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Commentary

Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
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.
Who Are These? -- Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Roger Lovette -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
Lectionary texts for the Easter season, including all of them for this Sunday, reflect the resurrect
Shepherding Models Of Leadership -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Boyd Click -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Resisting The Cure -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Chris Ewing -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A
As the medical community anxiously scans the horizon for signs of the promised flu pandemic, attenti
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them

SermonStudio

When He's Here -- Psalm 23 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
It was Father's Day and the minister had gathered the children around him at the altar, including hi
The Shepherd Is Alive! -- John 10:17b-18, 10, 28, Psalm 23 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2001
Jesus, our Good Shepherd, is alive!
Jesus Is The Gate -- John 10:9, Psalm 23 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2001
It is through Jesus, the Good Shepherd, that we become part of his flock.
The Shepherd King -- Psalm 23 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.

Free Access

The Shepherd King -- Psalm 23 -- Robert B. Lantz -- 1997
Good morning, boys and girls.

Death

Devotional

Drama

Home Blessing

Illustration

The Immediate Word

The Well-Tuned Ear -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, Christopher Keating, Ron Love, Leah Lonsbury, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2014
In this week’s gospel text, Jesus tells us that he is the shepherd and gatekeeper for the sheep.
How Wide Do We Draw Our Circles? -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Leah Lonsbury, Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, Christopher Keating, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2014
A great deal of the wrangling in this week’s gospel text is centered on the issue of who is deser
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
Shepherds Good And Bad -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Mary Austin, George Reed, Leah Lonsbury, Ron Love -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2013
As this week's material was being prepared and posted, we learned of the distressing bombings in Bos
Shepherds And Crooks -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2012
This Sunday is often colloquially referred to as "Good Shepherd Sunday" because of the lectionary te
Free Sermon Illustrations From The Immediate Word For April 3, 2011 -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
>The story is told of ten-year-old Tillie, whose parents had decided to take her to the beach for
Surprise! Surprise! -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Roger Lovette, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2011
In this week's Old Testament passage the Lord sends Samuel out on a secret mission to anoint a new k
Shepherds And Seals -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Austin, Dean Feldmeyer, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2011
With the lectionary texts for the Fourth Sunday of Easter featuring the 23rd Psalm and the passage f
Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
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.
Who Are These? -- Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Roger Lovette -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
Lectionary texts for the Easter season, including all of them for this Sunday, reflect the resurrect
Shepherding Models Of Leadership -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Boyd Click -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Resisting The Cure -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Chris Ewing -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A
As the medical community anxiously scans the horizon for signs of the promised flu pandemic, attenti
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them

Prayer

Preaching

The Immediate Word

Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
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.
Who Are These? -- Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Roger Lovette -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
Lectionary texts for the Easter season, including all of them for this Sunday, reflect the resurrect
Shepherding Models Of Leadership -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Boyd Click -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Resisting The Cure -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Chris Ewing -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A
As the medical community anxiously scans the horizon for signs of the promised flu pandemic, attenti
Car-Nation And Christianity -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
The Good Shepherd Faces Violence -- John 10:22-30, Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- Paul Bresnahan, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
This week's lectionary readings (especially Psalm 23 and John 10:22-30) are centered around the them

SermonStudio

Psalm 23 -- Psalm 23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
This psalm sits with incredible familiarity on the couch next to us.
Psalm 23 -- Psalm 23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
My daughter hates going down into our basement.
Psalm 23 -- Psalm 23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Today's psalm is a poem for those who have planted their standard in the ground.
Psalm 23 -- Psalm 23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
What Sunday school child cannot recite this psalm?
Good Shepherd/Death Disarmed/Heavenly Festival -- Psalm 23 -- 2006
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- James Evans -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycle B, for alternative approaches.)
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Stan Purdum -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2006
(See Lent 4, Cycle A, and Easter 4, Cycles B and C, for alternative approaches.)
Lent 4 -- Psalm 23 -- James Evans, Stan Purdum, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2006
(See Easter 4, Cycles A, B, and C, for alternative approaches.)
A Sheep Of Your Own Flock -- Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 121, Psalm 23, John 10:11-16 -- Barbara G. Schmitz -- 1995
A Funeral Homily For The Season After Pentecost*
A Dwelling Place -- Psalm 27:1, 5-12, 17-18, Psalm 23, Psalm 84 -- Barbara G. Schmitz -- 1995
A Funeral Homily For The Season After Pentecost
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
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.
Who Are These? -- Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Roger Lovette -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
Lectionary texts for the Easter season, including all of them for this Sunday, reflect the resurrect
Shepherding Models Of Leadership -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- Mary Boyd Click -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A
Dear Fellow Preacher,
Resisting The Cure -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Chris Ewing -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A
As the medical community anxiously scans the horizon for signs of the promised flu pandemic, attenti

SermonStudio

See You At The Party -- Romans 8:31ff, Psalm 23 -- Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a young man killed in a car accidentSee You At The Party
The Sacrifice Of Love -- Psalm 23 -- Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a grandmother in comparison to a young girl's death
Channels Of God's Love -- Luke 5:12-26, Romans 8:31-39, Psalm 23, Psalm 27:1-6 -- Joe Barone, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For one who openly acknowledged suffering from AIDS
A Vision Of Heaven -- Isaiah, Psalm 23 -- David A. Davis, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a young person who suffered a cruel disease
The Eternal God Is Thy Refuge -- Hebrews 12:12-13, Deuteronomy, Psalm 23, Psalm 84 -- David A. Davis, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For a person who had endured much pain
Flock With A Future -- Psalm 23 -- Richard F. Bansemer, Charles Cammarata -- 2006
For recognizing the Lord as our shepherdFlock With A Future
We Remember And Anticipate -- Psalm 23 -- Anthology -- 1998
for a neighbor, friend, and momMichael B. Brown
A Time To Be Born, A Time To Die -- John 14:1-6, 1 Corinthians 12:27-13:13, Psalm 23 -- Anthology -- 1998
for an elderly church memberCharles J. Lopez, Jr.
What To Do About The Loss Of Someone Precious -- Psalm 23 -- Richard E. Zajac -- 1998
... though I walk through the darkest valley...
Channels Of God's Love -- Psalm 23, Psalm 27:1-6, Luke 5:12-26, Romans 8:31-39 -- Joe Barone -- 1995
People who attend funerals in situations such as this often have a lot of unasked questions.
The God Of The Past, The Present, And The Future -- Genesis 15:12-15, Psalm 23, Revelation 22:1-5 -- Joe Barone -- 1995
I had an old friend once who told me, "When I go to a funeral I go to hear about a loving God." And
In The Valley -- Psalm 23, Psalm 94, Revelation 7:13-17 -- Joe Barone -- 1995
Sometimes we need the refuge of familiar Scripture.
Channels Of God's Love -- Psalm 23, Psalm 27:1-6, Luke 5:12-26, Romans 8:31-39 -- Joe Barone -- 1995
People who attend funerals in situations such as this often have a lot of unasked questions.
Death And Birth -- Psalm 23, 1 Corinthians 13, John 14:1-7 -- Anthology, Henry G. Brinton -- 1994
Two things you can never predict with precision are birth and death.
Mystery Of Death -- Psalm 121, Psalm 23 -- John A. Terry, Anthology -- 1994
Opening
The Key To Confident Living -- Psalm 23 -- Erskine White -- 1990
Have you ever noticed how some people go through life full of confidence and vigor, no matter what h
Dealing With Suicide For a Man in His Sixties -- Psalm 23, Philippians 4:4-13 -- Anthology, Louis M. Pratt -- 1989
The death of a loved one is always a tragedy.
Mercy and Understanding -- Psalm 23 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1987
Cancer death of a shy person
Always Home -- John 14:1-6, Psalm 23, Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1987
Death of a heart-broken spouseOldest member of the church

Stories

SermonStudio

Holy Hands -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2004
David Michael Smith
Life-giving Plasma -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, Harold Weaver -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2003
In August of 1966, I visited Germany.
Surely Goodness And Mercy -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, Jo Perry-Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1996
As a child psychologist, I have the privilege of meeting and speaking with a great many people.
God Restores My Soul -- Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt, John E. Sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
A few weeks ago, I started reading a psalm a day as part of my daily devotions.

StoryShare

Life-Giving Plasma -- Psalm 23, Matthew 28:1-10 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Easter Day - B
ContentsA Story to Live By: "Life-Giving Plasma" by Harold Weaver
Good Shepherds -- John 10:1-10, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A
Acts 2:42-47 Psalm 23 1 Peter 2:19-25 John 10:1-10
Here's Mud In Your Eye -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A
Contents What's Up This Week A Story to Live By: "Here's Mud in Your Eye"
Picture Of Peace -- Acts 9:36-43, John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Psalm 23 -- John E. Sumwalt And Jo Perry-sumwalt -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
A Story to Live By Picture of Peace
Dumb Woolies -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- C. David Mckirachan, Stan Purdum, Gregory L. Tolle -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C
ContentsWhat's Up This Week "Dumb Woolies" by C. David McKirachan
As Much As Jesus Loves His Sheep... -- John 10:11-18, 1 John 3:16-24, Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23 -- Constance Berg, Charles Cammarata, Peter C. Garrison -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B
Contents What's Up This Week

Worship

The Immediate Word

Conquering Fear -- John 10:22-30, Revelation 7:9-17, Acts 9:36-43, Psalm 23 -- Dean Feldmeyer, Ron Love, George Reed -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2010
This week's lectionary texts, particularly Psalm 23 and the Revelations passage, are often used at f
Faith In A Sea Of Violence -- John 9:1-41, Ephesians 5:8-14, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carlos Wilton -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Violence is all around us.
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.

SermonStudio

Easter 4 -- Acts 9:36-43, Revelation 7:9-17, John 10:22-30, Psalm 23 -- Julia Ross Strope -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
The Easter story is about the triumph of creativity.
O My Good Shepherd -- Psalm 23 -- Clyde W. Wentzell -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2008
1. O my Good Shepherd, O Lord of my soul, Keep me forever beneath your control.
Easter 4 -- John 10:1-10, Acts 2:42-47, 1 Peter 2:19-25, Psalm 23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Lent 4 -- John 9:1-41, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Confessional LitanyDivide the congregation into two voices.
Proper 23 / Ordinary Time 28 / Pentecost 18 -- Matthew 22:1-14, Isaiah 25:1-9, Philippians 4:1-9, Psalm 23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of Confession And Absolution
Call To Worship -- Psalm 23 -- 2006
(I don't know that you can find better words to open a funeral service than those of the Psalm 23.
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 4:5-12, 1 John 3:16-24, John 10:11-18, Psalm 23 -- Charles And Donna Cammarata -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 2005
Call To WorshipFrom 1 John 3:16-24.Leader:
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2004
HymnsLet Us Break Bread Together (NCH330, CBH618)
Fourth Sunday In Lent -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Beverly S. Bailey -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2004
HymnsGod Of The Prophets (NCH358)Gentle Shepherd (CBH352)
Fourth Sunday In Lent -- Psalm 23 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2001
Words Of Assurance
Fourth Sunday Of Easter -- Psalm 23 -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2001
Words Of Assurance
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER -- Acts 4:5-12, Psalm 23, 1 John 3:16-24 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - B -- 1993
* CALL TO WORSHIPApproach God with confidence. Do what God approves and ask what
The Lord Is My Shepherd -- Psalm 23 -- Dallas A. Brauninger -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
Suggestions:Use before the pastoral prayer.
FOURTH SUNDAY IN LENT -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Psalm 23, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Fourth Sunday of Easter -- Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- B. David Hostetter -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1992
CALL TO WORSHIP
Easter 4 -- Psalm 23 -- Hugh H. Drennan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 1991
The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.He makes me lie down in green pastures;
The Church as community -- Acts 2:42-47, Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: The picture of the earliest Church painted here refers almost exclusively to its li
God's "X-ray" vision -- 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, Psalm 23, John 9:1-41 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: The key contrast in this wonderful story of Samuel's anointing of David as God's ha
God's fat and lean sheep -- Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24, Psalm 23, 1 Corinthians 15:20-28, Matthew 25:31-46 -- Paul A. Laughlin -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 1989
Exegetical note: Speaking as God's voice, Ezekiel lambasts the kings ("shepherds") of Israel whose p
EASTER 4 -- Psalm 23, 1 Peter 2:19-25, John 10:1-10, Acts 2:42-47 -- Norman A. Beck -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 1986
The beautiful Easter theme of "The Lord is Our Shepherd," alluded to in the John 10:1-10 analogies a
LENT 4 -- Psalm 23, 1 Samuel 16:1-13, Ephesians 5:8-14, John 9:1-41 -- Norman A. Beck -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - A -- 1986
Since here, as in the texts selected for Lent 3 in Series A, the Common and the Roman Catholic texts

Free Access

Proper 23 / OT 28 / Pentecost 19 -- Matthew 22:1-14, Isaiah 25:1-9, Philippians 4:1-9, Psalm 23 -- Amy C. Schifrin -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of Confession And Absolution
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The Immediate Word

Dean Feldmeyer
Christopher Keating
Thomas Willadsen
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Nazish Naseem
For December 21, 2025:

SermonStudio

Garth Wehrfritz-Hanson
Pastor: Advent God: We praise and thank you for the word of promise spoken long ago by your prophet Isaiah; as he bore the good news of the birth of Immanuel–so may we be bearers of the good news that Immanuel comes to be with us. God of love:

Cong: Hear our prayer.
Dallas A. Brauninger
1. Text

Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this
way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.18 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly.19 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the
James Evans
(See Advent 1, Cycle B, and Proper 15/Pentecost 13/Ordinary Time 20, Cycle C, for alternative approaches.)

The recurring phrase, "let your face shine" (vv. 3, 7, 19), offers an interesting opportunity to reflect on the meaning of God's presence in our world. This reflection takes on a particular significance during the Advent season.

Richard A. Jensen
Our Matthew text for this week comes from the first chapter of Matthew. Matthew's telling of the Jesus' story is certainly unique. Matthew tells of the early years of our Savior stressing that his name is Jesus and Emmanuel; that wise sages from the East attend his birth; that Joseph and Mary escape to Egypt because of Herod's wrath. No other Gospel includes these realities.
Mark Wm. Radecke
In the Jewish tradition there is a liturgy and accompanying song called "Dayenu." Dayenu is a Hebrew word which can be translated several ways. It can mean: "It would have been enough," or "we would have been grateful and content," or "our need would have been satisfied."

Part of the Dayenu is a responsive reading that goes like this:

O God, if thy only act of kindness was to deliver us from the bondage of Egypt, Dayenu! -- It would have been enough.
Stephen M. Crotts
Some years ago I was in a London theater watching a Harold Pinter play. The drama was not very good really. I was getting bored. Then right in the middle of the play the theater manager walked on stage, excused himself, and made an announcement. The actors stared. The audience looked shocked. Me? I thought it was all part of the play. Such interruptions are rare in a theater. But nonetheless, the stage manager felt that it was necessary this time. His announcement was nothing trivial like, "Some owner has left his car lights on." Nor was it a terrifying message like, "Fire! Fire!
Timothy J. Smith
It is easy to get so caught up in the sentimentality and nostalgia of Christmas that we neglect the true reason we celebrate. We receive Christmas cards portraying a cute infant Jesus lying in a manger filled with straw. The Baby Jesus is pictured in the center with Mary and Joseph on one side, the shepherds and Magi on the other. We know this scene: animals are in the background, in the distance angels can be seen hovering, as a star shines brightly overhead. However, there is more to Advent and Christmas than celebrating the birth of a baby.
William B. Kincaid, III
If we cannot relate to Joseph and appreciate his situation, then our lives are simple, easy lives indeed. Now, by relating to Joseph or understanding what he endured, I don't mean to suggest that we all either have been engaged or married to someone impregnated by the Holy Spirit. Even in our frantic search for ways to explain how such a thing might have happened, we probably didn't think of blaming the Holy Spirit!
R. Glen Miles
"The Lord himself will give you a sign" is the way Isaiah begins his recitation of the promise containing all promises. Isaiah is talking to Ahaz. Ahaz is the king who is stuck in a political mess. It looks like Assyria is about to invade some of the countries neighboring Judah. Isaiah is recommending that the king refuse to sign on with these other countries and their armies and trust only in Yahweh, the Lord of all. Today's reading is a reminder of the promise of God to be with Ahaz and his people, no matter what happens, no matter who invades.
John T. Ball
Religion is a mutual relationship. We pledge loyalty and devotion to God and God blesses us. This is how Moses worked it out with Yahweh and his people who had recently escaped from Egyptian captivity. If the Israelites prove loyal to this mysterious Sinai god, then God would bless them with prosperity and well being. Those who deal with many gods are no different. Even though they have gods for various concerns, they still expect blessings and security in exchange for loyalty.
Susan R. Andrews
According to tradition, Joseph was the strong, silent type - an older carpenter who willingly submitted to impotent fatherhood - a second--string player in the drama of God's human birth. But according to scripture, none of this is true. All that is actually recorded in the Bible is that Joseph was a dreamer - a righteous man who transformed the meaning of righteousness by taking seriously his dreams.
Beverly S. Bailey
Hymns
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UM211, PH9, LBW34, CBH172, NCH116)
The God Of Abraham Praise (UM116, PH488, NCH24)
O Hear Our Cry, O Lord (PH206)
Hail To The Lord's Anointed (UM203)
Blessed Be The God Of Israel (UM209)
Emmanuel, Emmanuel (UM204)
People Look East (PH12, UM202)
Savior Of The Nations, Come (LBW28, CBH178, PH14, UM214)
The Virgin Mary Had A Baby Boy (CBH202)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus (PH1, 2,UM196, NCH122)

Anthem

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Prayers usually include these concerns and may follow this sequence:

The Church of Christ

Creation, human society, the Sovereign and those in authority

The local community

Those who suffer

The communion of saints


These responses may be used:


Lord, in your mercy
Hear our prayer

Lord, hear us.
Lord, graciously hear us.
Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Just before the first Christmas, an angel appeared to Joseph to tell him that Jesus would also be called "Emmanuel", meaning "God With Us." Let us listen to the guidance of the angels today as we prepare to receive God With Us once again.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, fill me with the awe of Christmas.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with the mystery of Christmas.
Christ, have mercy.
Jesus, fill me with Emmanuel -- God with us.
Lord, have mercy.

StoryShare

Argile Smith
C. David Mckirachan
Scott Dalgarno
Stan Purdum
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Samantha" by Argile Smith
"I'm Pregnant" by C. David McKirachan
"You'd Better Watch out..." by C. David McKirachan
"Terribly Vulnerable to Joy" by Scott Dalgarno
"The Great Christmas-Tree Battle" by Stan Purdum


What's Up This Week

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Over the years, I grow more cynical about Christmas and just about everything that goes along with it. I have not become a scrooge, although the advancing years have made me more careful with my pennies. It is not that I cannot be moved by the lights, the music, and the fellowship of the holidays. I have not become an insensitive, unfeeling clod. My problem is that the language and the images and the music seem to have fallen short in expressing what must have been the feelings of the real human beings going through the events recounted in this story.

CSSPlus

What an exciting day this is! Today is the day before Christmas and tonight is Christmas Eve! People have different ways of doing things. Some people open their presents on Christmas Eve. How many of you do that? (Let them answer.) Others open their presents on Christmas Day. Which of you will open your presents tomorrow? (Let them answer.) Some open gifts on other days. Would any of you like to share another time when you open presents? (Give them the opportunity to answer.)

Why do you suppose we open gifts at this time of the year? (Let them answer.)

Special Occasion

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