Browsing Preach

“What are you doing here, (Insert your name)?”

Lectionary Reflection for June 20, 2010
Fourth Sunday after Pentecost

Things weren’t going so hot for Elijah, prophet of God. In fact, he was so undone that he asked God to let him die. Instead, God asks a question. How would you answer if God asked you the same question?

The Poor Man’s Lamb (or, how power and injustice make cozy bedfellows)

Lectionary Reflection for June 13, 2010
Third Sunday after Pentecost
This week’s lessons flow with a strong undercurrent that considers the relationship between power and injustice. Fortunately for us, Jesus models a different use of power.

The Many Faces of Mercy

Lectionary Reflection for Sunday, June 6, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost Year C
How about taking a slightly different approach to this week’s texts? Consider as the key point that God does provide and mercy has a face–yours.

The Divine Ensemble

LECTIONARY REFLECTION for May 30, 2010
Trinity Sunday, Year C

Finding an image to communicate the mystery of the Holy Trinity is a daunting task, and one that will never yield a perfect result. However, this writer gives it one more stab, borrowing an image from the actor’s toolkit.

Proclaiming stewardship: A guide for sermons and temple talks

By the Rev. Dr. Susan K. Hedahl
Before public proclamation, it is necessary to ask: Where have we been? As a congregation, what gifts do we already employ for ourselves and others? Where do we hope to be in the months, the years ahead? Which resources do we need to consider, expand, develop?

What Does this Mean, this whole Pentecost Thing?

Lectionary Reflection for May 23

Ask your average mainline Christian what Pentecost is all about, and you’re likely to hear everything from “I don’t know” to “We all wear red.” Worship leaders, preachers, and Christian educators should give careful thought to this important day.

Fasting God’s Way

Lectionary Reflection, 5th Sunday After Epiphany, Year A
February 9, 2014
What do the words of Jesus and the Prophet have to say to us about discipleship this week? Plenty! While the instructions are tough ones to hear and follow, we are not alone and we do not “fast” in vain. So, dear friends, let your lights shine and spread mercy, justice, and generosity liberally wherever you go. Read on for ideas with youth and children and for worship. (Photo: ralph repo, Creative Commons)

Proclaiming Stewardship: A Guide for Sermons and Temple Talks

Susan K. Hedahl, professor of homiletics, Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, offers tips for sermons and temple talks. “Ask what the stewardship profile of your congregation is — Before public proclamation, it is necessary to ask: Where have we been? As a congregation, what gifts do we already employ for ourselves and others? Where do we hope to be in the months, the years ahead? Which resources do we need to consider, expand, develop?