Pastor. Author. Inspirational Speaker
Worship Series:
Our Courageous Discipleship
Our Courageous Discipleship worship series, leads us in our journey to live out our faith as disciples of Jesus Christ courageously. We do this through Courageous Sharing, Courageous Teaching, Courageous Living, Courageous Trusting in God's Word, Courageous Purpose, Courageous Denial, Steadfast Courage, and Courageous Fellowship. This 8-week worship series and study will encourage you in your courageous discipleship in all times especially during our current trials of 2021. All the Worship Helps and Prayers are below and are posted for others us use with permission. Email Pastor Laura: revlaurakelsey@gmail.com
Courageous Sharing: Week 1
Sharing Courageously is something that we either do not always do or think about but is very relevant to our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. There are many Scriptures that talk about this. We generally think about Matthew 28:16-20 (The Great Commission), but there is so much more to sharing one's faith than this. Courageous sharing also includes sharing the stories of how God has guided you as well. This week in the Our Courageous Discipleship series speaks to this. The liturgy is below.
Call to Worship - from Psalm 8
O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
Out of the mouths of babes and infants you have founded a bulwark because of your foes, to silence the enemy and the avenger.
When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have established; what are human beings that you are mindful of them, mortals that you care for them?
Yet you have made them a little lower than God, and crowned them dominion over the works of your hands;
You have put all things under their feet, all sheep and oxen, and also the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the first of the sea, whatever passes along the paths of the seas. O Lord, our Sovereign, how majestic is your name in all the earth!
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Opening Prayer
O Lord, our Sovereign, you are our God. Father, you have created all things and care so deliberately about every motion of this world and every beat of our hearts. We praise you. Holy Spirit, the Great Nudger of all that is, you show us the things we cannot see on our own and bring us to greater understanding by your power, we glorify you. Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God, you have lived, died and rose for us, we are in awe at the magnitude of what God has done through his Son Jesus, we honor you. Guide us during this time of worship to spend this next moments in complete praise and worship with our Almighty Everlasting God. May this time together change us for the better by the power of God’s bountiful love. In Christ’s Name we pray, Amen.
Call to Confession
Being a courageous disciple of Jesus Christ doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time to understand what following the great Teacher Jesus really means. The Disciples didn’t understand in the beginning either. It took seeing the entirety of Christ’s earthly journey to really become aware of what it means to imitate our Lord. However, we have also learned of the obstacles we face and the barriers we struggle to cross. Yet, through it all we can depend on God to lead us onward and forgive us when we fail in our task to live a sin-free life. Let us now confess our sins, saying:
Prayer of Confession (Unison)
Almighty and Everlasting God, we have sinned and fallen short of what you have intended for our lives. The sin that we commit weighs heavy upon us and we need you to remove it completely, returning us to right relationship with you. Help us to accept the forgiveness you offer and become changed from the inside out. May these next steps of faith inform our future hope and lead us in the path to Life Eternal. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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Silent Prayers
Words of Assurance
Hear the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: We each have sinned and fallen short of what God seeks for us to become. Yet even when we do so, God is a covenant keeper and continues to work for our own good. We are forgiven. We are freed from all that holds us in hostile territory and we are given new life through Christ.
This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
Prayer for Illumination
O Lord, illumine these Holy Scriptures and reinvigorate our souls, that what we read, and hear proclaimed this day may inspire us for years to come. May the fire of the Holy Spirit burn brightly in our hearts and guide for forward with courage in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-18
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:16-20
The Message: “Courageous Sharing” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
Invitation to Give
Courageous Sharing leads us into places we would not expect to walk, for God shows us more than we can see and guides us forward in faith. When we follow the Lord we realize that one of the greatest things we can do to demonstrate that faith is to give our lives, our hearts, and our money. We attest today that all we have was given by the Lord to us and now is the time to return what has been given with open hands and hearts. May these gifts we share today inspire us to continue giving extravagantly in the name of the Lord.
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Prayer of Thanksgiving
O Lord, bless these gifts, tithes and offerings given freely today with open and contrite hearts, that we may always declare these gifts as coming from above. Bless them and use them for your glory alone and not our own. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Prayer After Communion (Unison)
Gracious God who continues to give abundantly to God’s people, we thank you for the gift of your Son Jesus Christ and the new life given to us all. May this Sacrament of which we received today reinvigorate each of us for service, mission and proclamation that we will be on fire for You and Your will. Amen.
Hymns:
#515 Glory To God Hymnal “I Come with Joy” Dove of Peace
#518 Glory to God Hymnal “Your Only Son” Lamb of God
#516 Glory to God Hymnal “For the Bread Which You Have Broken” Kingdom
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Teaching Courageously is enacted every day, yet very rarely we focus on it except in times of necessity. There are two ways that it is important to do so: as one who is instructing others and as one who is being instructed. Sometimes we would rather not be aware of when we need correction and adjust, yet to be a courageous disciple of Christ means that we are willing to be teachable and through that teaching grow in faith and in life. This week we focus on be wise both as a teacher and a learner. The liturgy is below:
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Call to Worship - from Psalm 32
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
You are my hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance.
I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Opening Prayer
O God of Transformation and New Life, we hear your call of everlasting love directing our return our the Almighty God. We discern throughout your Scriptures that the importance of following your statutes and path is real. Yet we forget how important it is to listen to wise counsel and look for the understanding we receive from the Divine. Help us to seek to be amongst the righteous and may we shout for joy together and be upright in heart. Amen.
Call to Confession
From Christ we learn what courageous discipleship means. Through him we understand what courageous teaching looks like and we begin to realize how important following the calling of God is for each of us. As we ponder the Holy Scriptures we see the lessons we need to learn before us, but we do not always see how we are called forward in faith and in what ways we need to demonstrate our discipleship in Christ. Today we take these moments to acknowledge our stake in the plan of God. We do not always live into it like we should but we do realize that without sharing the teachings of Christ we cannot become imitators of Him. Let us now confess our sins together, saying:
Prayer of Confession (Unison)
O God of the Universe, the One who brings Divinity so close to us in Jesus, we turn to you ready to proclaim your Gospel in whatever way you seek. Stir our sense of purpose and guide us in your plan as we seek to listen for your voice and experience your call. As we begin the forward motion of God in our coming moments, help us to believe what is difficult to contemplate and show us how we can educate others on the specifics of the faith. May we also see the meaning of being the called both in our lives and in our hearts. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Silent Prayers
Words of Assurance
Friends, hear and believe the Good News of Jesus Christ, for Christ came into the world to bring salvation to us all. This was no small feat, but planned out by the Father and exhibited in the Son. Today we acknowledge that we cannot do it alone but with Christ new life is possible for us all. Therefore, together we proclaim what we know and believe that we are saved and forgiven by the power of God.
This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Lord, teach us how to be good disciples. May these Holy Scriptures of which we read today be instruments of your glory, illuminating our path by the will of God. We ask that you transform us to be teachers of The Book and instill others with a sense of God’s ultimate work. Help us to be who we were created to be, in the name of our Heavenly Father we pray. Amen.
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Scripture Reading: Proverbs 9:1-12
Scripture Reading: Luke 6:37-42
The Message: “Courageous Teaching” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
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Affirmation of Faith (Unison) - The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary, and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
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Invitation to Give
Being a teacher of the Gospel is no easy task . A large part of such a calling is being willing to do whatever is necessary to help others experience the awesomeness of God’s forgiveness and merciful heart. For this we are grateful. We are also so thankful for the days we can give generously to others. Let us now listen for the voice of God and follow its leanings in the name of Jesus. Let us now give generously for the work of God.
Prayer of Thanksgiving O Lord, help us to listen for your voice and follow your path, seeking your will to lead us to places we would not ordinarily go. Help us to step out in faith and with courage in the name of Jesus. Bless these offerings, O God, and use them for your benefit. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
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Hymn #12 Glory to God Hymnal “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise” St. Denio
Hymn #722 Glory to God Hymnal “Lord, Speak to Me that I May Speak” Canonbury LM
Hymn #707 Glory to God Hymnal “Take Thou Our Minds, Dear Lord” Hall
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Courageous Teaching - Week 2
Courageous Loving - Week 3
Courageous loving is the inspiring love of God that has weaved together the universe and that guides us closer to the purposes God set our for us. This kind of love is intimate and urges us striving forward to share such a love. Courageous love is loving like Jesus and being willing to live into the love we have experienced in him. Together we can become more than we would be on our own, through the power of Jesus Christ.
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Call to Worship - from Psalm 116
I love the Lord who has heard my voice and my supplications.
The Lord has inclined his ear to me and I will call on the Lord as long as I live.
The snares of death encompassed me; the pangs of Sheol laid hold on me; I suffered distress and anguish. Then I called on the name of the Lord; “O Lord, I pray, save my life!”
Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; Our God is merciful. The Lord protects the simple; when I was brought low, God saved me.
Return, O my soul, to your rest, for the Lord has dealt bountifully with me. The Lord has delivered my soul from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. I will walk before the Lord in the land of the living.
I kept my faith, even when I said, “I am greatly afflicted”; I said in my consternation, “Everyone is a liar.”
What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones.
I will offer to you a thanksgiving sacrifice and call on the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. In the course of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!
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Opening Prayer
O Everlasting and Omnipresent God, we come together in faith to worship you. You are the God of the universe, the one who created, redeems and sustains us. We humbly come together to praise and worship you, O God. We love you, Lord. We are ready to proclaim that love from mountaintops and valleys, during times of good and ill, and amongst the largest challenges we face. Courageous Love is urging us forward to love you to the fullest that we can possibly love. Help us today to recognize those times when we need to share a courageous love with others, breaking down barriers and unstopping wells of living water in the lives of those who need it most. Encourage us in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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Call to Confession
We worship the God of Extravagant Love. The love we have experienced is only an echo of the abundance of God’s love. Yet so many have not truly seen and known true love, hesed love. Living life and working to bring courageous love to others is full of grit and difficulty. When people truly experience this kind of love they can’t imagine it is real and that you have stepped out this far for them. Unfortunately, it is easy to not experience such a love in our lives and relationships. Courageous love is intentional love. We are not always intentional in living out our faith nor our love. Yet, today we seek to proclaim that we embrace courageous love. Let us now confess our sins to the Lord, receiving the forgiveness that has already been granted for each of us.
Prayer of Confession (Unison)
O Loving God, we are overcome this morning with the depth of your love for us. We love you so much and yet we cannot imagine how much effort loving a world or even a people takes. Still, you continue to reach out to us, showing the world what courageous love looks like and feels like. Help us to focus on your will, your way, and your love first. Help us lay aside all that gets in our way of loving courageously and share life-giving love with others. May we each commit to loving this way as we move forward. Forgive the times we were self-absorbed, overcome by pain and uncertainty and were feeling like we had the weight of the world upon us. Help us to release all of the things that we are not to focus on back to You. May we do our tasks and allow You to do Yours. You are the one with the weight of the world upon you, not us. You are the one that died and rose for our sins, not us. You are the one that comforts, forgives, and releases us from such weight, freeing us for right living with you. Thank you for being our God and allowing us to be your people. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
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Silent Prayers
Words of Assurance
Friends, we have the most amazing Savior in Jesus Christ, who brought God’s love into intimate relationship with humanity and personally with each of us. Through Christ’s love and action on the cross we have received the forgiveness we all seek. We are forgiven. We are freed. We renewed through the Courageous Love of God. This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
Prayer for Illumination
O Holy Spirit, the nudger of our souls and the illuminator to our lives and God’s precious Word, we ask you to open our hearts to these Scriptures today. May we be changed and renewed by these words and the Message we hear this morning, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Scripture Reading: Matthew 27:32-54
The Message: “Courageous Loving” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
Affirmation of Faith (Unison) - adapted from the Westminster Confession (6.055-6.058)
God in infinite and perfect love, having provided in the covenant of grace through the mediation and sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ, a way of life and salvation sufficient for and adapted to the whole lost race of humanity, freely offers this salvation to all people in the Gospel. In the Gospel, God declares God’s love for the world, and his desire that all people should be saved, reveals fully and clearly the way of salvation; promises eternal life to all who truly repent and believe in Christ; invites all to embrace the offered mercy; and by his Spirit accompanying the Word pleads with men and women to accept his gracious invitation. It is a duty and privilege of everyone who hears the Gospel to accept its merciful provisions…. Christ has commissioned his Church to go into all the world and to make disciples of all the nations. All believers are, therefore, under obligation to sustain the ordinances of the Christian religion where they are already established, and to contribute by their prayers, gifts, and personal efforts to the extension of the Kingdom of Christ throughout the whole earth.
Invitation to Give
Friends, we are so blessed to know God – our Father, the Son our Lord Jesus Christ and the amazing Holy Spirit. This is the greatest blessing we can receive. We also have received so much more and we take this time to return to God some of what was already given to bless others and give these funds to bless the people of God. May these offerings given change lives and be multiplied for God’s glory.
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Prayer of Thanksgiving
O Triune God, we thank you for all you have given us. Receive these offerings today of ourselves and our talents and treasures, that we may work together in unity for your glory. Help us to embrace our call as your disciples and do so courageously as we minister to others in your name and for your purposes. Amen.
Music:
Hymn #711 Glory to God Hymnal “Lord of All Good” Toulon
Hymn #159 Glory to God Hymnal “O Sing a Song of Bethlehem” Kingsfold CMD
“Love Lifted Me” Safety
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Courageous Trust in God's Word - Week 4
Call to Worship - from Psalm 119
Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord.
Happy are those who keep God’s decrees, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in God’s ways.
You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently.
O that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments.
I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous ordinances. I will observe your statutes; do not utterly forsake me.
How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word.
With my whole heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments.
I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you. Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes.
With my lips I declare all the ordinances of your mouth. I delight in the way of your decrees as much as in all riches.
I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.
Opening Prayer
O Immeasurable, Omnipotent and Everlasting God, loving you and following your will and ways is the greatest blessing we receive. We have learned about your great love and work throughout Holy Scriptures and have seen it lived out in our life and moments. We worship You, Our Great God. Not everyone appreciates You even as You created us, sustain us and renew us. We lay aside all the false presuppositions of You and instead proclaim courageously our trust in You and Your Word. Encourage us during this time of worship to stand firm upon Your Holy Scriptures, and the Living Word, Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. May we speak of the life You have given to each of us and the breath you have breathed that is indeed Life Eternal. In Christ’s name, we pray. Amen.
Call to Confession
Friends, this morning we must ask ourselves the question: “What does it mean in your life to trust God’s Word, to trust that the Holy Scriptures are the inspired Word of God, to trust that Christ, who is the Word that became flesh, has indeed saved you and given you Life Eternal?” Do you courageously believe all these things and stand upon God’s Word in all of your actions? Do you walk with God? We must admit this day that we want to do all these things, but there are times when we forget that God is powerful and loving, fierce and forgiving, earth-bending and heart-healing. We forget the many Scriptures that guide our way when we listen, learn, pray, and believe. Today, let us make some moments to sit with the Divine and proclaim our love, belief and allegiance to our Almighty and Everlasting God. Let us pray together.
Prayer of Confession (Unison) O Word Incarnate, on this holy day we pray to you and ask that you hear and direct our thoughts toward Your unstoppable love. Help us today to courageously trust the Holy Word of God, realizing how far God has gone for each of us. May we be cut to the heart and embrace any rough places that need healing within us. We want to walk with You, God. We want to experience the joy of living a faithful life and responding to Your love with courageous trust. Lord, we have had times when we trusted our friends and even strangers more than You. Forgive us. We have made irreparable mistakes. However, even those You have forgiven. Thank you for leading us from sin to new life, from brokenness to a sanctified being. In You, we find peace. In You, we find hope. In You, we find love. May all these things be shared with others as we live courageously with You. Amen.
Silent Prayers
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Words of Assurance Friends, hear and believe the Good News: for God has given us the greatest gift imaginable – God’s Word. This Word of God that was written hundreds and thousands of years ago is as trustworthy today as it was then. This Holy Word shows us real truth that is unchanging. We see this Truth on the pages of Scripture and in the Word Incarnate, Jesus Christ. We acknowledge the depth of God’s love for us in the sending of Christ to live with us, heal each of us, die for us and rise for our benefit – bringing us each eternal life through the gift of the forgiveness of all our sins. New life awaits us when we believe. May we all open our hearts and together proclaim God’s Truth. This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Lord, illumine our hearts and this Your Holy Word, that we may have the understanding we need to trust fully in You, for you are our God. We trust in the Word of God that is God’s compass guiding our lives. With it we can see you, our Almighty Everlasting God more clearly. Help us to trust always in You. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Scripture Reading: John 1:1-18
Scripture Reading: John 8:21-59
The Message: “Courageous Trust in God’s Word” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
Affirmation of Faith (Unison) - from the Scots Confession (Confessions, 3.01)
We confess and acknowledge one God alone, to whom alone we must cleave, whom alone we must serve, whom only we must worship, and in whom alone we put our trust. Who is eternal, infinite, immeasurable, incomprehensible, omnipotent, invisible; one in substance and yet distinct in three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. By whom we confess and believe all things in heaven and earth, visible and invisible, to have been created, to be retained in their being, and to be ruled and guided by his inscrutable providence for such end as his eternal wisdom, goodness, and justice have appointed, and to the manifestation of his own glory.
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Invitation to Give Friends, today we have had the opportunity to reflect on God’s Holy Word and how important it is to us all. Trusting God is so important and believing God’s Word is fundamental to the application of our faith. Believing what Scripture shares with us is at the root of living our courageous discipleship in a successful way. Sharing our faith, our lives, and our gifts with others is part of that life of discipleship. Giving of our monetary, spiritual and personal gifts is part of our faith journey. However, to do so it must be with an open heart that wants to share with others. When we share in this way, we see God’s blessings expand. Let us give of these gifts this morning with open and contrite hearts, looking for the many ways God uses them to glorify the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.
Prayer of Thanksgiving
Lord, bless these gifts given, these hearts gathered in prayer, and the saints joined together across the Church Universal. May each gift given be multiplied for your will and serve to better the Kingdom of God in all its realms. Inspire us to believe even when we haven’t seen and to follow you into the darker places of this world, bringing the Light of Christ to brighten even those living in darkness, for Christ’s hope never burns out. May for find your Light. May more find your hope. May more find your love. Through Christ, we pray. Amen.
Music:
Hymn #361 Glory to God Hymnal “O Christ, the Great Foundation” Aurelia
Hymn #69 Glory to God Hymnal “I, the Lord of Sea and Sky” Here I Am (Schutte)
Hymn #363 Glory to God Hymnal “Lord, Make Us More Holy" Lord, Make Us More Holy
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Courageous Purpose - Week 5
Call to Worship - from Psalm 146
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord, O my soul!
I will praise the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help.
When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish.
Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them; who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed: who gives food to the hungry.
The Lord sets the prisoners free; the Lord opens the eyes of the blind.
The Lord lifts us those who are bowed down; the Lord loves the righteous.
The Lord watches over the strangers; he upholds the orphan and the widow, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
The Lord will reign forever, your God, O Zion, for all generations. Praise the Lord!
Opening Prayer
O Holy God, our Rock and Fortress, the One in whom we find our purpose and put our trust, we praise You. Guide this time of worship and our next steps with you. Show us new ways to discern your will and to be courageous disciples of Christ. Encourage us this day to follow You, for you are our divining rod that guides our path. You enlighten the way before us and enrich our journey through your abiding love. All this we lift up in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Call to Confession
Living with Courageous Purpose is not our norm nor what we tend to seek. Instead, we chase after our dreams and desires no matter the cost. We find treasures of this world that distract us from our call and purpose given by God. We forget how fulfilling it is to follow the purpose of God and be directed through the Holy Spirit’s leading. Today we honor our call and purpose of the Lord and leave behind the many things that lead us away from the Lord rather than toward Jesus Christ. Let us now acknowledge our wanderings, failings and sin and accept the forgiveness God gives to us all. Let us pray:
Prayer of Confession (Unison)
O God of Renewed Purpose and Direction, we honor you this day with our believing hearts. Encourage us as we courageously follow you and live into Your purpose and our own. Help us to lay aside all the sin and brokenness, the many things that stir our wandering hearts and that seems to tempt us to stray from your plan. Instead, show us what steadfast love and faithfulness looks like and feels like. Help us to trust in You even when it is difficult and to trust Your love that never fails. May we believe in the purposes of God and our part in the Divine Plan. May we lay aside all of our burdens, accept the forgiveness given by God and move forward in peace as we follow the Lord. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Silent Prayers
Words of Assurance Friends, God forgives all of our sins and wanderings and guides us back toward the purpose set before us by our Lord. We are forgiven and we are freed. Be encouraged this day in the name of Jesus Christ, for your part in the plan of God is significant and God seeks to show you your value and your part in the Divine Plan. May you lay aside all that hinders your success and follow the Lord. This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Triune God – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – guide this time of illumination, that your Word may enlighten our souls and enrich our lives. May we be mindful of the message you seek for us to hear and believe this day. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:13-20
Scripture Reading: Romans 8:18-30
The Message: “Courageous Purpose” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
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REAFFIRMATION OF BAPTISM AND PROFESSION OF FAITH
Presentation
Profession of Faith
The Apostles’ Creed (Unison)
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, And in Jesus Christ his only Son our Lord; who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; he descended into hell; the third day he rose again from the dead; he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead. I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body; and the life everlasting. Amen.
Laying On of Hands and Anointing
Welcome
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Halle, halle, hallelujah! Hale, halle, Hallelujah! Halle, halle, Hallelujah! Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Invitation to Give What a joyful day it is to praise the Lord and the celebrate others joining the household of God and our congregation. Today we proclaim our united purpose with our God and each other. May these offerings given today help multiply God’s reach in the world as we share God’s love with each action of care in which we participate.
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Prayer of Thanksgiving
O Lord, bless these offerings that we share this day. May each gift given bless God’s holy name and each us. May they multiply through God’s will and help us fulfill our courageous purpose in the name of the Lord. Amen.
Music:
Hymn #726 fro Glory to God Hymnal: “Will You Come and Follow Me” Kelvingrove
Hymn #591 from Glory to God Hymnal Refrain only. "Halle, Halle, Hallelujah!"
Hymn #275 from Glory to God Hymnal: “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” Ein’ Feste Burg
Hymn #435 from Glory to God Hymnal: “There’s a Wideness In God’s Mercy” In Babilone
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Courageous Denial - Week 6
Call to Worship - from Psalm 19 The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims God’s handiwork.
Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge.
There is no speech, nor are there words; their voice is not heard; yet their voice goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.
In the heavens God has set a tent for the sun, which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy, and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them; and nothing is hid from its heat.
The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the decrees of the Lord are sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eyes;
The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever.
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Opening Prayer
O God of Beauty and Majesty, this time of worship brings music and a joyous spirit to our heart and soul. We thank you for being here in this holy place with us this morning and filling us with your love. Guide this time worship and hear the petitions of our hearts, that we may look to you with a courageous spirit ready to deny ourselves the follow you. Encourage us as we live your way, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Call to Confession
Being a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ is full of moments where courage brings us through times of fear, and into the hope and new life Christ gives to us all. Sometimes we feel like our steps are aligning just right. Other times we realize in order to truly follow God’s call, we must deny ourselves and the world’s teachings and follow God. This is difficult for us and we often fail in this task. Knowing this, let us confess our sins, praying:
Prayer of Confession (Unison) O God Courage, Trust, and New Life, hear the concerns and anxiety of our hearts. Encourage us to see You, our God, clearly through the lens of Scripture and the teachings of Christ. Help us to know ourselves, our brokenness, and the sin the weighs so heavy. In understanding the ways of the world, may we be able to articulate the directions and callings of God. Help us to follow You, O Lord, on Your path and be willing to subjugate our elves for the betterment of others and the upbuilding of the Kingdom of God. Through you, O Lord, we find our strength. Forgive all our foolish ways and encourage us to seek you and claim the forgiveness that you bring to us all. We ask this, in the name of our Savior Christ Jesus Amen.
Words of Assurance
Fellow Believers, let us hear and believe the Good News of Jesus Christ and remember that Christ came to bring salvation to us all. We know how easy it is to go along with the whims of society and how difficult it is to stand up with Christ as we seek all the blessings and promises that Christ brings to us. Believe in the power of God. Believe in the forgiveness that Christ brings. Believe in the Holy Spirit that nurtures, nudges and directs each believer’s heart. This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Lord, nurture our hearts as we hear your Scriptures read and proclaimed that we may embrace our call to follow you. The Message we hear help us better understand courageous denial and truly be ready to live out the Gospel each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scripture Reading: 2 Kings 19:14-19
Scripture Reading: Luke 9:21-27
The Message : “Courageous Denial” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
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Invitation to Give
Being a follower of Jesus Christ is one of the most important things we can do as we seek God’s direction each day. Listening for God’s voice and being in relationship with the Divine brings us closer to our best self. Articulating our faith is one of the best ways for others to watch God at work. We also do so through the many ways we give to the Lord – whether it is our time, talents or treasures. Let us now give of all three to God.
Prayer of Thanksgiving
O Lord, bless these offerings and gifts collected today. May you multiply them as we give to the Lord. Encourage us to stay focused and seek ways to share our faith and our lives with others. May we be instruments of Your love and work for Your glory. Amen.
Music:
Hymn #326 from Glory to God hymnal “For All the Saints” Sine Nomine
† Hymn #203 from Glory to God hymnal “Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love” Chereponi
† Hymn #649 from Glory to God hymnal “Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound” Amazing Grace CM
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Steadfast Courage - Week 7
Call to Worship - from Psalm 125
Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides forever.
As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds God’s people, from this time on and forevermore.
Do good, O Lord, to those who are good, and to those who are upright in their hearts.
Peace be upon us and Israel.
Opening Prayer
O Almighty and Ever-Present God, we bless your holy name and follow your guidance for our lives and that of our families. Today as we gather together, we ask You to grant us unwavering courage, for we seek to be steadfast in our faith and discipleship. During this time of worship, may You strengthen our hearts, our lives, and our very breath, that as the people of God we may be bold in faith and alive in your Truth. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.
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† Call to Confession
The call of discipleship is filled with dangerous corners to navigate and many instances where we do not see all of the deception around us. Still, through the direction of the Holy Spirit and listening for the voice and discernment of God we can see our way more clearly. However, this cannot be achieved without steadfast courage. Keeping our eyes set upon Jesus is the only way to achieve our own courageous discipleship. Let us now pray together:
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† Prayer of Confession (Unison) O God of All Knowledge and Understanding, guide us during this time of worship. Help us to have the courage to open our hearts, our thoughts, and our fears to you. May we be willing to lay bare and receive all that Christ brings to our hearts, our souls, and our very lives. When we trust more in the world than in you, help us to have courage to walk the difficult road and to never turn from the path of God. Yet, when and if we do, guide us back to you and receive our prayers of repentance. We believe in you and the forgiveness of Christ Jesus. Help us in our quest for steadfast courage. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
† Silent Prayers
† Words of Assurance Friends, our Living God, who brought back Jesus Christ from the dead forgives us of all the sins we have committed and frees us to follow the Lord with open hearts.
This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Lord, open our hearts to receive your Holy Word and guide us as we hear Your specific message that is intended for us this morning. May we be open, engaged and ready to receive and fulfill the mission you have given to us. Amen.
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Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 1:1-20
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12-58
The Message: “Steadfast Courage” Rev. Laura C. Kelsey
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†Affirmation of Faith (Unison) - The Nicene Creed (Confessions, 1.01-1.03)
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all that is, seen and unseen. We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten o the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father; through him all things were made. For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven, was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary and became truly human. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried. On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end. We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen.
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Invitation to Give
Friends, living Christ’s way is the most blessed part of our journey. Following the lessons he taught, living through his example, and embracing the new life he has given us is our greatest blessing and challenge. Steadfast courage brings us there, with Christ’s help. Today we honor Jesus Christ and move forward in faith to serve, to love, and to emerge as a courageous disciple of Jesus. Let us now share with joy what God has given us, through these tithes, gifts and offerings.
† Prayer of Thanksgiving
O Lord, bless these offerings and each one of us that we may live out your vision and follow the way of Christ Jesus. Amen.
Hymns:
† Hymn #707 (GtoG) “Take Thou Our Minds, Dear Lord” Hall
† Hymn #846 (GtoG) “Fight the Good Fight” Duke Street LM
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Courageous Movement - Week 8
Call to Worship from Psalm 93
The Lord is king, he is robed in majesty; The Lord is robed, he is girded with strength.
He has established the world; it shall never be moved;
Your throne is established from of old; You are from everlasting.
The floods have lifted up, O Lord, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their roaring.
More majestic than the thunders of mighty waters, more majestic than the waves of the sea, majestic on high is the Lord!
You decrees are very sure; holiness befits your house, O Lord, forevermore.
Opening Prayer
O God, with humble hearts we come together today in holy worship, ready to focus all of our energy upon you and your love. We live to move into your presence and follow the leanings of your heart. Guide this time of worship that we may hear your message today and follow your path. Amen.
Call to Confession
Being a disciple of Christ brings with it a special calling to follow the Lord wherever that may lead. Whether up mountains or into the deepest valleys, we are called to move to live. Living in Christ is living into the best we can become. Yet so often we follow the path of another rather than that given to us by God. Know that, let us confess our sins, saying:
Prayer of Confession (Unison)
Almighty God, you move us forward in faith and guide us toward the Light. Keep us focused on you, O Lord, and show us your way. When we move away from your path and take the wrong fork in the road, guide us back to your way and encourage on our journey. Forgive us when we trust in people rather than you. Help us to see your promises fulfilled. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Silent Prayers
Words of Assurance Friends, the Creator of the Universe and of us all sent God’s Son Jesus to live, heal and forgive us. Let us now proclaim our faith in the One who saves us and new life he gives. This is the Good News of the Gospel:
Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.
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Prayer for Illumination
O Illuminating God, you show us the path to live and in you there is fullness of joy. Guide our reading of your Holy Scriptures and enlighten our hearts, that we may receive your Word. Amen.
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Scripture Reading: John 1:42-51
Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 14:1, 4-14
The Message: “Move to Live” Rev. Dr. James Monnett
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Invitation to Give We move to live—living in Christ and faithfully following the Lord are significant parts of our call as disciples of Christ. Today we thank God for the provisions given each and every day by our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer. We dedicate ore lives to the Lord and make decision to follow Jesus Christ. Let us now respond in faith, give of what God has given and rededicate our lives to the Lord.
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Prayer of Thanksgiving and Dedication of our 2022 Pledges to the Lord
O Lord, we thank you for your generous care for us and your creation. Bless these gifts and pledges given and multiply them for your vision, mission and holy work. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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Hymn #624 from Glory to God hymnal “I Greet Thee, Who My Sure Redeemer Art” Toulon
Hymn #707 from Glory to God hymnal “Take Thou Our Minds, Dear Lord” Hall
† Hymn #525 Presbyterian Hymnal “Here I Am, Lord” Here I Am
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