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Paul Bresnahan

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

A Little Child Shall Lead Them -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2008
One of the wonders of creation is the coexistence of opposites.
Who Will You Follow? -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2008
Every four years, the people of the United States are called upon to make their voices heard and cho
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
As Common As A Samaritan Woman With Five Husbands -- John 4:5-42, Romans 5:1-11, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Sometimes the most amazing things in life are right in front of your face.
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
The Fickle Crowd -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2008
During presidential campaigns, it is customary to introduce presidential candidates with "Hail to th
Peace In An Angry World -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- 2008
Division and unrest seem to be the general state of affairs in the world today.
The Lord Is My Personal Trainer -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In our increasingly obese society, there is an increased emphasis on personal fitness.
E Pluribus Unum -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Of all the "buzz" words in our society, "tolerance" is one that seems to have reached iconic status.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
Burning Bridges And Plows -- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2007
This week many of the people in your pews may have their minds on the upcoming July 4th holiday.
Jesus: The One Thing -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2007
For many in your congregation, the big story this week is certain to be the release this Saturday of
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
The Sure Thing -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2007
Understanding this difficult parable requires our people to follow along with Jesus as he turns a so
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
Which Armor Will We Wear? -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In Romans, Paul admonishes us to "lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" (Ro
Same Old, Same Old -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
So often in life, we are temped to "delegate" or "pass the buck." We don't want to do something, so
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?

Illustration

The Immediate Word

A Little Child Shall Lead Them -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2008
One of the wonders of creation is the coexistence of opposites.
Who Will You Follow? -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2008
Every four years, the people of the United States are called upon to make their voices heard and cho
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
As Common As A Samaritan Woman With Five Husbands -- John 4:5-42, Romans 5:1-11, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Sometimes the most amazing things in life are right in front of your face.
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
The Fickle Crowd -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2008
During presidential campaigns, it is customary to introduce presidential candidates with "Hail to th
Peace In An Angry World -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- 2008
Division and unrest seem to be the general state of affairs in the world today.
The Lord Is My Personal Trainer -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In our increasingly obese society, there is an increased emphasis on personal fitness.
E Pluribus Unum -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Of all the "buzz" words in our society, "tolerance" is one that seems to have reached iconic status.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
Burning Bridges And Plows -- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2007
This week many of the people in your pews may have their minds on the upcoming July 4th holiday.
Jesus: The One Thing -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2007
For many in your congregation, the big story this week is certain to be the release this Saturday of
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
The Sure Thing -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2007
Understanding this difficult parable requires our people to follow along with Jesus as he turns a so
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
Which Armor Will We Wear? -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In Romans, Paul admonishes us to "lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" (Ro
Same Old, Same Old -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
So often in life, we are temped to "delegate" or "pass the buck." We don't want to do something, so
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?

Preaching

The Immediate Word

A Little Child Shall Lead Them -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2008
One of the wonders of creation is the coexistence of opposites.
Who Will You Follow? -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2008
Every four years, the people of the United States are called upon to make their voices heard and cho
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
As Common As A Samaritan Woman With Five Husbands -- John 4:5-42, Romans 5:1-11, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Sometimes the most amazing things in life are right in front of your face.
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
The Fickle Crowd -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2008
During presidential campaigns, it is customary to introduce presidential candidates with "Hail to th
Peace In An Angry World -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- 2008
Division and unrest seem to be the general state of affairs in the world today.
The Lord Is My Personal Trainer -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In our increasingly obese society, there is an increased emphasis on personal fitness.
E Pluribus Unum -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Of all the "buzz" words in our society, "tolerance" is one that seems to have reached iconic status.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
Burning Bridges And Plows -- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2007
This week many of the people in your pews may have their minds on the upcoming July 4th holiday.
Jesus: The One Thing -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2007
For many in your congregation, the big story this week is certain to be the release this Saturday of
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
The Sure Thing -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2007
Understanding this difficult parable requires our people to follow along with Jesus as he turns a so
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
Which Armor Will We Wear? -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In Romans, Paul admonishes us to "lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" (Ro
Same Old, Same Old -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
So often in life, we are temped to "delegate" or "pass the buck." We don't want to do something, so
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?

Sermon

The Immediate Word

A Little Child Shall Lead Them -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2008
One of the wonders of creation is the coexistence of opposites.
Who Will You Follow? -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2008
Every four years, the people of the United States are called upon to make their voices heard and cho
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
As Common As A Samaritan Woman With Five Husbands -- John 4:5-42, Romans 5:1-11, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Sometimes the most amazing things in life are right in front of your face.
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
The Fickle Crowd -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2008
During presidential campaigns, it is customary to introduce presidential candidates with "Hail to th
Peace In An Angry World -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- 2008
Division and unrest seem to be the general state of affairs in the world today.
The Lord Is My Personal Trainer -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In our increasingly obese society, there is an increased emphasis on personal fitness.
E Pluribus Unum -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Of all the "buzz" words in our society, "tolerance" is one that seems to have reached iconic status.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
Burning Bridges And Plows -- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2007
This week many of the people in your pews may have their minds on the upcoming July 4th holiday.
Jesus: The One Thing -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2007
For many in your congregation, the big story this week is certain to be the release this Saturday of
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
The Sure Thing -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2007
Understanding this difficult parable requires our people to follow along with Jesus as he turns a so
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
Which Armor Will We Wear? -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In Romans, Paul admonishes us to "lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" (Ro
Same Old, Same Old -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
So often in life, we are temped to "delegate" or "pass the buck." We don't want to do something, so
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?

Worship

The Immediate Word

A Little Child Shall Lead Them -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2008
One of the wonders of creation is the coexistence of opposites.
Who Will You Follow? -- Matthew 4:12-23, 1 Corinthians 1:10-18, Isaiah 9:1-4, Psalm 27:1, 4-9 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - A -- 2008
Every four years, the people of the United States are called upon to make their voices heard and cho
What The Church Can Teach The Nations -- Matthew 28:16-20, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2008
Power can lead to great good or great evil, depending on who wields that power.
As Common As A Samaritan Woman With Five Husbands -- John 4:5-42, Romans 5:1-11, Exodus 17:1-7, Psalm 95 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Sometimes the most amazing things in life are right in front of your face.
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
The Fickle Crowd -- Matthew 26:14--27:66, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 31:9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2008
During presidential campaigns, it is customary to introduce presidential candidates with "Hail to th
Peace In An Angry World -- John 20:19-31, 1 Peter 1:3-9, Acts 2:14a, 22-32, Psalm 16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Carlos Wilton -- 2008
Division and unrest seem to be the general state of affairs in the world today.
The Lord Is My Personal Trainer -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In our increasingly obese society, there is an increased emphasis on personal fitness.
E Pluribus Unum -- John 14:15-21, 1 Peter 3:13-22, Acts 17:22-31, Psalm 66:8-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Sixth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Of all the "buzz" words in our society, "tolerance" is one that seems to have reached iconic status.
Becoming One In A Divided World -- John 20:19-23, 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Day of Pentecost - A -- 2008
When the Holy Spirit came down at Pentecost, it was a time of great unity.
Bad News, Good News In An Uncertain Life -- Matthew 7:21-29, Romans 1:16-17; 3:22b-28 (29-31), Genesis 6:9-22; 7:24; 8:14-19, Psalm 46 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 4 | Ordinary Time 9 - A -- 2008
Bad news is unavoidable.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
What Kind Of Sword, Jesus? -- Matthew 10:24-39, Romans 6:1b-11, Genesis 21:8-21, Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2008
Many of us can quote the sayings of Jesus by heart.
Prepare The Way -- Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Isaiah 40:1-11, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Robin Lostetter, Paul Bresnahan, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2008
(Originally published December 7, 2008)
Burning Bridges And Plows -- 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21, Galatians 5:1, 13-25, Luke 9:51-62, Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - C -- 2007
This week many of the people in your pews may have their minds on the upcoming July 4th holiday.
Jesus: The One Thing -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - C -- 2007
For many in your congregation, the big story this week is certain to be the release this Saturday of
Sin: A Public And Private Affair! -- Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19), Luke 11:1-13, Hosea 1:2-10, Psalm 85 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - C -- 2007
As recent headlines about scandalous conduct have reminded us, sin is a constant in human endeavors.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
Enduring Purses -- Luke 12:32-40, Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16, Isaiah 1:1, 10-20, Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2007
As you are no doubt aware if you read the business pages, there has been a bit of an ongoing soap op
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
The Sure Thing -- Luke 16:1-13, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, Jeremiah 8:18--9:1, Psalm 79:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - C -- 2007
Understanding this difficult parable requires our people to follow along with Jesus as he turns a so
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
Which Armor Will We Wear? -- Matthew 24:36-44, Romans 13:11-14, Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In Romans, Paul admonishes us to "lay aside the works of darkness and put on the armor of light" (Ro
Same Old, Same Old -- Matthew 11:2-11, James 5:7-10, Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
So often in life, we are temped to "delegate" or "pass the buck." We don't want to do something, so
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Lent 2
20 – Sermons
170+ – Illustrations / Stories
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20 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Lent 3
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
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30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
33 – Children's Sermons / Resources
22 – Worship Resources
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4 – Pastor's Devotions
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Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A rock about the size of a tennis ball, baseball, or even a softball.

* * *

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

The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Katy Stenta
Thomas Willadsen
Christopher Keating
George Reed
Mary Austin
For March 30, 2025:

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
Paul reread the parable again and sighed. Why had he agreed to lead the Bible study this week? When Pastor Luke asked him, he had been all excited and enthusiastic. He knew the parable of the prodigal son inside and out having read commentaries and stories about it before. He had actually preached a sermon on the passage when Pastor Luke was away and received great feedback from the congregation.

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Joshua 5:9-12
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Mark Ellingsen
Joshua 9:5-12

SermonStudio

Bonnie Bates
It is a well-known cliché that “God never gives us more than we can handle”, but I have sometimes found that not to be so. When my youngest brother died of brain cancer at age five, it was more than I could handle. When my first husband was emotionally and physically abusive, it was more than I could handle. When my second husband and I lost our twin sons at birth, it was more than I could handle. The COVID pandemic was more than we could handle. Wars and violence are often more than we can handle. Homelessness, poverty, grief, and loss are often more than we can handle.
John N. Brittain
I suppose we are all a little bit nervous about the prospect of a sermon on a Bible story as familiar and sometimes as overworked as the Parable of the Prodigal Son. "What can I possibly say that hasn't been said before?" And I know what's going through your minds: "Are we going to be subjected to the same old sermon yet another time?" Confronting a familiar Bible passage like this mid-Lent really serves to address the discipline of reading Scripture as part of our devotional life, particularly passages that are very familiar.
Charles D. Reeb
A. A. Milne, the creator of Winnie the Pooh, wrote a simple, yet telling poem in his work, Now We Are Six:

When I was One, I had just begun.
When I was Two, I was nearly new.
When I was Three, I was hardly Me.
When I was Four, I was not much more.
When I was Five, I was just alive.
But now I am Six, I'm as clever as ever.
So I think I'll be six now for ever and ever.1

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to worship:

 While the Prodigal Son was still far off, his father saw him, ran to him, put his arms around him and kissed him. In our worship today, let us turn to God so that he may run to us, put his arms around and kiss us.

Invitation to confession:

 Jesus, for the times when we run away from you,

Lord, have mercy.

 Jesus, for the times when we have wasted our inheritance on dissolute living,

Christ, have mercy.

 Jesus, when we return to you,

Lord, have mercy.

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