Kirjahaku

Stories to help the preacher touch the hearts of adults... children... to evoke laughter and tears with an ironic twist or a surprise ending... John Sumwalt's stories are a treat -- the gospel comes alive in common life and in regular people, and suddenly we are enchanted by grace. Donald F. Chatfield Professor of Preaching Garret-Evangelical Theological Seminary John Sumwalt's stories bring the gospel to life in the fullest sense of that phrase... I have grown to appreciate the way John's stories direct my eyes and open my ears to God's presence in the everyday occasions of life. Michael E. Williams Director of Preaching Ministries General Board of Discipleship The United Methodist Church John Sumwalt is a popular storyteller in churches, schools, for civic groups and on radio and television throughout Wisconsin and northern Illinois. He leads storytelling workshops for pastors, Sunday school teachers, and camp counselors. His wife, Jo Perry-Sumwalt, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, collaborates with her husband in the creations of these lectionary tales.

With contemporary stories and insight into ancient texts, John Sumwalt invites readers into the mystery of God's active, palpable presence in the world. When we decide to live in God's presence, we are in position to see, hear, believe, and experience the miraculous in our daily lives. Bishop Rueben P. Job Author of Living Fully, Dying Well Former editor, The Upper Room Since modern culture explains the world through scientific rationalism, there are many people in our pews who are skeptical about miracles. No matter how credible the source, our society tends to view those who speak of miracles as purveyors of superstition and magical thinking. That presents a significant problem when discussing the resurrection and the other miracles recorded in scripture -- so what can the preacher do? John Sumwalt says the answer is to "begin, like Jesus did, by telling stories of the mysterious, saving presence of God. This is the realm in which Jesus did his miracle work, a dimension of reality that is readily accessible to all who are hungry for it. Tell the miracle stories from the Bible along with those that are happening in our own time." In this fascinating volume, Sumwalt brings a storyteller's perspective to nine miracle passages in Cycle A of the Revised Common Lectionary. His rich biblical commentary is filled with numerous illustrations and tellable sermon stories, including over 30 contemporary accounts of miracles. In this beautifully written book, John Sumwalt shows you how to preach the miracle stories in ways that reach modern congregations. Full of warm and engaging stories, it reaches straight for the heart. This is a wonderful book that will connect you and your congregation to the scriptures in fresh ways. It's certain to warm the heart of anyone who reads it. I look forward to using it over and over again as a source for my sermons. Deacon Eddie Ensley Author of Prayer That Relieves Stress and Worry John E. Sumwalt is the lead pastor of Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church in suburban Milwaukee. A noted storyteller and seminar leader, he is the author of nine christian books, including the acclaimed Visions series (CSS). John and his wife, Jo Perry-Sumwalt, served for three years as co-editors of the online service StoryShare www.sermonsuite.com.