-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2009
Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.-- Luke 11:1b
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- Galatians 3:23-29 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and fe
Proper 7 / Pentecost 5 / Ordinary Time 12 -- Luke 8:26-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
They begged him not to order them to go back into the abyss.-- Luke 8:31

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor

Sermon

SermonStudio

God's Playful Wisdom -- Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C -- 2009
If I mentioned Sophia to you, what memories would it evoke?
Mugwumpers -- 1 Kings 18:20-21 (22-29) 30-39 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - C -- 2009
In certain streams of Christianity, it is common to speak of people being "born again." The phrase c
The Sinner And The Sinned Against -- 1 Kings 17:1-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2009
Each of us experiences the world as both sinner and the sinned against.
On Loan From God -- 1 Kings 21:1-10 (11-14) 15-21a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
Sometimes it is hard to understand what it is in human nature that allows people to become so crass
The Naaman Syndrome -- 2 Kings 4:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
The healing of Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Aram, seems to me to provide a metaphor
When God Measures The Church -- Amos 7:7-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2009
We begin to hear about prophets in the Bible after Israel convinced God to let them have a king.
When The Fruit Is Spoiled -- Amos 8:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2009
When we speak of Amos today, we know that he was one of Israel's great prophets.
Seeing A Chariot Of Fire -- 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2009
I think that we are in a battle for the soul of the church.
Birthdays And Marriages -- Acts 2:1-21 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Day of Pentecost - C -- 2009
It is common to speak of Pentecost as the birthday of the church.
At Points Of Despair -- 1 Kings 19:1-4 (5-7) 8-15a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - C -- 2009
It seems almost inevitable that people who experience the highs of life are also going to experience

The Immediate Word

Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.

Worship

The Immediate Word

Baptism: A Matter Of Life And Death -- Matthew 3:13-17, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 42:1-9, Psalm 29 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2008
Sometimes faith is only welcome in certain circles, and even if it is welcome, it may only be allowe
A Christian Response To Fear -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43, Romans 8:12-25, Genesis 28:10-19a, Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2008
It has been said that fear is the opposite of faith.
It's Decision Time: God Or The World? -- Matthew 14:13-21, Romans 9:1-5, Genesis 32:22-31, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2008
Every day in our lives is a series of decisions.
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
What Are You Looking For? -- John 1:29-42, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Isaiah 49:1-7, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2008
The political process is heating up as America works to choose its next president.
You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
A Super Lent? -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Many Christians see Lent as a time of lowliness, a time when we cast our eyes downward, recognizing
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Bringing Your Dreams On The Altar -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Genesis 22:1-14, Psalm 13 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2008
Everyone has a dream. That dream is, for them, the key to a better life.
The Tyranny Of The Quick Response -- Matthew 14:22-33, Romans 10:5-15, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Argile Smith -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2008
When faced with a crisis, our first reaction is to try to come up with a quick solution.
Be Ready: The Lord Is Coming! -- Mark 13:24-37, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Isaiah 64:1-9, Psalm 80 -- Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published November 30, 2008)
God's Oil Change: From Mourning To Gladness -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, Psalm 126 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 14, 2008)
The Throne Of David -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 2:1-20 -- Robin Lostetter, Richard E. Gribble, CSC, Stephen P. McCutchan, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 21, 2008)
Our True Name -- Luke 2:22-40, Galatians 4:4-7, Isaiah 61:10--62:3 -- George Reed, Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2008
(Originally published for December 28, 2008)
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
Signs Of The Times -- Luke 12:49-56, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2007
In the Gospel lesson for this Sunday (Luke 12:49-56), Jesus chides the disciples for focusing on imm
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
No One Left Behind -- Luke 15:1-10, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 -- Scott Suskovic, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2007
There have been several recent news stories about people being lost, toward whom costly rescue effor
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New & Featured This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Kalas
In the sometimes-tiresome debate over science and scripture with respect to creation, it’s easy to become distracted. While the argument typically requires a focus on the how, we may lose sight of the what. And so, for just a moment, let me invite us to think for a moment about what God created.
Mark Ellingsen
Frank Ramirez
Bonnie Bates
Bill Thomas
Acts 8:26-40
As a local church pastor, I was often asked if I would baptize a child whose family were not members of the church. Some churches rebelled against this, but I remember this scripture — the hunger for understanding and inclusion of the Eunuch and Philp’s response — to teach and share and baptize in the name of our God. How could we turn anyone away from the rite of baptism?

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Dad, I think you worked a miracle.” Rolf slowly walked around the tree. “After that windstorm, I assumed this tree was as good as gone.”

“We just needed to give the branches time to heal and come back,” Michael replied.

 “I know, but so many of them were battered and broken I figured that it couldn’t recover. Now though it looks just like it did before the storm.” Rolf paused. “Do you think it will bear any fruit this summer?”

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A live plant that produces fruit, and a broken branch from that plant. I used a tomato plant from a local greenhouse. Ideally, find a plant with blossoms or small fruit already growing. If you use a different kind of fruit-producing plant, just change the script to fit.

* * *

Hello, everyone! (Let them respond.) Are you ready for our story today? (Let them respond.) Excellent!

The Immediate Word

Christopher Keating
Katy Stenta
Thomas Willadsen
Mary Austin
Elena Delhagen
Dean Feldmeyer
Quantisha Mason-Doll
For April 28, 2024:
  • On The Way To Gaza by Chris Keating based on Acts 8:26-40. On the way to Gaza, Philip discovers the startling ways the Spirit of God moves across borders, boundaries, customs, and traditions.
  • Second Thoughts: Abiding by Katy Stenta based on John 15:1-8.
  • Sermon illustrations by Mary Austin, Tom Willadsen, Elena Delhagen, Dean Feldmeyer.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:

Jesus is the vine, we are the branches. In our service today, let us absorb from the vine all the nourishment we need.

Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes our branches become cut off from the vine.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes our branches are withered.
Christ, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we fail to produce good fruit.
Lord, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
We will meet Psalm 22 in its entirety on Good Friday, but here the lectionary designates just verses 23-31. The lectionary psalms generally illuminate the week's First Lesson, which in this case is about the covenant initiated by God with Abraham and Sarah in Genesis 17. The nine verses from this psalm, while not inappropriate, nonetheless leave us looking for an obvious connection with the First Lesson.

John S. Smylie
I think some people are natural-born gardeners. Our Lord grew up in a society that was familiar with agriculture. The images that he used to explain the ways of his Father in heaven are familiar to his audience. Growing up, my closest experience to agriculture was living in, "the Garden State." Most people, when they pass through New Jersey, are surprised to see that expression on the license plates of vehicles registered in New Jersey. Most folks traveling through New Jersey experience the megalopolis, the corridor between New York City and Washington DC.
Ron Lavin
A pastor in Indiana went to visit an 87-year-old man named Ermil, who was a hospital patient. A member of his church told the pastor about this old man who was an acquaintance. "He's not a believer, but he is really in need," the church member said. "I met him at the county home for the elderly. He's a lonely old man with no family and no money."

Paul E. Robinson
"Love is a many splendored thing...." Or so we heard Don Cornwall and the Four Aces sing time and again. Of course you or I might have other words to describe love, depending on our situation.

Love. "I love you." "I love to play golf." "I just love pistachio lush!" "It's tough to love some people." "Jesus loves me, this I know."

Love.

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