God's Perfect Timing (Lent)

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GOD’S PERFECT TIMING – Ash Wednesday

Call to Worship

We come to God open and ready to begin our Lenten journey.

We kneel. We pray. We repent. All while we are acknowledging that we are God’s.

We lift our eyes as we seek Jesus.

With open hearts, we are ready to receive the truth in love.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we bow before you in awe and wonder recalling all that you have done to bring us closer to you. Help us this evening to open up those areas long closed off and receive your will and your Word. Transform our troubled spirits into renewed and transformed beings, ready to step out in faith and service to you, Our God. Amen.

Call to Confession

So much has happened since our last Ash Wednesday together. We have seen our world break open and pain being poured out upon God’s people. Sin has run rampant. Disease has flourished. Grief has hung upon us like a pall. Brokenness and injustice have sought to control and run our world. However, we worship a God that never quits or runs from trouble. God has been with us through it all and our God reaches out to us this night ready to receive our confessions of how we have participated in the sin and brokenness in our world and are ready to repent and be forgiven. Let us now leave all that hangs heavy upon us at the feet of Jesus. Let us pray.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

God of Mercy and Second Chances, we come to you with humbleness of heart contrite for all that we have done to stifle the work of the Spirit. Forgive us for allowing the breaking of the world to diminish our work in kingdom-building. Help us to see with new eyes the work you are doing this night to heal our lives, our land, and our hearts. Convert us into agents for transformation and new life. Right the ships of our hearts and encourage us to live the Gospel message each day with faith, hope and love permeating our very being. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Hear the Good News of the Gospel! Christ has come into the world to redeem and transform us into the people God has called us and expects us to be. Although we are sinners, Christ died for us. Although we fall short, God continues to put in the time to help us transform into mature people of faith. Know that you are freed from sin and given life anew. Know that God has transformed you from the inside out.

This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

O God of Word and Action, we come to you ready to receive the Word of God and to be cut to the heart. Help us to hear your Word and respond with conviction. May all that we do this night and, in the days, to come be directed by your hand, as we strive to honor you in all things. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Readings 2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10; John 7:1-13; 1 Timothy 6:11-19

The Message: “God’s Perfect Timing”

Prayer After Communion (Unison)

God of Compassion and New Life, through Christ you have reconciled your people to Yourself. Help us to lean on you and look to you for guidance, nurture, and vision. May the examples we have learned from Jesus, those of prayer and fasting, lead us toward the new life we seek. Help us to love each other and journey together toward the cross. Give us energy for the road ahead, seeking the hope we can only find in you. Amen.

If During Lent (Ash Wednesday Liturgy):

Litany of the Ashes

Each year as we receive these ashes, we remember the palms they used to have been that were waved as Jesus entered Jerusalem.

We remember the excitement we felt as we sang “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” and as we shouted “Christ is Risen! He is Risen indeed!”

Yet on this night we must start at the beginning with the reason Christ had to come, the reason Christ had to die.

It was for us. All of us.

We needed mercy and forgiveness to descend from heaven and rest upon us.

We needed a Savior willing to die on our behalf.

Tonight, is our night to remember our limitedness, our finiteness, our humanness.

Tonight, let us live into who we seek to be, humans who acknowledge that we cannot do it alone.

We need Jesus.

Ash Wednesday Prayer (Unison)

Heavenly Father, as we partake in this time of holy living, help us to listen, receive and recommit ourselves to you. May these ashes that we receive be reminders of Christ’s death that we put on in our baptisms as we look to our Lord’s resurrection to lead us through the waters into new life. We live in this finiteness, but we rise in Life Everlasting. Be bold in us, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Imposition of the Ashes

(You are invited to come forward and have Pastor Laura make the sign of the cross in palm ash on your forehead or on the back of your hand, while hearing the words:

“Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

You may respond: In life and in death, I belong to God.

If you prefer ash on the back of your hand, please offer it for the ritual of Ash Wednesday.)

Music:

+Hymn #441 “Hear the Good News of Salvation” Nettleton

+Hymn #433 “Sign Us with Ashes” Phoenix

+Hymn #438 “Rock of Ages, Cleft for Me” Toplady

+Hymns are from The Glory To God Hymnal

A STRONG FOUNDATION – Week 1

Call to Worship - based on Psalm 90

We come to our Almighty God bringing with us honor and praise,

For God is our dwelling place in this and all generations.

At the start of the world, God’s strong foundation became our cornerstone.

For God is the Everlasting God, the creator and sustainer of all that is, was, and is to come.

Therefore, we praise you, O God,

A thousand years in your sight is like yesterday when it is past.

Let the favor of the Lord be upon us and prosper the work of our hands

Prosper the work of our hands.

Opening Prayer

Everlasting God, we praise your holy name, for you call us together at the foundation of the world and show us your will and your ways so that we may stay strong in you, Our God. You are our strong foundation and cornerstone. You show us how to follow and be disciples of our Lord Jesus. Consecrate in us this time of worship, that our lives may be held in your embrace and we may become agents of your love. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Call to Confession

Brothers and Sisters, we come to this holy sanctuary to rest in the strength of the Lord and confess our need for God. We know that we sin and make choices that are not in line with God’s will and direction for us. Yet, it is with humble hearts we see the need to repent and turn back toward you, Our Abiding God. Therefore, we seek our Heavenly Father this morning as we pray together our Prayer of Confession, saying:

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

Gracious and Everlasting God, we thank you for walking with us on the road to health and renewal. Help us to follow your will for our lives, especially when it is difficult, and the road is rough. When we begin to trust in ourselves more than in you, we ask you to convict us and call us to repent and turn back toward you, Our All-Sustaining God. You know who we are and claim us as your own. Help us to believe in You and acknowledge that you are the strong foundation that holds us upright during the storms of our lives. Forgive us of all that we have done to hurt you and the proclamation of your Word. Keep us faithful and following your will. Amen.

† Words of Assurance

Friends, believe the Good News of the Gospel. Your Lord Jesus knows you and the struggles of your heart. God knows the areas that need healing and the relationships that need God’s transformative love. Whenever you turn away from God and are called back to Godself, God makes sure you know that you have been forgiven. God is alive, active, and renewing your soul. May you today find God’s strength within you and answer the call to abundant living through the forgiveness and grace of Christ Jesus. Know that you are forgiven and experience God’s peace.

This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, we come to you humbled to be in your presence and strengthened by your abundant love and faithfulness. Open your Holy Scriptures to us this morning, that we may see these ancient texts with new eyes through your inspired and transformative Word. Amen.

Scripture Readings: Romans 5:1-11; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

The Message: “Strength in Weakness”

Invitation to Give

Brothers and Sisters, we have been blessed to be able to worship the Lord our God in this holy place. God has shown us that we have been led us here at the right time and in order to honor God with our lives and what we already have been given by the Lord. May you respond to these holy Scriptures and the proclamation of God’s mighty Word with an anointed response that God has indeed laid upon your life. May these offerings we collect this day prove to be used as rays of hope for those parched and thirsting for the Lord.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

We thank you, Lord Jesus, for the opportunity to give of ourselves as well as our time and our funds. Bless all that has been handed over to the Lord this morning and guide our next steps as we follow God’s purpose and plan for our lives, our families, and our communities. May we be instigators of your love. Amen.

Prayer After Communion (Unison)

Gracious God who brings abundant life to our souls, bless these holy Sacraments that have released in us a sense of your everlasting presence and plan. Keep us looking to you for answers to our questions and for ways to live out your Gospel in the world. Through your love, we have been changed, renewed, and transformed. Thank you, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Music:

+Hymn #837 “What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine” Showater +Hymn #700 “I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me” Spiritual

Anthem “Calvary” Spiritual

Offertory “Chorale” J. Pachelbel

Praise Songs:

God Is Good All the Time Jeremy Kelsey

For All You’ve Done Reuben Morgan

Because He Lives Guy Penrod

God of Angel Armies Chris Tomlin

Power in the Blood Lewis E. Jones

*Hymns are from The Glory to God Hymnal

UNDERSTANDING THE MIND OF GOD - Week 2

Anniversary Celebration

Call to Worship - Based on Psalm 46

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth should change,

Though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea.

Though its waters roar and foam,

Though the mountains tremble with its tumult.

Be still and know that I am God!

I am exalted among the nations; I am exalted in the earth.

The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.

Opening Prayer (Unison)

Holy and Everlasting God, we thank you for creating us for your purpose and giving us this chance to love and to serve you O God. On this special day in the life of this congregation we thank you for establishing us 197 years ago in order to gather your people to worship and serve you, O Almighty God. You have held us in all times and on this day, we thank you for covering us in your love and helping us to see you more clearly. In this holy hour of worship, sustain us by your power and encourage us for the years ahead. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Call to Confession

We do not often understand the mind of God. How could we? Yet we know what Scripture has taught us. We know that God loved us so much that God sent his only begotten Son into the world to give us a way to experience life eternal. We know that God is a God of relationship both with Godself (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and with us. We know that God wants God’s relationship with us to be a dialogue but also one where we worship the One true God and work to establish God’s plan and principles in this world as we see to upbuild the Kingdom of Heaven with our Almighty God. And Finally, we understand that we sin and fall short, but we also believe in God’s ability to walk with us through trials and tragedies and know our hearts as we yearn to do better each and every day. Let us confess our sins together.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

O Merciful God, we thank you for sending the writers of Scripture to help us understand who you are more clearly and respond in faith, hope, and love. We acknowledge that we have not always followed your way, but our own. We have strayed from your path and the plan you have for us and devised alternative directions of our own making. Forgive us. Install in us a sense of your mind and heart so that we will follow your will and walk in your light. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Hear the Good News: Christ came into this world to be present with us in our weaknesses, teach us with his divine authority and knowledge, heal us with the waters of new life and forgive us by his ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Because of his death and resurrection, we have received all that we need to celebrate our salvation glory given by the power of God. Help us to claim it as children of God and to respond with a resounding Yes to the call from our Lord. Brothers and Sisters, you have indeed been forgiven. Thanks be to God.

Prayer for Illumination

Almighty God, open your Holy Scriptures to us so that we may understand your will for our lives, your call to faith and how to respond to your amazing love. Amen.

Scripture Readings: Mark 8:27-9:13 ; Romans 8:18-39

The Message: “The Depth of God’s Love for Us”

Invitation to Give

The love of God covers a multitude of sins and wipes away the errors or our hearts. We have so many blessings and promises from the Lord, much more than we can count or gaze upon. Therefore, with thanksgiving we return a portion of what has already been given to us.

† Prayer of Thanksgiving

Heavenly Father, thank you for claiming us as your children and calling us to relationship with you as we serve both You and others. Bless these offerings given in Your name and for your purpose. May they become a light to those who feel alone and isolated during these difficult days. You reinvigorate our souls. Thank you for all you have done to bring us back to life in You. Amen.

Recognition of the Essential Disciples of Jesus Christ – Our Front-Liners during 2020

Music:

*Hymn “He Leadeth Me! O Blessed Thought”. He Leadeth Me

*Hymn #138 “Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty” Nicaea *Hymn #376 “Love Divine, All Love Excelling” Hyfrydol

Praise Songs:

Blessed Be Your Name Matt Redman

The Power of Your Love Geoff Bullock

In the Garden C. Austin Miles; Robert Hebble

How Great is Our God Chris Tomlin

Glory, Glory, Hallelujah The Battle Hymn of the Republic

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

IN GOD’S TIME – Week 3

Call to Worship - based on Psalm 31

In you, O Lord, I seek refuge; do not let me ever be put to shame.

In your righteousness deliver me.

Incline your ear to me; rescue me speedily.

Be a rock of refuge for me, a strong fortress to save me.

You are indeed my rock and my fortress.

for your name’s sake lead me and guide me, take me out of the net that is hidden for me, for you are my refuge.

Into your hand I commit my spirit.

you have redeemed me, O Lord, Faithful God.

Opening Prayer (Unison)

O Timeless God, we thank you for allowing us to see a glimmer of your power, glory, and dominion. You show us how awesome and amazing you truly are, and we thank you for being in relationship with us, your children. On this day we reflect upon your time and timeliness, we turn to you with believing hearts. Encourage us in your steadfast love and give us courage to follow your way and teaching these next days. During this time worship, instill in us a sense of your divinity that we may understand a little more clearly the height and depth of your truly love us for all. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Call to Confession

Throughout human history, we have time and again chosen self-interest over the will of God. We chose what benefits ourselves and our families over the larger good and therefore, today, we seek to change our ways and our focus. This morning we turn to you, O God, to help us to live by your ways and timing. Help us make decisions not out of our own character for by what is right for all people. Together let us pray:

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

O Almighty God, we thank you that you understand the meaning of life and guide our lives and their moments. Help us to stay focused on you and your love. When we become discouraged and center on our own limitations, encourage us to listen for your voice and look for your guiding light that leads us into a larger understanding of your path and plan for us. You see all that is so much clearer than we can comprehend. Help us and show us the path of God for each one of us and your church. May we each believe in you and you’re abiding and transforming love. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Brothers and Sisters, we have seen and heard God’s light and message of love shining forth over us. God’s great warmth has renewed us in more ways than we know. Today we grab hold of the forgiveness God has given to us through Christ Jesus. We trust in God’s timing and proclaim that we will follow our Lord and our God.

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, we are listening for your voice. Open our hearts and our minds to receive the message of God clearly. May we each receive what you seek for us to hear this day, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Readings: Acts 1:1-11; 2 Peter 3:3-18

The Message “God’s Prerogative”

Invitation to Give

God has truly shown us what it means to be of follower of Christ Jesus. We seek live by the Scriptures and share them with our families and community. What a gift we have been given. Today we also seek to return a portion of what God has given to us through these gifts, tithes, and offerings. May God bless them and us.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

O Triune God, we ask your blessing upon these gifts shared today for your use and kingdom building. Help us to look to you with believing hearts and share the Divine Hope with our hurting world. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

MUSIC:

Handbell Prelude “Simple Song” R. Schumann

Postlude “Jesus, Lead Thou On” J. S. Bach

Choral Anthem. “O Wondrous Love” American Folksong

Praise Songs:

We Are Here to Worship Tim Hughes

God of Wonders Steve Hindalong; Carey Byrd

Heart of Worship Matt Redman

How Great is Our God Chris Tomlin

How Great Thou Art Staurt Hine

Break Every Chain Tasha Cobbs Leonard

WAITING WITH PATIENCE – Week 4

Call to Worship - based on Psalm 27

The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom do, I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?

I seek to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,

To behold the beauty of the Lord and inquire in God’s holy temple.

For the Lord will hide me in God’s shelter in the day of trouble.

God will conceal me under the cover of God’s tent; God will set me high on a rock.

Teach me your way, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies.

Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries, for false witnesses have risen against me, and they are breathing out violence.

I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let your heart take courage.

Wait for the Lord.

Opening Prayer (Unison)

O Everlasting God, Creator of the Universe, we thank you for your care and provision in our lives and the wondrous ways that you gather your people together as we proclaim our allegiance to you, for you are our Almighty God. When we do not understand and we question you, you calm our fears and quiet our tears while showing us a peace that stirs our souls in love. As we worship you, O God, with one voice and our hearts speak together in unity, instill in us a holy awe for you and your care of each one of us, your call for us to follow, your gifts you openly share and your mission to upbuild your kingdom as the people of God. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Call to Confession

One of the most difficult things we can do is wait. We have a difficult time sitting and waiting for God. Having patience with God is almost impossible on many days. Our relationship with the Divine is often more lacking than we would like to admit. We talk to God, yes, but not necessarily with God. This morning as we come together in worship, we take these moments to reflect upon what it means to wait for God with patience, as we find new ways to listen for God’s voice during difficult times. What kind of time have you been willing to spend with the Lord? How do to focus on your Almighty God? Let us confess these things we need to change to the Lord.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

O Infinite God, you know more about us that we even know about ourselves. You understand the beatings of our hearts, the emotions and cares that captivate us, and the nudgings to change and renew that stir our sense of longing for You, the Divine. Help us to wait patiently for the right time to speak, the appropriate time to act and the moment when you will show us what we need to see. We may not be ready to see it, Lord, but we ask you to show us anyway while preparing us for our path ahead. If there is something we need to confess and change, we ask you to open our eyes and help us to be transformed in spirit and truth to your will and your way. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

† Words of Assurance

Hear and believe the Good News of the Gospel. Jesus Christ came into the world to show us what we need to see, instruct us in the things that we need to change and remind us that God has a better and larger plan than we have for ourselves. Part of that great and abiding plan was the end of sin and death and the renewal of life through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus our Lord. It was a greater plan than we could ever dream up and it brought life everlasting to each one of us. We have been forgiven. We have been freed. We have been given new life in Christ. This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, we wait for you to speak tenderly to our souls, to show us how to be better disciples and the new ways we are being called to share your love and peace with the world. As these Scriptures are being read and proclaimed, share a sense of your peace and the conviction of your truth with our souls. Help us to live into your Gospel call in these upcoming days. Amen.

Scripture Readings: Lamentations 3:25-33; Psalm 62:1-12

The Message: “Waiting in Silence”

Invitation to Give

Our Gracious and Everlasting God cares for us and guides us to the calm waters more often than we know. We are most certainly blessed. As we take this time to celebrate what God has done in being that life-giving water for our soul, let us with thanksgiving in our hearts, return a portion of what we have already been given to the Lord our God, dedicating it for God’s use.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Good and Gracious God, thank you for loving us so much that you sent your Son into the world to guide, share, teach, heal, die, and rise for each of your children. Help us to claim the gift that you have given. May these monetary gifts and the gifts of ourselves we lay before you today be blessed and used for your glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

MUSIC:

Prelude: Traumerei R. Schumann

Anthem “Come and Mourn” S. B. Owens

Offertory: “O Christ, the Healer” J.S. Bach

Postlude: “My Inmost Heart Now Raises” J. S. Bach

*Hymn #443 “O Christ, The Great Foundation”. Aurelia

*Hymn #339 “Be Thou My Vision” Slane

*Hymn #525 “Here I Am, Lord” Here I Am Lord

Praise Songs:

We Are Here For You Matt Redman

God is Awesome in This Place Ned Davies

Trading my Sorrows Darrell Evans

Oceans (Where Feet May Fail) Hillsong United

Are You Washed in the Blood of the Lamb. E. A. Hoffman

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

FUTURE VISION, FUTURE HOPE – Week 5

Call to Worship - based on Habakkuk 2:1-4

We will stand at our watchpost, and station ourselves on the rampart.

We will keep watch to see what the Lord will say to us, and what he will answer concerning our complaints.

Then the Lord answered and said: Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it.

For there is still a vision for the appointed time.

It speaks of the end and does not lie.

If it seems to tarry, wait for it; It will surely come and will not delay.

Look at the proud! Their spirit is not right in them,

But the righteous live by their faith.

Let us all, gather together.

We seek God’s righteousness as we worship the Lord.

Opening Prayer (Unison)

O Infinite and Eternal God, you know the plans you have for us. They are plans for our welfare and not for harm. They are plans to give us a future with hope. Help us this morning to believe in the hope you bring to our hearts, our souls, and our lives. You show us the path to life and call us to follow you. Help us to remember that you are the God of hope and of vision. You show us the way through the desert and wilderness places in our life. Help us to trust in you and believe in the goodness of God that is right in front of us. May we, this day, focus on worshipping you with all of ourselves, emptying our hearts at the feet of Jesus and leaning on God’s everlasting arms. Amen.

Call to Confession

God has provided us with a future vision and a future hope. However, it is too easy to lose sight of the hope we have in Christ. We often forget that we serve the God of hope and the God of vision. God brings us opportunities to live together and serve the Lord, but we forget who we are and whose we are. The mundane movements of life and the focus on our own needs, wants and desires can lead us away from following what God seeks for us. When our focus is too small, we miss the point. God wants us to worship the Lord with all that we have and share God’s love with the world. You have a particular calling from the Lord to serve, to love and to help those in need. Life continues to pull us away from God and to isolate us from each other. Yet God created us for more. Let us confess our sin and brokenness to the Lord.

† Prayer of Confession (Unison)

God of relationship and new life, you created us to love and serve you and others. You taught us the importance of passing on the gift of love and living together in unity and harmony. However, in a world that seems to be shrinking each day, help us to find ways to authentically build relationships and gather together in unity and love. When we doubt ourselves and you, help us to remember whose we are. When we become too isolated and alone, show us the benefits of community. When we forget the boundless and bountiful vision of the Divine, enlighten us with the Light of Christ. Help us to realize how amazing your steadfast love truly is as it brings life back into our dried-up lives and souls. We need you to refresh us, enliven us, and remind us that we are more than this – we are sons and daughter of God. In faith we pray. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Brothers and Sisters, remember whose you are. You are creations of our Almighty God. You are siblings of Christ Jesus. You are made for more than you expect and you are greater than you understand. God created, redeemed, and sustains you by the power of the Holy Spirit. You have been forgiven, healed, and renewed through the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus. Embrace who and whose you are and believe in the vision and hope God has already set up for you. What amazing blessings are awaiting your Yes! Believe what Scripture reminds you. This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, remind us of what is most important. Guide us through these Holy Scriptures to see your will, your vision and your abiding hope with new eyes and fresh understanding. May we seek a renewed relationship with you and each other. May we begin to grasp how significant life with you truly is and how our relationship with the Divine describes us more clearly than any set of words. You help us to see each other and our Lord and God through your divinity. May we continue to live into your purposes and plan. Amen.

Scripture Readings: Psalm 119:105-112; 1 Peter 1:3-12

The Message: “Living into God’s Vision”

Invitation to Give

Having a God who seeks us out and goes to great lengths to include us in God’s plan and purposes is more than we could ever hope for, and yet it is our reality. God love us so much he sent Jesus to help make a way where there seemed to be none. We are forever grateful. Today we take this time to give thanks to the Lord for all God has done. May we return a portion to our Everlasting and Awesome God.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Thank you, Bountiful God, for all that you do to bless us, to provide for our needs and to show us Your glory. Bless these offerings we bring to you with humble hearts that we may share your love and promises with the world, for the sake of Christ Jesus. Amen.

Music:

Prelude “Adagio in A Minor” J. S. Bach

Postlude “Come Holy Ghost, God and Lord”. J. S. Bach

Anthem “Lonesome Valley” American Folksong

+Hymn #838 “Standing on the Promises” Promises

*Hymn #34 “Called As Partners in Christ’s Service” Beecher

*Hymn #420 “God of Grace and God of Glory”. CWM Rhondda

Praise Songs:

Come Now is the Time to Worship Brian Doerksen

Because of Your Love Paul Baloche

Above All Michael W. Smith

Be a Light Thomas Rhett

I Walk By Faith Maranatha! Praise Band

+Hymns are from The Glory To God Hymnal

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

LIVING INTO GOD’S SALVATION GLORY

Palm Sunday

Call to Worship - based on Psalm 118

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; God’s steadfast love endures forever!

Open to us the gates of righteousness, that we may enter through them and give thanks to the Lord.

This is the gate of the Lord; the righteous shall enter through it.

We thank you that you have answered us and have become our salvation.

The stone that the builder’s rejected has become the chief cornerstone.

This is the Lord’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Save us, we implore you, O Lord! O Lord, we implore you, give us success!

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.

We bless you from the house of the Lord.

The Lord is God, and he has given us light.

Bind the festal procession with branches, up to the horns of the alter.

You are our God, and we will give thanks to you.

O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good.

God’s steadfast love endures forever.

Opening Prayer (Unison)

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your steadfast love and faithfulness. You brought Jesus to us, our Messiah and Lord. Today we remember the one that entered Jerusalem on a donkey as Jesus triumphantly proclaimed who he is and the kingship which he rightfully claimed. We also acknowledge that we like that crowd sometimes are all in cheering on God and at other times working against the Lord. Today, let us proclaim with the crowd that we believe. Let us shout and celebrate the coming of our Messiah Jesus. His success for us has been accomplished and we are forever thankful for our salvation glory. Amen.

Call to Confession

Becoming a person that understands the future hope God has for us and the miracle of salvation that in we receive in Christ Jesus doesn’t happen overnight. A strong foundation in the Lord had to be built, one that exudes patience and has a special timing given by God. In this special relationship with our Lord, we each can come to understand the miracles we receive from God when we take the time to look into the mind of the Almighty and find our home with our Father. Jesus called God, Abba Father. Our Abba also leads us as we journey with Christ toward the cross. The hardest thing Jesus ever did was die for us, but we know it was necessary so that we can be forgiven and experience eternal life with our Lord. To live into our Salvation Glory, we must be willing to contemplate all that Christ went through and be ready to walk with him to Calvary. It also means that we will acknowledge our part in Christ’s death. We choose to not gloss over it but share in the suffering with our Lord. Together, let us confess our part to the Lord and claim the forgiveness Christ offers to us all.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

Abba Father, thank you for being willing to send your Son Jesus the Christ into the world for our salvation. We see how much he went through for us and the amazing way all of this was planned out in advance to benefit each one of us. On this Palm Sunday we remember his triumphal entry into Jerusalem. We envision the cheering crowds, the agitated Pharisees, and Sadducees and all who wanted to use the popularity of Jesus to their advantage. God chose this way to bring salvation to us all and yet we still do not always grasp how significant this is for all of us. Like the disciples we often run for cover at the first sign of trouble. Help us to claim our space next to Christ as we work with God for the upbuilding of God’s Kingdom. When we are afraid, when doubt and when we are lacking in courage, strengthen us for the struggles ahead. Encourage us as we need your assistance to stand firm in the faith and for the battles to come. Help us Lord to have the audacity to walk with Christ all the way to the cross. Give us what we need to stand at the foot of the cross with the women and stare up at our Lord Crucified. In the name of Messiah Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Words of Assurance

Hear the Good News! God sent Jesus the Messiah to benefit the world and reconnect all people together in God’s offered eternal life. Today we have the opportunity to proclaim our part in God’s plan. As believers, we proclaim who God is and accept our place with Christ. All the sin and brokenness that has covered us is wiped clean through the blood of the Lamb, Christ Jesus our Lord. Today, grab hold of your salvation glory and know that you are forgiven and freed through Jesus Christ. This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

Almighty and Everlasting God, we thank you for showing us your will through Holy Scripture. Help us to follow you and listen for the voice of God to lead our way. Bless the reading and proclaiming of Your Holy Word, that we may live out your message of freedom, truth, and eternal life all of our days. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Mark 11:1-11; Revelation 1:1-20

The Message: “The Time is at Hand”

Invitation to Give

What a gift of life God gave to us through Jesus Christ. We are so greatly blessed. On this Holy Day reflect on whose you are and how God seeks to use you to bring healing and new life to our hurting and broken world. Grab hold of the blessings that God is offering to you. Accept them and share them with the world. May these gifts, tithes and offerings brought to the Lord this day be used to transform the world for Christ’s sake.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

O Loving and Transforming God, bless these gifts, tithes and offerings brought to you by our people this morning. May you use them in a holy way to transform the people of this world and open up eyes shut tight as you enlighten and enliven us by the power of your Holy Spirit. May we be ready to share your love with others and be witnesses throughout our land. Amen.

MUSIC:

Handbell Prelude “Sicilienne” R. Schumann

Anthem “Sing! Jerusalem Sing!” C. Yanerella

Offertory “Sarabande” G. F. Handel

Postlude “In Peace and Joy, I Now Depart”. J. S. Bach

*Hymn #89 “Hosanna, Loud Hosanna” Ellacombe

*Hymn #88 “All Glory, Laud, and Honor” Valet Will Ich Dirgeben

*Hymn #91 “Ride On! Ride On in Majesty! St. Drostane LM

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

LIVING INTO GOD’S SALVATION GLORY

A Maundy Thursday Communion Liturgy

Call to Worship Based on Psalm 116

I love the Lord because he has heard my voice and my supplications.

Because he inclined his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.

What shall I return to the Lord for all God has given 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.

I am the Lord’s servant.

You have loosed my bonds.

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 God’s people.

In the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem, Let us praise the Lord.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for allowing Jesus the Christ to live amongst us. Tonight, we reflect our relationship with you and the extent of your great love for us. In this holy hour convict us in our hearts and guide us this week as we seek to live into your salvation glory. May we be willing to walk with Jesus during his passion week. We ask this in His Most Precious Name. Amen.

Call to Confession

Like the Disciples, we often don’t understand what Jesus was trying to teach us and the ultimate blessings Christ has waiting for us when we say yes. We doubt that what looks like the end is really the beginning of life anew. Tonight, we confess our sins and turn with repentant hearts to God as we look to Jesus for the forgiveness and new life he offers to our weary and parched souls.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

God of Second and Third Chances, we thank you for being willing to allow us to learn from our mistakes and lean on you in the times of blessing and the times of trials. We are thankful that you continually encourage us to grab hold of new life and look toward the life-giving blessings you bring to our dried and sun-bleach bones. Help us to stand still long enough to see the heavenly promises that await us and to grab hold and commit to the calling from God that you have for us this night. Like Judas, there are times when we will give up all the best promises for the easy answers. However, remind us why Jesus is the only option for our lives and the giver and renewal of our souls. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Forgiveness

Hear the Good News of Salvation: Christ Jesus came into the world to save us and instill in us a sense of who God is and whose we are. Through this understanding we begin to see the importance of believing in Jesus the Christ as our Lord and our Savior. With this understanding and God’s amazing calling, we claim the new life offered and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Now as forgiven and freed people, we see how amazing life with God truly is and that want it so much that there is an urgency to share God’s love with the world. Tonight, we proclaim the abundant life offered and seek to believe fully in the one who brings life anew to us all.

Friends, hear and believe the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God! In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

Lord, hear our supplications and petitions we lay at your feet. Help us to make choices centered in your word and decisions based on living in your light. May these Scriptures that are read and proclaimed this evening, be the instructions we need to live your way and follow your will. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Scripture Reading: Revelation 1:1-20; John 13:1-20

The Message: “Later You Will Understand”

Music:

Special Music: “The Upper Room” D. Besig Postlude “Adoramus te Christe” T. Dubois

*Hymn #94 “An Upper Room Did Our Lord Prepare” O Waly Waly

*Hymn #513 “Let Us Break Bread Together” Let Us Break Bread

*Hymn #367 “Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love”. Chereponi

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

LIVING INTO YOUR SALVATION GLORY: LAST THINGS

A Good Friday Tenebrae Liturgy

Call to Worship On this Holy night we gather together to remember our Lord Jesus and all the suffering and hostility he experienced in these last days.

On this Holy night, as children of God and heirs with Christ, we grieve what we and people like us have done to our Lord, the King of the Jews, our Messiah Jesus.

On this Holy night we take these solemn moments to reflect of Christ’s pain, agony and death that brought the atoning sacrifice for us all, completing the pathway for our salvation glory to indeed flow from God to us.

On this Holy night, we sit and pray, we listen and sing, and take in the suffering of God on our behalf that brought new life to us all.

Good Friday Prayer (Unison)

Heavenly Father, we thank you for sending your Son Jesus the Christ in order to save us all by his atoning blood. In him we found more than the sacrifice and new life promised. We experienced your incarnate love living amongst us and showing us how to demonstrate your love and promises every day. In Christ, we received so much more than we even understand. Tonight, we grieve the loss of his presence among us as we spend time with the depth of his suffering and pain for our own sake. Help us to acknowledge how important that truly is to us all and lead us to your living waters that are full of the blessings you are bringing to us. May we walk with Christ to the Cross and beyond, even to death. Help us to see how complete and perfect your Divine love is and claim it as believers in God and followers of Christ Jesus our Messiah and Lord. Amen.

*Hymn #92 “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” St. Christopher

THE SERVANT KING’S SACRIFICE: A SERVICE OF THE SHADOWS

The Suffering Servant Isaiah 52:13-5:12

Extinguish Candle #1

A Plea for Deliverance from Suffering and Hostility Psalm 22

Extinguish Candle #2

*Hymn #209 “My Song Is Love Unknown,” v. 1-2 Love Unknown

Christ’s Sacrifice Once For All Hebrews 10:1-18

Extinguish Candle #3

A Call to Persevere Hebrews 10:19-39

Extinguish Candle #4

Jesus the Great High Priest Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9

Extinguish Candle #5

*Hymn #93 “Ah, Holy Jesus,” v. 1, 3 Herzliebster Jesu

The Solemn Intercession (with the Lord’s Prayer)

The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus John 18:1-11

Extinguish Candle #6

Jesus Before the High Priest John 18:12-18

Extinguish Candle #7

*Hymn #78 “Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed,” v. 1-2. Martyrdom

The High Priest Questions Jesus John 18:19-24

Extinguish Candle #8

Peter Denies Jesus Again John 18:25-27

Extinguish Candle #9

*Hymn #83 “O Love How Deep How Broad How High,” v 1, 3, 5

Jesus Before Pilate John 18:28-38a

Extinguish Candle #10

Jesus is Sentenced to Death John 18:38b-19:16a

Extinguish Candle #11

*Hymn #98 “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” v 1-2 Passion Chorale

The Crucifixion of Jesus John 19:16b-30

Extinguish Candle #12

Good Friday Message: “Last Things”

Hymn #102 “Were You There?” Were You There

Jesus’ Side is Pierced John 19:31-37

*Extinguish Candle #13

The Burial of Jesus John 19:38-42

Extinguish Candle #14

Anthem “Come and Mourn” S. B. Owens

Extinguish Christ Candle

Solemn Reproaches of the Cross

*Hymn #95 “He Never Said a Mumbalin’ Word” Irregular

Closing Words

Benediction

Depart in Silence

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

SEEING WITH EYES AND HEART

Easter Sunday

Easter Proclamation

Alleluia! Christ is risen!

Alleluia! He is risen indeed!

Call to Worship - Based on Isaiah 25:1, 6-9

O Lord, you are my God; I will exalt you, I will praise your name; for you have done wonderful things, plans formed of old, faithful and sure.

On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-age wines strained clear.

And he will destroy on this mountain the shroud that is cast over all peoples, the sheet that is spread over all nations;

He will swallow up death forever.

Then the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces, and the disgrace of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken.

It will be said on that day, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, so that he might save us. This is the Lord for whom we have waited; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.”

Prayer of Easter

Almighty God, today we proclaim loudly our Alleluias to our Savior Jesus. It is Easter, the day we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Some years we experience the resurrection more closely than others. We have times when we feel entombed with Christ. You have taught us a lot this year about ourselves and about our relationship with you. This year our sacrifice of isolation for the health of our communities has caused great pain, anxiety, depression and even death. There has been collateral damage in the fight for health and healing. Help us to step out of our tombs and into the light of day. We don’t always understand what you are doing but we know that the Salvation Glory your bring to each one of us is the best gift we could ever receive. Help us to claim it as children of God and choose you, our Redeemer. Thank you for what you have done for us on the Cross as you bring us into a deeper relationship with you, our Everlasting God. Amen.

Call to Confession

Today we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. With this celebration we must also acknowledge why it is needed. The atoning sacrifice of Jesus the Christ was needed because we are a sinful people and that sin forms a blockade between us and God. That wall constructed by sin, brokenness, isolation, pride and anger only gets taller and wider with time. It is only through the atoning work of Christ that we are freed enough to step back from the wall of sin and of death and see a way to forgive, to change, and to be renewed in our bodies, minds and spirits. Forgiveness is one of the greatest gifts God has given to us and that we can share with each other. Forgiveness benefits us individually and as a church, for the anger that has been holding us can be released and we can find peace in our hearts, souls and lives. Let us now confess those things we need to release to the Lord.

Prayer of Confession (Unison)

Redeeming God, thank you for caring so much for us that you made a way through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Without you we would never have the peace and hope that we have discovered through Jesus. This Easter, we ask you to renew us and bring us into the Light that Christ offers. Renew us in our bodies, minds, spirits and circumstances. Help us to rise with you, to celebrate with your disciples as we choose life alongside the first that witnessed your Resurrection. May we respond to the voice of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ. May we forgive others and receive the forgiveness they offer. May we forgive ourselves. Help us Lord to do the hard work necessary to grow if faith, hope and love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Words of Assurance

What an Amazing God we have that we have a way to Life Eternal because of what Christ has done. Brothers, Sisters, Siblings in Christ, you have been forgiven and renewed. You have been given a fresh start. Christ died and rose for you and your Salvation Glory. Now we have the opportunity to claim it and receive our place beside Christ in eternity as Believers and Disciples of our Lord. This is the Good News of the Gospel:

Thanks be to God. In Jesus Christ we are forgiven.

Prayer for Illumination

O Triune God, You crafted together the universe and made the way where there was none before. Repeatedly throughout Scripture we have seen your life-giving Spirit change people and transform nations in new ways. We ask you as we receive your Word to us this morning to transform our hearts and focus our spirits upon your way and your particular calling for us as Disciples of Christ. Instruct us as Witnesses. Help us to share your Light with this dark and broken world. May your healing power descend upon us on this Holy Easter and may we proclaim your love in the streets and in our communities and families. Amen.

Scripture: Acts 10:34-43; John 20:1-10

The Message: “Seeing with Your Eyes, Seeing with Your Heart”

Invitation to Give

Christ is risen! He is risen indeed! Today as we gather together, please take a moment to reflect on the blessings God has given to you, how God has pulled you through the most difficult moments of your life, and how you have had opportunities to share God’s love with others during their times of need. On this Resurrection Sunday, we encourage you to return a portion to your Loving and Gracious God. May these gifts given remind you of the amazing love God has poured upon you and that you share with others in the name of Jesus.

† Prayer of Thanksgiving

Holy God, Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, thank you for giving us the gift of salvation. These gifts, tithes and offerings we present to you this morning are given from our humble and contrite hearts. Bless them and use them as you have designated. May they bring love, hope and joy to those who are in need. May they share the Gospel of Christ with others. May they be used to teach us more about you. Help us, Lord, to live into your Light and follow your ways. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

MUSIC:

Handbell Choir Anthem. “Lento” Robert Schumann

Offertory Dance from “Rosamunde” F. Schubert

Anthem “Hodie” Natalie Sleeth

Postlude “Alleluia” W. A. Mozart

*Hymn #122 “Thine Is the Glory” Judas Maccabeus

*Hymn #113 “Christ the Lord is Risen Today” Llanfair

*Hymn #118 “The Day of Resurrection” Lancashire

*Hymns are from The Presbyterian Hymnal

God's Perfect Timing

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