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Talk To The Shepherd -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter!
Moms Are Like That -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Pastor: Good morning, Peter. Why are you looking so sad?
Let Somebody Else Do It -- H. Burnham Kirkland -- 2004
Peter: Good morning, Pastor.Pastor: Good morning, Peter. What's new?
God's Steadfast Love -- Psalm 66:8-20 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
One night a mother, praying with her daughter, asked her how she felt when she prayed.
Treasures -- Matthew 6:19-21 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
A stone worn smoothIn a sweaty hand,A scrap of string,
Jesus And The Children -- Luke 18:15-17 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Pantomime "Jesus And The Children" while it is being read.
God's Word Is Like A Map -- Isaiah 30:21b, John 14:6 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2002
This is the way; walk in it. (Isaiah 30:21b)
Coming To Church -- Psalm 122:1 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Carl liked to come to church.
Intercession -- Matthew 5:43-48 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
There was once a man who dreamed of a beautiful home, and soon all of his time, energy, money, and a
Teach Us To Pray -- Matthew 14:22-33 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
In our Bible story for today, Jesus went up the mountain by himself to pray.
Endless Peace -- Isaiah 9:7 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The children were playing happily in the room. The dogs barked. The cats meowed. The lions roared.
Baptism -- Matthew 3:13-17 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
In our Bible story Jesus went to John the Baptist at the River Jordan to be baptized.
Can I Help You? -- 1 John 4:7 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The young girl, her arms full of books, crossed the park, seeing the old man sitting on a bench.
Jesus' Resurrection -- Mark 16:6 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The small, furry, green caterpillar ate its way up the stalk of grass.
All God Does, God Does Well -- Luke 24:44-53 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Some things we can't explain, and we call them mysteries and trust God's love no matter what.
David And Goliath -- Psalm 63 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
The lion slowly approached the sheep, who, eating the grass, was unaware of the lion about to eat hi
The Glory Of God -- Psalm 19 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
It was a new church for Sam.
Timothy's Questions -- Psalm 100:3a -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"Who made it? How does it work? What is it for? Why is it here? Where did it come from?
Zacchaeus -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"It's not fair! I wish I weren't so small," sighed Zacchaeus. Zacchaeus had always been small.
The Aspen And The Wind -- Mark 10:44 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
"Whoever wishes to be first must be servant of all."
Good Luck? Bad Luck? Who Knows? -- Psalm 78:1-7 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
An old Chinese farmer had an old horse for tilling his fields.
The Secrets Of God -- Psalm 148:5-12 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
When a child is in the mother's womb, God whispers to that child the secrets of the universe.
The Good Samaritan ... But ... -- Luke 10:25-37 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
Jesus told stories because people like, listen to, and remember stories.
God's Word Is Like Seed -- Matthew 13:3-8, 18-23 -- Julia E. Bland -- 2002
I treasure your word in my heart.... (Psalm 119:11a)
Sharing -- Luke 6:27-36 -- Elaine M. Ward -- 2002
When the world was young, two brothers loved each other.

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Devotional

SermonStudio

Easter Day -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Easter Day - C -- 2009
The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone.
Proper 6 / Pentecost 4 / Ordinary Time 11 -- Psalm 5:1-8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - C -- 2009
O Lord, in the morning you hear my voice; in the morning I plead my case to you, and watch.
Proper 15 / Pentecost 13 / Ordinary Time 20 -- Hebrews 11:29--12:2 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 15 | Ordinary Time 20 - C -- 2009
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every
Epiphany 3 / Ordinary Time 3 -- Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C -- 2009
This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep. -- Nehemiah 8:9
Proper 27 / Pentecost 25 / Ordinary Time 32 -- 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2009
As to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him....
Easter 5 -- Psalm 148 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Let them praise the name of the Lord, for his name alone is exalted; his glory is above earth and
Advent 3 -- Zephaniah 3:14-20 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Third Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
... The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst.... -- Zephaniah 3:15
Proper 10 / Pentecost 8 / Ordinary Time 15 -- Psalm 82 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - C -- 2009
How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked? -- Psalm 82:2
Proper 19 / Pentecost 17 / Ordinary Time 24 -- 1 Timothy 1:12-17 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - C -- 2009
But I received mercy because I had acted ignorantly in unbelief, and the grace of our Lord overfl
Epiphany 7 / Ordinary Time 7 -- Genesis 45:3-11, 15 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 7 | Ordinary Time 7 - C -- 2009
I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. -- Genesis 45:4
Proper 22 / Pentecost 20 / Ordinary Time 27 -- Psalm 137 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2009
By the rivers of Babylon -- there we sat down and there we wept when we remembered Zion.
Epiphany 9 / Ordinary Time 9 / Proper 4 -- Luke 7:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- 2009
...
Passion / Palm Sunday -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Passion Sunday - C -- 2009
The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with
Proper 5 / Pentecost 3 / Ordinary Time 10 -- 1 Kings 17:8-16 (17-24) -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - C -- 2009
Then the word of the Lord came to him, saying, "Go now to Zarephath, which belongs to Sidon, and
Proper 14 / Pentecost 12 / Ordinary Time 19 -- Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 14 | Ordinary Time 19 - C -- 2009
Those who bring thanksgiving as their sacrifice honor me; to those who go the right way I will sh
The Baptism Of Our Lord / Epiphany 1 / Ordinary Time 1 -- Luke 3:15-17, 21-22 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - C -- 2009
As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning J
Proper 26 / Pentecost 24 / Ordinary Time 31 -- Psalm 119:137-144 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2009
Your decrees are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live.
Easter 4 -- Acts 9:36-43 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha...
Advent 1 -- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- First Sunday of Advent - C -- 2009
How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because
Proper 9 / Pentecost 7 / Ordinary Time 14 -- 2 Kings 5:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2009
"Father, if the prophet had commanded you to do something difficult, would you not have done it?
Proper 18 / Pentecost 16 / Ordinary Time 23 -- Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
O Lord, you have searched me and known me.
Epiphany 5 / Ordinary Time 5 -- Luke 5:1-11 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C -- 2009
Go away from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man! -- Luke 5:8
Easter 7 -- Acts 16:16-34 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - C -- 2009
One day, as we were going to the place of prayer, we met a slave girl who had a spirit of divinat
Christmas Eve / Christmas Day -- John 1:1-14 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- The Nativity of our Lord - C -- 2009
The light shines in darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it. -- John 1:5
Epiphany 8 / Ordinary Time 8 / Proper 3 -- 1 Corinthians 15:51-58 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Epiphany 8 | Ordinary Time 8 - C -- 2009
Listen, I will tell you a mystery!

Pages

Drama

SermonStudio

Jesus By The Sea Of Galilee -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Peter John Jesus
Jesus' Parable Of The Four Soils -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Jesus Peter Soil 1 Soil 2
Captive To Love -- Acts 8:26-40 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
The Voice Of Despair -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
Each of us long for a purpose and a meaning to life.
It Wasn't The Hilton, You Know -- Lois Anne Delong, Barbara Anne Antonucci -- 2006
Characters (in order of appearance) Child 1 (Lead Shepherd) Child 2 (Mary)
Cross Over Or Cross Out -- Joshua 3:1-17 -- Jacqueline Sharer Robertson -- 2006
Making It Preach
Jesus Before Pilate -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Pilate Caiaphas Roman Soldier Jesus
Do You Know How Much It Hurts? -- Jill Lamkin -- 2006
"Do You Know How Much It Hurts?" illustrates three styles of communication that are harmful to famil
Jesus And The Wise Men -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator Luke Mary Joseph Magi 1 Magi 2
The Christmas Hedgehog -- Doris Wells Miller -- 2006
Characters Older Julie Jerry Elaine Deena Julie
Jesus And Peter's Confession -- Robert Lakey -- 2006
Characters Narrator James John Peter Jesus
M.I.H. -- Missing In Heaven -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Easter Sunrise ServiceOrder Of WorshipPrelude
The Honeymooners -- Genesis 12:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Characters Angel Marvelous Angel Wonderful Angel Gabriel Abram
Jesus, Bread Of Life -- John 6:35, 41, 48, 50, 51, 58 -- Arley K. Fadness -- 2005
"I am the Bread of Life" -- JesusThere it sits.Golden brown. Unsliced.
Sixth Witness -- Peter (Simon bar Jonah) -- Robert Kleinke -- 2005
State: Ladies and gentlemen of the grand jury, we now call before you the last of our witness
Live From Jerusalem -- John O. Eby -- 2005
A Palm Sunday DramaLive From JerusalemCharacters
First Witness -- Judas Iscariot -- Robert Kleinke -- 2005
State: Ladies and gentlemen of the grand jury, we are here to explore the events of the trial
Tongues Of Fire -- Kenneth Carlson -- 2005
This reading was written for four voices.
The Cleanup Crew -- Haggai 1:1-9 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Characters Angel Marvelous Angel Wonderful Angel Gabriel
Joseph And Mary In The Garden -- John 20:1-18 -- Arley K. Fadness -- 2005
CharactersJoseph Of ArimatheaMary Magdalene
Maundy Thursday Testimonies -- David H. Covington -- 2005
I'm Alive -- John 20:1-18 -- Arley K. Fadness -- 2005
On February 27, 1991, Ruth Dillow was at her home in Chute, Kansas, when she received the news from
Second Witness-- Caiaphas -- Robert Kleinke -- 2005
State: Ladies and gentlemen of the grand jury, our next witness that we call before you is Jo
The Reading Club -- Nehemiah 8:1-12 -- Frank Ramirez -- 2005
Characters Angel Marvelous Angel Wonderful Angel Gabriel Hannah
God On Trial, Or...? -- John O. Eby -- 2005
CharactersPilateBeelzebubJohannisJesus

Pages

Easter

Faith Development

Fellowship

Funeral

Gathering Prayer

Healing

Home Blessing

Humor

SermonStudio

Names -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Then, of course, there was a coal miner in West Virginia whose
Faith -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
During World War II, in a Humphrey Bogart movie, a sailor says
Rogers, Will -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Some comments by Will Rogers:
Baptism -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
The gambler had been converted in a revival meeting and was
Health -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
A preacher was in the hospital. A nurse's aide was making the
Unexpected Calls -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
Some years ago Dudley Ward and I were lecturing at a pastor's
Crowded Pews -- Hoover Rupert -- 1994
One time Tennessee Ernie Ford visited his home church in

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Illustration

Inspirational

Intercession

Lent/Easter

Liturgy

Marriage Ceremony

Meditations

Memorial

Men's Day

Monologues

Mother's Day

Observance

Pageant

Pastoral Resources

Poems

Prayer

SermonStudio

Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God of indescribable grandeur, to you we raise our words of praise and adoration.
Advent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
We wonder, O God, what we would have believed if we had lived in first century Israel.
Easter Sunday -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our Creator, we thank you for the gift of your creation.
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Gracious Provider, we are embarrassed to admit that we've failed to say "Thank You," for the many go
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Dear Lord, as you know, we respond in very different ways to rain.
Advent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our Redeemer, 2000 years ago a series of unbelievable events took place that still stir our hearts a
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Sometimes, O God our Lord, we are convinced that we see the truth of life.
Sundays in Lent -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, you taught us through your Son that unless we become as little children, we will not gain ent
Pentecost / Church -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Eternal God, as accustomed as we are to all kinds of people demonstrating on our streets, we find ou
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
We thank you, God, for open doors.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Gracious God we truly want to be "Christians in our hearts." If we are not Christians there, can we
Palm / Passion Sunday -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Palm Sunday, heavenly Being, reminds us how quickly life can change.
Memorial Day / Independence Day -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
Our Heavenly Redeemer, as a country we remember and glorify our past battles and wars.
Sundays after Epiphany -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
When we were younger, O God, we could easily tell the difference between right and wrong.
Sundays after Easter -- Rolland R. Reece -- 2000
O God, our Listener, some of us have difficulty praying, while some of us come by it easily, regular
GIFT FROM THE FATHER -- John 12:44-50 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 12:44-50
BLEACHING THE DARKEST DARK -- John 3:17-21 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 3:17-21
FOR THE FATHER AND US -- John 18:1-14 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 18:1-14
SECOND CHANCE -- John 8:1-11 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 8:1-11
ONE ON ONE -- John 21:15-19 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 21:15-19
CHRIST IN THE KITCHEN -- John 2:1-11 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 2:1-12
THE SIN OF UNBELIEF -- John 16:4b-15 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 16:4b-15
LOVE POWER -- John 6:41-59 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 6:41-59
NAME CALLING -- John 20:11-18 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 20:11-18
CRY FOR US -- John 11:28-44 -- Richard F. Bansemer -- 1997
John 11:28-44

Pages

Preaching

SermonStudio

Work And Rest -- Jeremiah 18:1-11, Luke 14:25-33 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2009
The word that came to Jeremiah from the Lord: "Come, go down to the potter's house, and there I w
Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Psalm 104:1-9, 24, 35c -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - B -- 2009
The voice of praise rings beautifully through this psalm as each verse gives poetic color to the glo
Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
There's something about someone who knows you really well.
Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
This psalm takes aim, not only at a once and long ago world, but also places the contemporary scene
Psalm 9:9-20 -- Psalm 9:9-20 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
There is a well-worn adage that all preachers must endure hearing.
Psalm 111 -- Psalm 111 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (v. 10).
Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Psalm 34:1-10, 22 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth" (v. 1).
Psalm 22 -- Psalm 22 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The opening words of this psalm are the same ones uttered by Jesus as he hung near death on the cros
Psalm 119:105-112 -- Psalm 119:105-112 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
A fond memory emerges of a young child attending church camp, walking darkened pathways each night f
Psalm 47 -- Psalm 47 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Psalm 47 conjures memories of long ago rock concerts where throngs of jubilant young people roared t
Trusting The Rope Will Hold -- Acts 10:34-43, John 20:1-18 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- Easter Day - A -- 2009
Then Peter began to speak to them: "...
Psalm 98 -- Psalm 98 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Rolling the radio around the stations one morning during summer vacation, it became evident that the
Psalm 29 -- Psalm 29 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Anyone who has ever worked with other people knows that it's important to give credit where it's due
Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Psalm 132:1-12 (13-18) -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The scholars tell us that this psalm was likely a liturgical piece used in the celebration of the Lo
Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
What are the attributes of God?
Psalm 4 -- Psalm 4 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Third Sunday of Easter - B -- 2009
A great piece of advice was once offered by a sage, elder pastor.
Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Psalm 106:1-6, 19-23 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
The opening lines of this psalm proclaim the love of God that is both trustworthy and lasting.
Psalm 31:9-16 -- Psalm 31:9-16 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It was late one night, and the young people in the church were having a party.
Psalm 148 -- Psalm 148 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Most people spend their lives hungering after praise.
Psalm 84 -- Psalm 84 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B -- 2009
So many things come down to perspectives or points of view, don't they?
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
It's Easter. For us, this is a day of new beginnings. It is the ultimate moment. Christ is risen!
Psalm 45:10-17 -- Psalm 45:10-17 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Here is a woman who is given over to a new "Lord." The advice is clear, even curt.
Forty Days -- A Long Time But Not Too Long -- Isaiah 58:1-9a (9b-12), 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- Mariann Edgar Budde -- 2009
The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your needs in parched places, and make your bone
Psalm 97 -- Psalm 97 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
This is it.
Psalm 25:1-10 -- Psalm 25:1-10 -- Schuyler Rhodes -- 2009
Trusting is never easy. Even in the best of relationships, people step into trust slowly.

Pages

Sacrament

Self Help

Sermon

SermonStudio

Stargazing, Naval Gazing, and Other Waiting Games -- Acts 1:1-11 -- Tony S. Everett -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2010
Hurry up and wait! Hurry up and wait!
The Door of the Cross -- John 10:1-10 -- David O. Bales -- Fourth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
Last summer my wife and I enjoyed visiting our friends Dick and Mary in Montana.
What Can We Believe about Stuff? -- 2 Corinthians 9:6-15 -- James L. Killen, Jr. -- Thanksgiving Day - A -- 2010
Today we celebrate the festival of Thanksgiving.
Discerning in Love -- 1 Corinthians 2:1-12 (13-16) -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2010
Many people have come to rely on Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to travel from one place to anothe
When God Tests Us -- Exodus 32:1-14 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - A -- 2010
When we get nervous about the unknown, we can make mountains out of mole hills.
Named, Claimed, and Framed -- Acts 2:14a, 22-32 -- Tony S. Everett -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
So, here we are just over one week after Easter Sunday. Vigils are finished.
Signed, Sealed, and Delivered -- Ephesians 1:3-14 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2010
Praise God for all the wonderful things God has done in our lives and in our world!
What Can We Believe about God's Saving Grace? -- Romans 3:19-28 -- James L. Killen, Jr. -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2010
The grace of God is the theme of some of our favorite hymns.
Jesus' Prayer: The Pause in the Battle -- John 17:1-11 -- David O. Bales -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
In 1936, near the beginning of the Spanish Civil War one horrible center of fighting was the Alcázar
A Breath of Fresh Air -- Ezekiel 37:1-14 -- Tony S. Everett -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
This story has been shared at many church gatherings recently.
Unity and Hope -- Romans 15:4-13 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
As we make our way through Advent inching closer to Christmas, our days are consumed with many tasks
Looking Down on God -- John 13:1-17, 31b-35 -- David O. Bales -- Maundy Thursday - A -- 2010
One of the most interesting accounts of a creative and surprising story was of a father and his thre
Locusts Happen -- Joel 2:1-2, 12-17 -- Tony S. Everett -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2010
It was never this bad; not in their lifetime, not in any-body's lifetime.
Choosing -- Joshua 24:1-3a, 14-25 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - A -- 2010
Do you remember the generation gap that existed between you and your parents when you were a teenage
Nicodemus: A Young Old Man -- John 3:1-17 -- David O. Bales -- Second Sunday in Lent - A -- 2010
Sermon Note: This story sermon is best read with a "special" voice reserved for the scripture
Lesson from a Chipmunk -- Acts 1:6-14 -- Tony S. Everett -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
In today's first lesson the apostles are gathered with their families in an upstairs room somewhere
Grow Up! -- 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2010
The best way to jump-start your spiritual life, according to a recent survey, is to serve others in
On Speaking Terms -- Exodus 33:12-23 -- Argile Smith -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2010
Do you ever have moments in your life when you feel that God must have decided somehow not to be on
Claimed, Framed, Changed -- Acts 2:14a, 36-41 -- Tony S. Everett -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2010
What do athletic coaches, politicians, and preachers have in common?
The Light Has Come -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2010
As the Magi scanned the heavens they noticed a star brighter than all the others in the night sky.
Suffered under (Saint) Pontius Pilate -- John 18:1--19:42 -- David O. Bales -- Good Friday - A -- 2010
Christians Sunday by Sunday announce our collective memory of Pontius Pilate: "Suffered under Pontiu
What Can We Believe about Ourselves? -- 1 John 3:1-3 -- James L. Killen, Jr. -- All Saints Day - A -- 2010
When we put together the collection of things that we can believe, we need to ask a question about t
Spirit-Direct -- Acts 10:34-43 -- Timothy J. Smith -- The Baptism of our Lord | Epiphany 1 | Ordinary Time 1 - A -- 2010
"Growing up," Valerie recalled, "I was involved in many of my church's activities for children." Rec
Peace and Quiet in an Upside-Down World -- Isaiah 50:4-9a -- Tony S. Everett -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2010
Johnny is four years old and he stopped taking naps before his second birthday.
Waiting for Christmas -- James 5:7-10 -- Timothy J. Smith -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2010
Excitement is building on this the third Sunday of Advent knowing that Christmas will soon be here.

Pages

Spirituality

Stories

SermonStudio

The Power To Change The Past -- Matthew 18:21-35 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2007
A fellow went to the hospital to visit his partner who had been taken strangely ill and was near dea
What Boggles Your Mind? -- Matthew 17:1-9 -- David E. Leininger -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2007
The day had started off ordinarily enough -- Jesus and his three closest friends went up on a high m
Talents -- Matthew 25:14-30 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - A -- 2007
Three servants.
Clouded Vision -- Acts 1:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Ascension of the Lord - A -- 2007
There is an ancient apocryphal story about Jesus' arrival at the pearly gates following the ascensio
The Wondrous Gift -- Isaiah 11:1-10 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Phillips Brooks was an eloquent Episcopalian preacher in the nineteenth century, famed in his day fo
The God Of The Unlikely -- Deuteronomy 34:1-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - A -- 2007
Moses is one of the genuinely towering figures of the biblical story.
God's Ultimate Cosmic Joke -- 1 Peter 1:3-9 -- David E. Leininger -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Many congregations have begun celebrating this second Sunday of Easter as Holy Humor Sunday.
Nevertheless -- Romans 8:26-39 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - A -- 2007
In 1981, Rabbi Harold Kushner wrote When Bad Things Happen to Good People, not Why Bad
Who Do You Say That I Am? -- Matthew 16:13-20 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - A -- 2007
Many years ago, in my seminary days, our first course in Systematic Theology dealt with basically th
The Problem Of Hunger -- Isaiah 58:3-9a (9b-12) -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - A -- 2007
The problem of hunger in the world never seems to go away.
The Ideal Pastor -- Ezekiel 37:1-14 -- David E. Leininger -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
"If I wanted to drive a manager up the wall, I would make him responsible for the success of an orga
Uncommon Laborers -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23) -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Interesting collection of workers Jesus chose to accompany him -- the twelve.
The Christian Family -- Ephesians 3:1-12 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany of the Lord - A -- 2007
George Burns once quipped, "Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family ...
To Die Is Gain -- Philippians 1:21-30 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 20 | Ordinary Time 25 - A -- 2007
"For me to live is Christ and to die is gain." So says the apostle Paul. Really?
Lent -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2007
This season of Lent, which we begin today, developed gradually in the church.
The Incredible Invitation -- Matthew 25:31-46 -- David E. Leininger -- Christ The King (Proper 29) - A -- 2007
Imagine for a moment.
Sounds Just Like Mom -- John 17:1-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
We reflected earlier on Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code and its assertion that Jesus and Mary M
Streams In The Desert -- Isaiah 35:1-10 -- David E. Leininger -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
"...
The Truth -- John 8:31-36 -- David E. Leininger -- Reformation Sunday - A -- 2007
One of the first Bible verses my mother taught me when I was a little boy was "Lying lips are an abo
East Of Easter -- Luke 24:13-35 -- David E. Leininger -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Easter is past, and if you can think of that momentous event as midnight on a clock, the beginning o
Bring Them To Me -- Matthew 14:13-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - A -- 2007
The early church certainly liked this story -- it is the only miracle other than the resurrection th
The Bush Is Still Burning -- Exodus 3:1-15 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 17 | Ordinary Time 22 - A -- 2007
The burning bush, or more correctly, the unburning bush.
Planting And Watering -- 1 Corinthians 3:1-9 -- David E. Leininger -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
I am a Presbyterian Christian, and I am proud of my heritage.
A Drama In Three Acts -- Philippians 2:5-11 -- David E. Leininger -- Passion Sunday - A -- 2007
Philippians presents the story of Jesus as a drama in three acts.
How Not To Be The Father Of The Year -- Genesis 21:8-21 -- David E. Leininger -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - A -- 2007
It is somehow ironic that the lectionary presents this text around the time America celebrates Fathe

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Proper 11 -- Genesis 28:10-19a, Romans 8:12-25, Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 11 | Ordinary Time 16 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: We come to the One
Ash Wednesday -- Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21, 2 Corinthians 5:20b--6:10, Psalm 51:1-17 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Ash Wednesday - A -- 2007
Hymns And Songs Savior, When In Dust To You -- LBW 91
Epiphany 2 -- Isaiah 49:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, John 1:29-42 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 2 | Ordinary Time 2 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: Gathered in winter's grayness, we wait,
Christmas Day -- Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12) -- Robert S. Jarboe -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: Reader A:
Lent 1 -- Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Romans 5:12-19, Matthew 4:1-11 -- Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2007
Litany For Lent One: O Christ, as you head to Jerusalem, you lead us
All Saints -- Revelation 7:9-17, 1 John 3:1-3, Matthew 5:1-12 -- Thom M. Shuman -- All Saints Day - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: At all times we are called to bless God's name.
Easter Sunday (B) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
This prayer makes reference to the stories highlighted in the Old Testament and gospel through th
Proper 8/Pentecost 6/Ordinary Time 13 -- Matthew 10:40-42, Jeremiah 28:5-9, Romans 6:12-23 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - A -- 2007
Greeting Of Peace P: From every land and nation, every city and home,
Easter 2 -- Acts 2:14a, 22-32, 1 Peter 1:3-9, John 20:19-31 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Fourth Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 7:10-16 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: Reader A:
Winter -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 24/Pentecost 22/Ordinary Time 29 -- Matthew 22:15-22, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - A -- 2007
Litany Of Confession
Epiphany 6/Ordinary Time 6 -- Matthew 5:21-37, Deuteronomy 30:15-20, 1 Corinthians 3:1-9, Psalm 119:1-8 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - A -- 2007
Order For Confession And Forgiveness
Christmas Day -- Isaiah 52:7-10, Hebrews 1:1-4 (5-12), John 1:1-14 -- Thom M. Shuman -- The Nativity of our Lord - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: Wonder of wonders, God has come to us!
Easter 7 -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2007
As we move between the festivals of Ascension and Pentecost we are reminded on this day of the on
Proper 22 -- Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20, Philippians 3:4b-14, Matthew 21:33-46 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: All around us, the universe sings
Transfiguration (1) -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
These prayers all focus in on the Transfiguration texts but can also be used during the season of
The Holy Trinity -- Matthew 28:16-20, Genesis 1:1--2:4a, 2 Corinthians 13:11-13, Psalm 8 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - A -- 2007
Apostolic Greeting Use 2 Corinthians 13:13 with a response.
The Transfiguration Of Our Lord -- Exodus 24:12-18, 2 Peter 1:16-21, Matthew 17:1-9 -- Thom M. Shuman -- Transfiguration Sunday - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: We gather as the faithful of God,
Third Sunday In Advent -- Isaiah 35:1-10 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
(Distribute this sheet to the readers.) Date: Reader A:
Stewardship -- Peter Andrew Smith -- 2007
The Lord be with you. And also with you. Lift up your hearts.
Proper 19/Pentecost 17/Ordinary Time 24 -- Matthew 18:21-35, Romans 14:1-12 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Proper 19 | Ordinary Time 24 - A -- 2007
Prayer Of The Day
Christmas 2 -- John 1:(1-9) 10-18, Jeremiah 31:7-14, Ephesians 1:3-14, Psalm 147:12-20 -- Amy C. Schifrin, Martha Shonkwiler -- Second Sunday after Christmas - A -- 2007
Gathering Litany P: O God, who created our world with a single word,
Proper 6 -- Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Romans 5:1-8, Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23) -- Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2007
Call To Worship One: On an ordinary Sunday, we come to worship God.
Bulletin Insert for Third Sunday in Advent for Year A -- Isaiah 35:1-10, James 5:7-10, Matthew 11:2-11, Psalm 146:5-10 -- Robert S. Jarboe -- Third Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
Third Sunday In Advent Advent Wreath Service Reader A:

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In addition to the lectionary resources there are thousands of non-lectionary, scripture based resources...
Proper 16 | OT 21 | Pentecost 11
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John Jamison
Object: This message is a role play. You can do this with only two children playing the parts of the two women, but if you have more children, you could have two more playing the parts of the children, another playing the part of the synagogue leader, and another playing the part of the country’s leader. You can also add any other roles you might want to add to make it interesting. Also, I have created places for your characters to speak, but you can add more of those to make it all more fun and memorable.

* * *

StoryShare

Peter Andrew Smith
“We have questions about your conduct as our pastor,” Carl announced as soon as Pastor John sat down at the hastily called board meeting. “We have received complaints about you from the congregation.”

“Complaints?” Pastor John frowned. “From whom and about what?”

“Mrs. Finnigan saw you coming out of what she politely described as ‘A Gentleman’s Club’ last Thursday night when she was driving downtown.” Bruce scowled. “Do you deny this?”

“Not at all,” Pastor John said. “I did have to go to that place on Thursday evening.”

Emphasis Preaching Journal

Mark Ellingsen
Bill Thomas
Frank Ramirez
Jeremiah 1:4-10 and Psalm 77:1-6
Wayne Brouwer
C. Knight Aldrich, a medical doctor and the first chairperson of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Chicago (1955-1964), was a keen analyst of the motivations for our behaviors. He worked with the social services agencies of Chicago for a time, particularly spending hours with teenagers who had been arrested for shoplifting or other theft. Aldrich interviewed them to find out how they had come to this. He also talked with the parents, attempting to discover how they had handled the problem from the first time they knew about it.

The Immediate Word

For August 24, 2025:

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to Worship:
Jesus was aware of people's deepest needs and what prompted their actions. In our worship today let us consider how we can discover people's deepest needs and the motives for their actions.

Invitation to Confession:
Jesus, sometimes we see only the surface and condemn without real understanding.
Lord, have mercy.
Jesus, sometimes we are afraid to get sufficiently close to other people to see their inner needs.
Christ, have mercy.

SermonStudio

James Evans
(See Epiphany 4/Ordinary Time 4, Cycle C, for an alternative approach.)

The old saying, "experience is the best teacher," could serve as a subtitle for this psalm. Written as a prayer for help in a time of distress or oppression, the psalm subtly hints at a recognition and awareness that only comes with time. There is a track record, so to speak, that the psalmist is aware of: God's record of dependability. Based on God's proven record of saving power and grace, the psalmist is able to pray for salvation, but at the same time celebrate the certainty of its arrival.
Elizabeth Achtemeier
You and I and all persons in our day are not prophets in the Old Testament sense of the word. They were given new words from God, which illumined where and how and why God was at work in Israel's life. But for us, the Word of God has now been fully revealed in the person of Jesus Christ. In his Son, God sums up and incarnates the whole of Old Testament prophecy. While we ministers are called to speak the Word of God, we therefore have no new word to proclaim, but rather we are called to proclaim Jesus Christ and to spell out what he means for life in our past, present, and future.
R. Robert Cueni
As was his custom, Jesus went that Sabbath morning to the synagogue for worship. As he was preaching and teaching, he happened to glance toward the fringe of the crowd where he saw a very crippled woman. She was bent over and was unable to stand up straight. When he inquired, Jesus was told the woman had been that way for eighteen years.

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