"Christmas Grace"
"Second Reading Sermons on Advent/Christmas/Epiphany"
Timothy J. Smith
In each of Sunday's assigned lectionary readings -- the First, Second, and Gospel lessons -- we are invited to view the glorious narrative of scripture through three different, yet harmonious, perspectives. In the second lesson, we become witnesses to the growth and development of the early church as described in the epistles of Paul and the other apostles. As the early Christians take their first steps in their faith, we too learn how to travel on our own journey with Christ.
"Christmas Grace" kicks off the lectionary year in the celebrations of Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. Smith journeys through the New Testament lessons, offering fresh insight for the twenty-first-century church as they celebrate this time of new beginnings.
This collection of sermons is a valuable resource for:
Sermon starters and illuminating illustrations Gaining a new homiletical perspective to the lectionary Offering a newer, deeper understanding and appreciation of Scripture Using as a starter for adult Bible study groups or personal devotions This insightful collection of sermons includes:
Wake Up Call The Gift that Matters Divided We Fall ... and many more Timothy J. Smith is the pastor of First United Methodist Church in Millersville, Pennsylvania. He holds degrees from Millersville University (B.A. History/American History) and United Theological Seminary (M.Div.). He has also pastored three other UMC churches in Pennsylvania. He is married with two children, and his interests also include photography.

"This collection of "Lectionary Tales" provides an imaginative way to help the preacher and the congregation get into the scripture lesson for the day. Each tale casts some particular light on an aspect of the text rather than simply being a paraphrase in modern dress. The tales can be used as "sermons starters" and illustrations... or within the sermon as a means of reflecting on the deeper meaning of the text."
Dr. Kendall K. McCabe
Professor of Homiletics and Worship
United Theological Seminary
Dayton, Ohio
Everyone remembers and enjoys a good story -- and heartfelt stories touch us in ways nothing else can. Jesus used stories or parables to allow his listeners to look at themselves and examine their motivations.
This collection of stories illustrates biblical passages from the Revised Common Lectionary. It uses this powerful medium to communicate timeless truths.
Timothy J. Smith is the pastor of a United Methodist Church in Pennsylvania. He has been a lectionary preacher for Dynamic Preaching and is author of "No Particular Place To Go." He has his M.Div. degree from United Theological Seminary.