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Mary Austin

Mary Austin is the Senior Pastor of Gaithersburg Presbyterian Church, a diverse Presbyterian congregation in the Washington, DC area. She has served churches in New Jersey and Michigan, and also loved being a hospice chaplain. She is the author of Meeting God at the Mall, published by CSS.
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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Of Pentecost, Polls, And Power -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts is filled with vivid imagery -- but though there are pl
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
Awaiting The Unknown -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Love -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
With a new liturgical year we enter Advent, a time defined by active waiting -- both for the nativit
Highways And Byways -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
This week’s gospel text brings us a bare-bones introductory portrait of John the Baptist.
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.

Illustration

The Immediate Word

I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
Awaiting The Unknown -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Love -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
With a new liturgical year we enter Advent, a time defined by active waiting -- both for the nativit
Highways And Byways -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
This week’s gospel text brings us a bare-bones introductory portrait of John the Baptist.
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Dreaming Of A Green Christmas -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, John the Baptist asks a penetrating question: “Who warned you to flee fr
Peanuts, Paste, And Pathways To God -- Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23, James 1:17-27, Song of Solomon 2:8-13, Psalm 45:1-2, 6-9 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel reading, Jesus loses his patience (yet again) with a group of scribes and Phar
Authority And Power -- Mark 1:21-28, 1 Corinthians 8:1-13, Deuteronomy 18:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle pericope Paul takes on a dispute among the Corinthian church over whether
Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele
Who Speaks For Those Who Can't? -- Mark 7:24-37, James 2:1-10 (11-13) 14-17, Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23, Psalm 125 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - B -- 2015
By providing cures for a deaf-mute and the daughter of a foreign woman, Jesus does much more in this
Back To School Blues -- James 3:1-12, Mark 8:27-38, Proverbs 1:20-33, Psalm 19 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - B -- 2015
This week’s Old Testament and Psalm readings proclaim the importance of discerning the voice of the
Can We Be The (Peaceful) True Believers? -- Luke 2:14 (15-20), Luke 1:46b-55, Micah 5:2-5a -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2015
As we continue to come to terms with a recent spate of mass shootings -- capped by seemingly sensele

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Of Pentecost, Polls, And Power -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts is filled with vivid imagery -- but though there are pl
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
Awaiting The Unknown -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Love -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
With a new liturgical year we enter Advent, a time defined by active waiting -- both for the nativit
Highways And Byways -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
This week’s gospel text brings us a bare-bones introductory portrait of John the Baptist.
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
Dreaming Of A Green Christmas -- Luke 3:7-18, Philippians 4:4-7, Zephaniah 3:14-20, Isaiah 12:2-6 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, John the Baptist asks a penetrating question: “Who warned you to flee fr

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Beloving -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle text from First John (4:7-21) presents us with a mandate to “love one another
Who's On First? -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2015
In this week’s gospel text, James and John ask Jesus to secure preferred seating for them in heaven
Baby Steps And Bending The Arc -- John 15:9-17, 1 John 5:1-6, Acts 10:44-48, Psalm 98 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The primary theme of recent weeks continues, with a focus on the subject of love.
Seeing As God Sees -- 1 Samuel 15:35--16:13, Psalm 20, Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Christopher Keating -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B -- 2015
A recurring theme in this week’s lectionary texts is the great things that come in unexpected
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Of Pentecost, Polls, And Power -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts is filled with vivid imagery -- but though there are pl
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What

Worship

The Immediate Word

A Non-Anxious Presence -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B -- 2015
This week’s primary Old Testament and gospel passages each provide vivid illustrations of how many o
Building A Legacy -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, 1 John 5:9-13, Ephesians 1:15-23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2015
The lectionary texts for Ascension Sunday and the Seventh Sunday of Easter each address Jesus’
What Does The Widow Want Us To Know? -- Mark 12:38-44, Hebrews 9:24-28, Ruth 3:1-5, 4:13-17, Psalm 127 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel reading for Proper 27 features the familiar story of the poor widow and her ti
Of Pentecost, Polls, And Power -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2015
The account of Pentecost in the book of Acts is filled with vivid imagery -- but though there are pl
Knowing What We Don't Know -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8, Psalm 29 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed, Robin Lostetter -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B -- 2015
The lectionary gospel text for Trinity Sunday brings us an interesting case study of someone who jus
Unprovable Hope -- Romans 4:13-25, Mark 8:31-38, Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16, Psalm 22:23-31 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, Paul characterizes Abraham’s attitude toward God’s cov
A House Divided -- Mark 3:20-35, 2 Corinthians 4:13--5:1, 1 Samuel 8:4-11 (12-15) 16-20 (11:14-15), Genesis 3:8-15 -- Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - B -- 2015
As this past Sunday’s deadline passed without approval in the Senate for renewal of the Patriot Act,
I Need A Vacation! -- Mark 6:30-34, 53-56, Ephesians 2:11-22, 2 Samuel 7:1-14a -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - B -- 2015
The disciples update Jesus on the demands of their busy schedules in this week’s gospel text:
Crossing The Border Of Hope -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27, Psalm 130 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B -- 2015
In this week’s epistle lesson, Paul encourages us to emulate “the generous act of our Lord Jes
Je Suis Une Partie Du Corps (I Am A Part Of The Body) -- 1 Corinthians 6:12-20, Psalm 139, John 1:43-51, 1 Samuel 3:1-10 (11-20) -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - B -- 2015
Paul opens this week’s epistle text with a sentence that ought to be a motto for our freedom-lovi
To Choose Weakness -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10, Psalm 48 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B -- 2015
Paul has a bracing message for us in this week’s epistle lesson -- one that seems just as appr
Promises, Promises -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text tells the lurid story of John the Baptist’s demise.
Simply Sacerdotal -- Job 42:1-6, 10-17, Mark 10:46-52, Hebrews 7:23-28 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - B -- 2015
In this week’s lectionary epistle passage, the writer of the letter to the Hebrews maintains that Je
Gathering The Fragments -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, George Reed, Dean Feldmeyer -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B -- 2015
This week’s lectionary gospel text brings us John’s vivid depiction of the feeding of the 5,000.
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Politics 'trumps' Ephesians -- Ephesians 4:1-16, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, John 6:24-35, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B -- 2015
In the opening verses of this week’s epistle passage, the writer of Ephesians makes a heartfel
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a, Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- All Saints Day - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
The University Of Gratitude -- Psalm 34:1-8, Ephesians 4:25--5:2, John 6:35, 41-51, 2 Samuel 18:5-9, 15, 31-33 -- Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - B -- 2015
This week’s alternate psalm text, Psalm 34:1-8, encapsulates what might be called an attitude of gra
What Shall We Proclaim? -- Mark 1:29-39, 1 Corinthians 9:16-23, Isaiah 40:21-31, Psalm 111 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - B -- 2015
Proclamation is the overarching theme running through this week’s lectionary texts.
This Too Shall Pass -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B -- 2015
When the disciples marvel at the impressive physical structure of the Jerusalem temple (“What
Night Of The Living Savior -- John 6:51-58, 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14, Ephesians 5:15-20, Psalm 111 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - B -- 2015
The common thread in this week’s lectionary readings is the importance of wisdom and discernme
Awaiting The Unknown -- Luke 21:25-36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13, Jeremiah 33:14-16, Psalm 25:1-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Love -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
With a new liturgical year we enter Advent, a time defined by active waiting -- both for the nativit
Highways And Byways -- Luke 3:1-6, Philippians 1:3-11, Malachi 3:1-4, Luke 1:68-79 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Second Sunday of Advent - C -- 2015
This week’s gospel text brings us a bare-bones introductory portrait of John the Baptist.
Does This Offend You? -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Robin Lostetter, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2015
This week’s epistle and gospel readings provide us with a reality check about the difficult struggle
Waiting For The Kingdom -- John 18:33-37, Revelation 1:4b-8, 2 Samuel 23:1-7, Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - B -- 2015
Our world has been shaken once again by unspeakable violence.
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 7 | OT 12 | Pentecost 2
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 8 | OT 13 | Pentecost 3
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 9 | OT 14 | Pentecost 4
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Thomas Willadsen
Nazish Naseem
Dean Feldmeyer
Mary Austin
Katy Stenta
George Reed
For July 6, 2025:

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: This is a role play activity for the children.

Note: You will need an older volunteer to help with this activity. One option would be to find a teenager with some physical ability. If a teen is not available, an adult could be used instead. For simplicity here, I will refer to my older volunteer as “TOM”. You will also need to select three of your younger children to serve as volunteers in the story.

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Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
2 Kings 5:1-14
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Bonnie Bates
2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30
Naaman seeks healing. He travels hoping healing will come to him when he visits the king of Israel. Yet, healing does not come in that way. Rather healing comes through Elishah. Healing comes from believing and being cleansed in the River Jordan. Healing comes through Naaman’s faithfulness and through God’s grace. Psalm 30 also reminds us to seek healing; to seek God and God will heal and restore us. Do we believe that? Do we believe that God can bring healing?

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
But whenever you enter a town and they do not welcome you, go out into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off in protest against you. Yet know this: the kingdom of God has come near.’ (vv. 10-11)

When I visit your church for the first time, consider the possibility that I might be looking for a church home. I am a good-looking old guy, but I have gray hair and I dress down in the summer, so don’t be put off by my cargo shorts and tank top. Talk to me!

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Damien and Ora grinned at each other in excitement. The time had come - at last! They'd been with the Leader for months and months, waiting for this moment. Not that it had felt much like training. They'd simply lived with the Leader, listening to his stories, hearing about the Kingdom, learning to get along really well with all the other people at Mission Headquarters. Now all seventy of them were ready, the spaceship had docked, and the Mission was about to begin. Ora was glad she'd been paired up with Damien again.

SermonStudio

James Evans
Stan Purdum
Carlos Wilton
(See Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6, Cycle B, and Easter 3, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

Anyone who has ever had the experience of losing a friend because of some conflict or dispute, and then has had the friendship restored because of love and forgiveness, has a unique insight into the meaning of this psalm. Although the poem begins and ends with praise, there is in the middle of the poem a brief moment of confession and contrition that puts the praise portions of the psalm in an entirely different light.

April Yamasaki
A word of encouragement came from an unlikely source the other day in a television interview with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The former football player, wrestler, and now actor was asked about a low time in his life when he was very discouraged about his career and future.

"How did you make your way back from that?" he was asked.

The Rock replied, "You have to put yourself out there. You have to get out there and fail, and learn from your failures."

Larry D. Powell
In the summer of 1983, I participated in a ministerial exchange program sponsored by my denomination. My assignment was to a circuit of churches on the Isle of Man, a tiny island located in the Irish Sea. The months preceding the exchange included considerable correspondence with the minister on the island with whom I would exchange pastoral duties for six weeks.
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
A wealthy businessman decided to take a walk and eat his lunch at the same time. He strolled by a park. There he purchased a hot dog and a soft drink. As he walked through the park two different "street people" approached him one by one. Each asked, "Can you help me? I am hungry." Each time the businessman looked straight ahead and kept walking. After finishing his lunch, he stopped and bought a chocolate eclair for dessert. As he was about to take the first bite, he was forced to jump out of the way as a young boy raced by on his skateboard. The eclair went flying and landed on the ground.

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