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Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B

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Children's Activity

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The most special place -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
SHARING THIS WEEK'S GOSPEL THEME AT SUNDAY SCHOOL AND AT HOMEMaterials:
Heart, soul, mind, strength -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Teachers: Use the portion of scripture, "Love the Lord with

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark:12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark:12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B

Commentary

Emphasis Preaching Journal

How Much I Love You -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
Young children are often fascinated by the effort to quantify love.
There's Always Somebody to Help -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
Ruth 1:1-18
Values clarification -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
Note: Because of a scheduling error, we are highlighting this commentary from 2006 by David Kala
Locating the heart -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
The Q&A is familiar.
'And I mean to be one too' -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Bass M. Mitchell -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Today is All Saints Sunday.
Values clarification -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- David Kalas -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
Sometimes in conversation with friends, we will amuse ourselves -- or torment ourselves
A story for mean-spirited times -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1994
In the decade of the 50s, when one biblical epic after another came out of Hollywood, 20th Century F

Children's bulletin

Gospel Grams 2

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark:12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B

Gospel Grams 1

Children's Activity Bulletin: Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark:12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B

Children's Liturgy and Story

The Village Shepherd

Mo's Love For God -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Call to Worship: Jesus told us to love God and to love our neighbours as ourselves.

Children's sermon

CSSPlus

Howdy Neighbor! -- Mark 12:28-34 -- John Jamison -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
Object: A printed permit of some type, a small bowl, a coin, and an ID card or driv
The Most Important Rule! -- Mark 12:28-34 -- John Jamison -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating.
Love in Two Colors -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Arley K. Fadness -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
“You shall love the Lord your God....and your neighbor as yourself.” (v.
Love God and Others -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
The Point: Loving God and others are the two most important commands in life
The Most Important Thing -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Anna Shirey -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
First Thoughts: It all comes down to love, doesn't it?
Only once -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
He entered once for all into the Holy Place, not with the blood of goats and calves,
The most special place -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
When Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God.
Jesus: our once for all -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Suggestion: If there is a golfer in the congregation, suggest
Love your neighbor -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Good morning, boys and girls. How many of you ever have to

Free Access

The Courage to Welcome the Foreigner -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
For November 3, 2024:
The Most Important Rule! -- Mark 12:28-34 -- John Jamison -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating.

The Immediate Word

Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Loving The Not So Lovable -- Mark 12:28-34, Hebrews 9:11-14, Ruth 1:1-18, Psalm 146 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me...

Children's Story

The Village Shepherd

That's Not What You Told Me! -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Nutman the squirrel was sitting quietly at the feet of Wise Owl.

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That's Not What You Told Me! -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Nutman the squirrel was sitting quietly at the feet of Wise Owl.

Devotional

SermonStudio

Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
Ruth 1:1-18
Proper 26 -- Mark 12:28-34 -- William W. Helland -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Mark 12:28-34

Drama

SermonStudio

Right Next Door -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Robert F. Crowley -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Theme

Illustration

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Sermon Illustrations for Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 (2024) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
Ruth 1:1-18
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 (2021) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
Ruth 1:1-18
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 (2018) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
Ruth 1:1-18
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 (2015) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Bonnie Bates, Bill Thomas, Mark Ellingsen, Bob Ove, Ron Love, Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
Ruth 1:1-18
Sermon Illustrations for Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 (2012) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark J. Molldrem, Ron Love, Cynthia E. Cowen, Bob Ove, Mark Ellingsen, Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Ruth 1:1-18
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Vera was a unique woman. During her marriage she birthed two natural sons.
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
There is a saying: "Mind your thoughts for they become words.
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
When we lived in Nepal there were families being torn apart by intermarriage.
NULL -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Ron Love -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) in July 2012 cast her 5,000th consecutive vote in the Senate.
NULL -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Richard A. Hasler -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
In her book The Undoing of Death, Fleming Rutledge explores the meaning of the cross by refer
NULL -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
A 2008 Pew Forum poll revealed that 65% of the American public believe that many religions (not just
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Bob Ove -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
I have often had church members ask me, "How can I love God with my heart, soul, strength, and mind
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Cynthia E. Cowen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Wherever Anne went, she ran each morning.
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Ron Love -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Donald Sadoway, 62, is an MIT engineer. His specialty is liquid-metal batteries.
NULL -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark J. Molldrem -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Consider the shape of the cross; it visually summarizes for us the two great commandments.
In WWII, Nora Lam's family... -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
In WWII, Nora Lam's family fled from Japanese-occupied China. After 37 days and
The journey from Moab to... -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
The journey from Moab to Bethlehem was no small undertaking, especially for an elderly
Some unknown writer left these... -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
Some unknown writer left these beautiful words about friendship:
Most pastors cringe when a... -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
Most pastors cringe when a couple comes to get married and requests this scripture to be
William Willimon tells a story... -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
William Willimon tells a story that took place at the Field Museum in Chicago, where his

StoryShare

Wait! Who Wrote That? -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
But Ruth said, “Do not press me to leave you, to turn back from following you!

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The Courage to Welcome the Foreigner -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
For November 3, 2024:

The Immediate Word

Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec

Intercession

The Village Shepherd

God Of Creation, Every Branch Of Your Church Tends To Think It Has The Whole Truth... -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

Poems

SermonStudio

Proper 26 -- Mark 12:28-37 -- Andrew Daughters -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
Love God and love your neighbor.'How simple it would seem

Prayer

SermonStudio

The threshold of the Kingdom -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Dennis Koch -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Gospel Note: Neither the singling out of a commandment nor the juxtaposing

Preaching

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The Courage to Welcome the Foreigner -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
For November 3, 2024:

The Immediate Word

Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Loving The Not So Lovable -- Mark 12:28-34, Hebrews 9:11-14, Ruth 1:1-18, Psalm 146 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me...

SermonStudio

Proper 26 / Pentecost 23 / Ordinary Time 31 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Mark Ellingsen -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2011
Theme of the DayThere's always somebody to help.
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / Ordinary Time 31 -- Psalm 146 -- James Evans -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2006
(See Advent 3, Cycle A, for an alternative approach to vv. 5-10.)
Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Carlos Wilton -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Theme For The Day In Jesus Christ, the kingdom of God is near at hand.
Proper 26 (C, E) -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- E. Carver Mcgriff -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
COMMENTARY ON THE LESSONSLesson 1: Ruth 1:1-18 (C)
Getting back to the basics -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Russell F. Anderson -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1996
Theme For The Day: Getting back to the basics, to love God with one's entire being and to love the
Proper 26 -- Psalm 119:33-48 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes, and I will observe it to the end.
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- John R. Brokhoff -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
This is the first of two selections from the book of Ruth. The
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
The very numbering of the Sundays reminds every pastor that the end of the Pentecost cycle/season is
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- George M. Bass -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
The very numbering of the Sundays reminds every pastor that the end of the Pentecost cycle/season is
Proper 26, Pentecost 24, Ordinary Time 31 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Jerry L. Schmalenberger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Seasonal Theme

Sermon

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The Courage to Welcome the Foreigner -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
For November 3, 2024:

The Immediate Word

Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Loving The Not So Lovable -- Mark 12:28-34, Hebrews 9:11-14, Ruth 1:1-18, Psalm 146 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me...

SermonStudio

How to Love God -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Stephen M. Crotts -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2011
In the rock opera Jesus Christ: Superstar, Mary Magdalene sings a song, "I Don't Know How to
Your God Shall Be My God -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Robert A. Hausman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
Like the short story that gave structure to the book of Job, so the book of Ruth is considered to be
The Thing About Laws -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Steven Molin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
Our nation has a lot of stupid laws!
The Eternal Sanctuary -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Patrick J. Rooney -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
It happens week after week, sometimes day after day.
An Odd Couple -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Mary S. Lautensleger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
An Odd Couple
Where Is Love? -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Lee Ann Dunlap -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Several years ago, a fellow named Lionel Bart wrote a hit song, "Where Is Love," for the Broadway mu
The Kin Of Qoheleth -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Stan Purdum -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Today's Gospel Reading is from Mark, but I want to begin in the Old Testament.
Blessing Revealed -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- H. Alan Stewart -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
"Trouble comes in threes," so many people say.
Hanging The Law On Love -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Cathy A. Ammlung -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Compared to some of the pericopes from Mark's Gospel, this one seems a piece of cake.
Blood For Sale? -- Hebrews 9:11-14 -- Harold C. Warlick, Jr. -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Sol Levin recognized the profitable market for safe and uncontaminated blood in America.
The Tale Of Three Women -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- John A. Stroman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Ruth, what a remarkable book.
Baptism and Self-Esteem -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Steven E. Albertin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Every once in awhile I am surprised by a film which offers a message that I never expected.
From Singleness To Solidarity -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Zan W. Holmes, Jr. -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1996
The book of Ruth is one of the world's most beautiful stories of human solidarity in the face of tro
What To Say When You Roll Out Of Bed -- Mark 12:28-34 -- William G. Carter -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1996
A few years ago, a radio station ran a contest.
Less Important Does Not Mean Unimportant -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Arthur H. Kolsti -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
This meeting between Jesus and the unnamed scribe recounted in the gospel lesson for today catches o
A Faith, A Farm And A Family -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- John P. Rossing -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
John Denver wrote a song 20 years ago about wanting to get away from the big city to a place in the
We Haven't Got To Them Yet -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Thomas Peterson -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
People give evidence that they like things to be pure.
Can We Love Too Much? -- Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- John R. Brokhoff, Robert W. Stackel -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
Can we love each other too much? How much is too much?
Proper 26 -- Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- George Paul Mocko -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1987
The Central Proposition; Sugar-coated Love; Little God, Big God; (Some Bible Readings); and How Jesu

The Village Shepherd

Jesus' Response -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Janice B. Scott -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Two or three weeks ago we had the gospel story of the rich young man who ran up to Jesus and asked

Stories

StoryShare

Wait! Who Wrote That? -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
But Ruth said, “Do not press me to leave you, to turn back from following you!
Living Within Limits -- Ruth 1:1-18, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Keith Wagner -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2018
Contents “Living Within Limits” by Keith Wagner
Devotion -- Mark 12:28-34, Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Psalm 146 -- Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
Contents "Devotion" by Sandra HerrmannDevotion
How Sharp Are Your Knives? -- Mark 12:28-34, Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Psalm 146 -- C. David Mckirachan, Lamar Massingill -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
Contents"How Sharp Are Your Knives?" by C. David McKirachan
The Scribe -- Mark 12:28-34, Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Psalm 146 -- Larry Winebrenner, David O. Bales, Frank Ramirez, Lamar Massingill, Sandra Herrmann -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2009
ContentsWhat's Up This Week "The Scribe" by Larry Winebrenner
I Shall Always Be Near You -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Psalm 146 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Contents A Story to Live By: "I Shall Always Be Near You"
Innocent Until Proven Guilty -- Mark 12:28-34, Hebrews 9:11-14, Ruth 1:1-18, Psalm 146 -- C. David Mckirachan, David O. Bales, Terry Cain -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
ContentsWhat's Up This Week

SermonStudio

A Wonderful Mother (-In-Law) -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
You have heard the classic definition of mixed emotions: watching your mother-in-law drive off a cli
The Tale Of Two Farmers -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Gregory L. Tolle -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
The Tale Of Two Farmers
Where You Go, I Will Go -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Constance Berg -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Riley loved her family. She was very close to her parents and sisters and brothers.
Laying Down The Law -- Deuteronomy 6:1-9; Hebrews 9:11-14 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jo Perry-Sumwalt -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1996
Awards Sunday was the biggest annual event at Calvary Church.
Mazuza Consciousness -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Peter C. Garrison -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Jim brought in the last of the boxes from the moving van.

Worship

Free Access

The Courage to Welcome the Foreigner -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146, Deuteronomy 6:1-9 -- Thomas Willadsen, Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Mary Austin, Katy Stenta, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2024
For November 3, 2024:

The Immediate Word

Are We There, Yet? -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Christopher Keating, Thomas Willadsen, Mary Austin, George Reed, Katy Stenta -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2021
For October 31, 2021:
Praise The Lord And Pass The Ammunition -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Dean Feldmeyer, Robin Lostetter, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, George Reed, Mary Austin -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2015
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
No More Polls, No More Ads, No More Politicians' Dirty Looks -- Mark 12:28-34, John 11:32-44, Revelation 21:1-6a -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2012
(This installment contains material for All Saints Day and Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 | Pentec
Loving The Not So Lovable -- Mark 12:28-34, Hebrews 9:11-14, Ruth 1:1-18, Psalm 146 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me...

SermonStudio

Praise To The Lord -- Psalm 146 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2008
1. Praise to the Lord, my soul delights in praising
Theme: Life In A Dead End -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Call To Worship One: Life is filled with sorrows.All:
Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 -- Ruth 1:1-8, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34, Psalm 146 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipPsalm 146 Leader: Praise the Lord.People:
Proper 26 -- Frank Ramirez -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Call To Worship (based on Revelation 1:8)
Faithfulness -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 2002
Call To WorshipLeader: Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, O my soul!
Secure -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1999
Call To Worship
Proper 26 -- Ruth 1:1-18, Hebrews 9:11-14, Mark 12:28-34 -- James R. Wilson -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1996
Call To Worship
Naomi And Ruth -- Ruth 1:1-18 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1993
Suggestions:Use in ordinary sequence with the scripture reading.
The Great Commandment: Love God, and others as you love yourself. -- Mark 12:28-37 -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B -- 1990
Pastoral Invitation to the CelebrationSuggestion:
The Greatest Commandment -- Mark 12:28-34 -- Wayne H. Keller -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - B
Celebrating God's Presence And Power
UPCOMING WEEKS
In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Lent 5
20 – Sermons
170+ – Illustrations / Stories
26 – Children's Sermons / Resources
24 – Worship Resources
20 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Passion/Palm Sunday
34 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
32 – Children's Sermons / Resources
26 – Worship Resources
31 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Maundy Thursday
15 – Sermons
160+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
11 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Good Friday
20 – Sermons
150+ – Illustrations / Stories
18 – Children's Sermons / Resources
10 – Worship Resources
18 – Commentary / Exegesis
4 – Pastor's Devotions
and more...
Plus thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...

New & Featured This Week

The Immediate Word

Mary Austin
Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
George Reed
Katy Stenta
For April 6, 2025:

CSSPlus

John Jamison
Object: A small pillow or cushion, a bowl, and a jar.

NOTE: This is a simple role-play story. You will need one boy to play the role of Jesus, and one girl to play the role of Mary. Since these are not speaking roles, this may be an opportunity to have a child help who might be hesitant to do a more involved role.

* * *

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

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Frank Ramirez
This is not the same old thing. This is something new. Isaiah tells us to forget the old standards of life and truth. Our God conquers, so no longer judge the old way. Paul in prison says pretty much the same thing. And in the first supper, which takes place in the home of Martha, with Mary, Jesus, and the newly resurrected Lazarus in attendance, we see the world turned upside down as well. Something new. Something new.

Isaiah 43:16-21
Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Isaiah 43:16-21

StoryShare

John E. Sumwalt
Jesus said, “Leave her alone. She bought it so that she might keep it for the day of my burial. You always have the poor with you, but you do not always have me.” (vv. 7-8)

The first time I saw one of the “He Gets Us” Jesus ads during the Super Bowl two years ago, I sat up and said to my wife, Jo, “This is great! I wonder who is sponsoring this.” When I found out who, and what their motives were, I was deeply disappointed.

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to worship:

When Mary of Bethany anointed Jesus' feet with oil, the whole house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. As we worship God today, may this whole church be filled with the fragrance of our prayers.

Invitation to confession:

Jesus, sometimes we fail to notice or appreciate beauty.

Lord, have mercy.

Jesus, sometimes we resent the actions of others and are spiteful towards them.

Christ, have mercy.

SermonStudio

Gregory L. Tolle
For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things, and I regard them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but one that comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God based on faith. I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by becoming like him in his death, if somehow I may attain the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own. (vv. 8b--12)
Schuyler Rhodes
There's nothing quite as wonderful as looking at an old car that's been restored to its former luster. A 1932 Ford Victoria Coupe, rumbling down the road brings a thrill. The rust has been cleaned off, the torn upholstery replaced, and missing windows have been installed. It is a work of art. It is also a work of love. Such restoration projects, as anyone involved in them can attest, are not for the weak of heart. Restoring a classic automobile requires painstaking attention to detail and the patience of Job.
Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
Worship is a blessed waste of time.

Old Testament Lesson
Isaiah 43:16-21
A New Thing
Donald Charles Lacy
In our spiritual voyages, surprises -- sometimes outlandishly -- come to us. We scratch our heads and wonder if what we are experiencing is fact or fiction. It may or may not be a time of inspiration. However, it may be one of instruction, as we view it in retrospect. You and I are to remember that every occurrence may very well be a teaching event.

David Kalas
In December of every year, the Downtown Athletic Club in New York City awards the coveted Heisman Trophy. Voted on by over 800 media members, the Heisman is awarded to the most outstanding college football player during that season. Past recipients have included such notables as Roger Staubach, Marcus Allen, and Barry Sanders. It is a great honor, and it represents the broad and non-partisan recognition of a player's outstanding season.
Julia Ross Strope
You shall pass judgment on yourself. That is the hardest thing of all ...
If you succeed in judging yourself, it is because you are truly wise.
(The king on a planet to the prince)
-- Saint Exupery, The Little Prince

Call To Worship
Leader: You're here! Winter seems displaced by the new growth of spring. This is the fifth Sunday in Lent -- with one more to come: Palm Sunday.

(Candles counting the Sundays in Lent can be lighted.)

Special Occasion

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