Sunday, July 19, 2020 - when the worries keep coming

Theme: Life’s Twists and Our Turns - Jesus: when the worries keep coming

Prayer

Luke 12:22-23                                                                    Common English Bible Translation

Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Therefore, I say to you, don’t worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. There is more to life than food and more to the body than clothing. (Questions: What do you worry about? How long is the list of worries?)

Luke 12:24-26

Consider the ravens: they neither plant nor harvest, they have no silo or barn, yet God feeds them. You are worth so much more than birds! Who among you by worrying can add a single moment to your life? If you can’t do such a small thing, why worry about the rest? (Question: What worries keep you from having a good life?) 

Luke 12:27-28

Notice how the lilies grow. They don’t wear themselves out with work, and they don’t spin cloth. But I say to you that even Solomon in all his splendor wasn’t dressed like one of these. If God dresses grass in the field so beautifully, even though it’s alive today and tomorrow it’s thrown into the furnace, how much more will God do for you, you people of weak faith! (Question: What are the things that give you life?)

Luke 12:29-31

Don’t chase after what you will eat and what you will drink. Stop worrying. All the nations of the world long for these things. Your Father knows that you need them. Instead, desire his kingdom and these things will be given to you as well. (Question: What do you long for that when obtained you don’t find satisfying?)

Luke 12:32-34

“Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights in giving you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to those in need. Make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out – a treasure in heaven that never runs out. No thief comes near there, and no moth destroys. Where your treasure is, there your heart will be too. (Question: What do you trust to help you get through life?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

 Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Lord, the Light of Your Love Is Shining

When Peace like a River

Standing on the Promises

Under Pressure – Queen

You Worry Me – Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats

Sunday, July 12, 2020 - when the past reappears

Prayer

Exodus 14:10-12                                                            Common English Bible Translation

As Pharaoh drew closer, the Israelites looked back and saw the Egyptians marching toward them. The Israelites were terrified and cried out to the Lord. They said to Moses, “Weren’t there enough graves in Egypt that you took us away to die in the desert? What have you done to us by bringing us out of Egypt like this? Didn’t we tell you the same thing in Egypt? ‘Leave us alone! Let us work for the Egyptians!’ It would have been better for us to work for the Egyptians than to die in the desert.” (Question: Have you ever wanted to stay in the past because it was more comfortable than living into the unknown?)

Exodus 14:13-16, 21b-23

But Moses said to the people, “Don’t be afraid. Stand your ground, and watch the Lord rescue you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never ever see again. The Lord will fight for you. You just keep still.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry out to me? Tell the Israelites to get moving. As for you, lift your shepherd’s rod, stretch out your hand over the sea, and split it in two so that the Israelites can go into the sea on dry ground. The Lord pushed the sea back by a strong east wind all night, turning the sea into dry land. The waters were split into two. The Israelites walked into the sea on dry ground. The waters formed a wall for them on their right hand and on the their left. The Egyptians chased them and went into the sea after them, all of Pharaoh’s horses, chariots, and cavalry. (Question: What fears do you have about the future?)

Exodus 14:26-27

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea so that the water comes back and covers the Egyptians, their chariots, and their cavalry.” So Moses stretched out his hand over the sea. At day-break, the sea returned to its normal depth. The Egyptians were driving toward it, and the Lord tossed the Egyptians into the sea. (Question: Have you ever wanted something so bad that you were willing to lose everything over it?)

Exodus 14:28-29

The waters returned and covered the chariots and the cavalry, Pharaoh’s entire army that had followed them into the sea. Not one of them remained. The Israelites, however, walked on dry ground through the sea. The waters formed a wall for them on their right hand and on their left. (Question: What do you struggle to leave in the past?)

Exodus 14:30-31

The Lord rescued Israel from the Egyptians that day. Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore. Israel saw the amazing power of the Lord against the Egyptians. The people were in awe of the Lord, and they believed in the Lord and in his servant Moses. (Question: What gives you strength for moving forward in your life?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

I, the Lord of Sea and Sky

My Liberty – Zach Williams

Rescue – Lauren Daigle

Sunday, July 5, 2020 - creating community

Theme: Building the Life We Need - Jesus: creating community

Prayer

John 15:9 & Mark 5:21-24                                              Common English Bible Translation

“As the Father loved me, I too have loved you. Remain in my love. (Mk 5:21-24) Jesus crossed the lake again, and on the other side a large crowd gathered around him on the shore. Jairus, one of the synagogue leaders, came forward. When he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet and pleaded with him, “My daughter is about to die. Please, come and place your hands on her so that she can be healed and live.” So Jesus went with him. A swarm of people were following Jesus, crowding in on him. (Questions: Who do you follow and why? Who follows you and why?)

John 15:10 & Mark 5:25-30

If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I kept my Father’s commandments and remain in his love. (Mk 5:25-30) A woman was there who had been bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a lot under the care of many doctors, and had spent everything she had without getting any better. In fact, she had gotten worse. Because she had heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his clothes. She was thinking, If I can just touch his clothes, I’ll be healed. Her bleeding stopped immediately, and she sensed in her body that her illness had been healed. At that very moment, Jesus recognized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched my clothes?” (Question: Have you ever felt like you weren’t part of a community but wanted to be?)

John 15:11 & Mark 5:31-34

I have said these things to you so that my joy will be in you and your joy will be complete. (Mk 5:31-35) His disciples said to him, “Don’t you see the crowd pressing against you? Yet you ask, ‘Who touched me?’” But Jesus looked around carefully to see who had done it. The woman, full of fear and trembling, came forward. Knowing what had happened to her, she fell down in front of Jesus and told him the whole truth. He responded, “Daughter, your faith has healed you; go in peace, healed from your disease.” (Question: How do you determine who is worthy of your time?)

John 15:12 & Mark 5:35-36

This is my commandment: love each other just as I have loved you. (Mk 5:35-36) While Jesus was still speaking with her, messengers came from the synagogue leader’s house, saying to Jairus, “Your daughter has died. Why bother the teacher any longer?” But Jesus overheard their report and said to the synagogue leader, “Don’t be afraid; just keep trusting.” (Question: Have you ever believed that someone was more important to the community than someone else? Why?)

Mark 5:37-39

He didn’t allow anyone to follow him except Peter, James, and John, James’ brother. They came to the synagogue leader’s house, and he saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. He went in and said to them, “What’s all this commotion and crying about? The child isn’t dead. She’s only sleeping.” (Question: How have you experienced God’s unexpected renewal?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me

Will You Come and Follow Me

Love Is Eternal Sacred Light – Paul Simon

Is This Love – Bob Marley

Sunday, June 28, 2020 - priorities for everyday

Theme: Building the Life We Need – Paul: priorities for everyday

Prayer

Philippians 3:1-4                                                            Common English Bible Translation

So then, my brothers and sisters, be glad in the Lord. It’s no trouble for me to repeat the same things to you because they will help keep you on track. Watch out for the “dogs.” Watch out for people who do evil things. Watch out for those who insist on circumcision, which is really mutilation. We are the circumcision. We are the ones who serve by God’s Spirit and who boast in Christ Jesus. We don’t put our confidence in rituals performed on the body, though I have good reason to have this kind of confidence. If anyone else has reason to put their confidence in physical advantages, I have even more. (Question: What is a priority that you find important for yourself and wish others would make it a priority for themselves?)

Philippians 3:5-7

I was circumcised on the eighth day. I am from the people of Israel and the tribe of Benjamin. I am a Hebrew of the Hebrews. With respect to observing the Law, I’m a Pharisee. With respect to devotion to the faith, I harassed the church. With respect to righteousness under the Law, I’m blameless. These things were my assets, but I wrote them off as a loss for the sake of Christ. (Question: What are some priorities from your past that you found healthy to let go of?)

Philippians 3:8-9

But even beyond that, I consider everything a loss in comparison with the superior value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. I have lost everything for him, but what I lost I think of as sewer trash, so that I might gain Christ and be found in him. In Christ I have a righteousness that is not my own and that does not come from the Law but rather from the faithfulness of Christ. It is the righteousness of God that is based on faith. (Question: What are priorities that you have, which are based on Jesus?) 

Philippians 3:10-12

The righteousness that I have comes from knowing Christ, the power of his resurrection, and the participation in his sufferings. It includes being conformed to his death so that I may perhaps reach the goal of the resurrection of the dead. It’s not that I have already reached this goal or have already been perfected, but I pursue it, so that I may grab hold of it because Christ grabbed hold of me for just this purpose. (Question: What are some priorities you think you should have because of Jesus but you struggle to implement?)

Philippians 3:13-16

Brothers and sisters, I myself don’t think I’ve reached it, but I do this one thing: I forget about the things behind me and reach out for the things ahead of me. The goal I pursue is the prize of God’s upward call in Christ Jesus. So all of us who are spiritually mature should think this way, and if anyone thinks differently, God will reveal it to him or her. Only let’s live in a way that is consistent with whatever level we have reached. (Question: What are the priorities you struggle with the most and why?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Be Thou My Vision

Open My Eyes, That I May See

O for a World

Let’s Do It Till We Get It Right – Jamie N Commons

I Worship You – The Little Willies

Sunday, June 21, 2020 - guided by values

Isaiah 61:1                                                                        Common English Bible Translation

The Lord God’s spirit is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me. He has sent me to bring good news to the poor, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim release for captives, and liberation for prisoners. (Question: What in your life do you change when you experience God’s spirit upon you?)

Isaiah 61:2-3

To proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor and a day of vindication for our God, to comfort all who mourn, to provide for Zion’s mourners, to give them a crown in place of ashes, oil of joy in place of mourning, a mantle of praise in place of discouragement. They will be called Oaks of Righteousness, planted by the Lord to glorify himself. (Question: What do you regularly do for others builds them up?)

Isaiah 61:4

They will rebuild the ancient ruins; they will restore formerly deserted places; they will renew ruined cities, places deserted in generations past. (Question: What are you building in your life or for others that is new?)

Isaiah 61:8

I, the Lord, love justice; I hate robbery and dishonesty. I will faithfully give them their wage, and make with them an enduring covenant. (Question: How do you participate in acts of justice? Justice being defined here as love in action that brings freedom, dignity, and peace.)

Isaiah 61:9-11

Their offspring will be known among the nations, and their descendants among the peoples. All who see them will recognize that they are a people blessed by the Lord. I surely rejoice in the Lord; my heart is joyful because of my God, because he has clothed me with clothes of victory, wrapped me in a robe of righteousness like a bridegroom in a priestly crown, and like a bride adorned in jewelry. As the earth puts out its growth, and as a garden grows its seeds, so the Lord God will grow righteousness and praise before all the nations. (Question: How do you pass on your values to others?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

When the Lord Redeems the Very Least

Live into Hope

Still Rolling Stones – Lauren Daigle

Heart of My Beat - TobyMac

Sunday, June 14, 2020 - practicing renewal

Theme: Building the Life We Need - Paul: practicing renewal

Prayer

Romans 12:1-3                                                                Common English Bible Translation

So, brothers and sisters, because of God’s mercies, I encourage you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice that is holy and pleasing to God. This is your appropriate priestly service. Don’t be conformed to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds so that you can figure out what God’s will is – what is good and pleasing and mature. Because of the grace that God gave me, I can say to each one of you: don’t think of yourself more highly than you ought to think. (Question: What are the things we do to renew ourselves?)

Romans 12:4-8

We have many parts in one body, but the parts don’t all have the same function. In the same way, though there are many of us, we are one body in Christ, and individually we belong to each other. We have different gifts that are consistent with God’s grace that has been given to us. If your gift is prophecy, you should prophesy in proportion to your faith. If your gift is service, devote yourself to serving. If your gift is teaching, devote yourself to teaching. If your gift is encouragement, devote yourself to encouraging. The one giving should do it with no strings attached. The leader should lead with passion. The one showing mercy should be cheerful. (Question: What are the gifts and abilities you have been given and how do you use them to build others up?)

Romans 12:9-13

Love should be shown without pretending. Hate evil, and hold on to what is good. Love each other like the members of your family. Be the best at showing honor to each other. Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic – be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord! Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer. Contribute to the needs of God’s people, and welcome strangers into your home. (Question: What is hardest part about showing love and hating evil?)

Romans 12:14-17

Bless people who harass you – bless and don’t curse them. Be happy with those who are happy, and cry with those who are crying. Consider everyone as equal, and don’t think that you’re better than anyone else. Instead, associate with people who have no status. Don’t think that you’re so smart. Don’t pay back anyone for their evil actions with evil actions, but show respect for what everyone else believes is good. (Question: How do you bless people on a daily basis?)

Romans 12:18-21

If possible, to the best of your ability, live at peace with all people. Don’t try to get revenge for yourselves, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath. It is written, Revenge belongs to me; I will pay it back, says the Lord. Instead, if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. By doing this, you will pile burning coals of fire upon his head. Don’t be defeated by evil, but defeat evil with good. (Question: What are the things you need to let go of?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

God, You Spin the Whirling Planets

We Are One in the Spirit

Revolution – The Beatles

Saw Lightning – Beck

Roar – Katy Perry

Sunday, June 7, 2020 - being resilient

Theme: Building the Life We Need - Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: being resilient

Prayer

Daniel 3:8-12                                                                   Common English Bible Translation

At that moment some Chaldeans came forward, seizing a chance to attach the Jews. They said to King Nebuchadnezzar: “Long live the King! Your majesty, you gave a command that everyone who hears the sound of the horn, pipe, zither, lyre, harp, flute, and every kind of instrument should bow down and worship the gold statue. Anyone who wouldn’t bow and worship would be thrown into a furnace of flaming fire. Now there are some Jews, ones you appointed to administer the province of Babylon – specifically, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego – who have ignored your command. They don’t serve your gods, and they don’t worship the gold statue you’ve set up.” (Question: Have you ever struggled with devoting too much time to something that you knew wasn’t healthy?)

Daniel 3:13-18

In a violent rage Nebuchadnezzar ordered them to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. They were brought before the king. Nebuchadnezzar said to them: “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: Is it true that you don’t serve my gods or worship the gold statue I’ve set up? If you are now ready to do so, bow down and worship the gold statue I’ve made when you hear the sound of horn, pipe, zither, lyre, harp, flute, and every kind of instrument. But if you won’t worship it, you will be thrown straight into the furnace of flaming fire. Then what god will rescue you from my power?” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered King Nebuchadnezzar: “We don’t need to answer your question. If our God – the one we serve – is able to rescue us from the furnace of flaming fire and from your power, Your Majesty, then let him rescue us. But if he doesn’t, know this for certain. Your Majesty: we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you’ve set up.” (Question: Have you ever struggled to make the right decision because of possible repercussions?) 

Daniel 3:19-23

Nebuchadnezzar was filled with rage, and his face twisted beyond recognition because of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. In response he commanded that the furnace be heated to seven times its normal heat. He told some of the strongest men in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and throw them into the furnace of flaming fire. So Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were bound, still dressed in all their clothes, and thrown into the furnace of flaming fire. (Now the King’s command had been rash, and the furnace was heated to such an extreme that the fire’s flame killed the very men who carried Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to it. So these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell, bound, into the furnace of flaming fire. (Question: Has any emotion ever overridden your thinking process?)

Daniel 3:24-25

Then King Nebuchadnezzar jumped up in shock and said to his associates, “Didn’t we throw three men, bound, into the fire?” They answered the king, “Certainly, Your Majesty.” He replied, “Look! I see four men, unbound, walking around inside the fire, and they aren’t hurt! And the fourth one looks like one of the gods.” (Question: Have you ever done the right thing in a difficult situation and had good unexpected consequences?)

Daniel 3:26-27

Nebuchadnezzar went near the opening of the furnace of flaming fire and said, “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out! Come here!” Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire. The chief administrators, ministers, governors, and the king’s associates crowded around to look at them. The fire hadn’t done anything to them: their hair wasn’t singed; their garments looked the same as before; they didn’t even smell like fire! (Question: How have you emerged from difficult situations or events?)

Daniel 3:28

Nebuchadnezzar declared: “May the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be praised! He sent his messenger to rescue his servants who trusted him. They ignored the king’s order, sacrificing their bodies, because they wouldn’t serve or worship any god but their God.

(Question: Have your actions ever inspired good in others?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!

All Creatures of Our God and King

King of Anything – Sara Bareilles

Rescue – Lauren Daigle

A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall – Bob Dylan or Patti Smith’s version

Sunday, May 31, 2020 - a meaningful life

Luke 6:27-31                                                          Common English Bible Translation

“But I say to you who are willing to hear: Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who mistreat you. If someone slaps you on the cheek, offer the other one as well. If someone takes your coat, don’t withhold your shirt either. Give to everyone who asks and don’t demand your things back from those who take them. Treat people in the same way that you want them to treat you. (Question: What is your demeanor towards people you don’t like?)

Luke 6:32-36

“If you love those who love you, why should you be commended? Even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who do good to you, why should you be commended? Even sinners do that. If you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, why should you be commended? Even sinners lend to sinners expecting to be paid back in full. Instead, love your enemies, do good, and lend expecting nothing in return. If you do, you will have a great reward. You will be acting the way children of the Most High act, for he is kind to ungrateful and wicked people. Be compassionate just as your Father is compassionate. (Question: How do you handle uncomfortable situations when you are not liked?)

Luke 6:37-38

Don’t judge, and you won’t be judged. Don’t condemn, and you won’t be condemned. Forgive, you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good portion – packed down, firmly shaken, and overflowing – will fall into your lap. The portion you give will determine the portion you receive in return.” (Question: How do you determine what is important to you?)

Luke 6:39-42

Jesus also told them a riddle. “A blind person can’t lead another blind person, right? Won’t they both fall into a ditch? Disciples aren’t greater than their teacher, but whoever is fully prepared will be like their teacher. Why do you see the splinter in your brother’s or sister’s eye but don’t notice the log in your own eye? How can you say to your brother or sister, ‘Brother, Sister, let me take the splinter out of your eye,’ when you don’t see the log in your own eye? You deceive yourselves! First take the log out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to take the splinter out of your brother’s or sister’s eye. (Question: What is most important to you about your life?)

Luke 6:43-45

“A good tree doesn’t produce bad fruit, nor does a bad tree produce good fruit. Each tree is known by its own fruit. People don’t gather figs from thorny plants, nor do they pick grapes from prickly bushes. A good person produces good from the good treasury of the inner self, while an evil person produces evil from the evil treasury of the inner self. The inner self overflows with words that are spoken. (Question: What do we produce that matters to our lives and to other people’s lives?)

Luke 6:46-49

“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and don’t do what I say? I’ll show what it’s like when someone comes to me, hears my words, and puts them into practice. It’s like a person building a house by digging deep and laying the foundation on bedrock. When the flood came, the rising water smashed against that house, but the water couldn’t shake the house because it was well built. But those who don’t put into practice what they hear are like a person who built a house without a foundation. The floodwater smashed against it and it collapsed instantly. It was completely destroyed.” (Question: What do you find difficult about practicing what Jesus says?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Be Thou My Vision

Open My Eyes, That I May See

Fight On, Fighter – for King & Country

Movin’ on – Jonathan McReynolds

Make It Happen – The Record Company

Sunday, May 24, 2020 - when relationships change

Theme: Making Sense of the Wilderness - Jesus: when relationships change

Prayer

Acts 1:4-8                                                          Common English Bible Translation

While they were eating together, he ordered them not to leave Jerusalem but to wait for what the Father had promised. He said, “This is what you heard from me: John baptized with water, but in only a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” As a result, those who had gathered together asked Jesus, “Lord, are we you going to restore the kingdom to Israel now?” Jesus replied, “It isn’t for you to know the times or seasons that the Father has set by his own authority. Rather, you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”

(Question: Have you ever had expectations on a relationship that weren’t realized? How did that impact you?)

Matthew 28:19-20

Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you. Look, I myself will be with you every day until the end of this present age.”

(Question: Have you ever had a relationship that encouraged to live a certain way? Was it positive or negative?)

Acts 1:9-11

After Jesus said these things, as they were watching, he was lifted up and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going away and as they were staring toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood next to them. They said, “Galileans, why are you standing here, looking toward heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way that you saw him go into heaven.”

(Question: Have you ever stayed stuck in the past with a relationship?)

Acts 1:12-14

Then they returned to Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives, which is near Jerusalem – a sabbath day’s journey away. When they entered the city, they went to the upstairs room where they were staying. When they entered the city, they went to the upstairs room where they were staying. Peter, John, James, and Andrew; Philip and Thomas; Bartholomew and Matthew; James, Alphaeus’ son; Simon the Zealot; and Judas, James’ son – all were united in their devotion to prayer, along with some women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers. (Question: Who do you surround yourself with that has a positive impact upon your life?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine

Standing on the Promises

Come Together – The Beatles

Love Like This – Lauren Daigle

You’re the One I Want - Switchfoot

Sunday, May 17, 2020 - when we don't know where we will land

Prayer

God who knows our beginning, end and everything in between. Sometimes we feel so helpless as we try to navigate this life of ours. Open us to where your presence is leading us. Give us the strength for this journey and the courage to face whatever may happen. May we not lose sight of your loving care during this time. Amen.

Acts 27:9b-11, 13                                                          Common English Bible Translation

Paul warned them, “Men, I see that our voyage will suffer damage and great loss, not only for the cargo and ship but also for our lives.” But the centurion was persuaded more by the ship’s pilot and captain than by Paul’s advice. When a gentle south wind began to blow, they thought they could carry out their plan. They pulled up anchor and sailed closely along the coast of Crete. (Question: Have you ever wished you took someone’s advice? Why didn’t you take it?)

Acts 27:14-15, 18-20

Before long, a hurricane-strength wind known as a northeaster swept down from Crete. The ship was caught in the storm and couldn’t be turned into the wind. So we gave in to it, and it carried us along. We were so battered by the violent storm that the next day the men began throwing cargo overboard. On the third day, they picked up the ship’s gear and hurled it into the sea. When neither the sun nor the moon appeared for many days and the raging storm continued to pound us, all hope of our being saved from this peril faded. (Question: Have you ever lost hope? Why?)

Acts 27:21b-26

Paul stood among them and said, “Men, you should have complied with my instruction not to sail from Crete. Then we would have avoided this damage and loss. Now I urge you to be encouraged. Not one of your lives will be lost, though we will lose the ship. Last night an angel from the God to whom I belong and whom I worship stood beside me. The angel said, ‘Don’t be afraid, Paul! You must stand before Caesar! Indeed, God has also graciously given you everyone sailing with you.’ Be encouraged, men! I have faith in God that it will be exactly as he told me. However, we must run aground on some island.” (Question: What gives you hope in challenging times?)

Acts 27:27-29

On the fourteenth night, we were being carried across the Adriatic Sea. Around midnight the sailors began to suspect that land was near. They dropped a weighted line to take soundings and found the water to be about one hundred twenty feet deep. After proceeding a little farther, we took soundings again and found the water to be about ninety feet deep. Afraid that we might run aground somewhere on the rocks, they hurled out four anchors from the stern and began to pray for daylight. (Question: How does your prayer life change during storms of life?)

Acts 27:39, 41-44

In the morning light they saw a bay with a sandy beach. They didn’t know what land it was, but they thought they might possibly be able to run the ship aground. They struck a sandbar and ship ran aground. The bow was stuck and wouldn’t move, and the stern was broken into pieces by the force of the waves. The soldiers decided to kill the prisoners to keep them from swimming to shore and escaping. However, the centurion wanted to save Paul, so he stopped them from carrying out their plan. He ordered those who could swim to jump overboard first and head for land. He ordered the rest to grab hold of planks or debris from the ship. In this way, everyone reached land safely. (Question: What is most fearful about not knowing the outcome of a situation?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Blessed Assurance, Jesus Is Mine!

When Peace like a River

Keep Your Head Up – Andy Grammer

Wake Me Up – Avicii

Under Pressure – Queen

Sunday, May 10, 2020 - when we've lost so much

Theme: Making Sense of the Wilderness - Moses: when we’ve lost so much

Prayer

Exodus 2:11-14                                                           Common English Bible Translation

One day after Moses had become an adult, he went out among his people and he saw their forced labor. He saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people. He looked around to make sure no one else was there. Then he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. When Moses went out the next day, he saw two Hebrew men fighting with each other. Moses said to the one who had started the fight, “Why are you abusing your fellow Hebrew?” He replied, “Who made you a boss or judge over us? Are you planning to kill me like you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid when he realized: They obviously know what I did.

(Question; Have you ever made a decision you wish you could change? Why?)

Exodus 2:15-17

When Pharaoh heard about it, he tried to kill Moses. But Moses ran away from Pharaoh and settled down in the land of Midian. One day Moses was sitting by a well. Now there was a Midianite priest who had seven daughters. The daughters came to draw water and fill the troughs so that their father’s flock could drink. But some shepherds came along and rudely chased them away. Moses got up, rescued the women, and gave their flock water to drink.

(Question: How has your world been turned upside down?)

Exodus 2:18-20

When they went back home to their father Reuel, he asked, “How were you able to come back home so soon today?” They replied, “An Egyptian man rescued us from a bunch of shepherds. Afterward, he even helped us draw water to let the flock drink.” Reuel said to his daughters, “So where is he? Why did you leave this man? Invite him to eat a meal with us.”

(Question: How do you care for others?)

Exodus 2:21-22

Moses agreed to come and live with the man, who gave his daughter Zipporah to Moses as his wife. She gave birth to a son, and Moses named him Gershom, “because,” he said, “I’ve been an immigrant living in a foreign land.” (Question: What are the things you value when you’ve experienced loss?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Precious Lord, Take My Hand

I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me

Home – Zach Williams

Your Wings – Lauren Daigle

Volcano – U2

Sunday, May 3, 2020 - when we are in the middle of the storm

Prayer

Matthew 14:22-24                                                           Common English Bible Translation

Right then, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead to the other side of the lake while he dismissed the crowds. When he sent them away, he went up onto a mountain by himself to pray. Evening came and he was alone. Meanwhile, the boat, fighting a strong headwind, was being battered by the waves and was already far away from land.

(Question: What are the storms you have faced?)

Matthew 14:25-26

Very early in the morning he came to his disciples, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified and said, “It’s a ghost!” They were so frightened they screamed.

(Question: What are your greatest fears right now? How are they related to the storms of life?)

Matthew 14:27-28

Just then Jesus spoke to them, “Be encouraged! It’s me. Don’t be afraid.” Peter replied, “Lord, if it’s you, order me to come to you on the water.”

(Question: What is your mentality when you face those storms?)

Matthew 14:29-30

And Jesus said, “Come.” Then Peter got out of the boat and was walking on the water toward Jesus. But when Peter saw the strong wind, he became frightened. As he began to sink, he shouted, “Lord, rescue me!”

(Question: How do you generally react when things are difficult? How do you wish you reacted in the midst of challenges?)

Matthew 14:31-32

Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him, saying, “You man of weak faith! Why did you begin to have doubts?” When they got into the boat, the wind settled down.

(Question: What do you find helps settle you when the storm around you rages?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less

Standing on the Promises

We’re Gonna Be Alright - Switchfoot

Shake It Out – Florence + the Machine

Song for Someone – U2

Sunday, April 26, 2020 - when things are out of control

Theme: Making Sense of the Wilderness - Joseph: when things are out of control

Prayer

Genesis 39:1-3                                                           Common English Bible Translation

When Joseph had been taken down to Egypt, Potiphar, Pharaoh’s chief officer, the commander of the royal guard and an Egyptian, purchased him from the Ishmaelites who had brought him down there. The Lord was with Joseph, and he became a successful man and served in his Egyptian master’s household. His master saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made everything he did successful. 

(Question: How have you experienced God being with you?)

Genesis 39:4-5

Potiphar thought highly of Joseph, and Joseph became his assistant; he appointed Joseph head of his household and put everything he had under Joseph’s supervision. From the time he appointed Joseph head of his household and of everything he had, the Lord blessed the Egyptian’s household because of Joseph. The blessed everything he had, both in the household and in the field. 

(Question: When have you felt like you’ve accomplished something?)

Genesis 39:7-10

Some time later, his master’s wife became attracted to Joseph and said, “Sleep with me.” He refused and said to his master’s wife, “With me here, my master doesn’t pay attention to anything in his household; he’s put everything he has under my supervision. No one is greater than I am in this household, and he hasn’t denied me anything expect you, since you are his wife. How could I do this terrible thing and sin against God?” Every single day she tried to convince him, but he wouldn’t agree to sleep with her or even to be with her.

(Question: Have you ever been put in a bad situation? How did you react?)

Genesis 39:19-21

When Joseph’s master heard the thing that his wife told him, “This is what your servant did to me,” he was incensed. Joseph’s master took him and threw him in jail, the place where the king’s prisoners were held. While he was in jail, the Lord was with Joseph and remained loyal to him. He caused the jail’s commander to think highly of Joseph.

(Question: Have you ever tried to do the right thing and still life got really hard?)

Genesis 39:22-23

The jail’s commander put all of the prisoners in the jail under Joseph’s supervision, and he was the one who determined everything that happened there. The jail’s commander paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s supervision, because the Lord was with him and made everything he did successful. 

(Question: How do you navigate difficult situations?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Sunday, April 19, 2020 - when we want the wilderness to end

Making Sense of the Wilderness - Noah: when we want the wilderness to end

Prayer

Genesis 8:1-5                                                                      Common English Bible Translation

God remembered Noah, all those alive, and all the animals with him in the ark. God sent a wind over the earth so that the waters receded. The springs of the deep sea and the skies closed up. The skies held back the rain. The waters receded gradually from the earth. After one hundred fifty days, the waters decreased; and in the seventh month, on the seventeenth day, the ark came to rest on the Ararat mountains. The waters decreased gradually until the tenth month, and on the first day of the tenth month the mountain peaks appeared.

(Question: Have you ever been anxious for your life to change?)

Genesis 8:6-9

After forty days, Noah opened the window of the ark that he had made. He sent out a raven, and it flew back and forth until the waters over the entire earth had dried up. Then he sent out a dove to see if the waters on all of the fertile land had subsided, but the dove found no place to set its foot. It returned to him in the ark since waters still covered the entire earth. Noah stretched out his hand, took it, and brought it back into the ark.

(Question: Have you ever been disappointed by the timing of events?)

Genesis 8:10-12

He waited seven more days and sent the dove out from the ark again. The dove came back to him in the evening, grasping a torn olive leaf in its break. Then Noah knew that the waters were subsiding from the earth. He waited seven more days and sent out the dove, but it didn’t come back to him again.

(Question: How many times to you attempt something before you get discouraged?)

Hymn: Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Genesis 8:13-14

In Noah’s six hundred first year, on the first day of the first month, the waters dried up from the earth. Noah removed the ark’s hatch and saw that the surface of the fertile land had dried up. In the second month, on the twenty-seventh day, the earth was dry.

(Question: How does your perspective change when you look back on events you found difficult?)

Genesis 8:15-19

God spoke to Noah, “Go out of the ark, you and your wife, your sons, and your sons’ wives with you. Bring out with you all the animals of every kind-birds, livestock, everything crawling on the ground – so that they may populate the earth, be fertile, and multiply on the earth.” So Noah went out of the ark with his sons, his wife, and his sons’ wives. All the animals, all the livestock, all the birds, and everything crawling on the ground, came out of the ark by their families.

(Question: What are you looking forward to after this time of staying at home?)

Great Is Thy Faithfulness 

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Hymn: How Great Thou Art

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

To God Be the Glory

Thine Be the Glory

Holy Ground

Scars – TobyMac

Pseudo Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020 - Confusion Abounds

Confusion Abounds

Prayer

Luke 24:1                                                                       Common English Bible Translation

Very early in the morning on the first day of the week, the women went to the tomb, bringing the fragrant spices they had prepared.

(Question: What are the things you like to plan?)

Luke 24:2-3

They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in, they didn’t find the body of the Lord Jesus.

(Question: How have your plans been disrupted in the last month?)

Luke 24:4-5

They didn’t know what to make of this. Suddenly, two men were standing beside them in gleaming bright clothing. The women were frightened and bowed their faces toward the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead?”

(Question: How have you dealt with disruption?)

Luke 24:6-8

“He isn’t here, but has been raised. Remember what he told you while he was still in Galilee, that the Human One must be handed over to sinners, be crucified, and on the third day rise again.” Then they remembered his words.

(Question: Have you found something to guide you during confusing times?)

Luke 24:9-11

When they returned from the tomb, they reported all these things to the eleven and all the others. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles. Their words struck the apostles as nonsense, and they didn’t believe the women.

(Question: How do you share your experiences with others during confusing times?)

Luke 24:12

But Peter ran to the tomb. When he bent over to look inside, he saw only the linen cloth. Then he returned home, wondering what had happened.

(Question: What steps do you take to make sense of the world around you?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Jesus Christ is Risen Today

The Day of Resurrection!

Love Like This – Lauren Daigle

Everything Changed – Zach Williams

Testify – Davie

The Miracle – U2

Good Friday, April 10, 2020

Scripture:

Luke 22:54-60, 63-65

Luke 23:1-56

Sunday, April 5, 2020 - when we lose perspective

Discovering Our Identity in God - Judas: when we lose perspective

Prayer

John 12:3-7                                                      Common English Bible Translation

One: Then Mary took an extraordinary amount, almost three-quarters of a pound, of very expensive perfume made of pure nard. She anointed Jesus’ feet with it, then wiped his feet dry with her hair. The house was filled with the aroma of the perfume. Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (the one who was about to betray him), complained,

Two: “This perfume was worth a year’s wages! Why wasn’t it sold and the money given to the poor?” 

One: (He said this not because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief. He carried the money bag and would take what was in it.) Then Jesus said, 

Three: “Leave her alone. This perfume was to be used in preparation for my burial, and this is how she has used it. 

(Question: Have you ever struggled with being so set on one way of doing things that you missed something really important?)

Matthew 26:14-16

One: Then the one of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, 

Two: “What will you give me if I turn Jesus over to you?”

One: They paid him thirty pieces of silver. From that time on he was looking for an opportunity to turn him in.

(Question: What do you consider someone’s life and your own worth? How did you determine that?)

John 13:26-30

One: Jesus answered, 

Two: “It’s the one to whom I will give this piece of bread once I have dipped into the bowl.”

One: Then he dipped the piece of bread and gave it to Judas, Simon Iscariot’s son. After Judas took the bread, Satan entered into him. Jesus told him, 

Two: “What you are about to do, do quickly.”

One: No one sitting at the table understood why Jesus said this to him. Some thought that, since Judas kept the money bag, Jesus told him, 

Two: “Go, buy what we need for the feast,” 

One: or that he should give something to the poor. So when Judas took the bread, he left immediately. And it was night. 

(Question: Have you ever done something that you knew wasn’t good for yourself or anyone else around you? Why?)

Solo

Mark 14:43-50

One: Suddenly, while Jesus was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, came with a mob carrying swords and clubs. They had been sent by the chief priests, legal experts, and elders. His betrayer had given them a sign: 

Two: “Arrest the man I kiss, and take him away under guard.” 

One: As soon as he got there Judas said to Jesus, 

Two: “Rabbi!”

One: Then he kissed him. Then they came and grabbed Jesus and arrested him. One of the bystanders drew a sword and struck the high priest’s slave and cut off his ear. Jesus responded, 

Three: “Have you come with words and clubs to arrest me, like an outlaw? Day after day, I was with you, teaching in the temple, but you didn’t arrest me. But let the scriptures be fulfilled.”

One: And all his disciples left him and ran away.

(Question: How have you been hurt and how have you hurt others in your life? Do you understand why that hurt happened?)

Matthew 27:3-5

One: When Judas, who betrayed Jesus, saw that Jesus was condemned to die, he felt deep regret. He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, and said, 

Two: “I did wrong because I betrayed an innocent man.”

One: But they said,

Three: “What is that to us? That’s your problem.”

One: Judas threw the silver pieces into the temple and left. Then he went and hanged himself. 

(Question: How do you rectify a situation when you find out you were so in the wrong?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

What Wondrous Love Is This

Alas! And Did My Savior Bleed

Fear is a Liar – Zach Williams

Losing My Religion – R.E.M.

Damned for All Time/Blood Money – Jesus Christ Superstar

Sunday, March 29, 2020 - when we feel unworthy

Discovering Our Identity in God - Woman at the Well: when we feel unworthy

Prayer

Creator God, open our minds and hearts to your love this day. Give us clarity as we understand ourselves through your grace. Amen.

John 4:4-9                                                       Common English Bible Translation

Jesus had to go through Samaria. He came to a Samaritan city called Sychar, which was near the land of Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there. Jesus was tired from his journey, so he sat down at the well. It was about noon. A Samaritan woman came to the well to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me some water to drink.” His disciples had gone into the city to buy him some food. The Samaritan woman asked, “Why do you, a Jewish man, ask for something to drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” (Jews and Samaritans didn’t associate with each other.) 

(Question: How does it make you feel when others don’t want to associate with you? What makes you not want to associate with someone else?)

John 4:10-14

Jesus responded, “If you recognized God’s gift and who is saying to you, ‘Give me some water to drink,’ you would be asking him and he would give you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you don’t have a bucket and the well is deep. Where would you get this living water? You aren’t greater than our father Jacob, are you? He gave this well to us, and he drank from it himself, as did his sons and his livestock.” Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks from the water that I will give will never be thirsty again. The water that I give will become in those who drink it a spring of water that bubbles up into eternal life.” (Question: What experiences and people give you life?)

John 4:15-20

The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will never be thirsty and will never need to come here to draw water!” Jesus said to her, “Go, get your husband, and come back here.” The woman replied, “I don’t have a husband.” “You are right to say, ‘I don’t have a husband,’” Jesus answered. “You’ve had five husbands, and the man you are with now isn’t your husband. You’ve spoken the truth.” The woman said, “Sir, I see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshipped on this mountain, but you and your people say that it is necessary to worship in Jerusalem.” (Question: What makes you feel like you are unworthy?)

John 4:21-26

Jesus said to her, “Believe me, woman, the time is coming when you and your people will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You and your people worship what you don’t know; we worship what we know because salvation is from the Jews. But the time is coming – and is here! – when true worshippers will worship in spirit and truth. The Father looks for those who worship him this way. God is spirit, and it is necessary to worship God in spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know that the Messiah is coming, the one who is called the Christ. When he comes, he will teach everything to us.” Jesus said to her, “I Am – the one who speaks with you.” (Question: How does worship impact your understanding of one’s worth?)

John 4:27-29, 39

Just then, Jesus’ disciples arrived and were shocked that he was talking with a woman. But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” The woman put down her water jar and went into the city. She said to the people, “Come and see a man who has told me everything I’ve done! Could this man be the Christ?” Many Samaritans in that city believed in Jesus because of the woman’s word when she testified, “He told me everything I’ve ever done.” (Question: Have you ever had an experience that changed how you understood yourself and changed your actions?)

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

All Things Bright and Beautiful

We Are One in the Spirit

Look Up Child – Lauren Daigle

Have a Little Faith – Jamie N Commons

Live Like a Warrior - Matisyahu

Sunday, March 22, 2020 - when we are unsure of our world

Discovering Our Identity in God

Doubting Thomas: when we are unsure of our world

Order of Worship

Fourth Sunday of Lent

March 22, 2020

Theme: Discovering Our Identity in God  - Doubting Thomas: when we are unsure of our world

Prayer

God of us all, settle us this day with your presence. As we hear the words of scripture may our hearts and minds be opened to your way of living. May we hear wisdom for how we can navigate our day to day that speaks of your loving care. Amen.

John 14:1-7                                                                         Common English Bible Translation

Don’t be troubled. Trust in God. Trust also in me. My Father’s house has room to spare. If that weren’t the case, would I have told you that I’m going to prepare a place for you? When I go to prepare a place for you, I will return and take you to be with me so that where I am you will be too. You know the way to the place I’m going.” Thomas asked, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you have really known me, you will also know the Father. From now on you know him and have seen him.” (Questions: Have you ever felt confused by the world around you? How did you make sense of what was happening?) 

John 20:24-25 Thomas, the one called Didymus, one of the Twelve, wasn’t with the disciples when Jesus came. The other disciples told him, “We’ve seen the Lord!” But he replied, “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands, put my finger in the wounds left by the nails, and put my hand into his side, I won’t believe.” (Question: How do you discern what is real or not?) 

John 20:26-28 After eight days his disciples were again in a house and Thomas was with them. Even though the doors were locked, Jesus entered and stood among them. He said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here. Look at my hands. Put your hand into my side. No more disbelief. Believe!” Thomas responded to Jesus, “My Lord and my God!” (Question: Who do you look to for reassurance during uncertain times?)

John 20:29-30 Jesus replied, “Do you believe because you see me? Happy are those who don’t see and yet believe.” Then Jesus did many other miraculous signs in his disciples’ presence, signs that aren’t recorded in this scroll. (Question: What words do you hold to when you experience uncertainty?)

“Rejoice, for Things”

Rejoice, for things are as they are;

don’t flee as clouds that flow and drift

on wings of wind that shift and change;

God’s love will comfort, calm and lift.

For God is your celestial shield,

no cosmic power, nor human scheme

will separate you from that love

no matter how your terrors teem.

Your going out, your coming in

are safe, whatever, come what may.

You know the reason to rejoice

so sing God’s praise by night, by day.

-Andrew Pratt

A litany to meditate upon from Isaiah 41:10

Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand.

Prayers of the People and the Lord’s Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.

Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 

on earth as it is in heaven. 

Give us this day our daily bread,

And forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us;

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever.  Amen

Blessing

Go in peace, knowing that no matter how uncertain our world becomes God is still with us. No matter how fearful and anxious the world feels that God’s love is still with us. No matter the challenges we face, God is giving us the courage to continue moving forward. Blessings of God be with each of us during this time. Amen.

Song List (to listen to from wherever you get your music)

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

Be Thou My Vision

Burn the Ships – for King & Country

Inevitable – Lauren Daigle

Hard Day Coming Down – The Record Company