Lectionary 21/12/2025
- Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A
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Hear the word a prophet speaking
Hear the word a prophet speaking
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A Isaiah 7: 10 – 16 Hymn: Hear the word, a prophet speaking Hear the word, a prophet speaking: hear the words that, from the past, echo through the times and seasons, words to challenge, words to last. Look around for signs and wonders, look, a young …
God is with us Joseph heard it
God is with us Joseph heard it
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday in Advent Year A Matthew 1:18-25 Hymn: God is with us, Joseph heard it, God is with us, Joseph heard it, in a dream in deepest sleep: Mary’s child, they’d call him Jesus, now he had a vow to keep; bound together in God’s purpose, he and Mary made their way to the ce…
Such an enigmatic promise
Such an enigmatic promise
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday of Advent year A Isaiah 7: 10 – 16 Hymn: Such an enigmatic promise, Such an enigmatic promise, still we strain to understand how a girl gave birth to God-head in a distant time and land... Andrew Pratt (born 1948) Words © Stainer & Bell Ltd, London, England, www.…
Christmas is a family time
Christmas is a family time
by Marjorie Dobson
Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A Matthew 1:18-25 Meditation: Christmas is a family time. Christmas is a family time. A time for the gathering of long-lost relatives and excited children. A time for cards and greetings and to celebrate together. Or is it? We recognise at this time t…
Lectionary Reflections Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A
Lectionary Reflections Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A
by SPCK - Jane Williams
The Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A Isaiah 7:10–16 Romans 1:1–7 Matthew 1:18–25 Why won’t King Ahaz ask God for a sign? The reason he gives sounds like a good religious response, but the tone of the story makes it clear that it isn’t. What he says is ‘I will not put the Lord to …
Intercessions for Years A, B and C Book - Intercessions - Advent 4 - Year A
Intercessions for Years A, B and C Book - Intercessions - Advent 4 - Year A
by SPCK - Ian Black
Intercessions - Advent 4 - Year A Restore us, O Lord And we shall be saved. God of grace, you bring salvation to birth in Mary’s Child. May your Church be expectant with hope and promise . . . Send us out to proclaim your good news with joy. God of grace, you surprise us with the…
Twelve Months of Sundays Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A
Twelve Months of Sundays Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A
by SPCK - N T Wright
The Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A Isaiah 7: 10-16 Romans 1: 1-7 Matthew 1: 18-25 We were taught in college, and many repeat in the pulpit, that the word ’almah' in Isaiah 7.14 doesn’t mean ‘virgin’, but ‘young woman’. It’s not that easy, actually: the word is rare, and the oth…
Imagining the Lectionary: Christmas barbed and barbarous (Advent 4A)
Imagining the Lectionary: Christmas barbed and barbarous (Advent 4A)
by David Perry
Imagining the Lectionary: Christmas barbed and barbarous (Advent 4A) Reflection accompanying image Christmas barbed and barbarous "they shall name him Emmanuel, which means, God is with us" Matthew 1:23 When juxtaposed with an image of barbed wire the definition of the word bar…
Imagining the Lectionary: berry-bright promises (Advent 4A)
Imagining the Lectionary: berry-bright promises (Advent 4A)
by David Perry
Imagining the Lectionary: Berry-bright promises (Advent 4A) Reflection accompanying image Red berries covered in frost God's promises are berry-bright with hope. So when life events freeze expectation and cruel circumstances chill to the bone, the promise-laded seeds of love han…
Clouds and Glory Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A
Clouds and Glory Year A - The Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A
by SPCK - David Adam
The Fourth Sunday of Advent Isaiah 7. 10-16 : Ps. 80. 1-7 [17-19] : Romans 1. 1-7: Matthew 1. 18-25 Opening Prayer, Prayer of Intercession, The Peace and The Blessing. In the church that looks for you, among the people who proclaim you, with all who seek to serve you, among all w…
Prayers for All Occasions Book - Advent Prayer - Come, Lord Christ
Prayers for All Occasions Book - Advent Prayer - Come, Lord Christ
by SPCK - Ian Black
Advent Taken from: Prayers for All Occasions Come, Lord Christ, to restore all that has been lost through struggle and fear, in sorrow and in pain.... Taken from Prayers for All Occasions by Ian Black Published by SPCK
Prayers for All Occasions Book - Christmas Shopping Prayer
Prayers for All Occasions Book - Christmas Shopping Prayer
by SPCK - Ian Black
Christmas Shopping Prayer Prayers for All Occasions God of generous love, you give freely of yourself in your Son Jesus Christ. Bless us as we choose gifts as tokens of love and affection. Free us from losing the purpose in the bags and wrappings... Taken from Prayers for All Occ…
Traces of Advent - Creator
Traces of Advent - Creator
by Traces of Advent
Advent 4 - Creator This is one of four trigger images in the Traces of Advent series. They can be downloaded for free or used from a screen. For more ideas of how to use this exciting new innovation click here to go to the Traces of Advent site. To make the most of this Free Adv…
Traces of Advent - Creator - QR code version
Traces of Advent - Creator - QR code version
by Traces of Advent
Taken from Traces of Advent Advent 4 - Creator This is one of four trigger images in the Traces of Advent series. They can be downloaded for free or used from a screen. For more ideas of how to use this exciting new innovation click here to go to the Traces of Advent site. To ma…
chair and table
chair and table
by David Perry
Image to accompany reflecction "Shopping Mall Nativity 1: Sitting down in Bethlehem" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) Insert as P…
shopping mall magnificat
shopping mall magnificat
by David Perry
Image to accompany reflection "Shopping Mall Nativity 3: Annunciating the Magnificat" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) Insert as …
menkind
menkind
by David Perry
Image to accompany reflection "Shopping Mall Nativity 2: MenKind - if only" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) Insert as Picture in…
Shopping Mall Nativity 1: Sitting down in Bethlehem
Shopping Mall Nativity 1: Sitting down in Bethlehem
by David Perry
Shopping Mall Nativity 1: Sitting down in Bethlehem Reflection accompanying image “chair and table” The empty dining chair which is the point of focus is unremarkable, just one of many set out around tables waiting for the influx of Christmas shoppers at lunchtime. Over the nex…
Shopping Mall Nativity 2: MenKind - if only
Shopping Mall Nativity 2: MenKind - if only
by David Perry
Shopping Mall Nativity 2: MenKind - if only Reflection accompanying image “menkind” Menkind: if only it were not just the name of a store but also a gender specific collective noun expressing a universal truth about male behaviour. How different our experience of the world woul…
Shopping Mall Nativity 3: Annunciating the Magnificat
Shopping Mall Nativity 3: Annunciating the Magnificat
by David Perry
Shopping Mall Nativity 3: Annunciating the Magnificat Reflection accompanying image “shopping mall magnificat” Encounters, expectations and testimonies are the air we breathe when we walk across the Christmas GodScape of the Nativity narratives. Everywhere we look we discover G…
Odd, lonely and outcast: a donkey's perspective on Christmas
Odd, lonely and outcast: a donkey's perspective on Christmas
by David Perry
Odd, lonely and outcast: a donkey's perspective on Christmas Reflection accompanying image “odd lonely outcast donkey" As the odd one out and the solitary representative of its kind in a field occupied by a small herd of cattle, this donkey stands alone. Its presence is incongr…
odd lonely outcast donkey
odd lonely outcast donkey
by David Perry
Image accompanying reflection "Odd, lonely and outcast: a donkey's perspective on Christmas" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) Ins…
Shopping Mall Nativity 4: Enticed inside Christmas
Shopping Mall Nativity 4: Enticed inside Christmas
by David Perry
Shopping Mall Nativity 4: Enticed inside Christmas Reflection accompanying image “enticed inside Christmas” So near and yet so far; so close and yet so distant: this vibrant Christmas signage may entice shoppers to enter the store, but once inside its extravagant promise will r…
enticed inside christmas
enticed inside christmas
by David Perry
Image accompanying reflection "Shopping Mall Nativity 4: Enticed inside Christmas" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) Insert as Pic…
Imagining the Lectionary: let it be with me according to your word (Advent 4)
Imagining the Lectionary: let it be with me according to your word (Advent 4)
by David Perry
Imagining the Lectionary: let it be with me according to your word (Advent 4) Reflection accompanying image “let it be with me according to your word” Patterns of colour dapple the old flagstone floor of this former parish church, which is now home to a visual arts centre. Wher…
Let it be with me according to your word
Let it be with me according to your word
by David Perry
Image accompanying reflection "Imagining the Lectionary: Let it be with me according to your word (Advent 4)" TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image pr…
Drama - The Paxo Christmas Special
Drama - The Paxo Christmas Special
by Kit Walkham
A debate on "Is Christmas in Britain's Interests" led by a male presenter with the manner of a well known TV host. Written with other 3 parts played by women, but could be adapted. Raises misconceptions of the nature of Christmas. The Paxo Christmas Special, by Kit Walkham This w…
Advent IV
Advent IV
by Michael Docker
Advent IV The candle, like Mary, is frail and small - In the grand scheme of things just a guttering flame. And we, like Mary, like the candle, like Bethlehem, - Are frail but infused with the scent of God's call. The candle, like Mary, is humble and poor When compared with the w…
ApplecartIgnite - Gabriel's Visit
ApplecartIgnite - Gabriel's Visit
by Applecartlive Ltd
An unsuspecting young woman is approached by a man she has never met in the confines and comfort of her own home. Having no idea how he got into her kitchen Myriam is terrified. In time a relationship is established and the reason for the unexpected visitor’s arrival is revealed.…
ADVENT 4
ADVENT 4
by Alan M Barker
PowerPoint slide image for week Four of Advent. TIP - Image size is 1024 x 768 suitable for PPT Slides Insert as Picture in the normal way. I.E. a Blank layout slide to avoid any frame. Then place the image into the top L/H corner and drag the image box to the bottom RH corner. T…
Revelation for Everyone - God and the Lamb Are There
Revelation for Everyone - God and the Lamb Are There
by SPCK - N T Wright
God and the Lamb Are There Revelation 21.22-22.7 Earlier today, I came upon some workmen who were putting scaffolding up around an old stone building. Scaffolding is normally extremely functional: it’s made to do a job, not to look pretty. But supposing a builder decided to const…
Paul for Everyone Romans part 1 - Good News about the New King
Paul for Everyone Romans part 1 - Good News about the New King
by SPCK - N T Wright
Good News about the New King ROMANS 1.1-7 From time to time, scientists have sent space probes to Mars. The object of the exercise is of course to try to find out more about the great planet which, although it’s our nearest neighbour, is still over a hundred million miles away. F…
Meditation - 4th sunday of Advent Year A
Meditation - 4th sunday of Advent Year A
by David Middleton
Meditation – 4th Sunday of Advent Year A Let me explain Matthew 1: 18-25 Dinner had been a tense, quiet, affair and Joseph could stand it no longer; Mary was definitely avoiding eye contact with him; something was wrong. ‘Mary. What’s the matter? Have I done something wrong? You …
Advent Liturgy
Advent Liturgy
by Jane Bingham
Liturgy to accompany the lighting of the advent ring based on Hope, Peace, Joy & Love Advent liturgy - Hope Peace Joy Love Sunday 1 – Hope Today we light a candle of Hope. Not just the kind of hope based in a dream-world but the real Christian hope based on the knowledge of God’s…
There is a season - Christmas Introduction
There is a season - Christmas Introduction
by SPCK - Margaret Pritchard Houston
CHRISTMAS The Word became flesh INTRODUCTION In an ideal world, Christmas Eve would be a time of peaceful, joyful anticipation. Your church staff would have the time and energy to set up and host a three-hour celebration for the church’s children, and your families would enthusia…
There is a season - Christmas Liturgy
There is a season - Christmas Liturgy
by SPCK - Margaret Pritchard Houston
CHRISTMAS LITURGY The Word became flesh PART1: HUMANITY’S NEED FOR A SAVIOUR The church is in semi-darkness. The crib scene is set up in front of the altar, but there are no humans or angels in it. We gather in the nave. In the pews are stuffed animals – some predators, some pre…
Christingle
Christingle
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christingle Wonky fruit sampled
Christingle Wonky fruit sampled
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Nativity Tumbledown
Nativity Tumbledown
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Star in Lights
Christmas Star in Lights
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Bells and Stars
Christmas Bells and Stars
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Star
Christmas Star
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Holly
Holly
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Light Balloon
Christmas Light Balloon
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
City Lights Red
City Lights Red
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Tree snow and lights
Christmas Tree snow and lights
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Advent 4
Advent 4
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
LWPT Meditations - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A
LWPT Meditations - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year A
by Susan Thorne
Meditation – Fourth Sunday of Advent Yr A Isaiah 7:10-16 Romans 1:1-7 Matthew 1:18-25 Matthew liked to refer to the prophets, and, although he had to stretch one or two prophecies in order to make them fit, he was zealous in proving that Jesus’ birth had long been foretold by th…
Angel with Trumpet
Angel with Trumpet
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Angel cute
Christmas Angel cute
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Advent Candle Liturgy
Advent Candle Liturgy
by Rev Elaine Halls
To accompany, week by week in Advent, Singing the Faith 165, for Messy/All Age/With children worship ADVENT CANDLES TELL THEIR STORY... (Singing the Faith 165) Advent 1 Christmas Decorations Twinkle. WHY? Tinsel twists, trees stand tall. WHY? WHY? Shops are busy, the postman too.…
A hymn for candle lighting services in Advent
A hymn for candle lighting services in Advent
by Andrew Pratt
A hymn for candle lighting services in Advent Different lectionaries and churches use different themes and orders for these service, A selection of four verses for the Sundays of Advent should be chosen from the selection together with the last verse for Christmas day. The order …
Prayers for Advent 4 - Year A
Prayers for Advent 4 - Year A
by John Birch
Prayers of Adoration, Confession and Thanksgiving for Advent ADORATION We are called, set apart, servants of our heavenly King. We are loved as we are, by grace, a love so amazing... CONFESSION Restore us, O Lord, we pray, bring us back to that place where we first met, as shephe…
Angel Praising
Angel Praising
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Nativity
Nativity
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
PAUL AND THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD - From Worldview to Theology
PAUL AND THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD - From Worldview to Theology
by SPCK - N T Wright
Part 1: PAUL AND HIS WORLD Chapter One RETURN OF THE RUNAWAY? 2 Philemon and the Study of Paul (iii) From Worldview to Theology The particular claim of the present book, then, embodied in the transition between Part II and Part III, is that when we understand the worldview of Pau…
Times and Seasons - Full Service - Advent 4
Times and Seasons - Full Service - Advent 4
by Andrew Pratt and Marjorie Dobson
Full Service Advent 4 Order of Service contains: Opening Hymn Reading for two - Advent 4 - The Word of God Candle lighting Prayer Candle lighting Hymn Reading - Isaiah 7:10-16 Hymn Reading - Matthew 1:18-25 Sermon Idea Hymn Intercessions - Christmas is a family time Lord's Prayer…
Joy at Christmas
Joy at Christmas
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Four
Four
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Baby in a Manger
Baby in a Manger
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Advent Welcome and Week Slides
Advent Welcome and Week Slides
by Alan M Barker
PowerPoint slides for Advent Services Contains a Welcome and Advent Candles for each week Ideal to add to your presentations for each week of Advent, add your own Church Name. To insert into your presentation: Open your service PPT Click Insert - Then select 'Slides from' (select…
Robin
Robin
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christmas Decoration
Christmas Decoration
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Spread the Light
Spread the Light
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christingles
Christingles
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christingle Service
Christingle Service
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Christingle Music
Christingle Music
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Times and Seasons - Prayer: The Waiting Time
Times and Seasons - Prayer: The Waiting Time
by Jan Berry
PRAYER: THE WAITING TIME Candles and calendar mark the days flame flickering with vulnerable hope, doors opening onto the story, God of our days, wait with us in the waiting time. Fields lie fallow under winter skies, bare earth prepared for planting, waiting for the seeds of the…
Times and Seasons - We wait in darkness for the dawn
Times and Seasons - We wait in darkness for the dawn
by Jan Berry
We wait in darkness for the dawn when night seems long and grey; the faintly-gleaming ray of light that marks the edge of day. We wait in silence for the word that whispers in our ear; that gives our dreams a shape and form and gently calms our fear. Verses 3-4 follow ©Jan Berry …
Times and Seasons - Vulnerability and Hope: Prayer of Thanksgiving
Times and Seasons - Vulnerability and Hope: Prayer of Thanksgiving
by Jan Berry
VULNERABILITY AND HOPE: A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING God, maker of the earth, we thank you for this broken bread; in its fragments we find you, sharing our vulnerability, waiting with us in patient helplessness and impatient rage. We thank you for our brokenness embodied in your comi…
Times and Seasons - Strange choices
Times and Seasons - Strange choices
by Marjorie Dobson
Strange choices Strange people God chooses sometimes. Not usually famous people; very rarely, rich people; not necessarily beautiful; not always religious; sometimes uneducated; often those that others disregard; usually very down-to earth characters. Was that why a teenage girl …
Times and Seasons - Advent God:Prayer of Approach
Times and Seasons - Advent God:Prayer of Approach
by Jan Berry
ADVENT GOD: A PRAYER OF APPROACH Advent God, in all our preparations, the busy to-do lists and the frenzied activity, wait with us for that moment of pausing in anticipation of your presence. Waiting God, we prepare for your coming. Advent God, when we are lethargic and indiffere…
Times and Seasons - Prayers for Eucharist
Times and Seasons - Prayers for Eucharist
by Jan Berry
PRAYERS FOR EUCHARIST INVITATION Come to this table where God invites you to wait for the pain and hope of new life embodied in human birth. Come to this table where God invites you to wait for the fragments to be gathered and brokenness to be held. Continues... concludes with a …
Times and Seasons - Expectation
Times and Seasons - Expectation
by Marjorie Dobson
Expectation That first faint fluttering of movement seems so insignificant that it can be dismissed as imagination. As the days pass and the growing continues and the stirring becomes stronger, then the realisation dawns that new life is beginning to make its presence felt. Conti…
Times and Seasons - God’s love from heaven to earth comes down
Times and Seasons - God’s love from heaven to earth comes down
by Jan Berry
God’s love from heaven to earth comes down in cattle-shed and crowded town; in all the pain and risk of birth God shares our human life on earth: And so with hope and joy we sing, God is with us! Good news we bring. Verses 2-3 follow ©Jan Berry Tune: Sussex Carol
Times and Seasons - Poem: Mary’s joy
Times and Seasons - Poem: Mary’s joy
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem: Mary’s joy For the first time I can walk with pride. At home too many people turn their backs, whisper behind their hands, gossip my shame in their doorways and pull their children to safety for fear of contamination. Continues... ©Marjorie Dobson Luke 1:46b-55
Times and Seasons - Prayers and readings for the Posada
Times and Seasons - Prayers and readings for the Posada
by Jan Berry
Prayers and readings for the posada Opening sentences/responses In our comings and goings, God, Saviour of the world, travel with us. In our busyness and activity God, Saviour of the world, work with us. In our giving and receiving, God, Saviour of the world, share with us. In ou…
Times and Seasons - Prayers:After Communion
Times and Seasons - Prayers:After Communion
by Jan Berry
PRAYERS AFTER COMMUNION Advent God, we thank you that you have welcomed us at your table and fed us with your gifts of bread and wine. Remain with us in our waiting and our hoping, as we travel on towards the celebration of your birth amongst us. Amen Continues... ©Jan Berry
Times and Seasons - Saying Yes-A Prayer Of Thanksgiving
Times and Seasons - Saying Yes-A Prayer Of Thanksgiving
by Jan Berry
SAYING YES: A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING Vulnerable God, Maker of the universe, we praise you that in the gift of Jesus you answer our human brokenness with your 'Yes' of love. In your promise to a peasant girl you say yes to our dreams of freedom. In the shabbiness of the stable you…
If I were a Shepherd
If I were a Shepherd
by Rose humphrey
TIP- PowerPoint Slide Size- The ideal way to insert into PowerPoint is:- • Reduce the image size to 1024x768 pixels using your image editing software. (Will reduce image proportionally) • Insert as Picture in the normal way. • If needed fill the slide area by placing the image in…
Rhythms of remembering - Lent - Wednesday Morning Prayer
Rhythms of remembering - Lent - Wednesday Morning Prayer
by SPCK - Hannah Ward & Jennifer Wild
LENT - Wednesday Morning Prayer Blessed are you, O God: you made us to care for the earth. The earth is God’s and all that is in it, the world and all who dwell therein. For it is God who founded it upon the sea and made it firm upon the rivers of the deep...
Four Gospels, One Jesus - Where is he who is born King of the Jews?
Four Gospels, One Jesus - Where is he who is born King of the Jews?
by SPCK - Richard A Burridge
Where is he who is born King of the Jews? Infancy narratives, Matthew 1—2 Mark begins with ‘the beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ’, but Matthew picks another key word – genesis: ‘the book of the generation (biblos geneseos) of Jesus Christ, son of David, son of Abraham’ (1.…
Four Gospels, One Jesus - Righteousness, morality and judgement
Four Gospels, One Jesus - Righteousness, morality and judgement
by SPCK - Richard A Burridge
Righteousness, morality and judgement Matthew’s Teacher is concerned about moral teaching; one of his key words (occurring seven times in Matthew, once in Luke, and never in Mark) is dikaiosune, justice or righteousness, with its adjective dikaios (fifteen times in Matthew; once …
Four Gospels, One Jesus - The Teacher's vindication
Four Gospels, One Jesus - The Teacher's vindication
by SPCK - Richard A Burridge
The Teacher’s vindication The Resurrection, Matthew 28 This atmosphere of supernatural intervention openly visible to all continues into Matthew’s resurrection account, as does his desire to tie up the loose ends and explain the difficulties. While Mark ends with a characteristic…
Four Gospels, One Jesus - The ox in the Temple and the stall
Four Gospels, One Jesus - The ox in the Temple and the stall
by SPCK - Richard A Burridge
The ox in the Temple and the stall Infancy and beginnings, Luke 1—4.13 Since the ox was the universal beast of burden, it is not surprising that Luke stresses the universal importance of Jesus. We have seen that the opening words of any ancient text were crucial. If Mark is not c…
THE WOMEN'S BIBLE COMMENTARY - Book III
THE WOMEN'S BIBLE COMMENTARY - Book III
by SPCK - Newsom, Ringe and Lapsley
Book III (Pss. 73-89) Book III opens with “A Psalm of Asaph” (Ps. 73). Like the sons of Korah, Asaph was, according to the book of Chronicles, a temple singer during the reigns of David and Solomon. Fifteen of the seventeen psalms in Book III are attributed to Asaph and the sons …
Walking Backwards to Christmas - Chapter 7 Joseph
Walking Backwards to Christmas - Chapter 7 Joseph
by SPCK - Stephen Cottrell
Chapter 7 Joseph Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her …
Times and Seasons - A Liturgy for a Blue Christmas
Times and Seasons - A Liturgy for a Blue Christmas
by Andrew Pratt and Marjorie Dobson
A Liturgy for a Blue Christmas (This is not a Full Service, but a liturgy that could be inserted into worship at any suitable time during the Advent/Christmas period with, or without, the addition of further hymns and prayers. Christmas is not a happy time for everyone.) Leader: …
Isaiah for Everyone - Stand Firm, Or You Won't Stand At All
Isaiah for Everyone - Stand Firm, Or You Won't Stand At All
by SPCK - John Goldingay
Stand Firm, Or You Won’t Stand At All I mentioned in an early volume of The Old Testament for Everyone receiving a call from a Jewish lawyer in Los Angeles who had self-published a book titled Twenty-six Reasons Why Jews Don’t Believe in Jesus and wanted me to make sure that his …
52 Reflections on Faith - Mary, mother of Jesus: pointing to God
52 Reflections on Faith - Mary, mother of Jesus: pointing to God
by BRF - Stephen W. Need
Mary, mother of Jesus: pointing to God Michelangelo’s Pietà is one of the most beautiful and famous pieces of art in the world. It stands just inside St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. In glorious white marble, sculpted in the 15th century when the artist was only 24, the statue depict…
The Act of Prayer Year C - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year C
The Act of Prayer Year C - Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year C
by BRF - John Birch
Fourth Sunday of Advent Year C Opening prayer The preparations are in place, the excitement mounts and, for those who are travelling to visit families, arrangements are finalised, clothes sorted, gifts wrapped and labelled…
52 Reflections on Faith - Jesus the good shepherd: Door of the sheep
52 Reflections on Faith - Jesus the good shepherd: Door of the sheep
by BRF - Stephen W. Need
Jesus the good shepherd: Door of the sheep When I worked in the Holy Land with St George’s College, Jerusalem, we often took groups to the Sinai desert to camp overnight under the stars on the way down to St Catherine’s monastery…
Fresh Thoughts For Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 147
Fresh Thoughts For Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 147
by Twelvebaskets Ltd
A selection of commentary, reflection and prayer ideas from various Christian authors and the full bible texts from the NRSV for this week's lectionary. NOW INCLUDING SERIALISED BOOKS FROM SPCK AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM BRF. Check below for details. Subscribe to Fresh Thoughts For S…
Fatherhood and St Joseph
Fatherhood and St Joseph
by Colin Smith
This short sermon/reflection (566words) considers fatherhood for Christians today citing St Joseph as a role model especially at the time of the birth of Jesus. Though little is recorded about him after the birth there is nonetheless sufficient of his character and actions known …
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Numbers in the Bible Assembly Collection - Christmas - No Way Assembly
Numbers in the Bible Assembly Collection - Christmas - No Way Assembly
by Christian Assembly Team
Numbers Assembly – No Way Christmas (0) Bible ref: Matthew 1 to 2:1-12 This assembly would usually be used at or close to Christmas... Story NO WAY! said Mary when the angel told her she was going to have a baby. “I can’t be pregnant because I’m not married yet.” But when the ang…
Prayers for all Occasions - Kindle
Prayers for all Occasions - Kindle
by SPCK - Ian Black
This wonderful collection of 140 original prayers – published here for the first time – is suitable for anyone who leads public prayers, or is looking for a resource to enrich private devotions. Covering a wide variety of subjects, the prayers are grouped under broad headings: …
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Glossary
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Glossary
by SPCK - N T Wright
GLOSSARY Acts for Everyone Part 2 age to come, see present age apostle, disciple, the Twelve ‘Apostle’ means ‘one who is sent’. It could be used of an ambassador or official delegate. In the New Testament it is sometimes used specifically of Jesus’ inner circle of twelve; but Pau…
Prayers for all Occasions - ipad/iphone/itouch - Sony
Prayers for all Occasions - ipad/iphone/itouch - Sony
by SPCK - Ian Black
This wonderful collection of 140 original prayers – published here for the first time – is suitable for anyone who leads public prayers, or is looking for a resource to enrich private devotions. Covering a wide variety of subjects, the prayers are grouped under broad headings…
Poem/Reflection: What about Paul?
Poem/Reflection: What about Paul?
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem/Reflection: What about Paul? You could say that Paul had a great deal of get-up-and-go. You could also say that he very quickly got-up-and-went. No doubt about it, he had plenty of energy. No doubt about it, he also had plenty of enemies. He also had enough sense to set out …
Journeying with Matthew Lectionary Year A - Christmas
Journeying with Matthew Lectionary Year A - Christmas
by SPCK - Woodward, Gooder and Pryce
2 Christmas Exploring the text Matthew’s birth narrative begins in the same way that the genealogy began. Unfortunately this is masked in the English translation. Matthew 1.1 begins ‘a book [or record] of the genesis of Jesus the Messiah’ and Matthew 1.18 ‘the genesis of Jesus th…
Jeremiah for everyone - Rachel Weeps for Her Children
Jeremiah for everyone - Rachel Weeps for Her Children
by SPCK - John Goldingay
Rachel Weeps for Her Children North of Bethlehem on the Jerusalem road is the traditional site of the tomb of Rachel, the great love of Jacob’s life and the mother of Joseph (and thus grandmother of Ephraim and Manasseh); she died in giving birth to Benjamin…
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Out of his Own Mouth
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Out of his Own Mouth
by SPCK - N T Wright
Out of His Own Mouth Acts 22.12-22 In British football, the ‘manager’, or head coach, is often the most important character in the whole unit. Players come and players go, but if the manager is good he can make things happen, win tournaments, put on excellent performances no matt…
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Easter Day Year B
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Easter Day Year B
by SPCK - N T Wright
Easter Day Isaiah 25.6-9 1 Corinthians 15.1-11 John 20.1-18 This Gospel reading is not, as one writer has suggested, ‘a sanitized story about a trip to a garden and a lovely surprise’. If Easter is in any sense the happy ending after a sad story, that is the least important thing…
Paul for Everyone The Prison Letters - The King is Proclaimed
Paul for Everyone The Prison Letters - The King is Proclaimed
by SPCK - N T Wright
The King is Proclaimed Philippians 1.12-18a One of the most dramatic stories anywhere in ancient literature is that of Joseph, the second youngest son of the patriarch Jacob. His father spoiled him rotten, and his older brothers were jealous. They wanted to kill him, then they de…
Paul for Everyone: Galatians and Thessalonians - Paul's Agreement with Peter and James
Paul for Everyone: Galatians and Thessalonians - Paul's Agreement with Peter and James
by SPCK - N T Wright
Paul’s Agreement with Peter and James Galatians 2.6-10 One of the most famous walks in England is along a high ridge in the Lake District called Striding Edge. It runs to the east of the mountain called Helvellyn, one of the highest mountains in England, and, particularly in bad …
Gazing on the Gospels Year B - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year B
Gazing on the Gospels Year B - The Fourth Sunday of Advent Year B
by SPCK - Judith Dimond
Gazing on the Gospel - Year B The Fourth Sunday of Advent Luke 1.26-38 Gaze on two Renaissance masterpieces: the Annunciation by Titian, and the Annunciation by Tintoretto. Even if you have never seen them let your imagination conjure them up... Both depict the same story, but th…
Prayer: Confession
Prayer: Confession
by Marjorie Dobson
Prayer: Confession It seems so unrealistic to talk of not knowing about sin and never committing sin – and if we do, then we cannot know, or see, Jesus. How can that be possible, when we’re only human and we are told that Jesus is the only one without sin? Some contradiction ther…
Mark for Everyone - The Healing of the Paralytic
Mark for Everyone - The Healing of the Paralytic
by SPCK - N T Wright
Mark For Everyone MARK 2.1–12 The Healing of the Paralytic... ...Everyone was astonished, and they praised God. ‘We’ve never seen anything like this!’ they said . Most people don’t realize that this was probably Jesus’ own house. He had moved to Capernaum from Nazareth; the point…
Hear the word a prophet speaking
Hear the word a prophet speaking
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday of Advent Year A Isaiah 7: 10 – 16 Hymn: Hear the word, a prophet speaking Hear the word, a prophet speaking: hear the words that, from the past, echo through the times and seasons, words to challenge, words to last. Look around for signs and wonders, look, a young …
Such an enigmatic promise
Such an enigmatic promise
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday of Advent year A Isaiah 7: 10 – 16 Hymn: Such an enigmatic promise, Such an enigmatic promise, still we strain to understand how a girl gave birth to God-head in a distant time and land... Andrew Pratt (born 1948) Words © Stainer & Bell Ltd, London, England, www.…
Mark for Everyone - Jesus' Baptism
Mark for Everyone - Jesus' Baptism
by SPCK - N T Wright
Mark For Everyone MARK 1.9–13 Jesus’ Baptism... ...A famous movie-maker had a huge legal wrangle with his long- time mentor and guide. The younger man simply couldn’t handle criticism, and ended up rejecting the person who had helped him so much. When it was all over, a close fri…
Lectionary Reflections - Year B - The Sixth Sunday of Easter Year B
Lectionary Reflections - Year B - The Sixth Sunday of Easter Year B
by SPCK - Jane Williams
The Sixth Sunday of Easter Acts 10.44-48 1John 5.1-6 John 15.9-17 The desire for certainty goes very deep, and all of today’s readings look at that longing with sympathy, though the answers they give are as challenging as they are reassuring. In the Gospel, Jesus is at last givin…
Numbers in the Bible Assembly Collection - 30 Pieces of Silver Assembly
Numbers in the Bible Assembly Collection - 30 Pieces of Silver Assembly
by Christian Assembly Team
Thirty Pieces of Silver (30) Bible ref: Matthew 26:14-16 and Matthew 27:3 Excellent as one of the last assemblies before Easter, this can also be used at any time to demonstrate trust and betrayal. The Bible includes thousands of stories; many of them include significant or speci…
Paul for Everyone Romans part 2 - United Praise under the Messiah's Universal Role
Paul for Everyone Romans part 2 - United Praise under the Messiah's Universal Role
by SPCK - N T Wright
United Praise under the Messiah’s Universal Rule ROMANS 15.7-13 The great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius brought the art of writing symphonies to a new glory. His first six were each splendid in their own way, developing the form which previous composers had used and flooding it …
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Paul Reaches Athens
Acts for Everyone Part 2 - Paul Reaches Athens
by SPCK - N T Wright
Paul Reaches Athens Acts 17.10-21 There seems to be an increasing fashion in the sporting world, especially in sports that originated in Europe, for ‘World Cup’ contests, and similar events organized in geographical regions. Unless you are a very avid sports fan, these events see…
Drama: A tricky situation
Drama: A tricky situation
by Marjorie Dobson
Drama: A tricky situation I’ll never forget the look on my master’s face when I took that jar to him and he tasted what I thought was water. I’d been dreading his reaction. After all, I was the one who’d drawn the water and I knew what I’d put in that jar. How on earth could it p…
Imagine now in your mind’s eye,
Imagine now in your mind’s eye,
by Andrew Pratt
Imagine now in your mind’s eye, a sky with clouds, light shining through, a river shimmers in the sun, a crowd is coming into view. A prophet stands within the surge, the waters rolling smoothly by, and one by one the people hear, and one by one they catch John’s eye. Verses 2-3 …
Poem: Speaking out
Poem: Speaking out
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem: Speaking out If a long-ago prophet could not keep silent about the virtues of a city, so righteous in his day, but torn by strife in our time; how is it that we, who know the extent of the love of God, as shown in the life and death of Jesus, Continues... ©Marjorie Dobson
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 10 Year B
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 10 Year B
by SPCK - N T Wright
Proper 10 2 Samuel 6.1-5, 12b-19 Ephesians 1.3-14 Mark 6.14-29 Two kings, a thousand years apart, and both in trouble at home. David brings God’s ark into Jerusalem, and is so carried away with dancing and leaping before the Lord that his wife despises him, remembering no doubt t…
Poem: Armour
Poem: Armour
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem: Armour Flak jackets and body armour, protective helmets and rocket launchers may be essentials in personal protection in war zones today, but most of us – thankfully – will never need to use them. Not in the business of coping with living and dealing with people we meet eve…
Eternal fury fires the saints
Eternal fury fires the saints
by Andrew Pratt
Hymn: Eternal fury fires the saints Proper 26 Year A All Saints Eternal fury fires the saints, who shake and rattle, push and shove, who challenge every bland excuse, who seek for justice, work for love They make the world turn upside down, they are a catalyst in pain, they reach…
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 23 Year B
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 23 Year B
by SPCK - N T Wright
Proper 23 Job 23.1-9, 16-17 Hebrews 4.12-16 Mark 10.17-31 Two moments jump out at us from this intense little drama. Jesus looks at the man and loves him; not, perhaps, our natural reaction to someone claiming to keep six out of ten commandments perfectly. (A pity Job 23.11–12 is…
Lectionary Reflections - Year B - The Fourth Sunday of Easter Year B
Lectionary Reflections - Year B - The Fourth Sunday of Easter Year B
by SPCK - Jane Williams
The Fourth Sunday of Easter Acts 4.5-12 1John 3.16-24 John 10.11-18 Today’s readings are deeply challenging. Christian mission has sometimes been done as though determined to prove that we are right and everyone else is wrong, whereas all of today’s writers think that Christians …
In the wonder of creation (His love goes on)
In the wonder of creation (His love goes on)
by Andrew T Murphy
A hymn about the enduing love of God through all things, revealed in creation, providence, scripture, Christ and the Spirit. This hymn testifies that through every aspect of human experience we can trust in that love of God in Christ from which 'nothing can separate us'.
Hymn: Upon this groaning, quaking earth
Hymn: Upon this groaning, quaking earth
by Andrew Pratt
Upon this groaning, quaking earth we find the evidence of grace, for here, our God, you nurtured love, brought faith and hope within this place. Verses 2-3 follow Tune: ABENDS Metre: LM Andrew Pratt (born 1948) Words © 5/5/2012 Stainer & Bell Ltd, London, England, www.stainer.c…
Hymn: Hard sayings of Jesus that challenge and test
Hymn: Hard sayings of Jesus that challenge and test
by Andrew Pratt
Hard sayings of Jesus that challenge and test, that bring us to crisis, will not let us rest. Confronted by holiness, righteousness, light, our lives are exposed whether wrongful or right. Verses 2-3 follow Tune: DATCHET Metre: 11.11.11.11 Andrew Pratt (born 1948) Words © 23/8/…
Genesis for Everyone Part 1 - This Is It!
Genesis for Everyone Part 1 - This Is It!
by SPCK - John Goldingay
This Is It! Genesis 2: 21-25 I once took part in a workshop where students produced dramatic, modern versions of stories in Genesis. The one I most remember was a retelling of Genesis 1 by Julia Bolden. There were a number of neat aspects to the story. It is set in a house instea…
Fresh Thoughts For Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 117 22/05/16
Fresh Thoughts For Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 117 22/05/16
by Twelvebaskets Ltd
A selection of commentary, reflection and prayer ideas from various Christian authors and the full bible texts from the NRSV for this week's lectionary. NOW INCLUDING SERIALISED BOOKS FROM SPCK AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM BRF. Check below for details. Subscribe to Fresh Thoughts For S…
Poem: Zarephath
Poem: Zarephath
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem: Zarephath A few sticks for a fire, a handful of flour, a little oil in a jug and a strange man asking to be fed: not a very promising recipe for success. A widow woman with an ailing son, a suspicious promise from a stranger and a drought that showed no sign of ending: not …
In her hungry desperation
In her hungry desperation
by Andrew Pratt
In her hungry desperation, clothed around with loss and grief, one poor widow met a prophet coming to her for relief. Soon together they were sharing meagre rations that she brought, while her son was slowly dying, out of sight, not out of thought. Verses 2-3 follow Tune: BETHANY…
Reflection/poem: Afterwards
Reflection/poem: Afterwards
by Marjorie Dobson
Reflection / Poem: Afterwards Wait! This cannot be true. This is me, Mary. I’m only a girl. Not even married. You can’t have meant me. You were not real. I’m only dreaming. None of this has happened. And it won’t happen. I can’t be pregnant. Not now. I’m engaged, but not fully ma…
Reflection: Impossibilities
Reflection: Impossibilities
by Marjorie Dobson
Reflection: Impossibilities When Alice went Through the Looking Glass, the White Queen told her that in her youth she had managed to ‘believe as many as six impossible things before breakfast.’ She was an amateur when compared with Abram, or Abraham, as he’d become known when his…
Moulin Rouge Bible Study part 6
Moulin Rouge Bible Study part 6
by Tim Marshall
A Bible Study which relies heavily on discussion rather than leading. Using the film 'Moulin Rouge' as a starting point and then looking at a variety of passages (which can be obtained from the web in a variety of different translations) There are questions to help start discussi…
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - The Third Sunday before Advent Year B
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - The Third Sunday before Advent Year B
by SPCK - N T Wright
The Third Sunday Before Advent Jonah 3.1-5, 10 Hebrews 9.24-28 Mark 1.14-20 ‘Once, only once, and once for all.’ The hymn that starts thus withdraws with the left hand some of what it gives with the right, hinting that Christ’s unique sacrifice is still somehow present in the e…
Poem: A sacramental union
Poem: A sacramental union
by Andrew Pratt
Poem: A sacramental union A sacramental union that none can put apart, and those who sought to fudge the law, were challenged from the start. The Pharisees were undermined, the laws would stay in place, with subtle ways of subterfuge destroyed without a trace. Continues... © Andr…
Fresh Thoughts for Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 73 19/07/15
Fresh Thoughts for Sunday - Fresh Thoughts For Sunday Issue 73 19/07/15
by Twelvebaskets Ltd
A selection of commentary, reflection and prayer ideas from various Christian authors and the full bible texts from the NRSV for this week's lectionary. NOW INCLUDING SERIALISED BOOKS FROM SPCK AND CONTRIBUTIONS FROM BRF. Check below for details. Subscribe to Fresh Thoughts For S…
God is with us Joseph heard it
God is with us Joseph heard it
by Andrew Pratt
Fourth Sunday in Advent Year A Matthew 1:18-25 Hymn: God is with us, Joseph heard it, God is with us, Joseph heard it, in a dream in deepest sleep: Mary’s child, they’d call him Jesus, now he had a vow to keep; bound together in God’s purpose, he and Mary made their way to the ce…
Her first born son, his manger bed
Her first born son, his manger bed
by Andrew Pratt
Her first born son, his manger bed, the straw was where he'd lay his head, his mother resting from the birth, and Joseph wondered at his worth. He held him in his roughened hands, he thought about the world's demands that brought them all to Bethlehem. What prejudice would wait…
Mary in the stable waiting
Mary in the stable waiting
by Gareth Hill Publishing/Song Solutions CopyCare
Hymn – Mary in the stable waiting Mary in the stable waiting. hears again the angel’s voice: ‘favoured one the Lord is with you, all Creation sings: ‘Rejoice!’ Mary waits, and heaven wonders, at the Prince of Glory’s birth from her womb, inside that stable, heaven’s waiting room …
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 4 Year B
Twelve Months of Sundays Year B - Proper 4 Year B
by SPCK - N T Wright
Proper 4 1 Samuel 3.1-10 2 Corinthians 4.5-12 Mark 2.23-3.6 Like a cathedral chorister, Samuel has been brought to live and work in the atmosphere of prayer, worship and pilgrimage. Considering the lively human interest, it’s surprising this story didn’t entice the great classi…
Trinity
Trinity
by Andy Lindley
The father points to the son, and the son the spirit, and the spirit the father.... John 14:10 I am in the Father, and the Father is in me.THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights rese…
Christmas Stable
Christmas Stable
by Lee Pirie and twelvebaskets
Silhouette of the Christmas Nativity scene. Ideal for using as background in PowerPoint slides over Christmas. Also Available: Christmas Nativity with White Background Click Here Christmas Nativity with Sky Background Click Here Christmas Nativity with the World as a Background C…
Drama/Dialogue: Prayer problems
Drama/Dialogue: Prayer problems
by Marjorie Dobson
Drama/Dialogue: Prayer problems 1 We will now pray the prayer that Jesus taught us, the modern version – ‘Our Father in heaven’ 2 Hang on a minute! You can’t go on calling God, ‘our father’, it’s not politically correct. 1 What do you mean? Political correctness hasn’t got anythi…
ApplecartIgnite - Gabriel's Visit
ApplecartIgnite - Gabriel's Visit
by Applecartlive Ltd
An unsuspecting young woman is approached by a man she has never met in the confines and comfort of her own home. Having no idea how he got into her kitchen Myriam is terrified. In time a relationship is established and the reason for the unexpected visitor’s arrival is revealed.…
Paul for Everyone: Galatians and Thessalonians - Paul's Distress Over the Galatians
Paul for Everyone: Galatians and Thessalonians - Paul's Distress Over the Galatians
by SPCK - N T Wright
Paul’s Distress Over the Galatians Galatians 1.1-9 Imagine you’re in South Africa in the 1970s. Apartheid is at its height. You are embarked on a risky project: to build a community centre where everybody will be equally welcome, no matter what their colour or race. You’ve design…
Paul for Everyone 1 Corinthians - The Apostle's Freedom - to be Enslaved to Everyone
Paul for Everyone 1 Corinthians - The Apostle's Freedom - to be Enslaved to Everyone
by SPCK - N T Wright
The Apostle’s Freedom – to be Enslaved to Everyone 1 Corinthians 9.19-23 One of the greatest thinkers and statesmen of the Roman world a century before Paul was Cicero. He was a sophisticated philosopher, a brilliant lawyer, a politician, and above all a passionate believer in th…
Mark for Everyone - Jesus Cleanses the Temple
Mark for Everyone - Jesus Cleanses the Temple
by SPCK - N T Wright
Mark For Everyone MARK 11.12–25 Jesus Cleanses the Temple... ...What is the largest, most important building in your country? The one with the most historic meanings and associations? The one where famous people come, either to work or to visit? The one that stands for, and symbo…
We will love the God we worship
We will love the God we worship
by Andrew Pratt
Hymn: We will love the God we worship Proper 25 year A Matthew 22: 41-46 We will love the God we worship with each mind and soul and heart, seek to heed the words of Jesus, sharing grace through every part. We will live the words we utter, loving neighbours that we meet... TUNE: …
Willows hung with harps are weeping
Willows hung with harps are weeping
by Andrew Pratt
Willows hung with harps are weeping like the sorrow of our song, deep reflection of the mourning for the hurt of human wrong. Hurt which seems to have no ending, still rings on from age to age, still our human hearts are bleeding, still our grief takes centre stage. Verses 3-4 fo…
Poem/Meditation: Fruits of the Spirit
Poem/Meditation: Fruits of the Spirit
by Marjorie Dobson
Poem/Meditation: Fruits of the Spirit If people looking for the evidence of our faith turn to the church today, what do they see? Is there a danger that they will find indifference, when they need love: moaning and complaining, when they need joy: bickering and back-biting, when …
Job for Everyone - Pastoral Care That Makes the Sufferer's Position Worse