“The Perfect Babysitter”

(The Good Shepherd)

Text (John 10:14-16) “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them in also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.” (New International Version)

"The Good, The Bad and The Ugli®"

^{Text (John 15:1-3) “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. (New International Version)}

“Bob’s View”  (Memorial Day)

Text (I John 5:10a) Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. (New International Version)

“Help Wanted: Witnesses to the Resurrection”

Text-(Acts 1:23-26) So they proposed two men; Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles. (The Message-Eugene Peterson)

“A Sign of Heavenly Company”

Text-(Acts 2:1-4) When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. (New International Version)

“Teachable Moments”

^{Text-(Mark 8:31-32a) He then began explaining things to them: “It is necessary that the Son of Man proceed to an ordeal of suffering, be tried and found guilty by the elders, high priests, and religion scholars, be killed, and after three days rise up alive.” He said this simply and clearly so they couldn’t miss it. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)}
 

 

"Top 1000 Places To See Before You Die" (Easter)

Text (Mark 16:4-7) But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed.

"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' " (New International Version)

"Sissy's Missionary Money"

(Non-lectionary)

Text  (Mark 12:42) But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.  (New International Version)

 

“You’re Going to be Late for School!”

 Text (Mark 1:35-38) Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Simon and his companions went to look for him, and when they found him they exclaimed: “Everyone is looking for you!”

 Jesus replied, “Let us go somewhere else—to nearby villages—so I can preach there also.” (New International Version)

 

"Ready or Not Here I come!"

^{Text (Mark 1:43-45) Jesus sent him away at once with a strong warning: “See that you don’t tell this to anyone. But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the sacrifices that Moses commanded for your cleansing, as a testimony to them.” Instead he went out and began to talk freely, spreading the news. As a result, Jesus could no longer enter a town openly but stayed outside in lonely places. Yet the people still came to him from everywhere. (New International Version)}

 

“A Late Valentine”

Text-(2 Corinthians 4:6) It started when God said, “Light up the darkness!” and our lives filled up with light as we saw and understood God in the face of Christ, all bright and beautiful. (The Message-Eugene Peterson)

“Image of the Year”

Text (Psalm 29:2) Honor the Lord for the glory of his name.
      Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.  (New Living Translation)

"Tearing the Wrappings Off the Present"

^{Text- (Mark 1:10-11) As Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” (New International Version)}
 

 

 

 

“So Help Me God!”

 

 

 

Text  (Psalm 139:9-10) If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. (New International Version)

 

"X Marks the Spot"

(The Real History of "Xmas")

Text (Mark 1:1-3) The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

 It is written in Isaiah the prophet:
   "I will send my messenger ahead of you,
      who will prepare your way"—
 "a voice of one calling in the desert,
   'Prepare the way for the Lord,
      make straight paths for him.' "

 

"Pepita's Story"

(How A Red Leaf Plant Became A Part Of Christmas)

 

"Holiday Introductions-John the Baptist"

^{Text- (John 1:22-23) Finally they said, “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet, “I am the voice of one calling in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’” (New International Version)}
 

“I Would Like You to Meet My Son”

Text- (John 1:14) The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood. We saw the glory with our own eyes, the one-of-a-kind glory, like Father, like Son, Generous inside and out, true from start to finish. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

"Each According To Their Ability^"

^{Text (Matthew 25:15) To one he trusted five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability. (New International Version)}

"Exactly One Hundred Years Ago"

(The Story of the Advent Calendar)

Text (I Corinthians 1:7-8) Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

 

"Backpack Blessings"

Text (Psalm 119:33-35) God, teach me lessons for living so I can stay the course. Give me insight so I can do what you tell me— my whole life one long, obedient response. Guide me down the road of your commandments; I love traveling this freeway! (The Message)

 

"Forgiveness Is Like A Candle"

Text (Matthew 18:21-22) At that point Peter got up the nerve to ask, "Master, how many times do I forgive a brother or sister who hurts me? Seven?"

Jesus replied, "Seven! Hardly. Try seventy times seven. (The Message)

 

“5+2÷5000=12?”

Text (Matthew 14:19-20) And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. (New International Version)

 

“You Might Be the Only”

Text- (Matthew 14:22-32) Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat was already a considerable distance from land. During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

But Jesus immediately said to them “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

“Lord if it’s you,” Peter replied, ‘tell me to come to you on the water.”

“Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord save me!”

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. (New International Version)

^{"A Word Of Warning"}

^{Text- (Matthew 15:10 & 11) Jesus called the crowd to him and said, “Listen and understand. What goes into a man’s mouth does not make him ‘unclean,’ but what comes out of his mouth, that is what makes him ‘unclean.’ (New International Version)}

 

"I See All Popsicles In My Way"

Text (Romans 12:12-21) Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Don't quit in hard times; pray all the harder. Help needy Christians; be inventive in hospitality.

Bless your enemies; no cursing under your breath. Laugh with your happy friends when they're happy; share tears when they're down. Get along with each other; don't be stuck-up. Make friends with nobodies; don't be the great somebody.

Don't hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you've got it in you, get along with everybody. Don't insist on getting even; that's not for you to do. "I'll do the judging," says God. "I'll take care of it."

Our Scriptures tell us that if you see your enemy hungry, go buy that person lunch, or if he's thirsty, get him a drink. Your generosity will surprise him with goodness. Don't let evil get the best of you; get the best of evil by doing good. (The Message)

“#23 and #34”

Text (Psalm 45:17) I will perpetuate your memory through all generations; therefore the nations will praise you for ever and ever. (New International Version)

 

“A Short Tale Based on Familiar Things”

Text (Matthew 13:34-35) Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet:

“I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.” (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

^{"Standing Next To His-story"}

^{Text- (Matthew 9:35-37) Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching, the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to the disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” (New International Version)}

Air Show

Text (Acts 1:9-11) These were his last words. As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. They stood there, staring into the empty sky. Suddenly two men appeared—in white robes! They said, “You Galileans!—Why do you just stand here looking up at an empty sky? This very Jesus who was taken up from among you to heaven will come as certainly—and mysteriously—as he left. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

"Spread the Red"

Text (Acts 2:1-4) When the Feast of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force—no one could tell where it came from. It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks, and they started speaking in a number of different languages as the Spirit prompted them. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

^{“How will you practice this summer?”}

^{Text (Matthew 7:24-27) “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house, and it fell with a great crash.” (New International Version)}

"Special Guest"

Text (Luke 24:19) "What things?" he asked. "About Jesus of Nazareth," they replied. "He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people." (New International Version)
 

 

"Where Have You Been, Under A Rock?"

Text (Luke 24:13-31) That same day two of them were walking to the village Emmaus, about seven miles out of Jerusalem. They were deep in conversation, going over all these things that had happened. In the middle of their talk and questions, Jesus came up and walked along with them. But they were not able to recognize who he was. He asked, "What's this you're discussing so intently as you walk along?" They just stood there, long-faced, like they had lost their best friend. Then one of them, his name was Cleopas, said, "Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn't heard what's happened during the last few days?" He said, "What has happened?"

Text- (John 10:3,7) The watchman opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

Therefore Jesus said again, "I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep." (New International Version)

“In Jesus Name”

Text- (John 14:13-14) “And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.” (New International Version)

Lent IV

"Staying Charged Up"

Text (Psalm 23:1-3a) The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. (New International Version)

"When the Wolf dresses like a Sheep"

Text- (Psalm 23:1,4b) The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
(New International Version)

Lent V

"Is That Your Network?"

Text-(John 11:45) Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, put their faith in him. (New International Version)

 

 

"No Game Boy"

Text- (John 11:41-44) So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, "Father, I thank you that you have heard me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that you sent me."
When he had said this Jesus called in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.
Jesus said to them, "Take off the grave clothes and let him go." (New International Version)

Lent VI-Palm Sunday

"Palm Pilot"

Text (Psalm 118:1) Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

 

(Psalm 31:9-16)  Be merciful to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and my body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my bones grow weak.

 

Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of my neighbors; I am a dread to my friends—those who see me on the street flee from me. I am forgotten by them as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery. For I hear the slander of many; there is terror on every side; they conspire against me and plot to take my life.

 

But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, "You are my God." My times are in your hands; deliver me from my enemies and from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love. (New International Version)

Easter

"Holy Goose Bumps!"

Text (John 20:10-18) Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot.

They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. "Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him." Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (Which means Teacher). Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'

Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her. (New International Version)

 

"The Final Gift?"

Text (Mark 16:1) When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Solome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body.

(Matthew 28:5-10) The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples: He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you."

So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings," he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. The Jesus said to them, "Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me."

(New International Version)

"Easter Savings"
 

Text (John 20: 29) Then Jesus told him, "Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed." (New International Version)

 

“Jesus Adopts a Highway On the Road to Jerusalem”

Text (2 Peter 1:16) We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. (New International Version)

"Fog Delay"

Text- (Exodus 24:15-18) When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it, and the glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from within the cloud. To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a consuming fire on top of the mountain. Then Moses entered the cloud as he went on up the mountain. And he stayed on the mountain forty days and forty nights. (New International Version)

Lent I

“If Jesus Had A Ringtone What Would It Be?”

(A Lenten series using a cell phone)

 

Text (Matthew 4: 4) Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God’” (New International Version)

"First Words"

Text- (Genesis 2:15-17) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. And the Lord God commanded the man, You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will surely die. (New International Version)

Lent II

 

“Who Would Be In Your Fave Five™?”

(A Lenten series using a cell phone)

 

Text (John 3:16) For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (New International Version)

 

 

 

"Father Abraham Had Many Sons"

Text- (Genesis 12:1-4a) The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father’s household and go to the land I will show you."

"I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you."

So Abram left, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he set out from Haran.

(New International Version)

Lent III

"Raising the Bar"

 

(A Lenten series using a cell phone)

Text (John 4:24) “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” (New International Version)

 

"Taste this!"

Text (John 4:10,13-14a) Jesus answered her, "If you know the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst." (New International Version)

“Look Like or Love Like”

Text (Matthew 4:18-20) Walking along the beach of Lake Galilee, Jesus saw two brothers: Simon (later called Peter) and Andrew. They were fishing, throwing their nets into the lake. It was their regular work. Jesus said to them, “Come with me. I’ll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass.” They didn’t ask questions, but simply dropped their nets and followed. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

“Old Christmas Cards”

Text- (Psalm 122:6, 7a, 8-9) Pray for Jerusalem’s peace! Prosperity to all you Jerusalem-lovers! Friendly insiders get along. For the sake of my family and friends, I say it again: live in peace! For the sake of the house of our God, God. I’ll do my very best for you. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

"At This Time Of Year..."

Text (Matthew 24:36) But the exact day and hour? No one knows that, no even heaven’s angels, not even the son. Only the Father knows. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

“Turn Here!”

 

Text- (Matthew 3:1 & 2) In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.” (New International Version)

 

“What If Jesus Got Your Christmas Gift List?”

 

 

Text-(Matthew 3:3) This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah:

“A voice of one calling in the desert, Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.” (New International Version)

“Love Came Down”

Text- (Matthew 1:21) She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (New International Version)

 

"Two Days Before Christmas"

 

A Story used with permission from When It's Fourth and Long by Josh Bidwell, Punter Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Thanks Josh!

 

Text (Using Christmas Eve) (Titus 3:1, 4-6) Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good.

 

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, who he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior. (New International Version)

“Please pass the Ketchup!”

Text (Psalm 17:6) I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer. (New International Version)

 

 

“Christian Refrigerators”

(September archives repeat due to lectionary match)

Text  (Isaiah 12:5) Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.

(Psalm 98:1) Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. (New International Version)

 

“It Tastes Sooooo Good”

 

Text (John 6:30-35) So they asked him, “What miraculous sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? Our forefathers ate the manna in the desert; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’”

     Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heave. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”

     “Sir,” they said, ‘from now on give us this bread.” The Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.” (New International Version)

"One Month From Today"

Text (Colossians 1:13-14) For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in who we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. (New International Version)

“All Thumbs?”

Text (Luke 17:6) He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you.” (New International Version)

“What If Jesus Held Parent-Teacher Conferences”

Text (Luke 17:10) “So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty’” (New International Version)

 

 

“What Do You Say?”

 

Text (Luke 17:11-16) Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him —and he was the Samaritan. (New International Version)

 

“Ten ‘Pleases’ and One ‘Thank You’”

Text (Luke 17:11-19) It happened that as he made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!"  Taking a good look at them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests."

They went, and while still on their way, became clean. One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus' feet, so grateful. He couldn't thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan.

Jesus said, "Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider?" Then he said to him, "Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you." (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

“Does God Yawn?”

 

Text (Psalm 121:3-6) He won’t let you stumble, your Guardian God won’t fall asleep. Not on your life! Israel’s Guardian will never doze or sleep.

     God’s your Guardian, right at your side to protect you—Shielding you from sunstroke, sheltering you from moonstroke. (A Pilgrim Song) (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson

 

“Are You Gellin?®”

 

 

Text (Psalm 121:1-3, 7-8) I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. (New International Version)

 

“Open the Case!”

(Non-Lectionary)

Text (1 John 4:12) No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. (New International Version)

“The Hardest Job”

Text (Luke 14:33) “In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple.” (New International Version)

 

“Neither Plans Nor Fans”

Text- (Luke 14:33) “Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it goodbye, you can’t be my disciple.” (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

 

“Woolly Facts”

 

Text (Luke 15:3-6) Their grumbling triggered this story.

     “Suppose one of you had a hundred sheep and lost one. Wouldn’t you leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost one until you found it? When found, you can be sure you would put it across your shoulders, rejoicing, and when you got home call in your friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Celebrate with me! I’ve found my lost sheep!’”(The Message –Eugene H. Peterson)

 

"Heavenly High Fives"

 

Text- (Luke 15:4-7) "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” (New International Version)

“Christian Refrigerators”

(Alternative on topic-Can't serve both God and Money)

Text  (Isaiah 12:5) Sing to the Lord, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world. (New International Version)

 

“Small Change”

 

Text- (Luke 16:13) “No servant can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” (New International Version)

 

“Would Jesus Use Your Name?”

Text- (Luke 16:19-20) There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table. Even dogs came and licked his sores. (New International Version)

(John 10:2-3) The shepherd walks right up to the gate. The gatekeeper opens the gate to him and the sheep recognize his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

“School Supplies”

(Non Lectionary)

 

Text (Ephesians 4:25b, 28a, 29a, 32) Tell your neighbor the truth. In Christ’s body we’re all connected to each other, after all. When you lie to others, you end up lying to yourself. Did you used to make ends meet by stealing? Well, no more! Watch the way you talk. Let nothing four or dirty come out of your mouth. Say what only helps, each word is a gift. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. (The Message-Eugene Peterson)

 (Thanks to childrensministrytoday.org for featuring this message)

 

 

“Family Outing”

(Non Lectionary)

Text (Joshua 24:15) “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

         (Psalm 84:12) O Lord Almighty, blessed is the man who trusts in you. (New International Version)

“The Jesus Code”

Text- (Luke 11:9-10) “So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (New International Version)

June 3rd

 

“Oh! When It Eventually Stings! (OWIES)”

 

Text (Psalm 8:1-2) O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. From the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise because of your enemies, to silence the foe and the avenger. (New International Version)

 

June 10th (Archived Favorite)

 

“The Reflection’s on you”

(Non-Lectionary)

Text (2 Corinthians 3:18a) And all of us, with unveiled faces, seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, (The New Revised Standard Version)

 

 

June 10th

 

“No Pain In Nain”

 

Text (Luke 7:11-17) Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, "Don't cry." Then he went up and touched the coffin, and those carrying it stood still. He said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother. They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people." This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country. (New International Version)

June 17th (Archived Favorite)

 

 “Reflections of the Father"

(Non-Lectionary)

Text (Matthew 5:45a) “that you may be children of your Father in Heaven” (New International Version)

 

June 17th

 

“The Price Is Right”

 

Text (Galatians 2:20) I have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not “mine,” but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I am not going to go back on that. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

June 24th (Archived Favorite)

 

“What you reflect”

 

Text- (Galatians 5:17 & 25) For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. (New International Version)

 

 

June 24

 

“Bragging Rights”

 

Text (Luke 8:38-39) The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him. (New International Version)

 

“A Simple Review”

 

 

Text (John 13:34-35) A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. (New International Version)

 

"John Followed His Mom's Advice"

 

Text (Psalm 67:1-4) May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among the nations. May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you. May the nations be glad and sing for joy; for you rule the peoples justly and guide the nations of the earth. (New International Version)

(Thanks to childrensministrytoday.org for featuring this message)

 

“Last But Not Least”

 

Text- (John 17:20a, 24) “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message.” “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world.” (New International Version)

 

 

 

“What Are You Doing In Jesus’ Prayer?”

 

^{"The Donkey's Cross"}

^{(Palm Sunday-Archived Favorite)}

 

^{Text- (John 12:14-15) Jesus found a young donkey colt and sat upon it, as it is written,}

^{“Do not be afraid, O daughter of Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” (New International Version)}

 

"How Can You Act Like Jesus?"

 

Text- (John 20:10-18) Then the disciples went back to their homes, but Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus' body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, "Woman, why are you crying?" "They have taken my Lord away," she said, "and I don't know where they have put him." At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. "Woman," he said, "why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?"
Thinking he was the gardener, she said, "Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him." Jesus said to her, "Mary."
She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher). Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet returned to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am returning to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.' "Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: "I have seen the Lord!" And she told them that he had said these things to her. (New International Version)

 

"Not With A Rhyme, But With An Echo"

 

Text- (Psalm 150:6) Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord. (New International Version)

 

“Feed Them, Lead Them, Mold Them and Watch What Happens”

 

 Text- (John 21:17) The third time he said to him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, “Do you love me?” He said, “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my sheep.” (New International Version)

 

 

“The Shepherd’s Tool”

 

Text- (Psalm 23:4) Even when the way goes through Death Valley, I’m not afraid when you walk at my side. Your trusty shepherd’s crook makes me feel secure. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

 

“Oh For Pete’s Sake!”

 

Text- (Acts 9:36-43) Down the road a way in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha, "Gazelle" in our language. She was well-known for doing good and helping out. During the time Peter was in the area she became sick and died. Her friends prepared her body for burial and put her in a cool room.

Some of the disciples had heard that Peter was visiting in nearby Lydda and sent two men to ask if he would be so kind as to come over. Peter got right up and went with them. They took him into the room where Tabitha's body was laid out. Her old friends, most of them widows, were in the room mourning. They showed Peter pieces of clothing the Gazelle had made while she was with them. Peter put the widows all out of the room. He knelt and prayed. Then he spoke directly to the body: "Tabitha, get up."

She opened her eyes. When she saw Peter, she sat up. He took her hand and helped her up. Then he called in the believers and widows, and presented her to them alive.

When this became known all over Joppa, many put their trust in the Master. Peter stayed on a long time in Joppa as a guest of Simon the Tanner. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

March 4th

20 Questions (A Lenten Series)

 

"Why Was Jesus Sad?"

March 11th

March 18th

March 25th

20 Questions (A Lenten Series)

 

“What About Lazarus?”

Text-(John 12:1-2) Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. (New International Version)

“Ford Had a Better Idea”

 

(Alternative)

 

Text (Psalm 29:11) The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace. (New International Version)

      “Prayer Team Coverage”

Text ( Acts 8:14-17) When the apostles in Jerusalem received the report that Samaria had accepted God’s Message, they sent Peter and John down to pray for them to receive the Holy Spirit. Up to this point they had only been baptized in the name of the Master Jesus, the Holy Spirit hadn’t yet fallen on them. Then the apostles had their hands on them and they did receive the Holy Spirit. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

 

“The Best Light”

 

Text-(Luke 4:22) All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked. (New International Version)

Nov. 5th Archived Favorite

“Trick or Treat”

Text (Mark 12:29-31) “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” (New International Version)

 

Nov. 12th Archived Favorite(Stewardship)

“When is Enough, Enough?”

 

Text- (Mark 12:41-44) Sitting across from the offering box, he was observing how the crowd tossed money in for the collection. Many of the rich were making large contributions. One poor widow came up and put in two small coins¾a measly two cents. Jesus called his disciples over and said, “The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they’ll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn’t afford¾she gave her all.” (The Message-Eugene Peterson)

 

Nov. 19th Archived Favorite(Stewardship)

“The Natural Beauty of your Church”

 

Text- (Luke 12:34) For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

 (New International Version)

 

 

 

Nov. 26th

 

“Leftovers”

 

Text-(Matthew 6:33) “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (New International Version)

 

Oct 1st

“Jesus Goes High Definition"

Text- (Mark 9:41) “I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.” (New International Version)

Oct 8th

^{“Jesus Gets Angry”}

Text- (Mark 10:13-16) The people brought children to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus was irate and let them know it: “Don’t push these children away. Don’t ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God’s kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you’ll never get in.” Then, gathering the children up in his arms, he laid his hands of blessing on them. (The Message-Eugene H. Peterson)

Oct. 15th Archived Favorite

Oct. 22nd

“So What Works?”

Text- (Mark 10:45) “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (New International Version)

Oct. 29th Archived Favorite