Epiphany of Our Lord

Matthew 2:1-12

Links for January 6, 2008: Epiphany

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This direct link to the weekly resources page for Epiphany, Year A (January
6, 2008):
http://www.textweek.com/festivals/epiphany.htm
will point you toward a number of resources for general study of the
lectionary texts, and worship and liturgy resources. Many of these general
resources are available close to the date of the lectionary week, and are
posted at The Text This Week after they are up at others'
sites.

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I've compiled pages of links to artwork depicting the following
themes:

Nativity
http://www.textweek.com/art/nativity.htm

Magi
http://www.textweek.com/art/magi.htm

Madonna and Child/Holy Family
http://www.textweek.com/art/holy_family.htm

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Commentary, Exegesis & Sermon Preparation

Comments (commentary)
http://montreal.anglican.org/comments/zepifm.shtml
and Clippings (technical notes for in-depth study),
http://montreal.anglican.org/comments/zepifl.shtml
Epiphany, Chris Haslam, Anglican Diocese of Montreal.

Commentary and Spiritual Perspectives, Epiphany, 2008. Commentary,
historical background, poems and readings. Center for Liturgy, St Louis
University.
http://liturgy.slu.edu/EpiphanyA010608/main.html

Preaching Peace commentary, Epiphany, Jeff Krantz & Michael Hardin.
http://www.preachingpeace.org/yearb/epiphany.htm

Girardian Reflections on the Lectionary, Epiphany, by Paul Nuechterlein &
Friends.
http://girardianlectionary.net/year_a/epiphany.htm

The Epiphany of our Lord, January 6, 2008, Joy L. McDonald Coltvet, Currents
in Theology and Mission.
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0MDO/is_5_34/ai_n21053799

Preaching Helps (Epiphany). Safiyah Fosua, United Methodist Church General
Board of Discipleship, 2007.
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=22655&loc_id=733,
32,46

Process and Faith Lectionary Commentary, Epiphany, 2008, Bruce G. Epperly,
"...bringing process-relational thought to people of faith."
http://www.processandfaith.org/lectionary/YearA/2007-2008/2008-01-06.shtml

SAMUEL, Epiphany, 2008, at ucc.org: lectionary citations, weekly theme,
lectionary texts, commentary and bulletin back page. Now includes SERMON
SEEDS.
http://www.ucc.org/worship/samuel/january-6-2008-i-epiphany.html

The Center for Excellence in Preaching, resources from Calvin Theological
Seminary: Comments & Observations, Textual Points, Illustration Ideas.
http://cep.calvinseminary.edu/thisWeek/index.php

Jesus Now, Epiphany. Lectionary, study and worship resources from Faith
Futures Jesus Then & Now.
http://wiki.faithfutures.org/index.php/Epiphany

Liberal Lectionary Analysis, Epiphany, Rev. John Shearman, Oakville, ON,
Canada.
http://www.seemslikegod.org/Lectionary/YearA_Epiphany.htm

"Let It Shine!" Anecdotes, Stories & Humor, Epiphany, Steve Goodier, Christ
United Methodist Church, Salt Lake City, UT.
http://pluto.matrix49.com/15635/?subpages/c06112506.shtml

"A Light for All," Bill Fletcher, Aotearoa-New Zealand.
http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/bfletch/a109.html

Social Justice Lectionary, Epiphany, list of links by Rev. Dr. Bruce Sweet,
United Church of Canada.
http://www.socialjusticelectionary.com/yearainfo.htm#EPIPH

Text Studies, Epiphany, Dan Nelson. (Lutheran)
http://sio.midco.net/danelson9/yeara/epiphany0a.htm

Preaching Helps, Epiphany 2005, Elaine Siemsen, Currents in Theology and
Mission.
http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0MDO/is_5_31/ai_n15652821

Lists of recommended articles are available with ATLAS subscription
http://www.atla.com/trial/textweek.html for these texts:

Isaiah 60:1-6
http://www.textweek.com/prophets/isaiah60.htm#ATLAS_Journals0

Psalm 72
http://www.textweek.com/writings/psalm72.htm#ATLAS_Journals

Ephesians 3:1-12
http://www.textweek.com/pauline/eph3a.htm#ATLAS_Journals

Matthew 2:1-12
http://www.textweek.com/mtlk/matt2a.htm#ATLAS_Journals

Lectionary Reflections, Discussions & Weblogs:

Blogging toward Sunday, Erin Martin, Theolog: The Blog of The Christian
Century, 2008.
http://www.theolog.org/

The Good Word, Blog on Scripture and Preaching, America: The National
Catholic Weekly, 2008.
http://americamagazine.org/blogs/client/

Tuesday Lectionary Leanings, RevGalBlogPals lectionary discussion, 2008.
http://revgalblogpals.blogspot.com/

"A Disturbing Gift," Laurel A. Dykstra, "Voices of Truth," Living the Word,
Sojourners Online, 2008.
http://www.sojo.net/index.cfm?action=magazine.article&issue=soj0801&article=
080149

"You Have Choices," Randall C. Bailey, Angela Bauer-Levesque, Mary Foulke,
Out In Scripture: An Honest Encounter Between Our Lives and the Bible, Human
Rights Campaign, 2008. (LGBT persective)
http://www.hrc.org/scripture/season.asp#01-06-08

Homiletical Hot Tub, preaching blog at Lectionary Homiletics, 2008.
http://www.goodpreacher.com/blog/

The Preacher's Exchange - First Impressions, Volume 2, and Homilias
Domincales / Homilias Breves. Jude Siciliano, O.P., 2008
http://www.op.org/exchange/

Kairos CoMotion Lectionary Discussion. "A place of conversation regarding
Progressive Christianity, 2008.
http://kcmlection.blogspot.com/

Education for Justice Lectionary Reflections, 2008, Fr. John Bucki, SJ,
"Promoting Global Justice and Peace Since 1971".
http://educationforjustice.org/bin/view.fpl/1413.html

COSLC Grace Notes, Pastor Dan Bollerud, Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church,
Anchorage, AK. Meditations & poetry, 2008
http://www.coslcgrace.blogspot.com/

Reflections of the Spirit, Gary Sims, First United Methodist Church,
Albuquerque, NM. Daily studies & devotions on the lectionary texts, 2008.
http://www.coslcgrace.blogspot.com/

Common Reading, Anthony B. Robinson, 2008.
http://www.anthonybrobinson.com/reading.htm

"Kingly Presence," Herbert O'Driscoll, The Christian Century, 2003.
http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=2936

"Off By Nine Miles," Walter Brueggemann, The Christian Century, 2001.
Religion Online.
http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=2103

"Remembering Who We Are," by Kari Jo Verhulst. Living the Word
lectionary-based scripture commentary from Sojourners Online, 2002.
http://www.sojo.net/magazine/index.cfm/action/sojourners/issue/soj0201/artic
le/020149.html

Living the Word, by Jim and Shelley Douglass. Lectionary-based scripture
commentary at Sojourners Online, 1996.
http://www.sojo.net/magazine/index.cfm/action/sojourners/issue/soj9601/artic
le/960149.html

The Reality of a Present God, by Stan Saunders. Lectionary-based commentary
on the book of Matthew, Living the Word (Sojourners Online) 1999.
http://www.sojo.net/magazine/index.cfm/action/sojourners/issue/soj9901/artic
le/990149.html

Living the Word, November/December 1998: Isaiah: A Story of Loss and Hope,
by Walter Brueggemann. Sojourners Online.
http://www.sojo.net/magazine/index.cfm/action/sojourners/issue/soj9811/artic
le/981149.html

Desperate Preacher's Site: sermons, discussions, liturgical material and
other resources.
http://www.desperatepreacher.com/bodyii.htm

Sunday by Sunday, Reflections on Stewardship based on the RCL Gospels, Year
A. Prepared by the Reverend Michael Pollesel, Stewardship Education
Coordinator, Diocese of Ontario.
http://www.ontario.anglican.ca/docs/SundayBySundayA.pdf

Sermons

Göttinger Predigten im Internet: Every Sunday Sermons based on the RCL by a
team of Lutheran theologians/ pastors, 2008.
http://www.predigten.uni-goettingen.de/aktuell.php

Selected Sermon, Epiphany (RCL), by the Rev. Debbie Royals, in Worship that
Works, ECUSA, 2008.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/sermons_that_work_93248_ENG_HTM.htm

Stewardship Sermon Starter, Stewardship at the Heart of the Lectionary.
ELCA.
http://www.elca.org/stewardship/sermon.asp

Selected Sermon, Epiphany (RCL), by Katarina K Whitley, in Worship that
Works, ECUSA, 2007.
http://www.episcopalchurch.org/sermons_that_work_80699_ENG_HTM.htm

"Discovering Your Own Gifts for the Christchild,"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_c_discovering.htm
"Exploding Light,"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_c_explodinglight.htm
"Shooting Stars,"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_c_shootingstars.htm
"Where Did Christmas Go?"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_b_where_did_christmas_go.htm
Pastor Edward F. Markquart, Grace Lutheran Church, Seattle, Washington.

"You Light Up My Life!" Dianne Bergant, CSA, America: The National Catholic
Weekly, 2004.
http://tinyurl.com/38ewmu

"More Light, Please," Dianne Bergant, CSA, America: The National Catholic
Weekly, 2003.
http://tinyurl.com/2nz4cz

Group Studies & Discussion/Reflection Questions:

Lectionary Notes, Epiphany, Rev. Beth Quick and the Lectionary Chat Group
Bible Study of St. Paul's UMC, Oneida, NY.
http://www.bethquick.com/epiphanynotes.htm

Banquet of the Word, Bible Study Based on the Sunday Readings, by Rev.
Thomas Welbers.
http://www.olaclaremont.org/education/adult/bow/bowepiph.htm

Proclaiming Faith, Epiphany, 2008 - exploring the Sunday and Holy Day
readings - reflections and young people's activities. Sadlier Publishing.
http://www.cyberfaith.com/proclaiming_faith.cfm?reading_id=159&language=eng&
book=0

"Following the King of the Jews," John and Robin McCullough-Bade, Daily
Discipleship Bible Study, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 2008.
http://www.elca.org/evangelizingchurch/dailydiscipleship/Year_A/Epiphany_of_
%20Our_%20Lord_F.pdf

Lesson Plans for Small Congregations, Adults, Epiphany, Year A, The
Episcopal Church, 2007.
http://ecusa.anglican.org/50534_53845_ENG_HTM.htm

Proclaiming Faith, Epiphany - exploring the Sunday and Holy Day readings -
reflections and young people's activities. Sadlier Publishing.
http://www.cyberfaith.com/proclaiming_faith.cfm?reading_id=29&language=eng&b
ook=0

Light on the Lessons, Lutheran Bible Ministries. .doc file leaders guide and
participant guide for group study of the weekly lectionary readings.
http://www.bibleministries.org/

Complete Liturgies & General Worship Planning Resources:

Worship Planning Helps (Epiphany, 2008): Worship & Preaching Notes, Hymn
Suggestions and Worship Resources from the United Methodist Church General
Board of Discipleship.
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=45679&loc_id=733,
32,46

Gathering, Epiphany, 2008, from the United Church of Canada. Includes
homiletical suggestions, liturgical ideas, "with children," hymn
suggestions, keyboard, instrumental, choral suggestions etc.
http://www.united-church.ca/files/sales/magazines/gathering/2008/ace/rtf/ace
2008.rtf

"Let Your Light Shine: Litany for Epiphany,"
http://www.ucc.org/worship/ways/pdf/ww61-8.pdf
"Deja que Brille La Luz: Letanía de Epifanía,"
http://www.ucc.org/worship/ways/pdf/ww61-8.pdf
Worship Ways, United Church of Christ, 2007.

LCA Worship Resources, Epiphany, includes liturgy, hymn suggestions, notes
on the readings, visuals, drama, "Talking with Children," etc. Lutheran
Church of Australia.
http://tinyurl.com/2pn8d6

Mustard Seeds, "Sharing the Light," Epiphany, 2008. A lectionary-based ideas
resource for leaders of contemporary worship, Ann Scull, Gippsland,
Australia.
http://seedstuff.blogspot.com/2007/12/epiphany-january-6-sharing-light_30.ht
ml

"Chalking the Door" Epiphany ritual. Paul F. Bosch and André Lavergne. A
home ritual to be used in celebrating Epiphany. Evangelical Lutheran Church
in Canada.
http://www.worship.ca/docs/l_chalk.html

Inclusive Language Seekers Liturgies from Seekers Church:
"A New Dawn" (2007)
http://www.seekerschurch.org/liturgies/200701.htm
"Patience and Practice" (2006)
http://www.seekerschurch.org/liturgies/200601.htm
"The Gift of Our Imperfect Lives" (2005)
http://www.seekerschurch.org/liturgies/200501.htm

Worship and Liturgy Resources, Day of Epiphany (Christmas 2), by Rev David
Beswick, Uniting Church in Australia.
http://www.beswick.info/rclresources/EpiphABC02OS.htm

"Revelation of the Mystery," Bill Fletcher, Aotearoa-New Zealand.
http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/bfletch/a209.html

Liturgies Online, Epiphany, by Rev Moira Laidlaw, Uniting Church in
Australia.
http://tinyurl.com/2p34l6

Lectionary Liturgies, Epiphany A, Thom M. Shuman, Greenhills Community
Church, Presbyterian, Cincinnati, OH.
http://lectionaryliturgies.blogspot.com/2007/12/epiphany.html

Background and Liturgy for Epiphany and the Blessing of Water at
Byzantine.Net (Byzantine Catholics on the Web).
http://www.byzantines.net/feasts/epiphany.htm

Prayers, Prefaces, Litanies, etc:

Laughing Bird Liturgical Resources, by Nathan Nettleton, South Yarra
Community Baptist Church, Melbourne, Australia. Prayers, blessings,
Eucharistic prefaces and scripture paraphrases.
http://www.laughingbird.net/ComingWeeks.html

Resources: Based on the Revised Common Lectionary. Prayers, Collects and
Litanies by Bruce Prewer, Uniting Church in Australia.
http://home.alphalink.com.au/~nigel/doc/C09epiph.htm

The Billabong by Rev Jeff Shrowder, Uniting Church in
Australia: Hymn suggestions and paraphrases of lectionary Psalms.
http://thebillabong.info/

Prayers of the People, Year A - Holy Name. General intercessions for Sundays
and Feasts, by Ormonde Plater, Archdeacon of the [Anglican/Episcopal]
Diocese of Louisiana.
http://members.cox.net/oplater/IntercessionABC-Epiphany.pdf

The Epiphany, from Exciting Holiness, Collects & Readings for the Festivals
& Lesser Festivals of the Calendar of the Church of England.
http://www.oremus.org/liturgy/e-h/m01/d06.html

21st Century Africana Liturgical Resources, Epiphany, 2007, the Rev. T. Anne
Daniel, United Methodist Church General Board of Discipleship.
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=24086&loc_id=733,
32,46

Prayers and Musical Ideas, Epiphany, 2007. Commentary, historical
background, poems and readings. Center for Liturgy, St Louis University.
http://liturgy.slu.edu/EpiphanyC010707/main.html

Prayer of the Church, Epiphany, 2007, Let Us Pray, Lutheran Church Missouri
Synod.
http://www.lcms.org/ca/www/enews/messagetext.asp?MsgId=4811

A Prayer for Epiphany, Stephen Brown, A Place for Prayer.
http://revsbrown.tripod.com/aplaceforprayer/id10.html

Offertory Prayers for December, 2008, David S. Bell, United Methodist Church
GBOD.
http://www.gbod.org/stewardship/article.asp?id=45719&source=church

Prayers and Musical Ideas, Epiphany 2008. Commentary, historical background,
poems and readings. Center for Liturgy, St Louis University.
http://liturgy.slu.edu/EpiphanyA010608/main.html

"Liturgy: prayer reflection", reflections on the collect at the Eucharist,
Rev. Bosco Peters, New Zealand.
http://www.liturgy.co.nz/reflection/560c.html

World in Prayer, the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, Lodi,
California. Prayers. Prayers and litanies based on each week's world news.
http://www.worldinprayer.org/

Graphics and Multimedia:

Clip Art, Epiphany, Fr. Richard Lonsdale, Resources for Catholic Educators.
http://www.silk.net/RelEd/Year%20C/epiphany-c.htm

Clip Art Images: Epiphany, Misioneros Del Sagrado Corazón en el Perú.
http://www.mscperu.org/caricaturas/graficoslit/adviento_navidad/graficos/7ep
ifania.htm

Bulletin Covers, www.scholia.net. Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Emmett,
Idaho. Scroll down for Year A index.
http://www.scholia.net/bulletins.htm

Powerpoint Slide for Epiphany, Will Humes, Word and Table.
http://wordandtable.onethingiknow.net/powerpoint-slide-for-epiphany/powerpoi
nt/

Mustard Seeds, "Sharing the Light," Epiphany, 2008. A lectionary-based ideas
resource for leaders of contemporary worship, Ann Scull, Gippsland,
Australia.
http://seedstuff.blogspot.com/2007/12/epiphany-january-6-sharing-light_30.ht
ml

SundayGraphx, Don Silva. Bulletin Covers / Cubierta de Boletín and
PowerPoint backgrounds, English and Spanish.
http://sundaygraphx.blogspot.com/

Scripture Pics, Weekly RCL-related image.
http://www.scripturepics.org/

Free Downloadable Bulletin Covers & Clip Art, (primarily UMC and PCUSA),
Kerr Resources.
http://www.kerrresources.com/

Agnus Day, Lectionary cartoon by James Wetzstein.
http://www.agnusday.org/

La domenica con Gesù, weekly image tied to gospel lesson.
http://www.santegidio.org/it/amici/voce/domenica.htm

Bulletin Inserts:

SAMUEL, Epiphany, 2008, at ucc.org: lectionary citations, weekly theme,
lectionary texts, commentary and bulletin back page.
http://www.ucc.org/worship/samuel/january-6-2008-i-epiphany.html

Scripture Introduction for Bulletin Insert, Epiphany, Rev. John Shearman,
Oakville, ON, Canada.
http://www.seemslikegod.org/Lectionary/YearA_Epiphany.htm

Hymns and Music: (see also "Hymns & Music" linked at individual
scripture pages, below)

Original Hymns, Settings and Songs:

"The Magi's Blessing": Benediction for Epiphany, Linda Dickson and George
Mann, SATB choral benediction, United Methodist Church GBOD.
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=45629

"Shine," Brenton Prigge, NewHymn, weekly new, relevant hymn set to
traditional tunes.
http://www.newhymn.com/087Shine.htm

Hymns of the Spirit Three, Epiphany, Richard E. Hurst, Universalist National
Memorial Church.
http://www.hos3.com/hos3/archives/epiphany_a_b_c/

Hymn/Song/Choral Piece Lists:

Gathering, Epiphany, 2008, from the United Church of Canada. Includes
homiletical suggestions, liturgical ideas, "with children," hymn
suggestions, keyboard, instrumental, choral suggestions etc.
http://www.united-church.ca/files/sales/magazines/gathering/2008/ace/rtf/ace
2008.rtf

Hymn Suggestions for the Sunday Lectionary (with lyrics and sound files)
from the Oremus Hymnal. (Click "Hymn Suggestions for the Sunday
Lectionary.")
http://oremus.org/hymnal/

Hymn selections (United Methodist) and more from Hymnsite.com.
http://www.hymnsite.com/lection/index.shtml

Hymn Suggestion First-Line Generator for Voices United (United Church of
Canada). Type in numbers of hymns and get a list of first lines. Peter
Chynoweth, Yellowhead Presbytery. (scroll down)
http://yellowheadpresbytery.org/news_info.htm

Worship Resource Manual, The Moravian Church, Southern Province. Worksheets
for planning music in worship: hymns, anthems, solos, organ repertoire
suggestions for RCL texts.
http://www.mcsp.org/resources/wrm/res_wrm_preface.htm

The Billabong, by Rev Jeff Shrowder, Uniting Church in Australia: Hymn
suggestions and paraphrases of lectionary Psalms.
http://thebillabong.info/

Together to Celebrate, January 6, 2008, David MacGregor, Uniting Church in
Australia. Contemporary Christian Music resources.
http://www.togethertocelebrate.com.au/EPIPHANY_2008.htm

Prayers and Musical Ideas, Epiphany 2008. Commentary, historical background,
poems and readings. Center for Liturgy, St Louis University.
http://liturgy.slu.edu/EpiphanyA010608/main.html

Children's Bulletins

Lectionary Puzzles. Word search puzzles in RTF or plain text, by Reg
McMillan, St.Stephen's Presbyterian Church, Peterborough, Ontario.
http://www.efree.mb.ca/lectionarypuzzles/in-awjj.htm

Children's Activity Sheets: Activities for Children, based on the Revised
Common Lectionary, by Dorothy A. DeBisschop, Great Hill UMC, Seymour,
Connecticut. At Bass Mitchell's homiliesbyemail.com.
http://www.homiliesbyemail.com/leaf/cas/current.html

Coloring Pages/Puzzles. Charles Kirkpatrick, Object Lessons & Children's
Sermons, Coloring Pages, Puzzles. Sermons4Kids.com. (Scroll to bottom of
page.)
http://www.sermons4kids.com/

CatholicMom.com: Coloring Page, Mass Worksheet, Crossword Puzzle, and Word
Search based on weekly gospel text.
http://www.catholicmom.com/coloring_pages.htm

With Children (see also listings "With Children" at individual
scripture pages, linked below):

"Sermon of the Week,"
http://www.sermons4kids.com/
"Mensajes para ninos,"
http://www.sermons4kids.com/mensajes_para_ninos.htm
Sermons 4 Kids, Charles Kirkpatrick, Object Lessons & Children's Sermons,
Coloring Pages, Puzzles. Sermons4Kids.com.

Family Table Devos, weekly family devotionals on placemats by Meghan Large,
NC Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
http://www.lutheranyouth.org/Family_Table_Devotions.133.html

Gathering, Epiphany, 2008, from the United Church of Canada. Includes
homiletical suggestions, liturgical ideas, "with children," hymn
suggestions, keyboard, instrumental, choral suggestions etc.
http://www.united-church.ca/files/sales/magazines/gathering/2008/ace/rtf/ace
2008.rtf

Lesson Plans for Small Congregations, Younger Children & Older Children,
Epiphany, Year A, The Episcopal Church, 2007.
http://ecusa.anglican.org/50534_53845_ENG_HTM.htm

Proclaiming Faith, Epiphany, 2008 - exploring the Sunday and Holy Day
readings - reflections and young people's activities. Sadlier Publishing.
http://www.cyberfaith.com/proclaiming_faith.cfm?reading_id=159&language=eng&
book=0

"Star Bright, Star Light," Lois Parker Edstrom, Children's Sermon,
Lectionary.org.
http://www.lectionary.org/SermonsChild/NT01Matt/Matt%2002.01-12.htm

Lectionary Puzzles, Epiphany. Word search puzzles in RTF or plain text, by
Reg McMillan, St.Stephen's Presbyterian Church, Peterborough, Ontario.
http://www.efree.mb.ca/lectionarypuzzles/in-awjj.htm#ep00

Ideas and Talks for Epiphany, Talks to Children, Rev. Donald McCorkindale,
Dalgety Parish Church, Fife, Scotland.
http://talks2children.itsforministry.org/t2c/seasonal.asp?SeasonID=4E

"Sweet Christmas!" Talks to Children, Rev. Donald McCorkindale, Dalgety
Parish Church, Fife, Scotland.
http://talks2children.itsforministry.org/t2c/view.asp?ID=30

"Paul Looks at the Stars," children's story by Larry Broding,
word-sunday.com.
http://www.word-sunday.com/Files/Seasonal-Special/Epiphany/K-Epiphany.html

"Wise Men Come from the East to Worship Jesus," Sunday School Lessons:
Family Bible Study, art projects, music, stories, etc.
http://www.sundayschoollessons.com/epi1mles.htm

"Put God First," Talks to Children, Rev. Donald McCorkindale, Dalgety Parish
Church, Fife, Scotland.
http://talks2children.itsforministry.org/t2c/view.asp?ID=4

Children's Sermons Following the Lectionary, Roland McGregor.
http://www.webspawner.com/users/ChildPage/

Drama:

"The Three Wisemen: A Traditional Play,"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_b_three_wisemen_traditional_play.ht
m
"The Three Wisemen at Schiphol Airport, Year 2000: A Modern Play,"
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_b_three_wisemen_modern_play.htm
Pastor Edward F. Markquart, Sermons from Seattle, Grace Lutheran Church,
Seattle, Washington.

"A Feast with the Shepherds," from A Certain Jesus by Jose Ignacio and Maria
Lopez Vigil. Ideal for catechetical and liturgical dramatization of today's
gospel. Claretian Publications.
http://www.bible.claret.org/liturgy/daily/acj/CycleC/Ch_135.htm

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_______________________


Matthew 2:1-12
http://www.textweek.com/mtlk/matt2a.htm

"First Thoughts on Gospel Passages in the Lectionary: Epiphany," William
Loader, Murdoch University, Uniting Church in Australia.
http://wwwstaff.murdoch.edu.au/~loader/LkEpiphany.htm
"The more immediate allusion, however, is to the prophecy of Balaam, who
refused to cower to the murderous intentions of the evil king Balak towards
Israel, prophesying instead that a star would arise from Jacob, a sceptre
from Israel (Numbers 24:17; a passage applied messianically also in the Dead
Sea Scrolls and the Testaments of the 12 Patriarchs)."

"The Wisemen," Gospel Analysis, Sermons from Seattle, Pastor Edward F.
Markquart, Grace Lutheran Church, Seattle, Washington. Detailed background
and exegesis.
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/series_b_the_wisemenGA.htm

"Seeking," Listening to the Text, Engaging the Text, and Preaching the
Text, Dr. Dwight Gunter, Preacher's Magazine, 2007.
http://www.nph.com/nphweb/html/pmol/magdec30.htm
"This story calls for a response on our part. Therefore, the message
pointed to our choices."

Exegetical Notes by Brian Stoffregen at CrossMarks Christian Resources.
http://www.crossmarks.com/brian/matt2x1.htm
"I think that this text raises two very important questions for us today:
'Where are the unchurched at today?' And 'What signs will speak to them?'"

"The Epiphany of Our Lord: Matthew 2:1-12," Revelation and Response:
Matthean Texts for Christmas and Epiphany, Carol Mork, Word & World:
Theology for Christian Ministry, Luther Northwestern Theological School,
1989.
http://www.luthersem.edu/word&world/Archives/9-4_Ministry/9-4_Mork.pdf

Matthew in the Margins, by Brian McGowan, Anglican priest in Western
Australia.
http://www.angelfire.com/journal2/matthew0/MIM2112EPIPH.html

"Off By Nine Miles," Walter Brueggemann, The Christian Century, 2001.
http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=2103
"Matthew is not the first one to imagine three rich wise guys from the East
coming to Jerusalem. His story line and plot come from Isaiah 60, a poem
recited to Jews in Jerusalem about 580 B.C.E."

"Wise Men Worship the King," Rev. Bryan Findlayson, Lectionary Bible
Studies and Sermons, Pumpkin Cottage Ministry Resources.
http://www.lectionarystudies.com/studyg/epiphanyg.html
"Although the visit of the Magi images the Moses story, it primarily serves
to demonstrate the fulfilment of scripture in Jesus' birth."

"Seek the Lord," Larry Broding's Word-Sunday.Com: A Catholic Resource for
This Sunday's Gospel. Adult Study, Children's Story, Family Activity,
Support Materials.
http://www.word-sunday.com/Files/Seasonal-Special/Epiphany/A-Epiphany.html
"Have you ever felt called to find an answer or go on a quest? What
happened?"

"Least among Leaders," Jerry Goebel, One Family Outreach. "Focus on
scripture from a justice perspective." Exegesis, study, and teen study and
activities.
http://onefamilyoutreach.com/bible/Matthew/mt_02_01-12.html
"The exact Hebrew translation of this phrase, 'least among leaders,' would
read something like; 'God will give His most to your least.' Would our
contemporary culture understand that statement; trapped as we are in the
accoutrements of power?"

"Pope John Paul II and Prayer," Epiphany, Fr. Gerry Pierse, C.Ss.R., from
Sundays Into Silence: Reflections on the Sunday Gospels in the Light of
Christian Meditation. Claretian Publications.
http://www.bible.claret.org/liturgy/daily/sundays_pierse/cycleC/C_Epiphany.h
tm
"The believer is often incapable of puzzling out God's plans and seeing his
hand behind painful human history."

"The Highest Knowledge," Ronald Goetz, The Christian Century, 1983. At
Religion Online.
http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=1672
"What may have embarrassed the wise men were the implications they were
driven as logicians to draw from their recognition of the divinity of the
child."

"The Babe and the Babes of Bethlehem," James T. Dennison Jr., in Kerux: The
Online Journal of Biblical Theology (Reformed)
http://www.kerux.com/documents/KeruxV3N3A4.asp
"But beyond the pathos of infant death, Matthew focuses on the life of an
infant-- an infant spared (at least for a time) from the point of sword or
spear. The life of one babe predominates and that life finds itself
inseparably meshed with the story of Israel."

"An Unexpected and Hidden Glory," Charles G. Dennison, in Kerux: The Online
Journal of Biblical Theology (Reformed)
http://www.kerux.com/documents/KeruxV01N3A4.asp
"When Hezekiah, king of the Jews, was delivered from a fatal illness,
Merodach-baladan of Babylon sent emissaries with gifts. We could safely
judge them less than honorable. Didn't they really come for political
reasons? for a treaty perhaps designed to harass the Assyrians? Was there an
element of intrigue? Did they wish to "spy out the land?" Hezekiah, victim
of messianic delusion, parades before them the wealth of his house, just the
stuff to attract the Babylonian eye. One hundred years later, according to
the Lord's judgment, the Babylonians returned to cart off the treasures of
David's house (cf. Isa. 39)."

"Balaam, The Magi, and Herod," Stuart Jones, in Kerux: The Online Journal
of Biblical Theology (Reformed)
http://www.kerux.com/documents/KeruxV10N1A1.asp
"Examining the text more closely, we notice that the exposition of Micah,
pointing to Bethlehem as Messiah's birthplace, is not related to the Magi by
the expected source, viz., the scribes. It is rather Herod, informed by the
Jewish leaders, who transmits this information in secret. Again we have some
sermon points that are possible. God requires that we consult special
revelation to find the Christ, but he is not limited in how that revelation
can be delivered. His sovereign power means he can make his enemies
prophetic voices for the truth. Though this sounds like a pious addendum
which does not constitute the central theme of the chapter, it is an
observation with a striking similarity to the Balaam situation in Numbers
22-24."

Environmental & earth-centered reflections, Rev Wanda Copeland, from the
Episcopal Diocese of Minnesota Environmental Stewardship Commission.
http://www.env-steward.com/lectionary/lecta/a-ep-go.htm
"In what ways does nature still acknowledge Jesus¹ birth? In the
lengthening of days (coming of the light from the darkness, warming of the
earth for those in the Northern Hemisphere.) The signs of welcome and
rejoicing are many, if we but take the time to look."

"Biblical Magi," wikipedia.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biblical_Magi

"Wise Woman Bearing Gifts," Letty M. Russell, Cross Currents, Spring 2003.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m2096/1_53/102979450/p1/article.jhtml
"This imperial model for the church going out to all the nations is
disturbing to us as we see how it has been used and abused by both the
Christian churches and the countries of the North."

The Wise Men and the Star of Christ, a multi-page historical/theological
site by Rev. Phil Greetham.
http://www.btinternet.com/~prgreetham/Wisemen/home.html

"Dreams and Christian Growth," Philip St. Romain, Spirituality Today,
Summer 1984.
http://www.spiritualitytoday.org/spir2day/843623romain.html
"Through the symbols produced in our dreams by the unconscious dimension of
our persons, the Spirit of God can reveal ways of living that impede or
foster Christian discipleship."

Herod the Great, basic background from Wayne Blank's Daily Bible Study.
http://www.execulink.com/~wblank/herod.htm

"Star of Wonder," Mary Barron, National Catholic Reporter, 2002.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m1141/9_39/96238074/p1/article.jhtml

"The Star of Bethlehem," Martin Gardner, Skeptical Inquirer, 1999.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m2843/6_23/57533280/p1/article.jhtml

"Further Thoughts on the Star of Bethlehem," Phillips Stevens, Jr.,
Skeptical Inquirer, 2000.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m2843/2_24/60302618/p1/article.jhtml

Sermons:

"Seeking," Dr. Dwight Gunter, Preacher's Magazine, 2007.
http://www.nph.com/nphweb/html/pmol/webdec30.htm

Epiphany - 6 January 2006, James Mueller, Göttinger Predigten im Internet:
Every Sunday Sermons based on the RCL by a team of Lutheran theologians/
pastors.
http://www.predigten.uni-goettingen.de/archiv-8/060106-1-e.html

"Come Home," the Rt. Rev. J. Neil Alexander, Day 1, 2002.
http://www.day1.net/index.php5?view=transcripts&tid=141

"The Gift of the Magi," the Rev. Mark Sargent, Day 1.
http://www.day1.net/index.php5?view=transcripts&tid=476

_____

Isaiah 60:1-6
http://www.textweek.com/prophets/isaiah60.htm

The Old Testament Readings: Weekly Comments on the Revised Common
Lectionary, Howard Wallace Audrey Schindler, Morag Logan, Paul Tonson,
Lorraine Parkinson, Theological Hall of the Uniting Church, Melbourne,
Australia.
http://hwallace.unitingchurch.org.au/WebOTcomments/ChristmasA/Epiphany.html
"To those of us unfamiliar with images of sacrifice, it is easy to miss the
radical nature of what is being proposed here. What was formerly declared
unclean and hence unacceptable as an offering to the Lord, is now
acceptable."

Commentary, Background, Insights from Literary Structure, Theological
Message, Ways to Present the Text. Anna Grant-Henderson, Uniting Church in
Australia.
http://oldtestamentlectionary.unitingchurch.org.au/2008/January/Epiph1Isa60_08.htm
"The Magi are symbolic of the nations/gentiles who come to the
Jerusalem/Bethlehem attracted by the light."

Zion Restored, Interpreting the Book of Isaiah: Yahweh's Changeless Purpose
in the Changing History of Zion, Lee E. Snook, Texts in Context, Word &
World, Luther Northwestern Theological Seminary, 1983.
http://www.luthersem.edu/word&world/Archives/3-4_Luther/3-4_Snook.pdf
"In summary, one might say that the prophecy of this period was a theology
of hope."

Isaiah 60:1-6, Studies on Old Testament texts from Series A, B, C, Ralph W.
Klein, Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago.
http://fontes.lstc.edu/~rklein/Documents/advent_b.htm#epiphany

A New Day Dawns: Verse Commentary on Isaiah 60:1-3, 15-22, Dennis Bratcher,
Christian Resource Institute.
http://www.cresourcei.org/isa60.html
"These are feminine forms in Hebrew, as they are throughout the chapter. We
find out later in the chapter that the message is to the city of Jerusalem
(v.14). The poetic imagery personifies Jerusalem as a beautiful woman
(51:17-52:2). The historical background of this passage concerns the
restoration and rebuilding of Jerusalem in the time of Ezra and Nehemiah.
Biblical writers often use "Jerusalem" and "Zion" as poetic symbols for the
entire people of God (Matthew 23:37)."

"Off By Nine Miles," Walter Brueggemann, The Christian Century, 2001.
http://www.religion-online.org/showarticle.asp?title=2103
"Matthew is not the first one to imagine three rich wise guys from the East
coming to Jerusalem. His story line and plot come from Isaiah 60, a poem
recited to Jews in Jerusalem about 580 B.C.E."

"The Rising Light," Larry Broding's Word-Sunday.Com: A Catholic Resource
for This Sunday's Gospel.
http://www.word-sunday.com/Files/Seasonal-Special/Epiphany/FR-Epiphany.html
"This passage challenge us to see what the Lord is doing. To look beyond the
tedium and the mundane. To see his glory shine. And to lead us."

Isaiah 60:1-6, in Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary's An Exegetical
Study of the Common Lectionary, coordinated by Prof. John E. Alsup, features
rough translation, disposition, immediate context, broader context,
hermeneutical bridge, and contemporary address.
http://home.netcom.com/~jealsup/ot1b.html#Jan6
"The arrival of the outsiders, including the return of "dispersed Israelites
(see xlix22)," McKenzie (Anchor Bible), and the gifts they bring provoke
praise of the Lord."

"'The Coming of the Light': Privileging Indigenous Beliefs," Karen
Stevenson, Art Journal, 2001.
http://www.findarticles.com/cf_0/m0425/4_60/82360170/p1/article.jhtml

_____

Ephesians 3:1-12
http://www.textweek.com/pauline/eph3a.htm

"First Thoughts on Year A Epistle Passages in the Lectionary: Epiphany,"
William Loader, Murdoch University, Uniting Church in Australia.
http://wwwstaff.murdoch.edu.au/~loader/AEpEpiphany.htm
"Ultimately it is about human dignity: being able to stand on your own two
feet with confidence. Our author sees this as the appropriate stance before
God (1:12)."

"Paul the Teacher to the Gentiles," Rev. Bryan Findlayson, Lectionary Bible
Studies and Sermons, Pumpkin Cottage Ministry Resources. Includes detailed
textual notes.
http://www.lectionarystudies.com/epiphanye.html
"How is the church an instrument of eternal reconciliation?"

"Evangelization as a Vehicle for Grace," Larry Broding's Word-Sunday.Com: A
Catholic Resource for This Sunday's Gospel.
http://www.word-sunday.com/Files/Seasonal-Special/Epiphany/SR-Epiphany.html
"How have your words and actions presented Christ to others this week?
Explain."

"The Calling and Design of the Church: A Study in Ephesians," by Lehman
Strauss at the Biblical Studies Foundation.
http://www.bible.org/page.php?page_id=49
"The household of God must be managed according to a particular plan;
therefore it was a high honor bestowed upon Paul when God entrusted His plan
to him."

"What the OT Prophets Did Not Know: The Mystery of the Church in Eph
3.2-13," Sigurd Grindheim, Biblica 2003.
http://www.bsw.org/?l=71841&a=Comm17.html
"It is unwarranted, therefore, to find proof of a post-Pauline development
in the use of the term 'mystery' in Ephesians."

Sermons:

"The Power of God Living Within Us," from a series of sermons on the book of
Ephesians by Pastor Edward F. Markquart, Grace Lutheran Church in Des
Moines, Washington.
http://www.sermonsfromseattle.com/books_ephesians_thepower.htm
_____

Psalm 72
http://www.textweek.com/writings/psalm72.htm

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______________

May the Peace of Christ be with you all, and may your study be prayer,

Jenee

Jenee Woodard -- Jackson, Michigan
mailto:jeneewd@dmci.net
http://www.textweek.com - The Text This Week