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The Immediate Word

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Children's sermon

The Immediate Word

A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
It's A Small World After All -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Romans 8:22-27, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - B
Media theorist Marshall McLuhan first coined the term "global village" nearly four decades ago, and
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
What Is Truth? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Like many other things in our culture, truth seems to be a concept that is often for sale to the hig
A Preternaturally Gifted Triune God -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
As we make our way into the 21st century, our world faces a host of challenges that potentially enda
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Nothing Hid From Its Heat -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 19 -- Carlos Wilton, George L. Murphy, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
It's the nature of the news business that gripping human interest stories and immediate crises domin
Seeds Of Disaster And Seeds Of Hope -- Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
The American military operation last week resulting in the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Za
Blessed, But Who's Counting? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
January 30, 2005
Galilean Idol! -- Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - C
Why is the American public so interested in what is happening with others -- especially the famous a
Thom M. Shuman
Thom M.
A Passing Touch -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Summer evenings at the ballpark are a favorite way for many to celebrate the "national pastime" -- a
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
The Giving Back Awards -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Carter Shelley, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
The recent announcements by two of America's richest men, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, that they w
A Skeleton In God's Closet -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - C
As you are no doubt aware, the controversy over the "Jesus family tomb" has generated quite a bit of
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Speaking Of Peace -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
It's not news that many places in the world are torn apart by war -- nevertheless, recent headlines
Cry Out "something Is Wrong" -- 2 Corinthians 5:(14-15) 16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul focuses on the singular importance of reconciliation: "[I]n Chr
Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Over The Line -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C
When do we have enough? Who decides if we have enough?
Carter Shelley 1952 - 2008 -- Carter Shelley
We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death on February 9th of the Rev. A.
The Heavenly Call Of God -- Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul speaks of "press[ing] on toward the goal for the prize of the h
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
Scandal, Betrayal, Hope, Thanksgiving -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
This week Stephen McCutchan will write about how the church gets through hard times by sticking toge

Illustration

The Immediate Word

A Preternaturally Gifted Triune God -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
As we make our way into the 21st century, our world faces a host of challenges that potentially enda
What Is Truth? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Like many other things in our culture, truth seems to be a concept that is often for sale to the hig
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Seeds Of Disaster And Seeds Of Hope -- Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
The American military operation last week resulting in the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Za
Nothing Hid From Its Heat -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 19 -- Carlos Wilton, George L. Murphy, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
It's the nature of the news business that gripping human interest stories and immediate crises domin
Galilean Idol! -- Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - C
Why is the American public so interested in what is happening with others -- especially the famous a
Blessed, But Who's Counting? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
January 30, 2005
A Passing Touch -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Summer evenings at the ballpark are a favorite way for many to celebrate the "national pastime" -- a
Thom M. Shuman
Thom M.
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.
The Giving Back Awards -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Carter Shelley, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
The recent announcements by two of America's richest men, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, that they w
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
A Skeleton In God's Closet -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - C
As you are no doubt aware, the controversy over the "Jesus family tomb" has generated quite a bit of
Speaking Of Peace -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
It's not news that many places in the world are torn apart by war -- nevertheless, recent headlines
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Carter Shelley 1952 - 2008 -- Carter Shelley
We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death on February 9th of the Rev. A.
Cry Out "something Is Wrong" -- 2 Corinthians 5:(14-15) 16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul focuses on the singular importance of reconciliation: "[I]n Chr
Over The Line -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C
When do we have enough? Who decides if we have enough?
Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
The Heavenly Call Of God -- Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul speaks of "press[ing] on toward the goal for the prize of the h
Scandal, Betrayal, Hope, Thanksgiving -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
This week Stephen McCutchan will write about how the church gets through hard times by sticking toge
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B
It Is Evening... -- Mark 4:35-41, 2 Corinthians 6:1-13, 1 Samuel 17:(1a, 4-11, 19-23), 32-49, Psalm 9:9-20 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 7 | Ordinary Time 12 - B
When the first storm of the 2006 hurricane season posed a threat to Florida last week, many media st
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

Preaching

The Immediate Word

A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
A Preternaturally Gifted Triune God -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
As we make our way into the 21st century, our world faces a host of challenges that potentially enda
What Is Truth? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Like many other things in our culture, truth seems to be a concept that is often for sale to the hig
Nothing Hid From Its Heat -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 19 -- Carlos Wilton, George L. Murphy, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
It's the nature of the news business that gripping human interest stories and immediate crises domin
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Seeds Of Disaster And Seeds Of Hope -- Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
The American military operation last week resulting in the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Za
Thom M. Shuman
Thom M.
Galilean Idol! -- Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - C
Why is the American public so interested in what is happening with others -- especially the famous a
A Passing Touch -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Summer evenings at the ballpark are a favorite way for many to celebrate the "national pastime" -- a
Blessed, But Who's Counting? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
January 30, 2005
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.
The Giving Back Awards -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Carter Shelley, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
The recent announcements by two of America's richest men, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, that they w
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
A Skeleton In God's Closet -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - C
As you are no doubt aware, the controversy over the "Jesus family tomb" has generated quite a bit of
Speaking Of Peace -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
It's not news that many places in the world are torn apart by war -- nevertheless, recent headlines
Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Cry Out "something Is Wrong" -- 2 Corinthians 5:(14-15) 16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul focuses on the singular importance of reconciliation: "[I]n Chr
Over The Line -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C
When do we have enough? Who decides if we have enough?
Carter Shelley 1952 - 2008 -- Carter Shelley
We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death on February 9th of the Rev. A.
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
The Heavenly Call Of God -- Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul speaks of "press[ing] on toward the goal for the prize of the h
Scandal, Betrayal, Hope, Thanksgiving -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
This week Stephen McCutchan will write about how the church gets through hard times by sticking toge
Low Sunday! Slow Sunday! "oh No" Sunday! -- John 20:19-31, 1 John 1:1--2:2, Acts 4:32-35, Psalm 133 -- Thom M. Shuman, Stephen P. McCutchan -- Second Sunday of Easter - B

Sermon

The Immediate Word

A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
It's A Small World After All -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Romans 8:22-27, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - B
Media theorist Marshall McLuhan first coined the term "global village" nearly four decades ago, and
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
What Is Truth? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Like many other things in our culture, truth seems to be a concept that is often for sale to the hig
A Preternaturally Gifted Triune God -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
As we make our way into the 21st century, our world faces a host of challenges that potentially enda
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Nothing Hid From Its Heat -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 19 -- Carlos Wilton, George L. Murphy, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
It's the nature of the news business that gripping human interest stories and immediate crises domin
Seeds Of Disaster And Seeds Of Hope -- Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
The American military operation last week resulting in the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Za
Galilean Idol! -- Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - C
Why is the American public so interested in what is happening with others -- especially the famous a
Thom M. Shuman
Thom M.
Blessed, But Who's Counting? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
January 30, 2005
A Passing Touch -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Summer evenings at the ballpark are a favorite way for many to celebrate the "national pastime" -- a
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
The Giving Back Awards -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Carter Shelley, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
The recent announcements by two of America's richest men, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, that they w
A Skeleton In God's Closet -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - C
As you are no doubt aware, the controversy over the "Jesus family tomb" has generated quite a bit of
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Speaking Of Peace -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
It's not news that many places in the world are torn apart by war -- nevertheless, recent headlines
Carter Shelley 1952 - 2008 -- Carter Shelley
We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death on February 9th of the Rev. A.
Cry Out "something Is Wrong" -- 2 Corinthians 5:(14-15) 16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul focuses on the singular importance of reconciliation: "[I]n Chr
Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
Over The Line -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C
When do we have enough? Who decides if we have enough?
The Heavenly Call Of God -- Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul speaks of "press[ing] on toward the goal for the prize of the h
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
Scandal, Betrayal, Hope, Thanksgiving -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
This week Stephen McCutchan will write about how the church gets through hard times by sticking toge

Worship

The Immediate Word

It's A Small World After All -- John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15, Romans 8:22-27, Acts 2:1-21, Psalm 104:24-34, 35b -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Day of Pentecost - B
Media theorist Marshall McLuhan first coined the term "global village" nearly four decades ago, and
A Seeker's Faith -- John 6:1-21, Ephesians 3:14-21, 2 Samuel 11:1-15, Psalm 14 -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 12 | Ordinary Time 17 - B
From newspaper editorial pages and cable television news channels to internet "blogs" and direct-mai
Called To A Strange Life -- Luke 5:1-11, 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8 (9-13), Psalm 138 -- Scott Suskovic, Barbara Jurgensen, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 5 | Ordinary Time 5 - C
We have many questions that need answers. We wrestle with these questions every day.
A Preternaturally Gifted Triune God -- John 3:1-17, Romans 8:12-17, Isaiah 6:1-8 -- Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Trinity Sunday | 1st Sunday after Pentecost - B
As we make our way into the 21st century, our world faces a host of challenges that potentially enda
What Is Truth? -- 2 Corinthians 4:3-6, Mark 9:2-9 -- Stephen P. McCutchan -- Transfiguration Sunday - B
Like many other things in our culture, truth seems to be a concept that is often for sale to the hig
You've Gotta Have Heart! -- Luke 6:17-26, 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, Jeremiah 17:5-10, Psalm 1 -- Thom M. Shuman, Paul Bresnahan -- Epiphany 6 | Ordinary Time 6 - C
Thom Shuman is writing about our faithful hearts. Who can we turn our heart toward?
Seeds Of Disaster And Seeds Of Hope -- Mark 4:26-34, 2 Corinthians 5:6-10 (11-13) 14-17, 1 Samuel 15:34--16:13 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 6 | Ordinary Time 11 - B
The American military operation last week resulting in the death of terrorist leader Abu Musab al-Za
Nothing Hid From Its Heat -- 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Psalm 19 -- Carlos Wilton, George L. Murphy, Stephen P. McCutchan, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Third Sunday in Lent - B
It's the nature of the news business that gripping human interest stories and immediate crises domin
Galilean Idol! -- Luke 4:1-13, Romans 10:8b-13, Deuteronomy 26:1-11, Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 -- Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- First Sunday in Lent - C
Why is the American public so interested in what is happening with others -- especially the famous a
A Passing Touch -- Mark 5:21-43, 2 Corinthians 8:7-15, 2 Samuel 1:1, 17-27 -- Carlos Wilton, Carter Shelley, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 8 | Ordinary Time 13 - B
Summer evenings at the ballpark are a favorite way for many to celebrate the "national pastime" -- a
Thom M. Shuman
Thom M.
Blessed, But Who's Counting? -- Matthew 5:1-12 -- Carlos Wilton -- Epiphany 4 | Ordinary Time 4 - A
January 30, 2005
Are You Afraid Of The Dark? -- Luke 13:31-35, Philippians 3:17--4:1, Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18, Psalm 27 -- Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Second Sunday in Lent - C
The good news is -- God is always with us even in our darkest hour.
The Giving Back Awards -- Mark 6:1-13, 2 Corinthians 12:2-10, 2 Samuel 5:1-5, 9-10 -- Carter Shelley, Carlos Wilton, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 9 | Ordinary Time 14 - B
The recent announcements by two of America's richest men, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett, that they w
Covenant Or Contract? (Preview Of Tiw For April 2, 2006) -- George Reed -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
A Skeleton In God's Closet -- 1 Corinthians 10:1-13, Luke 13:1-9, Isaiah 55:1-9, Psalm 63:1-8 -- Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Third Sunday in Lent - C
As you are no doubt aware, the controversy over the "Jesus family tomb" has generated quite a bit of
Speaking Of Peace -- Mark 6:14-29, Ephesians 1:3-14, 2 Samuel 6:1-5, 12b-19, Psalm 24 -- Thom M. Shuman, Wesley T. Runk -- Proper 10 | Ordinary Time 15 - B
It's not news that many places in the world are torn apart by war -- nevertheless, recent headlines
Covenant Or Contract? -- Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33, Hebrews 5:5-10, Psalm 51:1-12 -- George Reed, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - B
In the words of the old adage, "money makes the world go round" -- and people find all sorts of crea
Cry Out "something Is Wrong" -- 2 Corinthians 5:(14-15) 16-21, Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32, Joshua 5:9-12, Psalm 32 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Fourth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul focuses on the singular importance of reconciliation: "[I]n Chr
Over The Line -- Luke 4:14-21, 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a, Nehemiah 8:1-3, 5-6, 8-10, Psalm 19 -- Scott Suskovic, Paul Bresnahan, Thom M. Shuman -- Epiphany 3 | Ordinary Time 3 - C
When do we have enough? Who decides if we have enough?
Carter Shelley 1952 - 2008 -- Carter Shelley
We were shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden death on February 9th of the Rev. A.
Who Should Carry The Load? -- Mark 14:1--15:47, Philippians 2:5-11, Isaiah 50:4-9a, Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 -- Carter Shelley, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Passion Sunday - B
T
The Heavenly Call Of God -- Philippians 3:4b-14, John 12:1-8, Isaiah 43:16-21, Psalm 126 -- Paul Bresnahan, Scott Suskovic, Thom M. Shuman -- Fifth Sunday in Lent - C
In this week's epistle passage, Paul speaks of "press[ing] on toward the goal for the prize of the h
Scandal, Betrayal, Hope, Thanksgiving -- Mark 13:1-8, Hebrews 10:11-14 (15-18) 19-25, 1 Samuel 1:4-20, 1 Samuel 2:1-10 -- Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman -- Proper 28 | Ordinary Time 33 - B
This week Stephen McCutchan will write about how the church gets through hard times by sticking toge
Alive Again! -- Carlos Wilton, Stephen P. McCutchan, Thom M. Shuman, Carter Shelley -- Easter Day - B
UPCOMING WEEKS
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The Immediate Word

Quantisha Mason-Doll
Thomas Willadsen
Dean Feldmeyer
Katy Stenta
Mary Austin
Elena Delhagen
Christopher Keating
George Reed
The Cover of Darkness
by Quantisha Mason-Doll 
John 3:1-17

Under the cover of darkness he comes. With bated breath he searches for any light or movement. Nicodemus waits — he waits for Jesus. Why does Nicodemus wait until the cover of the darkness to seek Jesus? In the gospel of John Jesus rarely does his work at night. (Talk about healthy work/life balance, am I right?) This week we will seek to uncover why Nicodemus, a Pharisee, is hesitant to embrace the community Jesus is gathering....More to come...


Emphasis Preaching Journal

David Kalas
In preaching about a certain passage once, I freely made reference to the Trinity. A church member, who rather prided himself on being contrarian, said to me afterward, “You know that the Trinity did not exist until the fourth century.”
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Isaiah 6:1-8

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John E. Sumwalt
Indeed, God did not send the son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him. (v. 17)

Who or what determines who goes to heaven and who goes the other direction?

C.S. Lewis, in his book, The Great Divorce, suggests that it is really up to us.

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John Jamison
Object: An empty trash bag. I use a large, black plastic bag that everyone can easily see. You will also want three photographs to use. I used 8x11-sized copies of photos of three unknown people.

* * *

The Village Shepherd

Janice B. Scott
In this story, Mary Louise's dolls come to life on Mid-Summer's Eve, because Mary Louise herself gives them a kiss. She discovers something of herself in each of her dolls, but only one doll acts in exactly the way Mary Louise would have wished. The allegories to God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit are hopefully obvious!

Mary Louise was a little bit lonely. Not completely lonely, but just a little bit. With no brothers or sisters, Mary Louise spent quite a lot of time playing by herself. Although not completely by herself, for

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Stan Purdum
(Occurs in all three cycles of the lectionary for The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1; see The Baptism Of Our Lord/Epiphany 1/Ordinary Time 1 Cycles A and B for alternative approaches.)

Carlos Wilton
Theme For The Day
God's holiness awes, cleanses, inspires, and sends forth.

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Isaiah 6:1-8
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William J. Carl, III
Think of all the faces we show the world every day. We scrub up every morning and put our game face on. We never show our real face except to those who know us best, the ones who see through the game face to the real you and me. But with everyone else we change our faces.

Richard L. Sheffield
In the "Science & Technology," section of a recent issue of Business Week magazine, there was an article about the latest on A - I - D - S, the complicated disease we've come to know simply as AIDS. It says the scientists are learning a lot. One of the things they're learning is how the disease kills. And like just about everything that matters, it isn't simple. Says Business Week, "... HIV doesn't mysteriously lie dormant in the body only to emerge years later, as once thought.

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