Author: Administrador

Nathan Aaseng I’m a good person. I worship God in my own way. I don’t need people telling me how I should think or what I should believe. Who needs all the bickering, hypocrisy, and boring, outdated rules? It’s all between God and me; the rest of you just get in my way — confusing … Continue reading “Why Church?”

Melinda Quivik Listening to a sermon, I form a portrait of myself. I hear a perspective on the scripture text or theme that makes assumptions about the assembly and therefore about me, as well. Sometimes those assumptions fit; sometimes, not. If the reference relates to me, I may not even notice the preacher’s generalization. If … Continue reading “To Whom Do You Think You Are Preaching?”

David Lose Dear Working Preacher, Do you ever wish you could have a second chance? A second chance to say something different … or maybe not say something. A second chance to repair a relationship or make the most of some opportunity? A second chance to chase a dream you deferred or follow through on … Continue reading “The King of Second Chances”

Patricia Tull For those of us who snoozed through high school English class decades ago: A brief review of metaphors, and why we who read Scripture care about them. Bear with me. Metaphors (and similes, which employ “like” or “as”) possess two distinguishable parts. The subject being described through the characteristics of something else is … Continue reading “Mud and Metaphor”

David Lose Dear Working Preacher, As I opened WorkingPreacher.org this week to review the readings and commentary for this coming Sunday, two things struck me. The beautiful blue of the Advent season was the first. I’ve been looking forward to Advent since we completed the redesign and was struck by the freshness of the color … Continue reading “A Sure and Certain Promise”

David Lose Dear Working Preacher, If you were to spend a moment daydreaming about your idea for a perfect Christmas, what images would you conjure? Pews filled to bursting with the faithful? Gorgeous music and candlelight? A deserved and blessed rest with family and friends after the Christmas Eve services? A family gathering unattended by … Continue reading “Hoping for More”

David Lose Dear Working Preacher, Two quick notes before jumping into what may be one of your most important sermons this fall (intrigued?). First, I’m glad to share that Preaching at the Crossroads, my new book on preaching, is out, and even happier to let you know that Fortress Press is offering a 30% discount … Continue reading “Disappointed with God at Christmastime”

Kae Evensen Waiting and preparation shape these days of Advent, two thousand years ago and today. In this season of Advent, a season defined and determined by faith, we wait, certain of surprise, certain of something new, certain of transformation. It has happened to us before. But we also remember that latent within this proclamation … Continue reading “Prepare the Way of the Lord”

Rachel Wrenn To sing, or not to sing? At this time of year, that’s always the preacher’s (and worship planner’s) question. You all know the argument: when does the church’s Christmas season start? December 25. When does society’s Christmas season start? Black Friday. And when do we start seeing Christmas carols and commercials and decorations … Continue reading “Advent vs. Christmas: Music and More”

David Lose Dear Working Preacher, Just two thoughts as we approach the fourth Sunday in Advent. Just two thoughts on Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus. Just two thoughts as you write this sermon anticipating a second one two days later. Just two thoughts, both about what I call Matthew’s version of the Incarnation. … Continue reading “Matthew’s Version of the Incarnation”