This book offers an abundance of insightful information on each of the nine miracle stories in Cycle B of the Revised Common Lectionary -- yet Brauninger intentionally avoids presenting a ready-made cloak of words for a morning sermon. Instead, she invites preachers and their audiences to discover hidden implications by exploring the gap between the "back then" and the "now." Outlines of the action reveal the pivotal points in each story, and fictional interviews help readers get into the minds of the characters -- thus connecting their human experiences with the daily struggles we encounter in faith and discipleship. Brauninger's unique approach not only answers questions, it also generates them -- which spurs the thinking process and allows the Word to come alive.
Five sections are devoted to each miracle story:
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Text -- The entire scripture text is provided for easy access.
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What's Happening? -- A synopsis of points of action within each miracle story.
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Connecting Points-Conversations -- Brauninger engages in imaginary exchanges with the main characters and an occasional bystander.
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Words -- Significant terms are examined.
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Gospel Parallels -- Similarities and differences with parallel passages are highlighted.
Dallas A. Brauninger is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and full-time writer who has served churches in Colorado and Nebraska. A cum laude graduate of Albion College, Brauninger received her Master of Divinity degree and an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary. She is the author of numerous CSS preaching and worship resources, including three-year series on
Preaching the Miracles,
Preaching the Parables, and
Lectionary Worship Aids.
