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The Immediate Word

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Paul Meets Hobby Lobby -- Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul contrasts God’s law with the constraints of human behavior: “
How Far Would You Go? -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2014
A big theme in the lectionary passages for Proper 8 is the question of how far we are willing to
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
What We Fail To Mention -- Genesis 29:15-28, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2014
The opening section of Psalm 105 -- the lectionary’s primary psalm selection for this coming week
More Than A To-Do List -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a rather stern parable about having enough
Wrestling With Hope -- Matthew 14:13-21, Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, a tenacious Jacob is tested by an all-night wrestlin
Stepping Forward In Faith -- Matthew 14:22-33, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Romans 10:5-15 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary passages -- specifically the Genesis and Matthew texts -- illustrate the p
Strangers In A Strange Land -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the curious story of a Syrophoenician woman who plead
Sparking Hope From Bricks Of Oppression / Facing The Monster ... Together -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2014
There’s been no shortage of big headlines this past week, from the stunning news of actor/comedia
Losing And Finding -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2014
The grisly video -- especially for those who could actually bring themselves to watch the “
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip
Paying Up -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2014
While
God's E-Vite -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2014
For more than a week, Hong Kong’s main thoroughfares have been filled to overflowing each night w
Does Marriage Belong To Caesar? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2014
In a move that surprised some observers, last week the Supreme Court refused to hear appeals to l
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren

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The Immediate Word

Strangers In A Strange Land -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the curious story of a Syrophoenician woman who plead
Sparking Hope From Bricks Of Oppression / Facing The Monster ... Together -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2014
There’s been no shortage of big headlines this past week, from the stunning news of actor/comedia
Losing And Finding -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2014
The grisly video -- especially for those who could actually bring themselves to watch the “
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip
Paying Up -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2014
While
God's E-Vite -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2014
For more than a week, Hong Kong’s main thoroughfares have been filled to overflowing each night w
Does Marriage Belong To Caesar? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2014
In a move that surprised some observers, last week the Supreme Court refused to hear appeals to l
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- The Nativity of our Lord - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Stuck In The Fear-Filled Wilderness / Are We Scared Yet? -- Matthew 20:1-16, Exodus 16:2-15, Philippians 1:21-30 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2014
A pair of topics have dominated the news headlines this past week.
The Debt Penalty: Pay The Fine Or Do The Time -- Romans 13:8-14, Matthew 18:15-20, Exodus 12:1-14 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul reminds us once again of our call to look beyond our own self
Candle Trimmed And Burning -- Matthew 2:1-12, Ephesians 3:1-12, Isaiah 60:1-6, Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany of the Lord - C -- 2013
On this first Sunday of 2013, we celebrate the Epiphany of Our Lord -- and the lectionary readings t
Wade In The Water... Jesus??? -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22, Acts 8:14-17, Isaiah 43:1-7, Psalm 29 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2013
This Sunday the lectionary calendar spotlights the Baptism of Jesus -- a seminal event that marks hi
Not Keeping Silent -- John 2:1-11, 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Isaiah 62:1-5, Psalm 36:5-10 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - C -- 2013
This Sunday is January 20th -- the traditional date for presidential inaugurations in the United Sta

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The Immediate Word

How Far Would You Go? -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2014
A big theme in the lectionary passages for Proper 8 is the question of how far we are willing to
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
What We Fail To Mention -- Genesis 29:15-28, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2014
The opening section of Psalm 105 -- the lectionary’s primary psalm selection for this coming week
More Than A To-Do List -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a rather stern parable about having enough
Wrestling With Hope -- Matthew 14:13-21, Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, a tenacious Jacob is tested by an all-night wrestlin
Stepping Forward In Faith -- Matthew 14:22-33, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Romans 10:5-15 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary passages -- specifically the Genesis and Matthew texts -- illustrate the p
Strangers In A Strange Land -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the curious story of a Syrophoenician woman who plead
Sparking Hope From Bricks Of Oppression / Facing The Monster ... Together -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2014
There’s been no shortage of big headlines this past week, from the stunning news of actor/comedia
Losing And Finding -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2014
The grisly video -- especially for those who could actually bring themselves to watch the “
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip
Paying Up -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2014
While
God's E-Vite -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2014
For more than a week, Hong Kong’s main thoroughfares have been filled to overflowing each night w
Does Marriage Belong To Caesar? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2014
In a move that surprised some observers, last week the Supreme Court refused to hear appeals to l
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren
The Garments Of Righteousness / As The Clock Strikes Midnight -- Isaiah 62:10--62:3, Ecclesiastes 3:1-13, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:22-40 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- First Sunday after Christmas Day - B -- 2014
With so much important news occurring in the past week -- and lectionary texts that provide excel

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The Immediate Word

Paul Meets Hobby Lobby -- Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul contrasts God’s law with the constraints of human behavior: “
How Far Would You Go? -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2014
A big theme in the lectionary passages for Proper 8 is the question of how far we are willing to
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
What We Fail To Mention -- Genesis 29:15-28, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2014
The opening section of Psalm 105 -- the lectionary’s primary psalm selection for this coming week
More Than A To-Do List -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a rather stern parable about having enough
Wrestling With Hope -- Matthew 14:13-21, Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, a tenacious Jacob is tested by an all-night wrestlin
Stepping Forward In Faith -- Matthew 14:22-33, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Romans 10:5-15 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary passages -- specifically the Genesis and Matthew texts -- illustrate the p
Strangers In A Strange Land -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the curious story of a Syrophoenician woman who plead
Sparking Hope From Bricks Of Oppression / Facing The Monster ... Together -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2014
There’s been no shortage of big headlines this past week, from the stunning news of actor/comedia
Losing And Finding -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2014
The grisly video -- especially for those who could actually bring themselves to watch the “
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip
Paying Up -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2014
While
God's E-Vite -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2014
For more than a week, Hong Kong’s main thoroughfares have been filled to overflowing each night w
Does Marriage Belong To Caesar? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2014
In a move that surprised some observers, last week the Supreme Court refused to hear appeals to l
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren

Pages

Worship

The Immediate Word

Paul Meets Hobby Lobby -- Romans 8:1-11, Genesis 25:19-34, Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 -- Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - A -- 2014
In this week’s Romans passage, Paul contrasts God’s law with the constraints of human behavior: “
How Far Would You Go? -- Matthew 10:40-42, Romans 6:12-23, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Genesis 22:1-14 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2014
A big theme in the lectionary passages for Proper 8 is the question of how far we are willing to
Lightening The Load -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus addresses our penchant for criticizing others with two vivid il
Powers Plenipotentiary -- Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11, John 1:6-8, 19-28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24, Psalm 126 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Third Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
In the opening verses of this week’s Isaiah text, the prophet announces his calling -- saying tha
What We Fail To Mention -- Genesis 29:15-28, Psalm 105:1-11, 45b, Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Romans 8:26-39 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2014
The opening section of Psalm 105 -- the lectionary’s primary psalm selection for this coming week
More Than A To-Do List -- Matthew 25:1-13, Psalm 78:1-7, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary gospel passage, Jesus tells a rather stern parable about having enough
Wrestling With Hope -- Matthew 14:13-21, Genesis 32:22-31, Romans 9:1-5, Psalm 17:1-7, 15 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary text from Genesis, a tenacious Jacob is tested by an all-night wrestlin
Stepping Forward In Faith -- Matthew 14:22-33, Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28, Romans 10:5-15 -- Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary passages -- specifically the Genesis and Matthew texts -- illustrate the p
Strangers In A Strange Land -- Matthew 15:(10-20) 21-28, Genesis 45:1-15, Romans 11:1-2a, 29-32, Psalm 133 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - A -- 2014
This week’s lectionary gospel text features the curious story of a Syrophoenician woman who plead
Sparking Hope From Bricks Of Oppression / Facing The Monster ... Together -- Matthew 16:13-20, Romans 12:1-8, Exodus 1:8--2:10, Psalm 124 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2014
There’s been no shortage of big headlines this past week, from the stunning news of actor/comedia
Losing And Finding -- Matthew 16:21-28, Romans 12:9-21, Exodus 3:1-15 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2014
The grisly video -- especially for those who could actually bring themselves to watch the “
For All The Saints -- Matthew 5:1-12, Matthew 23:1-12, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- All Saints Day - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
With The Mind Of Christ -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16), Matthew 5:13-20, Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12) -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary reading from First Corinthians, Paul continues his discourse on how God
Seventy-Seven And More -- Matthew 18:21-35, Exodus 14:19-31, Romans 14:1-12 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2014
In this week’s lectionary passage from Romans, Paul -- who is capable of being extremely judgment
By What Authority? -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - A -- 2014
As if the NFL didn’t already have enough on its hands dealing with the uproar over the video clip
Paying Up -- Matthew 21:23-32, Philippians 2:1-13, Exodus 17:1-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2014
While
God's E-Vite -- Matthew 22:1-14, Philippians 4:1-9, Exodus 32:1-14, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2014
For more than a week, Hong Kong’s main thoroughfares have been filled to overflowing each night w
Does Marriage Belong To Caesar? -- Matthew 22:15-22, Exodus 33:12-23, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2014
In a move that surprised some observers, last week the Supreme Court refused to hear appeals to l
Ups And Mary: A Story Of Delivery / Fear Not! -- Luke 1:46b-55, Luke 2:1-14 (15-20), Romans 16:25-27, Isaiah 9:2-7 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
To provide you with a full complement of resources, this installment of The Immediate Wor
Ebola 2014: A Test Of The Heart -- Matthew 22:34-46, 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8, Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- Christopher Keating, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2014
In this week’s epistle passage, Paul compares the gentleness and caring that should characterize
For All The Saints -- Matthew 23:1-12, 1 Thessalonians 2:9-13, Joshua 3:7-17, Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Ron Love, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - A -- 2014
Many congregations will be celebrating All Saints Sunday this week -- and in this installment of
All In -- Matthew 25:14-30, 1 Thessalonians 5:1-11, Judges 4:1-7, Psalm 123 -- Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed, Ron Love, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2014
Like last week’s lectionary gospel passage, the parable of the talents seems to go against the gr
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
A Feast Fit For A King? -- Matthew 25:31-46, 2 Corinthians 9:6-15, Deuteronomy 8:7-18 -- Christopher Keating, Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love, George Reed -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2014
Thanksgiving Day comes on the heels of Christ the King Sunday, and so some congregations will inc
Tidings Of Comfort -- Isaiah 40:1-11, Mark 1:1-8, 2 Peter 3:8-15a, Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Leah Lonsbury, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Second Sunday of Advent - B -- 2014
It’s been more than a week since the announcement that Ferguson, Missouri, police officer Darren

Pages

Liturgy

UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Lent 2
30 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
30 – Children's Sermons / Resources
29 – Worship Resources
34 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Lent 3
29 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
27 – Children's Sermons / Resources
20 – Worship Resources
29 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Lent 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
Christopher Keating
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
George Reed
Dean Feldmeyer
For March 8, 2026:

SermonStudio

Marian R. Plant
David G. Plant
Somewhere in my life I heard someone say something like, “The challenge with John (the gospel writer) is he is better at theatre than at writing.” The implications of this comment were about passages such as this one about Jesus and the woman of Samaria.
Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
Jesus reaches across every racial and cultural barrier, offering salvation to all.

Old Testament Lesson
Exodus 17:1-7
Water From A Rock
Russell F. Anderson
BRIEF COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONS

Lesson 1: Exodus 17:1--7 (C, E); Exodus 17:3--7 (RC)
Lee Griess
Streams of living water ... That's what the Son of God offered the Samaritan woman at the well, and that's what he offers us as well -- streams of living water -- life-giving, life-renewing, life-refreshing water that can satisfy those who drink so that we will never thirst again. We are offered water that satisfies our longings in life, water that nourishes our innermost selves, and water that comes from an active, living trust in God and a passionate faith in Christ.
Frank Luchsinger
Enter your password -- flashed up on the computer screen. The pastor was trying to show some of his parishioners the church's new web page. With pride he had gathered them into his office after the Christian Education Committee meeting. He paused. "I don't do this very often ... We may have to try this another time," he said disappointed. "Try 'church,' " someone says, looking over his shoulder. The pastor types c - h - u - r - c - h. Amazingly the internet connection pops up on the screen. A password is a secret word given to gain entry. It can mean security.
Richard E. Gribble, CSC
Knowledge that water is an integral ingredient of life was a concept not lost on the ancients. The great civilizations of the world located themselves near water and used it in most every aspect of their daily lives. The Egyptians built the world's first great empire along the Nile. In the midst of the desert a flourishing community existed and grew in size and strength. The water of the river provided the source of life for the people then as it does today. On both sides of the Nile a rich and fertile area exists for farming and grazing of livestock.
Mark Ellingsen
Jesus and his weather-beaten band of wandering disciples were still heading north and had been for some days. To some extent Jesus had decided to get out of Judea, where he had been working, in order to avoid competition with John the Baptist in that region.
Harry N. Huxhold
One of the most colorful, exciting, and stirring scenes in all of the scriptures is the call of the prophet Isaiah. The account is dated in the year that King Uzziah died. That does not necessarily mean Uzziah was already dead. This scene could have taken place in the temple during a religious festival such as New Year's Day. At such a festival, the cultic ceremonies honored the divine king being enthroned as conqueror of all the enemies of the people.
Dallas A. Brauninger
First Lesson: Exodus 17:1-7
Theme: With Us Or Not?

Call To Worship

Two sides comprise every journey: the found side during which we trust in God's care, and the lost side where we fear that alone we will not make it through. At the worst, we scuffle and fuss within the confines of confusion, then shout, "Are you here with us or not, God?" At the best, we quiet down, hear God's voice in the silence, and proceed with hope. Wherever you are on your present journey, know that, here, you are welcome.

Collect
Wayne H. Keller
The Community Gathers

Invitation to the Celebration

Why have you come to worship today? Out of habit? To see your friends? To enjoy the singing? To hear the sermon? To learn something? To get help for the coming week? To restore your sense of values? For 100 other reasons? (Pause.) And, now that we're here, let us worship, in the Name of God the Parent, God the Child, God the Spirit. And all the people said, "Right on!"

Response

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus said, "The hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him." Let us pray that we may be true worshippers today.
Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, when we try to hide from you, forgive us.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, when we fail to worship in spirit and in truth, forgive us.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, when we neglect to reveal you to others, forgive us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt
Contents
What's Up This Week
Sermon Starters: "Crossing Lines" / "Meeting a Prophet"
Shining Moments: "Water Sign" by Anne Sunday
Scrap Pile: "Healing the Soul" by John Sumwalt


What's Up This Week
by John Sumwalt
Keith Hewitt
Timothy Smith
Contents

What's Up This Week
"Testing One, Two, Three..." by Keith Hewitt
"The Account" by Keith Hewitt
"Set Free" by Timothy Smith


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

After the bombing of a building in Oklahoma City, an earthquake or a department store implosion in Japan, rescuers hurry. They do so to alleviate the pain of the survivors, to certify the hopes and fears of those who are related to victims of the disaster, and ...
Wayne Brouwer
Schuyler Rhodes
Here's a parable by a cartoonist named Saxon. It's about a fellow who has just reached retirement. Now he wonders about his place in society. He begins to spend much of his weekend time walking alone in the woods. One day he finds himself on an unfamiliar path that leads him to a small pond. As he stands beside the pond, the water begins to stir and bubble until there is a lovely little fountain. Astonishingly, a voice calls out to him: "Arnold Flagler! This is the Fountain of Youth!"

Special Occasion

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