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Barbara Jurgensen

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
What Are The Odds? -- Luke 24:13-35, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Generally speaking, there are very few people out there who are genuine risk-takers.
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.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Way Beyond The Blue -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Our worldview has changed dramatically throughout history.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
The Good Fight -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2007
We find so few people who are able to declare that they have fought the good fight for the sake of t
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
All Of Life's A Stage -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2007
How do you guide someone down a road you have never walked yourself?
The Illusion Of Human Power -- Luke 19:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 65 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2007
The mystery of the randomness of nature... we have seen so much devastating weather lately.
Hey, Charlie Brown! -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2007
Barbara Jurgensen is writing on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 this week: eternal comfort.
An Unlikely Place -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In any drama, the right setting for a scene can be key.
Suffering In The Sanctuary -- Romans 5:1-5, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C
The recent shooting spree in and around a Moscow, Idaho, church is a painful reminder that as much
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
One God, Many Faiths, And A Divided World -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
This Sunday The Immediate Word writers will be discussing how hearing the words, "I'm sorry"
The Forgiveness Heard Round The World -- Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
This week's The Immediate Word is written by Barbara Jurgensen.

Illustration

The Immediate Word

You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
What Are The Odds? -- Luke 24:13-35, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Generally speaking, there are very few people out there who are genuine risk-takers.
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.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Way Beyond The Blue -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Our worldview has changed dramatically throughout history.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
The Good Fight -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2007
We find so few people who are able to declare that they have fought the good fight for the sake of t
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
All Of Life's A Stage -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2007
How do you guide someone down a road you have never walked yourself?
The Illusion Of Human Power -- Luke 19:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 65 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2007
The mystery of the randomness of nature... we have seen so much devastating weather lately.
Hey, Charlie Brown! -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2007
Barbara Jurgensen is writing on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 this week: eternal comfort.
An Unlikely Place -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In any drama, the right setting for a scene can be key.
Suffering In The Sanctuary -- Romans 5:1-5, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C
The recent shooting spree in and around a Moscow, Idaho, church is a painful reminder that as much
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
One God, Many Faiths, And A Divided World -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
This Sunday The Immediate Word writers will be discussing how hearing the words, "I'm sorry"
The Forgiveness Heard Round The World -- Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
This week's The Immediate Word is written by Barbara Jurgensen.

Preaching

The Immediate Word

You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
What Are The Odds? -- Luke 24:13-35, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Generally speaking, there are very few people out there who are genuine risk-takers.
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.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Way Beyond The Blue -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Our worldview has changed dramatically throughout history.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
The Good Fight -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2007
We find so few people who are able to declare that they have fought the good fight for the sake of t
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
All Of Life's A Stage -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2007
How do you guide someone down a road you have never walked yourself?
The Illusion Of Human Power -- Luke 19:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 65 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2007
The mystery of the randomness of nature... we have seen so much devastating weather lately.
Hey, Charlie Brown! -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2007
Barbara Jurgensen is writing on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 this week: eternal comfort.
An Unlikely Place -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In any drama, the right setting for a scene can be key.
Suffering In The Sanctuary -- Romans 5:1-5, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C
The recent shooting spree in and around a Moscow, Idaho, church is a painful reminder that as much
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
One God, Many Faiths, And A Divided World -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
This Sunday The Immediate Word writers will be discussing how hearing the words, "I'm sorry"
The Forgiveness Heard Round The World -- Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
This week's The Immediate Word is written by Barbara Jurgensen.

Sermon

The Immediate Word

You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
What Are The Odds? -- Luke 24:13-35, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Generally speaking, there are very few people out there who are genuine risk-takers.
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.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Way Beyond The Blue -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Our worldview has changed dramatically throughout history.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
The Good Fight -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2007
We find so few people who are able to declare that they have fought the good fight for the sake of t
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
All Of Life's A Stage -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2007
How do you guide someone down a road you have never walked yourself?
The Illusion Of Human Power -- Luke 19:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 65 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2007
The mystery of the randomness of nature... we have seen so much devastating weather lately.
Hey, Charlie Brown! -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2007
Barbara Jurgensen is writing on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 this week: eternal comfort.
An Unlikely Place -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In any drama, the right setting for a scene can be key.
Suffering In The Sanctuary -- Romans 5:1-5, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C
The recent shooting spree in and around a Moscow, Idaho, church is a painful reminder that as much
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
One God, Many Faiths, And A Divided World -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
This Sunday The Immediate Word writers will be discussing how hearing the words, "I'm sorry"
The Forgiveness Heard Round The World -- Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
This week's The Immediate Word is written by Barbara Jurgensen.

Worship

The Immediate Word

You Will Be Like God -- Matthew 4:1-11, Romans 5:12-19, Genesis 2:15-17; 3:1-7, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
Humanity as a whole has shown a tendency for desiring power, whether it is power to conquer a nation
Do We Have Enemies? -- John 11:1-45, Romans 8:6-11, Ezekiel 37:1-14, Psalm 130 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - A -- 2008
As we face a world of conflict and war, with battle lines drawn and weapons aimed at the enemy, wit
What Are The Odds? -- Luke 24:13-35, 1 Peter 1:17-23, Acts 2:14a, 36-41, Psalm 116:1-4, 12-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Third Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Generally speaking, there are very few people out there who are genuine risk-takers.
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.
The Way Of The Church Versus The Way Of The World -- John 14:1-14, 1 Peter 2:2-10, Acts 7:55-60, Psalm 31:1-5, 15-16 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Fifth Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
In a dark room, one light makes a world of difference.
Way Beyond The Blue -- John 17:1-11, Acts 1:6-14, 1 Peter 4:12-14; 5:6-11, Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen -- Seventh Sunday of Easter - A -- 2008
Our worldview has changed dramatically throughout history.
Is There A Doctor In The House? -- Matthew 9:9-13, 18-26, Romans 4:13-25, Genesis 12:1-9, Psalm 33:1-12 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 5 | Ordinary Time 10 - A -- 2008
Health is a very fashionable topic these days.
Who's Hungry? -- Matthew 9:35--10:8 (9-23), Romans 5:1-8, Genesis 18:1-15 (21:1-7), Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Carlos Wilton -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - A -- 2008
We are all too familiar with the commercials and TV spots depicting starving children halfway around
Upon Jesus' Shoulders -- Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30, Romans 7:15-25a, Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67, Psalm 45:10-17 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - A -- 2008
There is a misconception in today's world that Jesus' invitation to "all...
The Good Fight -- Luke 18:9-14, 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18, Joel 2:23-32, Psalm 65 -- Carlos Wilton, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 25 | Ordinary Time 30 - C -- 2007
We find so few people who are able to declare that they have fought the good fight for the sake of t
How's Your Iq? -- Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, Galatians 6:(1-6) 7-16, 2 Kings 5:1-14, Psalm 30 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - C -- 2007
According to Robert Fulghum's best-seller, everything we need to know we learned in kindergarten.
The Cookie Tree -- Luke 10:38-42, Colossians 1:15-28, Amos 8:1-12, Psalm 52 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - C -- 2007
As the calendar turns to August, stores are featuring back-to-school sales -- which means that child
A Far-Out Teacher -- Luke 13:10-17, Hebrews 12:18-29, Jeremiah 1:4-10, Psalm 71:1-6 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - C -- 2007
With summer winding down and back-to-school planning on the minds of the young people and teachers i
The Only Way To Make A Saint: Start With A Sinner -- Luke 14:25-33, Philemon 1:1-21, Jeremiah 18:1-11, Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 18 | Ordinary Time 23 - C -- 2007
In this week's Old Testament passage (Jeremiah 18:1-11), the prophet Jeremiah offers a rich visual i
A Lament For The City -- Luke 17:5-10, 2 Timothy 1:1-14, Lamentations 1:1-6, Psalm 137 -- Paul Bresnahan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 22 | Ordinary Time 27 - C -- 2007
This week's Immediate Word concerns Jeremiah and his laments over Jerusalem (Lamentations 1:1
All Of Life's A Stage -- Luke 18:1-8, 2 Timothy 3:14--4:5, Jeremiah 31:27-34, Psalm 119:97-104 -- Thom M. Shuman, Barbara Jurgensen -- Proper 24 | Ordinary Time 29 - C -- 2007
How do you guide someone down a road you have never walked yourself?
The Illusion Of Human Power -- Luke 19:1-10, 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12, Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4, Psalm 65 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 26 | Ordinary Time 31 - C -- 2007
The mystery of the randomness of nature... we have seen so much devastating weather lately.
Hey, Charlie Brown! -- Luke 20:27-38, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17, Haggai 1:15b--2:9, Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 27 | Ordinary Time 32 - C -- 2007
Barbara Jurgensen is writing on 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 this week: eternal comfort.
An Unlikely Place -- Matthew 1:18-25, Romans 1:1-7, Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday of Advent - A -- 2007
In any drama, the right setting for a scene can be key.
Suffering In The Sanctuary -- Romans 5:1-5, Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31, John 16:12-15, Psalm 8 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - C
The recent shooting spree in and around a Moscow, Idaho, church is a painful reminder that as much
Yearning For Peace -- John 20:19-31, Revelation 1:4b-8, Acts 5:27-32, Revelation 1:4-8 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday of Easter - C
The prophet Jeremiah complained about those who "treated the wound of my people carelessly, saying,
The Nurse Who Wouldn't Give Up -- Ephesians 4:1-3, John 6:24-35, 2 Samuel 11:26--12:13a, Psalm 51:1-12 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 13 | Ordinary Time 18 - B
The grisly video images of dead children being removed from the rubble in Cana are only the latest r
A Long-Distance Marriage -- John 6:56-69, Ephesians 6:10-20, 1 Kings 8:(1, 6, 10-11) 22-30, 41-43, Psalm 84 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 16 | Ordinary Time 21 - B
Despite a brief firefight this past weekend, it seems that the United Nations-brokered ceasefire in
One God, Many Faiths, And A Divided World -- Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22, James 5:13-20, Mark 9:38-50, Psalm 124 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 21 | Ordinary Time 26 - B
This Sunday The Immediate Word writers will be discussing how hearing the words, "I'm sorry"
The Forgiveness Heard Round The World -- Hebrews 4:12-16, Job 23:1-9, 16-17, Mark 10:17-31, Psalm 22:1-15 -- Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 23 | Ordinary Time 28 - B
This week's The Immediate Word is written by Barbara Jurgensen.
UPCOMING WEEKS
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Lent 2
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New & Featured This Week

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

* * *

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

The Immediate Word

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

StoryShare

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

Emphasis Preaching Journal

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

SermonStudio

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

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

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
Call to worship:

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

Invitation to confession:

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

Lord, have mercy.

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

Christ, have mercy.

 Jesus, when we return to you,

Lord, have mercy.

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