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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

Here Or There? -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, Acts 1:15-26, Acts 1:1-11 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
This Sunday offers a choice for those who follow the lectionary -- some congregations will observe A
Asking The Right Questions -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
The questions we ask -- of ourselves, of one another, and even of God -- tend to reveal the underlyi
Together In One Place -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
A quick perusal of the daily headlines is all you need to see how bitterly divided we are as a socie
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
The Treat In The Trick -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2011
This week our lectionary passage from Genesis brings us the strange story of Jacob being tricked by
Our Maps Are Too Small -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Genesis 45:1-15, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2011
The images are heart-wrenching, as the world's attention has slowly become focused on the ongoing dr
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
The Gospel According To Warren Buffett -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary pericope from Matthew, Jesus begins the difficult process of preparing his
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
From Womb To Tomb -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary's designated Old Testament passage is God's declaration of the Ten Commandm
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
The Green Room -- 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 22:15-22 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul commends the Thessalonian Christians for their faith
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
Occupy Your Faith -- Matthew 22:34-40, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2011
When Paul characterizes the nature of his ministry in this week's lectionary epistle passage, he not
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Mattress, Credit Union, Or World? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2011
The parable of the talents is one of those scriptural passages that is so familiar -- particularly g
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
Power And Principalities -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2011
As the liturgical year comes to a close, we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, also referred to in so
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Anticipation -- It's Keepin' Me Waitin' -- Mark 13:24-37, Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Advent arrives for our congregations on a weekend when many people will still be basking in the afte
Assurance But Not Insurance -- Exodus 17:1-7, Romans 5:1-11, John 4:5-42, Psalm 95 -- Ron Love, Roger Lovette, Mary Austin -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures describes the intense frustration of the I
Guide Rails -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The lectionary's assigned passage from Isaiah for the Second Sunday of Advent tells us that we are t
Resurrection Or Reanimation? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary texts provide a pair of stories that foreshadow the central message of Easter

Illustration

The Immediate Word

Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
From Womb To Tomb -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary's designated Old Testament passage is God's declaration of the Ten Commandm
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
The Green Room -- 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 22:15-22 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul commends the Thessalonian Christians for their faith
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
Occupy Your Faith -- Matthew 22:34-40, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2011
When Paul characterizes the nature of his ministry in this week's lectionary epistle passage, he not
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Mattress, Credit Union, Or World? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2011
The parable of the talents is one of those scriptural passages that is so familiar -- particularly g
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
Power And Principalities -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2011
As the liturgical year comes to a close, we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, also referred to in so
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Anticipation -- It's Keepin' Me Waitin' -- Mark 13:24-37, Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Advent arrives for our congregations on a weekend when many people will still be basking in the afte
Assurance But Not Insurance -- Exodus 17:1-7, Romans 5:1-11, John 4:5-42, Psalm 95 -- Ron Love, Roger Lovette, Mary Austin -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures describes the intense frustration of the I
Guide Rails -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The lectionary's assigned passage from Isaiah for the Second Sunday of Advent tells us that we are t
Resurrection Or Reanimation? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary texts provide a pair of stories that foreshadow the central message of Easter
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha
The Final Four -- Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 27:11-54 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- 2011
Holy Week offers such a wide range of texts and approaches that for this installment of The Immed
A Spirit Of Possibility -- Luke 1:26-38, Luke 1:46b-55 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
For the final Sunday before Christmas, the lectionary's gospel passage gives us a wonderful lead-in
Breaking News -- Matthew 28:1-10 -- Mary Austin, George Reed -- Easter Day - A -- 2011
"Do not be afraid. These words that the angel speaks to the two Marys at the empty tomb (and then r
The Reluctant Witness -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The common thread that runs through the lectionary readings for the Second Sunday of Easter is the t
Polls, Parables, And Complaints -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary offers a pair of texts in which we discover how God provides unimaginable b
Race To The Rear? -- Matthew 23:1-12, Joshua 3:7-17, Revelation 7:9-17, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2011
One of the most fundamental aspects of American culture is competition.
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
Counting The Cost -- Matthew 25:1-13, Amos 5:18-24, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2011
The news that barring unforeseen developments all United States troops will withdraw from Iraq by De
No More Promised Lands -- Exodus 12:1-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Romans 13:8-14, Psalm 149 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2011
It's been an eventful week for America's East coast, dominated by what the media blithely refers to

Liturgy

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Asking The Right Questions -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
The questions we ask -- of ourselves, of one another, and even of God -- tend to reveal the underlyi
Together In One Place -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
A quick perusal of the daily headlines is all you need to see how bitterly divided we are as a socie
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
The Treat In The Trick -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2011
This week our lectionary passage from Genesis brings us the strange story of Jacob being tricked by
Our Maps Are Too Small -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Genesis 45:1-15, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2011
The images are heart-wrenching, as the world's attention has slowly become focused on the ongoing dr
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
The Gospel According To Warren Buffett -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary pericope from Matthew, Jesus begins the difficult process of preparing his
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
From Womb To Tomb -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary's designated Old Testament passage is God's declaration of the Ten Commandm
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
The Green Room -- 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 22:15-22 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul commends the Thessalonian Christians for their faith
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
Occupy Your Faith -- Matthew 22:34-40, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2011
When Paul characterizes the nature of his ministry in this week's lectionary epistle passage, he not
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Mattress, Credit Union, Or World? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2011
The parable of the talents is one of those scriptural passages that is so familiar -- particularly g
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
Power And Principalities -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2011
As the liturgical year comes to a close, we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, also referred to in so
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Anticipation -- It's Keepin' Me Waitin' -- Mark 13:24-37, Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Advent arrives for our congregations on a weekend when many people will still be basking in the afte
Assurance But Not Insurance -- Exodus 17:1-7, Romans 5:1-11, John 4:5-42, Psalm 95 -- Ron Love, Roger Lovette, Mary Austin -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures describes the intense frustration of the I
Guide Rails -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The lectionary's assigned passage from Isaiah for the Second Sunday of Advent tells us that we are t
Resurrection Or Reanimation? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary texts provide a pair of stories that foreshadow the central message of Easter
Joy To The World -- John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The Third Sunday of Advent is referred to as "Joy" Sunday in many traditions, particularly those tha

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Shepherds And Crooks -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
This Sunday is often colloquially referred to as "Good Shepherd Sunday" because of the lectionary te
Girl Talk -- Eavesdropping On The Capable Wife And Today's Woman -- Mark 9:30-37, James 3:13--4:3, 7-8a, Proverbs 31:10-31, Psalm 1 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - B -- 2012
Over the last century, the role of women in American society has been completely transformed.
By This We Know -- John 15:1-8, 1 John 4:7-21, Acts 8:26-40, Psalm 22:25-31 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
Last week the lectionary texts focused on the Good Shepherd, and identified a key aspect of shepher
The Politics Of Division -- Or Addition -- Mark 9:38-50, James 5:13-20, Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, Psalm 124 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B -- 2012
Making conclusions based on anecdotal evidence is a tricky proposition -- while it can often powerfu
Here Or There? -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, Acts 1:15-26, Acts 1:1-11 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
This Sunday offers a choice for those who follow the lectionary -- some congregations will observe A
Women And Children First -- Mark 10:2-16, Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:5-12, Job 1:1; 2:1-10, Psalm 26 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - B -- 2012
Jesus' response to the Pharisees' question about divorce in this week's lectionary gospel passage of
Asking The Right Questions -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
The questions we ask -- of ourselves, of one another, and even of God -- tend to reveal the underlyi
Together In One Place -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
A quick perusal of the daily headlines is all you need to see how bitterly divided we are as a socie
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
The Treat In The Trick -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2011
This week our lectionary passage from Genesis brings us the strange story of Jacob being tricked by
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
Our Maps Are Too Small -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Genesis 45:1-15, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2011
The images are heart-wrenching, as the world's attention has slowly become focused on the ongoing dr
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
The Gospel According To Warren Buffett -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary pericope from Matthew, Jesus begins the difficult process of preparing his
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
From Womb To Tomb -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary's designated Old Testament passage is God's declaration of the Ten Commandm
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
The Green Room -- 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 22:15-22 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul commends the Thessalonian Christians for their faith
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Occupy Your Faith -- Matthew 22:34-40, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2011
When Paul characterizes the nature of his ministry in this week's lectionary epistle passage, he not
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
Mattress, Credit Union, Or World? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2011
The parable of the talents is one of those scriptural passages that is so familiar -- particularly g
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o

Worship

The Immediate Word

Here Or There? -- Luke 24:44-53, John 17:6-19, Acts 1:15-26, Acts 1:1-11 -- George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin -- Ascension of the Lord - B -- 2012
This Sunday offers a choice for those who follow the lectionary -- some congregations will observe A
Asking The Right Questions -- Mark 10:35-45, Hebrews 5:1-10, Job 38:1-7 (34-41), Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2012
The questions we ask -- of ourselves, of one another, and even of God -- tend to reveal the underlyi
Together In One Place -- Acts 2:1-21, Ezekiel 37:1-14, John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Day of Pentecost - B -- 2012
A quick perusal of the daily headlines is all you need to see how bitterly divided we are as a socie
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
The Unknown Gods Of Righteousness -- John 14:15-21, Acts 17:22-31, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
The Sixth Sunday of Easter falls this year on Memorial Day weekend in America, which provides an int
Birthday Gifts -- Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23, Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary readings feature the familiar Parable of the Sower; but another fascinating
The Treat In The Trick -- Genesis 29:15-28, Romans 8:26-39, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2011
This week our lectionary passage from Genesis brings us the strange story of Jacob being tricked by
Good News! Good News! -- John 1:1-14, Luke 2:1-20 -- George Reed, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2011
For many people the news may have seemed arcane, but for scientists a recent update on the status o
Our Maps Are Too Small -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Genesis 45:1-15, Psalm 133 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2011
The images are heart-wrenching, as the world's attention has slowly become focused on the ongoing dr
The Gospel According To Warren Buffett -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15, Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45b -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary pericope from Matthew, Jesus begins the difficult process of preparing his
Suffering And Serving, One And All -- John 1:29-42, Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Psalm 40:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2011
We have all been stunned and horrified by the shooting rampage this past weekend in Arizona, which l
From Womb To Tomb -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20 -- Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2011
This week the lectionary's designated Old Testament passage is God's declaration of the Ten Commandm
On Seeing God -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Matthew 5:1-12, Micah 6:1-8, Psalm 15 -- Roger Lovette, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A -- 2011
For the fourth Sunday after Epiphany, the lectionary assigns two very familiar scripture texts: the
The Green Room -- 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10, Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 22:15-22 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2011
In this week's lectionary epistle passage, Paul commends the Thessalonian Christians for their faith
Theater -- Or The Real Deal? -- Matthew 5:13-20, 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), Psalm 112:1-9 (10) -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2011
In the Old Testament passage assigned by the lectionary for the fifth Sunday after Epiphany, Isaiah
Occupy Your Faith -- Matthew 22:34-40, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2011
When Paul characterizes the nature of his ministry in this week's lectionary epistle passage, he not
Gleaning Some Wisdom -- Matthew 5:38-48, 1 Corinthians 3:10-11, 16-23, Leviticus 19:1-2, 9-18, Psalm 119:33-40 -- Mary Austin, Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - A -- 2011
In this week's gospel passage, Jesus counsels his disciples to avoid retaliation -- telling them to
Mattress, Credit Union, Or World? -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 -- Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2011
The parable of the talents is one of those scriptural passages that is so familiar -- particularly g
Power In The Wilderness -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
As we enter into Lent, the focus for many of our people will turn inward as they engage in small act
Power And Principalities -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ephesians 1:15-23, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 100 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2011
As the liturgical year comes to a close, we celebrate Christ the King Sunday, also referred to in so
Abram's Journey With God -- And Ours -- John 3:1-17, Romans 4:1-5, 13-17, Genesis 12:1-4a, Psalm 121 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
It's difficult to watch the unfolding news from Japan and not be humbled by the overwhelming power o
Anticipation -- It's Keepin' Me Waitin' -- Mark 13:24-37, Isaiah 64:1-9, 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- First Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
Advent arrives for our congregations on a weekend when many people will still be basking in the afte
Assurance But Not Insurance -- Exodus 17:1-7, Romans 5:1-11, John 4:5-42, Psalm 95 -- Ron Love, Roger Lovette, Mary Austin -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary passage from the Hebrew scriptures describes the intense frustration of the I
Guide Rails -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2011
The lectionary's assigned passage from Isaiah for the Second Sunday of Advent tells us that we are t
Resurrection Or Reanimation? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
This week's lectionary texts provide a pair of stories that foreshadow the central message of Easter
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 23 | OT 28 | Pentecost 18
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 24 | OT 29 | Pentecost 19
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Proper 25 | OT 30 | Pentecost 20
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

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For November 9, 2025:
  • Reductio Ad Absurdum by Dean Feldmeyer. The best way to not lose an argument is to not argue at all.
  • Second Thoughts: Stirred, But Not Shaken by Chris Keating. In the face of lawlessness, chaos, and rumors about Jesus’ return, Paul urges the Thessalonians to hold fast. It is a reminder of the powerful witness we find in these often misinterpreted apocalyptic texts.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Haggai 1:15b--2:9
The First Lesson is found in a book which is set early in the reign of the Persian emperor Darius I (around 520 BC), nearly 20 years after the Babylonian exiles had returned home. Work had ceased on the planned rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. The book recounts the prophet Haggai’s efforts to exhort the region’s Persian governor Zerubbabel and the high priest Joshua to resume the construction project. This text is an ode to the new temple to be built.
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Haggai 2:1-15b--2:9 and Psalm 145:2-5, 17-21 or Psalm 98

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A couple of board games or card games.

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StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“Hey Pastor Tom!” Mary waved from in front of the university library. “Are you heading to the flag raising?”

“I am,” Pastor Tom said. “Are you attending?”

“Not me — I’m afraid.” She gestured at the Physical Sciences building. “I have a class in a couple of minutes. See you on Sunday!”

“See you then. Have a good class!”

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus responded to a trick question by telling people the good news that after death we live on forever in a new kind of life. In our worship today, let us explore the theme of life after death.

Invitation to Confession:

Jesus, sometimes I find it hard to believe in life after death. Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes I'm afraid of Judgement Day. Christ, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Carlos Wilton
Psalm 145 is known not so much in its entirety, but piecemeal, by those who are familiar with Christian worship texts. Words like "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised" (v. 3); "The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season" (v. 15) and "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth" have often called us to worship. The words, "The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love" (v. 8) have often called us to confession, or assured us of God's pardon.
Robert R. Kopp
When I asked Dad to go to Israel with Mom and me about fifteen years ago, he said, "Son, I've been in two wars. That's enough dodging bullets for one lifetime."

But after almost two decades of trips to Israel, I've discovered Jerusalem is a lot safer than walking around Yankee Stadium or Central Park. Indeed, I'd be willing to wager a round at Pebble Beach that there are more crimes committed in America every day than in Israel every year.
John E. Berger
Here is a true story about a strange funeral service.

The deceased man had no church home, but that is not the unusual part of the story. The man's widow asked for a certain clergyman to be the funeral preacher. The desired clergyman had performed a family wedding a few years earlier. That is not unusual either. It is what is called "an extended church family relationship." In other words, the man had been neither a church member nor a church goer, but there had been a connecting experience -- in this case a family wedding.
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
I fled Him, down the nights and down the days;
I fled Him, down the arches of the years;
I fled Him down the labyrinthine ways
Of my mind; and in the midst of tears
I hid from Him, and under running laughter.
Up vistaed hopes I sped;
And shot, precipitated
Adown Titantic glooms of chasmed fears,
From those strong Feet that followed, followed after.
But with unhurrying chase
And unperturbed pace,
Deliberate speed, majestic instancy;
They beat -- and a Voice beat
More instant than the Feet --

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