Working Preacher's Narrative Lectionary
Working Preacher hosts "I Love to Tell the Story," an engaging conversation on upcoming Narrative Lectionary readings. Each episode is fun, informative, and creative—and will help you and your congregation become fluent in the first language of faith.
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Narrative Lectionary 634 (NL402): Binding of Isaac - September 14, 2025
08/19/2025
Narrative Lectionary 634 (NL402): Binding of Isaac - September 14, 2025
Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," the podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode for September 14th, 2025, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Karoline Lewis tackle one of the most challenging and theologically rich stories in the Bible: The Binding of Isaac (Genesis 22:1-14). Join us as we dive deep into this difficult passage, exploring: * Why Jews call it the "binding of Isaac" while Christians call it the "sacrifice of Isaac" * The theological significance of God's promises to Abraham * How different religious traditions (Judaism, Christianity, and Islam) interpret this story * The rich Hebrew literary techniques that make this narrative so powerful * Connections to the Gospel of John and Good Friday traditions * Practical approaches for preaching this challenging text Our hosts provide historical context, discuss rabbinic interpretations, and offer insights into how this ancient story speaks to questions of faith, trust, and relationship with God. Whether you're a preacher preparing for Sunday or simply interested in biblical interpretation, this episode offers valuable perspectives on one of Scripture's most profound narratives. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Here is Kathryn's commentary from 2014: . Follow along with the commentary on Genesis 21:1-3; 22:1-14 written by Justin Michael Reed at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 633 (NL401): Creation by the Word - September 7, 2025
08/16/2025
Narrative Lectionary 633 (NL401): Creation by the Word - September 7, 2025
Welcome to the first episode of the new Narrative Lectionary year (Year 4)! Join hosts Rolf Jacobson and Kathryn Schifferdecker, along with special guest Karoline Lewis, a homiletics and New Testament expert, as they dive deep into Genesis 1 and its connections to John's Gospel. In this episode, we explore: * The poetic structure and litany format of Genesis 1 * The relational nature of God's "goodness" in creation * The image of God and what it means for humanity * Connections between Genesis creation and John's prologue * The significance of Sabbath as a "sanctuary in time" * Practical preaching ideas for a fall sermon series Karoline Lewis brings her expertise in John's Gospel to illuminate the connections between "In the beginning" in Genesis and "In the beginning was the Word" in John 1. We discuss how both texts reveal God's fundamental character as creator and God's commitment to relationship with creation. Perfect for preachers, seminary students, and anyone interested in biblical narrative and lectionary preaching. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Genesis 1:1—2:4a written by Justin Michael Reed at . Watch this episode on YouTube at . #genesis1 #preaching #homiletics #biblecommentary #workingpreacher
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#632 (NL346): Preaching Series on Revelation - July 27, 2025
05/23/2025
#632 (NL346): Preaching Series on Revelation - July 27, 2025
Revelation Preaching Series on Revelation (text commentaries found on Working Preacher at . • Week 1 - 7/27/2025: Revelation 1:4-8 (Greetings and 1st Vision) • Week 2 - 8/03/2025: Revelation 4:1-11 (The Elders and the Four Living Creatures) • Week 3 - 8/10/2025: Revelation 5:1-13 (The Seven Seals) • Week 4 - 8/17/2025: Revelation 7:9-17 (The Multitude from Every Nation) • Week 5 - 8/24/2025: Revelation 13:1-18 (The Beast and the Dragon) • Week 6 - 8/31/2025: Revelation 21:1-6; 22:1-5 (The New Heaven and the New Jerusalem) ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Narrative Lectionary Summer Preaching Series on Revelation 02:54 Overview: Exploring the Book of Revelation 03:35 Week 1: Revelation 1, Greetings and First Vision 05:51 Trinitarian Theology in Revelation 08:41 Week 2: Revelation 4, The Elders and the Four Living Creatures 08:59 Imagery and Symbolism in Revelation 12:04 The Role of Worship in Revelation 15:08 Diversity and Inclusion in Revelation 17:56 Week 3: Revelation 5, The Seven Seals 20:53 The Nature of Salvation in Revelation 24:06 Understanding Numbers and Symbolism 25:37 Week 4: Revelation 7, The Multitude from Every Nation 27:12 Deception and Violence in Revelation 29:57 Week 5: Revelation 13, The Beast and the Dragon 31:30 Worship as a detergent for deception and violence 37:00 Week 6: Revelation 21-22, The New Heaven and the New Jerusalem 38:02 The Final Vision: New Creation and Hope on earth 41:25 Outro 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#631 (NL345): Pentecost - Gifts of the Spirit - June 8, 2025
05/22/2025
#631 (NL345): Pentecost - Gifts of the Spirit - June 8, 2025
In this episode of 'I Love to Tell the Story', Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner explore the themes of the Holy Spirit's role in the Christian faith, particularly through the lens of Paul's letter to the Galatians. They discuss the significance of adoption into God's family, the concept of freedom in Christ, and how the fruit of the Spirit manifests in the lives of believers. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community and relationship in living out one's faith, as well as the challenges and realities of spiritual growth. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Narrative Lectionary 01:03 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 04:04 Freedom and Adoption in Christ 06:46 Living Out the Fruit of the Spirit 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Acts 2:1-4; Galatians 4:1-7 [5:16-26] written by Jerry Sumney at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#630 (NL344): One in Christ - June 1, 2025
05/15/2025
#630 (NL344): One in Christ - June 1, 2025
Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," a podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode, Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner explore key themes from Galatians 3, focusing on justification, the role of personal experience in faith, the purpose of the law, and the significance of baptism in forming community identity in Christ. They discuss how Paul appeals to the Galatians' experiences and the implications of the Holy Spirit's presence in their lives, while also addressing the potential for abuse in personal religious experiences. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the transformative nature of baptism and belonging to the community of faith. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Galatians and Justification 03:02 The Role of Personal Experience in Faith 05:53 Understanding the Law and Its Purpose 09:09 Baptism and Community Identity in Christ 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources at Follow along with the commentary on Galatians 3:1-9, 23-29 written by Jerry Sumney at Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#629 (NL343): Living by Faith - May 25, 2025
05/08/2025
#629 (NL343): Living by Faith - May 25, 2025
Welcome to "I Love to Tell the Story," a podcast exploring the Narrative Lectionary! In this episode, Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner delve into the Letter to the Galatians, which will be the focus for the next three weeks leading up to Pentecost. Explore the concept of humanity's lack of true freedom in the face of sin and death, and how Christ's death and resurrection break these powers, opening a path to right relationships with God and each other. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to Galatians 02:58 Context of Paul's Letter 05:39 Understanding Justification 08:32 Conclusion and Reflection 08:58 End 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Galatians 1:13-17; 2:11-21 written by Jerry Sumney at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#628 (NL342): Council at Jerusalem - May 18, 2025
05/05/2025
#628 (NL342): Council at Jerusalem - May 18, 2025
In this episode of 'I Love to Tell the Story', Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Matt Skinner discuss the complexities of the early Christian church as depicted in Acts 15. They explore the challenges faced by the early church regarding law observance, the inclusion of Gentiles, and the meaning of salvation within the community. The conversation highlights the diversity of beliefs and practices among early Christians and the importance of unity in faith despite these differences. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and New Beginnings 01:02 Exploring Acts 15: The Early Church's Challenges 06:12 Understanding Salvation in the Context of Community 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Acts 15:1-18 written by Jerry Sumney at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#627 (NL341): Ethiopian Eunuch Baptized - May 11, 2025
04/24/2025
#627 (NL341): Ethiopian Eunuch Baptized - May 11, 2025
In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the story of the Ethiopian eunuch from Acts 8, focusing on the themes of the Holy Spirit's guidance in spreading the gospel, the inclusivity of baptism, and the significance of reaching out to those who seek God. They discuss the historical context of the eunuch's story, the implications of his baptism, and the ongoing mission of the church in being sensitive to God's leading. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Ethiopian Eunuch's Story 02:49 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Mission 06:02 Inclusivity in Baptism and God's Grace 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Acts 8:26-39 written by Katherine A. Shaner at Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#626 (NL340): Stephen's Witness - May 4, 2025
04/16/2025
#626 (NL340): Stephen's Witness - May 4, 2025
Welcome to I Love to Tell the Story, a podcast on the Narrative Lectionary from Luther Seminary’s Working Preacher. In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the powerful and provocative story of Stephen from Acts 6 and 7. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 24:1-12 written by Katherine A. Shaner at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#625 (NL339): Emmaus Road - April 27, 2025
04/09/2025
#625 (NL339): Emmaus Road - April 27, 2025
What happens when the risen Jesus walks with you, but you don’t recognize him? And how does scripture set our hearts on fire even before we break the bread? In this episode of I Love to Tell a Story, Rolf Jacobson, Lois Malcolm, and Jennifer Pietz unpack the rich theological and pastoral layers of the Emmaus Road story. As the disciples journey away from Jerusalem in disillusionment, they encounter a stranger who reveals scripture in a new light—rekindling faith, reframing expectations, and reigniting hope. The conversation touches on how disappointment and grief shape our faith journeys, the significance of hospitality and shared meals, and how Jesus is made known through both scripture and sacrament. The hosts invite preachers to embrace the “multimedia” revelation of the risen Christ—through emotion, intellect, and community. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 24:13-35 written by Katherine A. Shaner at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 624 (NL338): Resurrection - April 20, 2025
04/07/2025
Narrative Lectionary 624 (NL338): Resurrection - April 20, 2025
In this episode, Professors Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm explore the powerful resurrection narrative in Luke 24, focusing on the role of women as the first witnesses to the empty tomb. 💬 What does it mean to "remember" Jesus' words? 🕊️ How does the Holy Spirit empower believers in the wake of the resurrection? 🌿 What does it look like to live as people of new life and forgiveness? The conversation unpacks the angelic question, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?”, and its deep theological implications. The hosts reflect on how the remembrance of Jesus’ teachings by the women at the tomb connects faith, memory, and the fulfillment of scripture—offering hope and transformation for believers today. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 24:1-12 written by Katherine A. Shaner at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#623 (NL337): Crucifixion - April 18, 2025
04/03/2025
#623 (NL337): Crucifixion - April 18, 2025
In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm deeply dive into Luke 23:32-47, exploring the powerful and poignant account of Jesus' crucifixion. They discuss the trial, execution, and profound imagery of Jesus’ suffering, emphasizing his innocence and the significance of his final words in Luke compared to other gospels. ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 The Context of Jesus's Crucifixion 02:26 The Innocent Sufferer: A Deep Dive into Luke's Narrative 05:02 Contrasting Last Words: Trust vs. Abandonment 07:26 Forgiveness and Understanding in Suffering 07:36 Outro 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 23:32-47 written by Karl Kuhn at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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#622 (NL336): Last Supper - April 17, 2025
04/02/2025
#622 (NL336): Last Supper - April 17, 2025
What really happened at the Last Supper? In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Lois Malcolm unpack Luke’s account of this pivotal moment, exploring: - The role of Satan in influencing Judas’ betrayal - Jesus’ radical servant leadership and its challenge to worldly power - The human weakness and ambition at play among the disciples - The establishment of the new covenant through Christ’s sacrifice Follow along with the commentary on Luke 22:1-27 by contributing author Karl Kuhn, found at . ⏰Timecodes⏰ 00:00 Introduction to the Narrative Lectionary Podcast 00:52 The Role of Satan in the Last Supper 03:45 Jesus as the Model of Servant Leadership 05:42 Disputes Among Disciples: The Quest for Greatness 07:07 Human Weakness and the New Covenant 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 621 (NL335): Triumphal Entry - April 13, 2025
03/31/2025
Narrative Lectionary 621 (NL335): Triumphal Entry - April 13, 2025
Join Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Jennifer Pietz, and Alan Padgett as they discuss Luke 19:29-44 for April 13, 2025. In this episode, our theological experts explore Jesus' arrival at Jerusalem—his "triumphal entry" riding on a donkey—and his heartfelt lament over the city. The conversation highlights how Luke's narrative fulfills the Messianic promises from earlier in the gospel, with Jesus explicitly declared as "king" through the adaptation of Psalm 118:26. The hosts reflect on what kind of king Jesus reveals himself to be—not one who seeks political or military power, but one who weeps over rejection and prepares to lay down his life. Key topics include: - The cultural context of ancient processionals welcoming dignitaries - Jesus' humble approach on a donkey contrasting with worldly power - The emotional weight of Jesus' lament over Jerusalem - The prophetic vision of Jerusalem's destruction and humanity's resistance to peace - Palm Sunday celebrations and their significance across different Christian traditions Whether you're preparing for Palm Sunday or exploring the paradoxical nature of Christ's kingship, this discussion offers valuable insights for sermon preparation and Bible study. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 620 (NL334): Zacchaeus - April 6, 2025
03/24/2025
Narrative Lectionary 620 (NL334): Zacchaeus - April 6, 2025
Who truly sees Jesus? In this episode of the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz unpack Luke 18:31–19:10, exploring the powerful stories of Zacchaeus and the blind man. As Jesus journeys toward Jerusalem, he encounters a blind man seeking sight and a tax collector seeking transformation. These encounters reveal a radical message of salvation, repentance, and inclusion, reminding us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Commentary on Luke 18:31-19:10 is forthcoming. Check back at . 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 619 (NL333): Rich Man and Lazarus - March 30, 2025
03/15/2025
Narrative Lectionary 619 (NL333): Rich Man and Lazarus - March 30, 2025
Is your wealth a blessing or a barrier? In this episode, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive deep into Luke 16:19-31—the rich man and Lazarus parable. What does Jesus' story reveal about judgment, compassion, and discipleship? Are we using our resources to help others, or have we allowed wealth to become an idol? Join us as we unpack Christian communities' responsibility to care for the marginalized and work together to address poverty. This parable is more than just a warning—it’s a call to action for all of us. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 16:19-31 written by Angela Deinhart Hancock at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 618 (NL332): Lost Sheep, Coin, Son - March 23, 2025
03/10/2025
Narrative Lectionary 618 (NL332): Lost Sheep, Coin, Son - March 23, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive into the powerful parables of Luke 15, exploring the Prodigal Son and the profound themes of divine love, grace, and community. Why does Jesus tell these stories together? What do they reveal about repentance, inclusion, and the heart of God? Join us as we unpack the tensions between sinners and Pharisees, the joy of redemption, and the often-overlooked perspective of the older brother. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 15:1-32 by contributing author Angela Dienhart Hancock, found at . 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 617 (NL331): Lament over Jerusalem - March 16, 2025
03/03/2025
Narrative Lectionary 617 (NL331): Lament over Jerusalem - March 16, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz dive into Jesus’ teachings on suffering, repentance, and the powerful symbolism of the barren fig tree. As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem, he calls his followers to respond to God’s grace with urgency. What does this mean for us today? How do we make sense of tragic events, and what does true repentance look like in our lives and ministries? Join us as we explore the deeper meaning of this passage and its impact on preaching and discipleship. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 13:1-9, 31-35 by contributing author Robert P. Hoch-Yidokodiltona, found at . 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 616 (NL330): Good Samaritan - March 9, 2025
02/25/2025
Narrative Lectionary 616 (NL330): Good Samaritan - March 9, 2025
What does it truly mean to love your neighbor? In this episode of the Narrative Lectionary Podcast, Profs. Rolf Jacobson, Alan Padgett, and Jennifer Pietz explore one of Jesus' most well-known and challenging parables—the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37). The hosts unpack the story’s radical message of compassion, cultural boundaries, and the call to action that still resonates today. Join us as we dive into the historical and theological context of this parable, reflecting on what it means to embody mercy in a world that often draws dividing lines. How might Jesus’ words challenge us to rethink who our neighbors really are? 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 10:25-42 written by Robert P. Hoch-Yidokodiltona at . Watch this episode on YouTube at
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Narrative Lectionary 615 (NL329): Jesus Turns to Jerusalem - March 5, 2025
02/18/2025
Narrative Lectionary 615 (NL329): Jesus Turns to Jerusalem - March 5, 2025
What does Jerusalem represent in the Gospel of Luke? How does the journey to the cross shape our understanding of discipleship? In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, we explore the significance of Jerusalem as a central character in Luke’s narrative, the cost of discipleship, and the challenges of rejection and conflict that followers of Jesus face. As we approach Ash Wednesday, this conversation invites preachers and ministry leaders to reflect on the perseverance required in faith and the realities of following Jesus. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 9:51-62 by author Robert P. Hoch-Yidokodiltona at . Want to delve deeper into this text? Head over to Enter the Bible with Katie Langston and Kathryn Schifferdecker, where they answer listener-submitted questions. In episode 112, they discuss Elijah and other prophets from the north. 🎧 Listen now and equip yourself for your preaching journey! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with fellow preachers. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 614 (NL328): Transfiguration - March 2, 2025
02/15/2025
Narrative Lectionary 614 (NL328): Transfiguration - March 2, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of Moses and Elijah, the contrast between glory and suffering, and the powerful healing moments in Jesus’ ministry. With thoughtful commentary, they reflect on how glimpses of the future kingdom shape faith in the present, offering insight and encouragement for preaching and teaching. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 9:28-45 by contributing author Robert P. Hoch-Yidokodiltona, found at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 613 (NL327): Forgiven at Jesus' Feet - February 23, 2025
02/08/2025
Narrative Lectionary 613 (NL327): Forgiven at Jesus' Feet - February 23, 2025
What does it mean to be truly forgiven? In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story: A Podcast on the Narrative Lectionary, Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into the moving story of the sinful woman who weeps at Jesus' feet. Join us as we explore the cultural context, her devotion's depth, and grace's transformative power. 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 7:36-50 by contributing author Gerald C. Liu, found at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 612 (NL326): More than a Prophet - February 16, 2025
02/01/2025
Narrative Lectionary 612 (NL326): More than a Prophet - February 16, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, hosts Rolf Jacobson, Craig Koester, and Kathryn Schifferdecker dive deep into Luke 7, where John the Baptist asks a crucial question: Is Jesus really the one? Together, they explore the tension between expectation and reality, the culture of offense, and how Christ’s legacy is revealed through acts of compassion. But what does true wisdom look like? And how do actions speak louder than words when it comes to faith? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges us to see Jesus in a new light. The commentary on Luke 7:18-35 will be published shortly. We appreciate your patience! 💌 Go further in your study with Working Preacher: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 611 (NL325): Raising the Widow's Son - February 9, 2025
01/25/2025
Narrative Lectionary 611 (NL325): Raising the Widow's Son - February 9, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive into Luke 7, particularly focusing on the stories of the centurion and the widow. The hosts explore themes of authority, worthiness, and the nature of faith in relation to Jesus' actions. Tune in as our hosts discuss how Jesus interacts with individuals of varying social statuses and the significance of compassion over faith as a prerequisite for receiving mercy, also touching on the challenges of pastoral care in times of grief and the universal experience of death as an equalizer. 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the bell for weekly narrative lectionary insights! 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 7:1-17 by contributing author Gerald C. Liu, found at . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 610 (NL324): Healing on the Sabbath - February 2, 2025
01/18/2025
Narrative Lectionary 610 (NL324): Healing on the Sabbath - February 2, 2025
Are rules made for people, or are people made for rules? In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Craig Koester, Kathryn Schifferdecker, and Rolf Jacobson dive deep into Luke 6, unpacking the Sabbath controversies and what they reveal about Jesus’ radical message of grace. They reflect on how Jesus redefines the meaning of the Sabbath, focusing on human well-being rather than rigid rule-keeping. Plus, they discuss the significance of Jesus selecting the twelve disciples and what it means to be a true follower in light of his teachings. If you’re curious about how Jesus' actions challenge conventional religious thinking and what that means for us today, you won’t want to miss this conversation! 🔗 Find more episodes and resources here: Follow along with the commentary on Luke 6:1-16 by contributing author Gerald C. Liu, found at . 📢 Follow us for updates: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 609 (NL323): Fish for People - January 26, 2025
01/11/2025
Narrative Lectionary 609 (NL323): Fish for People - January 26, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore Luke 5 and the miraculous catch of fish, unpacking the deeper meaning behind the disciples' calling. They discuss sin, forgiveness, and God's mission, emphasizing how His call invites us to a greater purpose. Reflecting on Old Testament figures and the Holy Spirit's transformative power, they highlight how God equips flawed individuals for extraordinary work. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 5:1-11 by contributing author Leah D. Schade, which can be found at . Go further in your preaching with Working Preacher: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 608 (NL322): Sermon at Nazareth - January 19, 2025
01/06/2025
Narrative Lectionary 608 (NL322): Sermon at Nazareth - January 19, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of Jesus' sermon at Nazareth, emphasizing the call to action for followers of Christ to serve the marginalized and oppressed. They explore the messianic identity of Jesus and the cultural implications of his message, particularly in the context of contemporary society. The conversation highlights the importance of being guided by the Holy Spirit in preaching and living out the faith. Commentary on Luke 4:14-30 is forthcoming. 💌 Go further in your study with Working Preacher: Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 607 (NL321): Jesus' Baptism - January 12, 2025
01/06/2025
Narrative Lectionary 607 (NL321): Jesus' Baptism - January 12, 2025
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson discuss the significance of the baptism of Jesus and the role of John the Baptist as a prophet. They explore the prophetic tradition, the call to repentance, and the symbolism of fire in relation to the Holy Spirit. The conversation emphasizes the distinction between John's baptism and the baptism that Jesus offers, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 3:1-22 by Gilberto A. Ruiz at 💌 Go further in your study with Working Preacher: . Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 606 (NL320): Boy in the Temple - January 5, 2025
01/02/2025
Narrative Lectionary 606 (NL320): Boy in the Temple - January 5, 2025
In episode #606 of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher, Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson explore themes of parenting, the significance of the temple in Jerusalem, and the blessings and challenges of motherhood. The conversation highlights the vulnerability of Jesus in the incarnation and the deep connection between Mary and her son, emphasizing the complexities of blessings in life. Follow along with the commentary on Luke 2:41-52 by Gilberto A. Ruiz at Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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Narrative Lectionary 605 (NL319): Simeon and Anna - December 29, 2024
12/14/2024
Narrative Lectionary 605 (NL319): Simeon and Anna - December 29, 2024
In this episode of I Love to Tell the Story, the Narrative Lectionary Podcast from Working Preacher Profs. Kathryn Schifferdecker, Joy J. Moore, and Rolf Jacobson as they delve into the profound themes of the Christmas story, centered on the incarnation of Jesus in Luke chapter two. 🌟 ✨ Topics we covered include: - The roles of Simeon and Anna in witnessing God's promises. - Mary and Joseph's faithful observance of Jewish law. - The message of hope for both Jews and Gentiles through Christ's birth. - The work of the Holy Spirit throughout the story. - God's profound care for the lowly and marginalized. - This thoughtful conversation highlights the beauty and depth of the Christmas story, offering fresh insights into its timeless significance. Watch this episode on YouTube at .
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