All these stories will touch the heart; some will evoke laughter and tears.

Here is a collection of forty stories, each simple and to the point. They are based on lectionary cycle A. The stories examine basic theological and moral questions.

Very often the story offers a surprise, an ironic twist or reversal as in the parables of Jesus. The collection will assist the lectionary preacher. Although created for adults, the stories appeal to children and youth.

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. I am putting it on my shelf right up next to Martin Bell and Walter Wangerin.
Donald F. Chatfield
Professor of Preaching
Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary

Afterword by Jo Perry-Sumwalt

John Sumwalt is pastor of Wesley United Methodist Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He is a member of the T .A.L.E.S. storytelling guild and his stories appear quarterly in Seasons: The Inter-Faith Family Journal. This book is part of a three-year lectionary stories series.