Jesus was a master storyteller, and his preaching was filled with parables because he knew his listeners would relate to them -- and therefore connect with his message. Likewise, insightful and well-told stories are an essential element of the contemporary preacher's toolbox; they are invariably what people remember long after the sermon is over. If you're looking for a collection of fresh, imaginative, and inspirational stories that's sure to help you create dynamic sermons, Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit is just the resource for you. Gregory Tolle sheds new light on Cycle B lectionary texts with modern parables that take you right to the heart of the scriptural witness. His thought-provoking reflections remind us that God's grace is always present, especially in places and events we least expect to find it. Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit is a wonderful source for memorable preaching illustrations and ""sermon starters"" -- and it's also uplifting devotional reading that powerfully demonstrates how the Lord works in our daily lives. Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit offers readers an array of stories from everyday situations that make scripture texts even more relevant for the person in the pew. Tolle shares insights from renowned philosophers and theologians as well as his own experience as husband, father, and pastor, and offers spiritual wisdom in a way that will captivate listeners. For the preacher who needs an occasional jump-start, Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit will be a helpful and much appreciated resource. Woodie W. White Bishop-in-Residence Candler School of Theology, Emory University Greg Tolle offers contemporary and insightful illustrations -- as fresh as the morning's newspaper -- to bring the Biblical message to life. Used to supplement lectionary sermons or to spark spiritual and homiletic creativity, Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit will enhance every minister's library. I highly recommend this book to anyone who endeavors to preach relevant sermons that people will remember for a long time to come. William G. Grice III Pastor, First Congregational Church (UCC) Des Plaines, Illinois Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit is a compilation of stories from the author's own life, literature, and contemporary films from which preachers can glean some nourishing nuggets. Alyce McKenzie Assistant Professor of Homiletics Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University Gregory L. Tolle is the senior minister at First United Methodist Church in Durant, Oklahoma. He is a graduate of Oklahoma City University (B.A. in Religion) and Texas Christian University (M.Div.).