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Mark Ellingsen

Mark Ellingsen, a minister in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA), has been a professor of Church History at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia, since 1993. He graduated magna cum laude from Gettysburg College (Pennsylvania) and Yale University, from which he received three master's degrees in divinity, arts, and philosophy, as well as his Ph.D. He has authored 26 books including his latest, Dialoguing With Critical Race Theory: Constitutional and Christian Links (Vernon Press). He and his wife have three grown children. When he is not writing or teaching, Ellingsen enjoys discussing politics, sports, and playing guitar.
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Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

God Makes It Happen -- Isaiah 62:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, John 2:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 62:1-5
God in All His Glory Is Too Good To Miss! -- Exodus 34:29-35, 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2025
Exodus 34:29-35
God Saves Us By His Grace! -- Joshua 5:9-12, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Joshua 5:9-12
The Resurrection: Its Reality and Impact -- John 20:1-18, Luke 24:1-12, 1 Corinthians 15:19-26, Acts 10:34-43, Isaiah 65:17-25 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Easter Day - C -- 2025
Acts 10:34-43
The Heavenly Power and Cosmic Presence of Christ -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2025
Acts 1:1-11
Living the Faith -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, Luke 10:1-11, 16-20 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2025
2 Kings 5:1-14
God's Surprising Ways To Love Us -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Hosea 11:1-11
If God Has It All Planned What Can We Do About It? -- Jeremiah 18:1-11, Philemon 1:1-21, Luke 14:25-33, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Live Courageously Against the Grain of the World -- Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7, 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Luke 17:11-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7
Glimpses of the End -- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Luke 20:27-38, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21, Psalm 98 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2025
Haggai 1:15b--2:9
God's Love Shines Through the Cross and Changes Us -- Isaiah 50:4-9a, Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 14:1--15:47 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Passion Sunday - B -- 2024
The theme of Passion Sunday is about how God’s love shines through the cross and changes us.
Our All-In-All -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2024
These lessons all testify to Jesus is our all-in-all.
The Heavenly Power and Cosmic Presence of Christ -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2024
The lessons for this Festival of Ascension all testify to the heavenly power and cosmic presence of
We Never Get It Right 'Til We're Right With God -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2024
1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15)
Everything is in God's Hands -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2024
The lessons all make clear that everything is in God’s hands.
Intimacy With Our Lord and What It Does To You -- 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, John 6:51-58 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2024
1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14
Only By the Grace of God -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2024
The lessons consistently send that message that what transpires is only by the grace of God.
It's Not At All About You and Me -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2024
All the lessons testify to the theme that it’s not at all about you and me; it’s all about God!
How God Lovingly Showers His Gifts On Us and Gives Us Fresh Starts -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2024
Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17
The Promises of God and His Love Are Urgent -- Jeremiah 33:14-16, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Luke 21:25-36 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2024
Jeremiah 33:14-16
Christmas: Dreams Realized -- Luke 2:41-52, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - C -- 2024
1 Samuel 2:18-20, 26
Finding God in the Least Expected Places -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2024
The lessons remind us that we are not likely to find God or what God wants in the places we expect. 
Despite Our Sin... -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - B -- 2024
To be sure, the theme of Ash Wednesday is about sorrow for sin in the midst of life’s meaninglessnes

Free Access

God Makes It Happen -- Isaiah 62:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, John 2:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 62:1-5
The Heavenly Power and Cosmic Presence of Christ -- Acts 1:1-11, Ephesians 1:15-23, Luke 24:44-53 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ascension of the Lord - C -- 2025
Acts 1:1-11

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 9 | OT 14 (2025) -- 2 Kings 5:1-14, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Psalm 30 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2025
2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 10 | OT 15 (2025) -- Amos 7:7-17, Colossians 1:1-14, Luke 10:25-37 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2025
Amos 7:7-17 and Psalm 82
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 7 (OT 7) Cycle C (2025) -- Genesis 45:3-11, 15, 1 Corinthians 15:35-38, 42-50, Luke 6:27-38 -- Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2025
Genesis 45:3-11, 15
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 11 | OT 16 (2025) -- Amos 8:1-12, Colossians 1:15-28, Luke 10:38-42 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2025
Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52
Sermon Illustrations for Transfiguration Sunday, Cycle C (2025) -- Exodus 34:29-35, 2 Corinthians 3:12--4:2, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Transfiguration Sunday - C -- 2025
Exodus 34:29-35
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 12 | OT 17 (2025) -- Hosea 1:2-10, Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2025
Hosea 1:2-10 and Psalm 85
Sermon Illustrations for Ash Wednesday (2025) -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Ash Wednesday - C -- 2025
Isaiah 58:1-12
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 13 | OT 18 (2025) -- Hosea 11:1-11, Colossians 3:1-11, Luke 12:13-21 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2025
Hosea 11: 1-13
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 1 (2025) -- Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Romans 10:8b-13, Luke 4:1-13 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- First Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Deuteronomy 26:1-11
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 14 | OT 19 (2025) -- Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Luke 12:32-40 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 1:1, 10-20 and Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 15 | OT 20 (2025) -- Isaiah 5:1-7, Hebrews 11:29--12:2, Luke 12:49-56 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 5:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 16 | OT 21 (2025) -- Jeremiah 1:4-10, Hebrews 12:18-29, Luke 13:10-17, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 1:4-10 and Psalm 77:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 2 (2025) -- Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Luke 13:31-35, Luke 9:28-36 (37-43a) -- Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Second Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 (2025) -- Jeremiah 2:4-13, Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16, Luke 14:1, 7-14 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 2:4-13
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 (2025) -- Jeremiah 18:1-11, Philemon 1:1-21, Luke 14:25-33 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 18:1-11 and Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18
Sermon Illustrations for Christmas 2 (2025) -- Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, John 1:(1-9) 10-18 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- Second Sunday after Christmas - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 31:7-14
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 3 (2025) -- Isaiah 55:1-9, 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Rarmirez, Bill Thomas -- Third Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Isaiah 55:1-9
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 (2025) -- Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Luke 15:1-10, Psalm 14 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany of the Lord (2025) -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez, Bill Thomas, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2025
Isaiah 60:1-6
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 4 (2025) -- Joshua 5:9-12, 2 Corinthians 5:16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Joshua 9:5-12
Sermons Illustrations for Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 (2025) -- Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Luke 16:1-13, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 8:18--9:1 and Psalm 79:1-9
Sermon Illustrations for Baptism of Our Lord (2025) -- Isaiah 43:1-7, Acts 8:14-17, Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Bonnie Bates -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 43:1-7
Sermon Illustrations for Lent 5 (2025) -- Isaiah 43:16-21, Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C -- 2025
Isaiah 43:16-21
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 (2025) -- Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, Luke 16:19-31, Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16 -- Mark Ellingsen, Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - C -- 2025
Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15
Sermon Illustrations for Epiphany 2 | OT 2 (2025) -- Isaiah 62:1-5, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, John 2:1-11 -- Bill Thomas, Frank Ramirez, Mark Ellingsen, Bonnie Bates -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2025
Isaiah 62:1-5

Political Pulpit

Emphasis Preaching Journal

One Out of Two Americans Has Low-Income Status: Why Is There So Much Silence and What to Do About It -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2012
The title is the subject for this column, a topic that the lectionary texts for March, April, and Ma
What American Christians might do to enhance Muslim life -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
The months of March, April, and May are months of repentance and celebration for Christians.
More on financial responsibility in America -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
The assigned lectionary texts for the fall invite our further attention to our economy, the federal
Are we still fighting wars? How come? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
These months (especially at Christmas) are the season of peace. Yes, we sing and pray for peace.
Getting real about ecology -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
The lessons for the spring are rich in socio-political opportunities for preaching.
Getting maladjusted to business as usual -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of Jesus and Christians as "maladjusted" to certain social dynamics.
Is less government really good for America? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2010
These months will likely be dominated politically by the upcoming elections and their aftermath.
Expanding political horizons in the local congregation -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2009
Wes has offered important reflections on implementing what we write about in these columns in your p
The market needs some managing -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
When it comes to economics, things haven't changed much for our nation or for the
The curse of special interests -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
I agree with my friend and boss, Wes, that a key issue for the new president, a factor that
We still need affirmative action (as long as there's sin) -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
A significant number of the assigned biblical texts for these summer months are about
The war in Iraq: what's next? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Because we have to submit this column months ahead of the actual publication date, we
Gas prices and the war -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
Although only the "political junkies" in your congregation will be interested in it, in
Somebody's child is still fighting -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
November and December are supposed to be months for giving thanks and extolling
Favoring the rich -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2006
Most of us know that Jesus and the biblical witnesses were concerned about the plight of

Preaching

SermonStudio

Proper 13 / Pentecost 11 / Ordinary Time 18 -- 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Ephesians 4:1-16, John 6:24-35 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2018
Theme of the DayBeing fed by our Lord and the companionship it brings.
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.
Proper 26 / Ordinary Time 31 -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 43, Psalm 107:1-7, 33-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe marvelous things God's word does.
Proper 27 / Ordinary Time 32 -- Matthew 25:1-13, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25, Psalm 78:1-7 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe difference relating to God makes.
Proper 28 / Ordinary Time 33 -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayServing God His way. Collect of the Day
Christ the King Sunday -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayThe good news of the reign of Christ.
Thanksgiving Day -- Luke 17:11-19, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18, Psalm 65 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayWhat thankfulness does to us. Collect of the Day
Proper 25 / Ordinary Time 30 -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12, Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayIt's what God does, not what we do, that counts!
Reformation Day -- John 8:31-36, Romans 3:19-28, Psalm 46 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2014
Theme of the DayFreedom! Collect of the Day
Proper 16 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 21 -- 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Ephesians 6:10-20, John 6:56-69 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayAn almighty, caring God who dwells among us.
Proper 17 / Pentecost 14 / Ordinary Time 22 -- Song of Solomon 2:8-13, James 1:17-27, Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayA love that changes lives. Collect of the Day
Advent 1 -- Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9, Mark 13:24-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 19 / Pentecost 16 / Ordinary Time 24 -- Proverbs 1:20-33, James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayOnly by the grace of God. Collect of the Day
Advent 2 -- Isaiah 40:1-11, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Mark 1:1-8 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 20 / Pentecost 17 / Ordinary Time 25 -- Proverbs 31:10-31, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Mark 9:30-37 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayIt takes God to get our relationships right.
Advent 3 -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, John 1:6-8, 19-28 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day
Proper 21 / Pentecost 18 / Ordinary Time 26 -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayBaptizing worldly wisdom. Collect of the Day
Advent 4 -- 2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16, Romans 16:25-27, Luke 1:26-38 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayOur Savior is coming! Collect of the Day
Proper 24 / Pentecost 21 / Ordinary Time 29 -- Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Hebrews 5:1-10, Mark 10:35-45 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayIt's not all about you and me; it's all about God.
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day -- Isaiah 9:2-7, Titus 2:11-14, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20) -- Mark Ellingsen -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayWhy the Incarnation matters! Collect of the Day
Proper 25 / Pentecost 22 / Ordinary Time 30 -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Hebrews 7:23-28, Mark 10:46-52 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayGod rescues us from ourselves. Collect of the Day
Christmas 1 -- Isaiah 61:10--62:3, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2011
Theme of the DayChristmas: dreams realized. Collect of the Day
Epiphany 3 -- Jonah 3:1-5, 10, 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Mark 1:14-20 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day Now is the time! Collect of the Day
Epiphany of Our Lord -- Isaiah 60:1-6, Ephesians 3:1-12, Matthew 2:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Epiphany of the Lord - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayThe light of grace shows the way.
Lent 4 -- Numbers 21:4-9, Ephesians 2:1-10, John 3:14-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - B -- 2011
Theme of the Day

Sermon

SermonStudio

If Your Sense Of Purpose Ever Becomes A Burden, Remember Your Value -- Matthew 10:40-42 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Do you ever wish you counted for something, that you had value?
Having Fun With The Great Commission -- Matthew 28:16-20 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
I find it interesting that today as we commemorate the Trinity doctrine, the church assigns the Bibl
Sick People Like Us Will Always Need The (Divine) Doctor -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2007
Jesus spent a lot of his time hanging around undesirable folks, not with "good" people like us.
How Jesus' Friendship Makes Your Burdens Light -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2007
Jesus was teaching about the kind of authority he has.
It's Not About You; It's All About God -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2007
Jesus left the house (which one we are not sure).
Life's Purpose Is Often Hidden! -- Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2007
Life is a messy affair. Our purpose is often hidden.
Life And Forgiveness Come Easy When You're Filled With The Spirit -- John 20:19-23 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2007
It's Pentecost Sunday, a day when we celebrate the birth of the Church and the giving of the Holy Sp
With A Firm Foundation, Application Is Second Nature -- Matthew 7:21-29 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2007
Practice makes perfect. If you do these things for Jesus, the Lord will bless you.
Wonderful Opportunities For Mission -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Jesus' ministry and mission was shifting into high gear.
When You're Free (In Christ), Sacrifice Is No Burden! -- Matthew 10:24-39 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
It takes a lot to be a Christian; you have to make your share of sacrifices.
God Will Prevail -- John 6:40 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a family manGod Will Prevail
He Celebrated Easter With His Life -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For an inactive memberHe Celebrated Easter With His Life
Death Saddens Us -- John 3:16, Psalm 90 -- Mark Ellingsen, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For an elderly shut-inDeath Saddens Us
An Our Good works And Generosity -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 1992
To whom was Jesus referring with these words?
God Works Through Opposites -- Matthew 21:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Passion Sunday - A -- 1992
God simply does not seem to do the sort of things we would expect our God to do.
Wash Up First For The Meal Before You Eat! -- John 13:1-15 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 1992
"People just do not take the Lord's supper as seriously as they should.
Why Did Jesus Have TO Die? -- John 19:17-30 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Good Friday - A -- 1992
Of course, there is that wonderful, moving moment when, though wracked by pain, he saw his mother an
The Empty Tomb -- John 20:1-9 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Easter Day - A -- 1992
The story continues: "But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look i
What Happens When We Can't Believe It? -- John 20:19-31 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
All three of our Bible lessons for today touch on themes that cannot help but direct our attention t
What Happens To You When You Die? -- Luke 24:13-35 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
"What happens to you when you die, Dad?" "Of course, son, if you believe in God, you go up to heaven
Led By The Shepherd -- John 10:1-10 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Decisions, decisions. Life is full of decisions.
Focus Your Faith -- John 14:1-12 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
"There are so many religions in the world. Everybody believes in God his/her own way.
Good Works Will Not Save You! -- John 14:15-21 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Jesus was still in the middle of his farewell discourse to his disciples.
The Majesty Of God's Love -- John 17:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Jesus was drawing near to the end of his farewell discourse to his disciples, a sermon he gave to th
The Temptations Of Christ And Our Temptations -- Matthew 4:1-11 -- Mark Ellingsen -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
Some of the worst temptations seem to come when you are alone, do they not?

The Political Pulpit

Emphasis Preaching Journal

The war in Iraq: what's next? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Click here
The health-care crisis: -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Recent reports indicate that 47 million Americans were without health insurance in the
The health-care crisis: Are the candidates really concerned? -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2008
Recent reports indicate that 47 million Americans were without health insurance in the summer of 200
Conspicuous consumption and its politics -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Tax time and the season of Lent. There are a lot of crosses for the faithful and the
Beware of virtues -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
Of course, Christians should be good citizens! That is just common sense, most
What Christians can do to help our schools -- Mark Ellingsen -- 2007
In the first weeks of September and October many members in your congregation will
Assaults on the elderly: what politics have to do with it -- Mark Ellingsen
Time magazine predicts that a hot-button issue for the upcoming midterm
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Christ the King Sunday
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Thanksgiving
14 – Sermons
80+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Advent 1
30 – Sermons
90+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
There was an incident some years ago, when an elderly lady in some village parish in England was so fed up with the sound of the church bells ringing, that she took an axe and hacked her way through the oak door of the church. Once inside, she sliced through the bell ropes, rendering the bells permanently silent. The media loved it. There were articles in all the papers and the culprit appeared on television. The Church was less enthusiastic - and took her to court.

SermonStudio

Stan Purdum
(See The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle A, and The Epiphany Of Our Lord, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)

This psalm is a prayer for the king, and it asks God to extend divine rule over earth through the anointed one who sits on the throne. Although the inscription says the psalm is about Solomon, that is a scribal addition. More likely, this was a general prayer used for more than one of the Davidic kings, and it shows the common belief that the monarch would be the instrument through which God acted.

Mark Wm. Radecke
In her Pulitzer Prize winning book, Pilgrim at Tinker Creek, author Annie Dillard recalls this chilling remembrance:
Paul E. Robinson
There is so much uncertainty in life that most of us look hard and long for as many "sure things" as we can find. A fisherman goes back again and again to that hole that always produces fish and leaves on his line that special lure that always does the trick. The fishing hole and the lure are sure things.
John N. Brittain
If you don't know that Christmas is a couple of weeks away, you must be living underground. And you must have no contact with any children. And you cannot have been to a mall, Wal-Mart, Walgreen's, or any other chain store since three weeks before Halloween. Christmas, probably more than any other day in the contemporary American calendar, is one of those days where impact really stretches the envelope of time not just -- like some great tragedy -- after the fact, but also in anticipation.
Tony S. Everett
One hot summer day, a young pastor decided to change the oil in his automobile for the very first time in his life. He had purchased five quarts of oil, a filter wrench, and a bucket in which to drain the used oil. He carefully and gently drove the car onto the shiny, yellow ramps and eased his way underneath his vehicle.

Charles L. Aaron, Jr.
We've gathered here today on the second Sunday of Advent to continue to prepare ourselves for the coming of our Lord. This task of preparing for the arrival of the Lord is not as easy as we might think it is. As in other areas of life, we find ourselves having to unlearn some things in order to see what the scriptures teach us about God's act in Jesus. We've let the culture around us snatch away much of the meaning of the birth of the Savior. We have to reclaim that meaning if we really want to be ready for what God is still doing in the miracle of Christmas.
Timothy J. Smith
As we make our way through Advent inching closer to Christmas, our days are consumed with many tasks. Our "to do" list grows each day. At times we are often out of breath and wondering if we will complete everything on our list before Christmas Day. We gather on this Second Sunday in Advent to spiritually prepare for what God has done and continues to do in our lives and in our world. We have been too busy with all our activities and tasks so that we are in danger of missing out on the miracle of Christmas.
Frank Luchsinger
For his sixth grade year his family moved to the new community. They made careful preparations for the husky, freckle-faced redhead to fit in smoothly. They had meetings with teachers and principal, and practiced the route to the very school doors he would enter on the first day. "Right here will be lists of the classes with the teachers' names and students. Come to these doors and find your name on a list and go to that class."
R. Glen Miles
The text we have heard today is pleasant, maybe even reassuring. I wonder, though, how many of us will give it any significance once we leave the sanctuary? Do the words of Isaiah have any real meaning for us, or are they just far away thoughts from a time that no longer has any relevance for us today?
Susan R. Andrews
When our children were small, a nice church lady named Chris made them a child--friendly creche. All the actors in this stable drama are soft and squishy and durable - perfect to touch and rearrange - or toss across the living room in a fit of toddler frenzy. The Joseph character has always been my favorite because he looks a little wild - red yarn spiking out from his head, giving him an odd look of energy. In fact, I have renamed this character John the Baptist and in my mind substituted one of the innocuous shepherds for the more staid and solid Joseph. Why this invention?
Amy C. Schifrin
Martha Shonkwiler
Litany Of Confession
P: Wild animals flourish around us,
C: and prowl within us.
P: Injustice and inequity surround us,
C: and hide within us.
P: Vanity and pride divide us,
C: and fester within us.

A time for silent reflection

P: O God, may your love free us,
C: and may your Spirit live in us. Amen.

Prayer Of The Day

Emphasis Preaching Journal

The world and the church approach the "Mass of Christ" with a different pace, and "atmospheres" that are worlds apart. Out in the "highways and byways" tinsel and "sparkly" are everywhere, in the churches the color of the paraments and stoles is a somber violet, or in some places, blue. Through the stores and on the airwaves carols and pop tunes are up-beat, aimed at getting the spirits festive, and the pocketbooks and wallets are open.
David Kalas
In the United States just now, we're in the period between the election and the inauguration of the president. In our system, by the time they are inaugurated, our leaders are fairly familiar faces. Months of primaries and campaigning, debates and speeches, and conventions and commercials, all contribute to a fairly high degree of familiarity. We may wonder what kind of president someone will be, but we have certainly heard many promises, and we have had plenty of opportunities to get to know the candidate.
(A)
During my growing up years we had no family automobile. My father walked to work and home again. During World War II his routine at the local milk plant was somewhat irregular. As children we tried to guess when he would come. If we were wrong, we didn't worry. He always came.
Wayne Brouwer
Schuyler Rhodes
What difference does my life make for others around me? That question is addressed in three related ways in our texts for today. Isaiah raised the emblem of the Servant of Yahweh as representative for what life is supposed to be, even in the middle of a chaotic and cruel world. Paul mirrors that reflection as he announces the fulfillment of Isaiah's vision in the coming of Jesus and the expansion of its redemptive effects beyond the Jewish community to the Gentile world as well.

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I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. (v. 11)

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