Sunday, March 13, 2022 - When you feel the sting of Rejection and Hunger for Acceptance

Online Playlist for Sunday (different from In Person)

Theme: How did Jesus live through….. Rejection vs. Acceptance

(Have you ever felt the sting of rejection and hungered for acceptance?)

Hymn        God and Welcomes All      (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Goodness Is Stronger than Evil       (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Luke 13:31-35                   Common English Bible Translation

At that time, some Pharisees approached Jesus and said, “Go! Get away from here, because Herod wants to kill you.” Jesus said to them, “Go, tell that fox, ‘Look, I’m throwing out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will complete my work. However, it’s necessary for me to travel today, tomorrow, and the next day because it’s impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.’ “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those who were sent to you! How often I have wanted to gather your people just as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. But you didn’t want that. Look, your house is abandoned. I tell you, you won’t see me until the time comes when you say, Blessings on the one who comes in the Lord’s name.” (Question: What teaching of Jesus makes you uncomfortable and hard to follow?)

Luke 14:1-6

One Sabbath, when Jesus went to share a meal in the home of one of the leaders of the Pharisees, they were watching him closely. A man suffering from an abnormal swelling of the body was there. Jesus asked the lawyers and Pharisees, “Does the Law allow healing on the Sabbath or not?” But they said nothing. Jesus took hold of the sick man, cured him, and then let him go. He said to them, “Suppose your child or ox fell into a ditch on the Sabbath. Wouldn’t you immediately pull it out?” But they had no response. (Question: What criteria do you have for whether or not you reject or accept someone else?)

Hymn         God of Great and God of Small       (In Person Only)

Luke 14:7-9

When Jesus noticed how the guests sought out the best seats at the table, he told them a parable. “When someone invites you to a wedding celebration, don’t take your seat in the place of honor. Someone more highly regarded than you could have been invited by your host. The host who invited both of you will come and say to you, ‘Give your seat to this other person.’ Embarrassed, you will take your seat in the least important place. (Question: Have you ever felt rejection in your life?)

Luke 14:10-11

Instead, when you receive an invitation, go and sit in the least important place. When your host approaches you, he will say, ‘Friend, move up here to a better seat.’ Then you will be honored in the presence of all your fellow guests. All who lift themselves up will be brought low, and those who make themselves low will be lifted up.” (Question: Have you ever struggled with wanting God to reject the people you don’t like and be merciful to the people you do like?)

Hymn    I Want Jesus to Walk with Me      (In Person Only)

Luke 14:12-15

Then Jesus said to the person who had invited him, “When you host a lunch or dinner, don’t invite your friends, your brothers and sisters, your relatives, or rich neighbors. If you do, they will invite you in return and that will be your reward. Instead, when you give a banquet, invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind. And you will be blessed  because they can’t repay you. Instead, you will be repaid when the just are resurrected.” When one of the dinner guests heard Jesus’ remarks, he said to Jesus, “Happy are those who will feast in God’s kingdom.” (Question: How do you feel accepted by God in life?)

Reflection Together            (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

During this time let us reflect upon the words from the hymn “Here in This Place”

Here in this place the new light is streaming; now is the darkness vanished away; see in this space our fears and our dreamings brought here to you in the light of this day. Gather us in, the lost and forsaken; gather us in, the blind and the lame; call to us now, and we shall awaken; we shall arise at the sound of our name. 

We are the young, our lives are a mystery. We are the old who yearn for your face. We have been sung throughout all of history, called to be light to the whole human race. Gather us in, the rich and the haughty; gather us in, the proud and the strong; give us a heart, so meek and so lowly; give us the courage to enter the song.

Hymn       Here in This Place       (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn   When the Lord Redeems the Very Least  (In Person Only)

Hymn List

19 God of Great and God of Small

399 God Welcomes All

401  Here in This Place

750 Goodness Is Stronger than Evil

775  I Want Jesus to Walk with Me

852  When the Lord Redeems the Very Least

Lent Sermon Series: How did Jesus live through…

March 20th – Despair vs. Hope

March 27th – Frustration vs. Peace

April 3rd – Fear vs. Courage

April 10th – Domination vs. Liberation

Sunday, March 6, 2022 - Scarcity vs. Abundance

“How often have you ever felt like you don’t have enough of something, like you aren’t enough, not enough time, not enough resources, not enough help, not enough knowledge, not enough hands, or if you just had….. Then all would be right?”

Playlist for Sunday Online Click Here

Theme: How did Jesus live through….. Scarcity vs. Abundance

Hymn        The Trumpets Sound, the Angels Sing      (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Open My Eyes, that I May See       (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Matthew 3:13-17                   Common English Bible Translation

At that time Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan River so that John would baptize him. John tried to stop him and said, “I need to be baptized by you, yet you come to me?” Jesus answered, “Allow me to be baptized now. This is necessary to fulfill all righteousness.” So John agreed to baptize Jesus. When Jesus was baptized, he immediately came up out of the water. Heaven was opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting on him. A voice from heaven said, “This is my Son whom I dearly love; I find happiness in him.” (Question: When have you felt an abundance of love?)

Luke 4:1-4

Jesus returned from the Jordan River full of the Holy Spirit, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness. There he was tempted for forty days by the devil. He ate nothing during those days and afterward Jesus was starving. The devil said to him, “Since you are God’s Son, command this stone to become a loaf of bread.” Jesus replied, “It’s written, People won’t live only by bread.” (Question: When have you felt empty in life?)

Hymn             The glory of These Forty Days      (In Person Only)

Luke 4:5-8

Next the devil led him to a high place and showed him in a single instant all the kingdoms of the world. The devil said, “I will give you this whole domain and the glory of all these kingdoms. It’s been entrusted to me and I can give it to anyone I want. Therefore, if you will worship me, it will all be yours.” Jesus answered, “It’s written, You will worship the Lord your God and serve only him.” (Question: When do you feel like you don’t have enough?)

Luke 4:9-13

The devil brought him to Jerusalem and stood him at the highest point of the temple. He said to him, “Since you are God’s Son, throw yourself down from here; for it’s written: He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you and they will take you up in their hands so that you won’t hit your foot on a stone.” Jesus answered, “It’s been said, Don’t test the Lord your God.” After finishing every temptation, the devil departed from him until the next opportunity. (Question: When have you felt most alone?)

Hymn           What a Friend We Have in Jesus        (In Person Only)

Luke 4:14-15

Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news about him spread throughout the whole countryside. He taught in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. (Question: How have you used your experiences to help others?)

Reflection Together            (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

During this time let us reflect upon the words from the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, in his book Tokens of Trust.

“Because of Jesus we can now see that what God has always meant to happen is – to pick up two centrally important words in the Letter to the Ephesians – peace and praise. This and this alone is God’s ‘agenda’: the world he has made is designed to become a reconciled world, a world in which diverse human communities come to share a life together because they share the conviction that God has acted to set them free from fear and guilt. And this in turn is only one facet of a reconciliation that somehow affects the whole cosmos, that draws the diversity of the created world itself together so that it works harmoniously.”

Hymn       I Was There to Hear your Borning Cry       (In Person Only)

The Lord’s Supper

Invitation

Prayer of Thanksgiving 

Words of Institution

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn    Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee     (In Person Only)

Hymn List

165 The Glory of These Forty Days

451 Open My Eyes, That I May See

465 What a Friend We Have in Jesus

488 I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry

505 The Trumpets Sound, the Angels Sing

611 Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee

Lent Sermon Series: How did Jesus live through…

March 13th – Rejection vs. Acceptance

March 20th – Despair vs. Hope

March 27th – Frustration vs. Peace

April 3rd – Fear vs. Courage

April 10th – Domination vs. Liberation

Sunday, February 27, 2022 - What is our purpose?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –What is our purpose?

“Instead, desire first and foremost God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, stop worrying about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble on its own.” (Matthew 6:33-34)

Hymn            God of Grace and God of Glory             (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness       (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

1 Corinthians 12:4-7                   Common English Bible Translation

There are different spiritual gifts but the same Spirit; and there are different ministries and the same Lord; and there are different activities but the same God who produces all of them in everyone. A demonstration of the Spirit is given to each person for the common good. (Question: What are the gifts you believe God has given to you?)

1 Corinthians 12:8-11

A word of wisdom is given by the Spirit to the one person, a word of knowledge to another according to the same Spirit, faith to still another of the same Spirit, gifts of healing to another in the one Spirit, performance of miracles to another, prophecy to another, the ability to tell spirits apart to another, different kinds of tongues to another, and the interpretation of the tongues to another. All these things are produced by the one and same Spirit who gives what he wants to each person. (Question: What is a strength you have that helps others?)

Hymn           We Are One in the Spirit          (In Person Only)

1 Corinthians 12:12-18

Christ is just like the human body – a body is a unit and has many parts; and all the parts of the body are one body, even though there are many. We were all baptized by one Spirit into one body, whether Jew or Greek, or slave or free, and we all were given one Spirit to drink. Certainly the body isn’t one part buy many. If the foot says, “I’m not part of the body because I’m not a hand,” does that mean it’s not part of the body? If the ear says, “I’m not part of the body because I’m not an eye,” does that mean it’s not part of the body? If the whole body were an eye, what would happen to the hearing? And if the whole body were an ear, what would happen to the sense of smell? But as it is, God has placed each one of the parts in the body just like he wanted. (Question: How have you experienced someone else’s gifts complimenting your own gifts?)

1 Corinthians 12:19-23

If all were one and the same body part, what would happen to the body? But as it is, there are many parts but one body. So the eye can’t say to the hand, “I don’t need you,” or in turn, the head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you.” Instead, the parts of the body that we think are less honorable are the ones we honor the most. The private parts of our body that aren’t presentable are the ones that are given the most dignity. (Question: How are you an encouragement to others in their gifts?)

Hymn       Come! Live in the Light!       (In Person Only)

1 Corinthians 12:24-27

The parts of our body that are presentable don’t need this. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the part with less honor so that there won’t be division in the body and so the parts might have mutual concern for each other. If one part suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part gets the glory, all the parts celebrate with it. You are the body of Christ and parts of each other. (Question: What would you say your purpose is in life?)

Reflection Together            (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, in his book Being Disciples.

“For the Christian disciple, human dignity – and therefore any notion of human rights-depends upon the recognition that every person is related to God before they are related to anything or anyone else. God has defined who they are and who they can be by his own eternal purpose, which cannot be altered by any force or circumstance in this world. People may refuse their calling or remain stubbornly unaware of it; but God continues to call them and to offer them what they need to fulfill their calling.”

Hymn       Take My Life       (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn    O for a World     (In Person Only)

Hymn List

291 Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness

300 We Are One in the Spirit

307 God of Grace and God of Glory

372 O for a World

697 Take My Life

749 Come! Live in the Light!

Lent Sermon Series: How did Jesus live through…

March 6th  – Scarcity vs. Abundance?

March 13th – Rejection vs. Acceptance

March 20th – Despair vs. Hope

March 27th – Frustration vs. Peace

April 3rd – Fear vs. Courage

April 10th – Domination vs. Liberation

Sunday, February 20, 2022 - What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I am sending you.” (John 20:21)

Hymn             Guide My Feet             (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       I Will Call Upon the Lord     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

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 unsettling about Jesus teaching of loving our enemies?)

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: What are the risks we take carrying out this type of love?)

Hymn      Called as Partners in Christ’s Service     (In Person Only)

Luke 6:37-38

“Don’t judge, and you won’t be judged. Don’t condemn, and you won’t be condemned. Forgive, and 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: What are the hardest parts about being nonjudgmental?)

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 gets in the way of us helping others?)

Hymn          We All Are One in Mission       (In Person Only)

Luke 6:43-47

“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. “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. (Question: What are the things your life produces that is directly connected to the life of Jesus?)

Reflection Together            (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the Brief Statement of Faith

In a broken and fearful world the Spirit gives us courage to pray without ceasing, to witness among all peoples to Christ as Lord and Savior, to unmask idolatries in Church and culture, to hear the voices of peoples long silenced, and to work with others for justice, freedom, and peace. In gratitude to God, empowered by the Spirit, we strive to serve Christ in our daily tasks and to live holy and joyful lives, even as we watch for God’s new heaven and new earth, praying, “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Hymn       For Everyone Born       (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn    Live into Hope     (In Person Only)

Hymn List

621 I Will Call upon the Lord

733 We All Are One in Mission

741 Guide My Feet

761 Called as Partners in Christ’s Service

769 For Everyone Born

772 Live into Hope

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions

February 27th – What is our purpose?

Sunday, February 13, 2022 - Who is Jesus?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –Who is Jesus?

Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and they will call him, Emmanuel. (Emanuel means “God with us.”) (Matthew 1:23)

Hymn       All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!    (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Come, Thou Found of Every Blessing     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Luke 9:18-19                           Common English Bible Translation

Once when Jesus was praying by himself, the disciples joined him, and he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” They answered, “John the Baptist, others Elijah, and still others that one of the ancient prophets has come back to life.” (Mt 25:37-40) “Then those who are righteous will reply to him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you a drink? When did we see you as a stranger and welcome you, or naked and give you clothes to wear? When did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “Then the king will reply to them, ‘I assure you that when you have done it for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me.’ 

(Question: What resonates with you about these stories of Jesus?)

Hymn       I Danced in the Morning.    (In Person Only)

Luke 9:20-21

He asked them, “And what about you? Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “The Christ sent from God.” Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell this to anyone. (Jn 6:26-27) Jesus replied, “I assure you that you are looking for me not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate all the food you wanted. Don’t work for the food that doesn’t last but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Human One will give you. God the Father has confirmed him as his agent to give life.” (Question: What is difficult to understand about who Jesus is?)

Luke 9:22

He said, “The Human One must suffer many things and be rejected – by the elders, chief priests, and the legal experts – and be killed and be raised on the third day.” (Jn 13:34-35) “I give you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, so you also must love each other. This is how everyone will know that you are my disciples, when you love each other.” (Question: How do you notice this tension of suffering and love impacting your life?) 

Hymn     Christ Is Risen!   Shout Hosana!   (In Person Only)

John 7:14-23

Halfway through the festival, Jesus went up to the temple and started to teach. Astonished, the Jewish leaders asked, “He’s never been taught! How has he mastered the Law?” Jesus responded, “My teaching isn’t mine but comes from the one who sent me. Whoever wants to do God’s will can tell whether my teaching is from God or whether I speak on my own. Those who speak on their own seek glory for themselves. Those who seek the glory of him who sent me are people of truth; there’s no falsehood in them. Didn’t Moses give you the Law? Yet none of you keep the Law. Why do you want to kill me?” The crowd answered, “You have a demon. Who wants to kill you?” Jesus replied, “I did one work, and you were astonished. Because Moses gave you the commandment about circumcision (although it wasn’t Moses but the patriarchs), you circumcise a man on the Sabbath. If a man can be circumcised on the Sabbath without breaking Moses’ Law, why are you angry with me because I made an entire man well on the Sabbath? (Question: What surprises you about Jesus’ life?)

Luke 9:23-24

Jesus said to everyone, “All who want to come after me must say no to themselves, take up their cross daily, and follow me. All who want to save their lives will lose them. But all who lose their lives because of me will save them. (Mt 11:28-30) “Come to me, all who are struggling hard and carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Put on my yoke, and learn from me. I’m gentle and humble. And you will find rest for yourselves. My yoke is easy to bear, and my burden is light.” 

(Question: How do you feel connected to Jesus?) 

Reflection Together            (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the Brief Statement of Faith

We trust in Jesus Christ, fully human, fully God. Jesus proclaimed the reign of God: preaching good news to the poor and release to the captives, teaching by word and deed and blessing the children, healing the sick and binding up the brokenhearted, eating with outcasts, forgiving sinners, and calling all to repent and believe the gospel. Unjustly condemned for blasphemy and sedition, Jesus was crucified, suffering the depths of human pain and giving his life for the sins of the world. God raised this Jesus from the dead, vindicating his sinless life, breaking the power of sin and evil, delivering us from death to life eternal.

Hymn       Lord, the Light of Your Love Is Shining    (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn    Standing on the Promises     (In Person Only)

Hymn List

157 I Danced in the Morning

192 Lord, the Light of Your Love Is Shining

248 Christ Is Risen! Shout Hosanna!

263 All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!

475 Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

745 Standing on the Promises

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions

February 20th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

February 27th–What is our purpose?

Sunday, February 6, 2022 - Where is God?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –Where is God?

“I heard a loud voice from the throne say, “Look! God’s dwelling is here with humankind. He will dwell with them, and they will be his peoples. God himself will be with them as their God.” (Revelation 21:3)

Sunday’s Online Playlist

Hymn       Praise, Praise, Praise the Lord!    (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       You Who Dwell in the Shelter of the Lord     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Exodus 33:12-13                           Common English Bible Translation

Moses said to the Lord, “Look, you’ve been telling me, ‘Lead these people forward.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. Yet you’ve assured me, ‘I know you by name and think highly of you.’ Now if you do think highly of me, show me your ways so that I may know you and so that you may really approve of me. Remember too that this nation is your people.” (Ps 139:4-6)  There isn’t a word on my tongue, Lord, that you don’t already know completely. You surround me – front and back. You put your hand on me. That kind of knowledge is too much for me; it’s so high above me that I can’t reach it. 

(Question: What do you ask God to show you in life?) 

Exodus 33:14-16

The Lord replied, “I’ll go myself, and I’ll help you.” Moses replied, “If you won’t go yourself, don’t make us leave here. Because how will anyone know that we have your special approval, both I and your people, unless you go with us? Only that distinguishes us, me and your people, from every other people on the earth.” (Ps 139:7) Where could I go to get away from your spirit? Where could I go to escape your presence? (Question: When do you find yourself questioning God’s presence the most?)

Hymn     Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken   (In Person Only)

Exodus 33:17-18

The Lord said to Moses, “I’ll do exactly what you’ve asked because you have my special approval, and I know you by name.” Moses said, “Please show me your glorious presence.” (John 14:7-8) If you have really known me, you will also know the Father. From now on you know him and have seen him.” Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father; that will be enough for us.” (Question: How would you describe God’s presence in your life?)

Exodus 33:19-20

The Lord said, “I’ll make all my goodness pass in front of you, and I’ll proclaim before you the name, ‘The Lord.’ I will be kind to whomever I wish to be kind, and I will have compassion to whomever I wish to be compassionate.’ But, the Lord said, “you can’t see my face because no one can see me and live.” (John 14:19-21) Soon the world will no longer see me, but you will see me. Because I live, you will live too. On that day you will know that I am in my Father, you are in me, and I am in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them loves me. Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love them and reveal myself to them.” (Question: How have you observed God’s goodness passing in front of you?)

Hymn       Will You Come and Follow Me    (In Person Only)

Exodus 33:21-23

The Lord said, “Here is a place near me where you will stand beside the rock. As my glorious presence passes by, I’ll set you in a gap in rock, and I’ll cover you with my hand until I’ve passed by. Then I’ll take away my hand, and you will see my back, but my face won’t be visible.” (Eph 3:18-19) I ask that you’ll have the power to grasp love’s width and length, height and depth, together with all believers. I ask that you’ll know the love of Christ that is beyond knowledge so that you will be filled entirely with the fullness of God.” (Question: When have you noticed the influence of God’s presence the most in your life?)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the Brief Statement of Faith

We trust in God the Holy Spirit everywhere the giver and renewer of life. The Spirit justifies us by grace through faith, sets us free to accept ourselves and to love God and neighbor, and binds us together with all believers in the one body of Christ, the Church. The same Spirit who inspired the prophets and apostles rules our faith and life in Christ through Scripture, engages us through the Word proclaimed, claims us in the waters of baptism, feeds us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation, and calls women and men to all ministries of the Church

Hymn       I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me    (In Person Only)

The Lord’s Supper

Invitation

Prayer of Thanksgiving 

Words of Institution

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn    May the God of Hope Go with Us     (In Person Only)

Hymn List

43 You Who Dwell in the Shelter of the Lord

81 Glorious Things Are Thee Are Spoken

390 Praise, Praise, Praise the Lord!

700 I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me

726 Will You Come and Follow Me

745 May the God of Hope Go with Us

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions

February 13th – Who is Jesus?

February 20th – What is our purpose?

February 27th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Sunday, January 30, 2022 - Who is God?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions - Who is God?

“The Lord is merciful and righteous; our God is compassionate.” (Psalm 116:5)

Hymn       Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah       (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Open Your Ears, O Faithful People     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Exodus 3:13-14                           Common English Bible Translation

Moses said to God, “If I now come to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your ancestors has sent me to you,’ they are going to ask me, ‘What’s this God’s name?’ What am I supposed to say to them?” God said to Moses, “I Am Who I Am. So say to the Israelites, ‘I Am has sent me to you.’” (1 Jn 4:12-13) No one has ever seen God. If we love each other, God remains in us and his love is made perfect in us, because he has given us a measure of his Spirit.” (Question: How do you describe God?)

Special Music                (In Person Only)

Exodus 3:15

God continued, “Say to the Israelites, ‘The Lord, the God of your ancestors, Abraham’s God, Isaac’s God, and Jacob’s God, has sent me to you.’ This is my name forever; this is how all generations will remember me. (1 Jn 4:16) We have known and have believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and those who remain in love remain in God and God remains in them. (Question: How have you noticed other peoples’ lives being connected to God?

Exodus 3:16-17

“Go and get Israel’s elders together and say to them, ‘The Lord, the God of your ancestors, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has appeared to me. The Lord said, “I’ve been paying close attention to you and to what has been done to you in Egypt. I’ve decided to take you away from the Harassment in Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, and Amorites, the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites, a land full of milk and honey. (Ps 25:16-17) Turn to me, God, and have mercy on me because I’m alone and suffering. My heart’s troubles keep getting bigger – set me free from distress! (Question: When did you know God’s presence in your life?)

Hymn       Great Are You, Lord                (In Person Only)

Exodus 3:18-19

They will accept what you say to them. Then you and Israel’s elders will go to Egypt’s king and say to him, ‘The Lord, the Hebrews’ God, has met with us. So now let us go on a three-day journey into the desert so that we can offer sacrifices to the Lord our God.’ However, I know that Egypt’s king won’t let you go unless he’s forced to do it. (Ps 25:20-21)Please project my life! Deliver me! Don’t let me be put to shame because I take refuge in you. Let integrity and virtue guard me because I hope in you. (Question: What can make it difficult for you to follow God’s guidance?)

Hymn       Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (In Person Only) 

Exodus 3:20-21

So I’ll use my strength and hit Egypt with dramatic displays of my power. After that, he’ll let you go. I’ll make it so that when you leave Egypt, the Egyptians will be kind to you and you won’t go away empty-handed.” (Ps 104:24, 27) Lord, you have done so many things! You made them all so wisely! The earth is full of your creations! All your creations wait for you to give them their food on time. (Question: How would you describe the way lives are changed today by God)? 

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the Brief Statement of Faith

In life and in death we belong to God. We trust in God, whom Jesus called Abba, Father. In sovereign love God created the world good and makes everyone equally in God’s image, male and female, of every race and people, to live as one community. 

Hymn       I, the Lord of Sea and Sky       (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn      To God Be the Glory       (In Person Only)

Hymn List

65 Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

69 I, the Lord of Sea and Sky

366 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

453 Open Your Ears, O Faithful People

614 Great Are You, Lord

634 To God Be the Glory

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions

February 6th – Where is God?

February 13th – Who is Jesus?

February 20th – What is our purpose?

February 27th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Sunday, January 23, 2022 - Why doesn't God stop the pain?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions – Why doesn’t God stop the pain?

“I also observed under the sun that the race doesn’t always go to the swift, nor the battle to the mighty, nor food to the wise, nor wealth to the intelligent, nor favor to the knowledgeable, because accidents can happen to anyone.” (Ecclesiastes 9:11)

Click for Sunday’s Playlist

Hymn    Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty   (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       Be Thou My Vision     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Isaiah 55:6-7                           Common English Bible Translation

Seek the Lord when he can still be found; call him while he is yet near. Let the wicked abandon their ways and the sinful their schemes. Let them return to the Lord so that he may have mercy on them, to our God, because he is generous with forgiveness. (Gen 8:21b-22) The Lord thought to himself, I will not curse the fertile land anymore because of human beings since the ideas of the human mind are evil from their youth. I will never again destroy every living thing as I have done. As long as the earth exists, seedtime and harvest, cold and hot, summer and autumn, day and night will not cease. (Question: What does being generous in forgiveness look like to you?)

Isaiah 55:8-9

My plans aren’t your plans, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my plans than your plans. (Romans 8:35) Who will separate us from Christ’s love? Will we be separated by trouble, or distress, or harassment, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? (Question:  What are the things we think separate us from knowing God’s presence?)

Special Music              (In Person Only)

Isaiah 55:10-11

Just as the rain and the snow come down from the sky and don’t return there without watering the earth, making it conceive and yield plants and providing seeds to the sower and food to the eater, so is my word that comes from my mouth; it does not return to me empty. Instead, it does what I want, and accomplishes what I intend. (Ps 119:49-52)Remember your promise to your servant, for which you made me wait. My comfort during my suffering is this: your word gives me new life. The arrogant make fun of me to no end, but I haven’t deviated from your Instruction. When I remember your ancient rules, I’m comforted, Lord. (Question: How do we comfort ourselves when things are difficult?)

Isaiah 55:12

Yes, you will go out with celebration, and you will be brought back in peace. Even the mountains and the hills will burst into song before you; all the trees of the field will clap their hands. (Romans 8:38-39) I’m convinced that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ Jesus our Lord: not death or life, not angels or rulers, not present things or future things, not powers or height or depth, or any other thing that is created. (Question: What does it mean to you to navigate the pains throughout your life well?)

Hymn         Amazing Grace.  (In Person Only)

Isaiah 55:13

In place of the thorn the cypress will grow; in place of the nettle the myrtle will grow. This will attest to the Lord’s stature, an enduring reminder that won’t be removed. (Ps 119:86-88) All your commandments are true, but people harass me for no reason. Help me! They’ve almost wiped me off the face of the earth! Meanwhile, I haven’t abandoned your precepts! Make me live again according to your faithful love so I can keep the law you’ve given! (Question: How do the great challenges of life change your perspective in what it means to live well?)

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of the Confession of 1967. The language has been modernized.

“God’s sovereign love is a mystery beyond the reach of one’s mind. Human thought ascribes to God superlatives of power, wisdom, and goodness. God has created humanity in a personal relation with Godself that one may respond to the love of the Creator. Life is a gift to be received with gratitude and a task to be pursued with courage. One is free to seek one’s life within the purpose of God: to develop and protect the resources of nature for the common welfare, to work for justice and peace in society, and in other ways to use one’s creative powers for the fulfillment of human life.

Special Music        (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn   What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine  (In Person Only)

Annual Congregational Meeting

Hymn List

1 Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty

450 Be Thou My Vision

625 O Lord My God

649 Amazing Grace

837 What a Fellowship, What a Joy Divine

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions January 9th – February 27th

January 30th – Who is God?

February 6th – Where is God?

February 13th – Who is Jesus?

February 20th – What is our purpose?

February 27th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Sunday, January 16, 2022 - Why is life so hard?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions - Why is life so hard?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –Why is life so hard?

“Remember: In much wisdom is much aggravation; the more knowledge, the more pain.” (Ecclesiastes 1:18)

Hymn       Great Is Thy Faithfulness       (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       God of Great and God of Small     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Matthew 24:4-6                           Common English Bible Translation

Jesus replied, “Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I’m the Christ.’ They will deceive many people. You will hear about wars and reports of wars. Don’t be alarmed. These things must happen, but this isn’t the end yet. (Gen 3:14-15) The Lord God said to the snake, “Because you did this, you are the one cursed out of all the farm animals, out of all the wild animals. On your belly you will crawl, and dust you will eat every day of your life. I will put contempt between you and the woman, between your offspring and hers. They will strike your head, but you will strike at their heels.” (Question: What are the things that put you on edge?)

Matthew 24:7-8

Nations and kingdom will fight against each other, and there will be famines and earthquakes in all sorts of places. But these things are just the beginning of the sufferings associated with the end. (Gen 3:16) To the woman he said, “I will make your pregnancy very painful; in pain you will bear children. You will desire you husband, but he will rule over you.” (Question: How have you dealt with the pain that has arisen in your life?)

Hymn        My Life Flows On        (In Person Only)

Matthew 24:9-10

They will arrest you, abuse you, and they will kill you. All nations will hate you on account of my name. At that time many will fall away. They will betray each other and hate each other. (Gen 3:17-19) To the man he said, “Because you listened to your wife’s voice and you ate from the tree that I commanded, ‘Don’t eat from it,’ cursed is the fertile land because of you; in pain you will eat from it every day of your life. Weeds and thistles will grow for you, even as you eat the field’s plants; by the sweat of your face you will eat bread – until you return to the fertile land, since from it you were taken; you are soil, to the soil you will return.” (Question: What pain have you observed in life that seems unnecessary?)

Matthew 24:11-12

Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because disobedience will expand, the love of many will grow cold. (Phil 2:3-4) Don’t do anything for selfish purposes, but with humility think of others as better than yourselves. Instead of each person watching out for their own good, watch out for what is better for others. (Question: How do you react when you feel like things are falling apart in your life?)

Hymn    Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling  (In Person Only)

Matthew 24:13-14

But the one who endures to the end will be delivered. This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the world as a testimony to all the nations. Then the end will come. (Mt 5:43-46, 48) “You have heard that it was said, “You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who harass you so that you will be acting as children of your Father who is in heaven. He makes the sun rise on both the evil and the good and sends rain on both the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love only those who love you, what reward do you have? Don’t even the tax collectors do the same? Therefore, just as your heavenly Father is complete in showing love to everyone so also you must be complete. (Question: What are the things you most struggle with handling? Who do you turn to for help?)

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words from the Brief Statement of Faith

In sovereign love God created the world good and makes everyone equally in God’s image, male and female, of every race and people, to live as one community. But we rebel against God; we hid from our Creator. Ignoring God’s commandments. We violate the image of God in others and ourselves, accept lies as truth, exploit neighbor and nature, and threaten death to the planet entrusted to our care. We deserve God’s condemnation. Yet God acts with justice and mercy to redeem creation. 

Hymn       There Is a Balm in Gilead        (In Person Only)

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn      Goodness is Stronger than Evil      (In Person Only)

Hymn List

19 God of Great and God of Small

39 Great Is Thy Faithfulness

418 Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling

750 Goodness Is Stronger than Evil

792 There Is a Balm in Gilead

821 My Life Flows On

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions January 9th – February 27th

January 23rd – Why doesn’t God stop the pain?

January 20th – Who is God?

February 6th – Where is God?

February 13th – Who is Jesus?

February 20th – What is our purpose?

February 27th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Sunday, January 9, 2022 - Why do we exist?

Exploring the Seismic Questions - Why do we exist?

Theme: Exploring the Seismic Questions –Why do we exist?

“Remember how short my life is! Have you created humans for no good reason? (Psalm 89:47)

Hymn 18    Hallelujah! Sing Praise to Your Creator   (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Awakening to God’s Presence                   (In Person Only)

Hymn       God You Sing the Whirling Planets     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Guidance

Genesis 1:26                           Common English Bible Translation

Then God said, “Let us make humanity in our image to resemble us so that they may take charge of the fish of the sea, the birds in the sky, the livestock, all the earth, and all the crawling things on earth.” (Eph 2:10) Instead, we are God’s accomplishment, created in Christ Jesus to do good things. God planned for these good things to be the way that we live our lives. (Question: What are the good things you’ve identified in your life that you feel compelled to share with others?)

Genesis 1:27

God created humanity in God’s own image, in the divine image God created them, male and female God created them. (1 Jn 4:7) Dear friends, let’s love each other, because love is from God, and everyone who loves is born from God and knows God. (Question: What keeps you from experiencing God’s love?)

Hymn       We Are One in the Spirit        (In Person Only) 

Genesis 1:28

God blessed them and said to them, “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and master it. Take charge of the fish of the sea, the birds in the sky, and everything crawling on the ground.” (Jn 17:13) Now I’m coming to you and I say these things while I’m in the world so that they can share completely in my joy. (Question: How has a recognition of blessings in your life impacted your joy?)

Genesis 1:29–30

Then God said, “I now give to you all the plants on the earth that yield seeds and all the trees whose fruit produces its seeds within it. These will be your food. To all wildlife, to all the birds in the sky, and to everything crawling on the ground-to everything that breathes-I give all the green grasses for food.” And that’s what happened. (Ps 35:27) Let those who want things to be set right for me shout for joy and celebrate! Let them constantly say, “The Lord is great – God wants his servant to be at peace.” (Question: What are the things you search for in life?)

Hymn       Standing on the Promises        (In Person Only) 

Genesis 1:31

God saw everything he had made: it was supremely good. There was evening and there was morning the sixth day. (Is 48:17-19) The Lord your redeemer, the holy one of Israel, proclaims: I am the Lord your God who teaches you for your own good, who leads you in the way you should go. If you would pay attention to my commands, your well-being would be like a river, and your righteousness like the waves of the sea. Your offspring would be like the sand, and your descendants like its grains. Their name would never be eliminated, never wiped out from before me. (Question: What aspects of your life will live on beyond your lifespan?) 

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of Old Testament Professor and Theologian Walter Brueggemann

“We exist because of God’s inscrutable generosity in our creation, a generosity so rich that we need not be greedy or self-sufficient, because gifts are always being given. That story has its hope and culmination in the promise that God will make all things right, and that our destiny is to be in peaceable communion with God and with our neighbors, in this age and in the age to come. And between our beginning in generosity and our culmination in communion, our lives are lived in glad, obedient response to God’s purpose in our lives.”

Hymn       I’ve Got Peace like a River        (In Person Only)

Installation of Deacons and Elders (In Person Only)

Sentences of Scripture

Profession of Faith

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the live everlasting. Amen.

Constitutional Questions and lifting of hands

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 debts, as we forgive our debtors; 

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

For thine is the kingdom and the power 

and the glory, forever. Amen

Benediction

Closing Hymn      You Shall Go Out with Joy      (In Person Only)

Hymn List

18 Hallelujah! Sing Praise to Your Creator

23 God, You Spin the Whirling Planets

80 You Shall Go Out with Joy

300 We Are One in the Spirit

623 I’ve Got Peace like a River

838 Standing on the Promises

Sermon Series: Exploring the Seismic Questions January 9th – February 27th

January 16th – Why is life so hard?

January 23rd – Why doesn’t God stop the pain?

January 20th – Who is God?

February 6th – Where is God?

February 13th – Who is Jesus?

February 20th – What is our purpose?

February 27th – What does it mean to follow Jesus?

Sunday, January 2, 2022 - The Birth that Gives Us Purpose

Theme: The Birth that Gives Us Purpose

John 1:9-14

Ephesians 1:3-13

Sunday, December 26, 2021 - How does Jesus change our reactions?

Theme: How does Jesus change our reactions?

Luke 2:41-52

Christmas Eve 2021 - Recognizing Blessings

Lessons and Carols

Recognizing Blessings

Pre Service Music

Welcome

Lighting of the Advent Candles: HOPE, PEACE, JOY, LOVE                        

Hymn              Prepare the Way, O Zion

 

Prayer for Guidance 

First Lesson

Genesis 1:27-31        God Blesses Humankind

God created humanity in God’s own image, in the divine image God created them, male and female God created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and master it. Take charge of the fish of the sea, the birds in the sky, and everything crawling on the ground.” Then God said, “I now give to you all the plants on the earth that yield seeds and all the trees whose fruit produces its seeds within it. These will be your food. To all wildlife, to all the birds in the sky, and to everything crawling on the ground – to everything that breathes – I give all the green grasses for food.” And that’s what happened. God saw everything he had made: it was supremely good.

Hymn          Canticle of the Turning

Second Lesson

Jeremiah 31:31-33             A New Covenant

The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and Judah. It won’t be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt. They broke that covenant with me even though I was their husband, declares the Lord. No, this is the covenant that I will make with the people of Israel after that time, declares the Lord. I will put my Instructions within them and engrave them on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

Medley

Third Lesson

Micah 5:2-4              The Glory of Little Bethlehem

As for you, Bethlehem of Ephrathah, though you are the least significant of Judah’s forces, one who is to be a ruler in Israel on my behalf will come out from you. His origin is from remote times, from ancient days. Therefore, he will give them until the time when she who is in labor gives birth. The rest of his kin will return to the people of Israel. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. They will dwell secure, because he will surely become great throughout the earth.

Carol                    O Little Town of Bethlehem             

Fourth Lesson

Luke 1:26-35, 38               The Annunciation

When Elizabeth was six months pregnant, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a city in Galilee, to a virgin who was engaged to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David’s house. The virgin’s name was Mary. When the angel came to her, he said, “Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you!” She was confused by these words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. God is honoring you. Look! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great and he will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of David his father. He will rule over Jacob’s house forever, and there will be no end to his kingdom.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How will this happen since I haven’t had sexual relations with a man?” The angel replied, “the Holy Spirit will come over you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the one who is to be born will be holy. He will be called God’s Son. Then Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let it be with me just as you have said.” Then the angel left her.

Carol 145                            What Child Is This                    

Fifth Lesson

Matthew 1:18-23               Angel Appears to Joseph

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ took place. When Mary his mother was engaged to Joseph, before they were married, she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband was a righteous man. Because he didn’t want to humiliate her, he decided to call off their engagement quietly. As he was thinking about this, an angel from the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child she carries was conceived by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you will call him, Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Now all of this took place so that what the Lord had spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, And they will call him, Emmanuel. (Emmanuel means “God with us.”)

Carol                   Angels We Have Heard on High

Sixth Lesson

Luke 2:1, 3-7               Luke Tells the Birth of Jesus

In those days Caesar Augustus declared that everyone throughout the empire should be enrolled in the tax lists. Everyone went to their own cities to be enrolled. Since Joseph belonged to David’s house and family line, he went up from the city of Nazareth in Galilee to David’s city, called Bethlehem, in Judea. He went to be enrolled together with Mary, who was promised to him in marriage and who was pregnant. While they were there, the time came for Mary to have her baby. She gave birth to her firstborn child, a son, wrapped him snugly, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the guestroom.

Carol    God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

Seventh Lesson

Luke 2:8-15             The Shepherds Go to the Manger

Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you – wonderful, joyous news for all people. Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said, “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.” When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.”

Carol             Away in a Manger

Eighth Lesson

Matthew 2:1-3, 7-12       The Wise Men are Led by the Star

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.” When King Herod heard this, he was troubled and everyone in Jerusalem was troubled with him. Then Herod secretly called for the magi and found out from them the time when the star had first appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you’ve found him, report to me so that I too may go and honor him.” When they heard the king, they went; and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Because they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by another route.

Carol    We Three Kings of Orient Are

The Lord’s Supper

Invitation

Great Prayer of Thanksgiving

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

 (please pick up the communion elements as you exit the building this evening)

Carol                                       Silent Night

(as Silent Night is played we will pass the light)

Ninth Lesson

John 1:1-5           The Mystery of the Incarnation

In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God. The Word was with God in the beginning. Everything came into being through the Word, and without the Word nothing came into being. What came into being through the Word was life, and the life was the light for all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness doesn’t extinguish the light.

Carol                     Joy to the World  

Benediction

Postlude

Sunday, December 26th Worship is Online Only (No in person worship this day)

Dec 26th - Theme: How does Jesus change our reactions?

Jan 2nd – Theme: The Birth That Gives Us Purpose

Sunday, December 19, 2021 - Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story - Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

Carol       Awake! Awake, and Greet the New Morn      (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Lighting of the Advent Candle (Hope, Peace, Joy. & Love)

Carol      Love Has Come     (In Person Only)

Prayer for God’s Presence

Matthew 1:18-19                           Common English Bible Translation

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ took place. When Mary his mother was engaged to Joseph, before they were married, she became pregnant by the Holy Spirit. Joseph her husband was a righteous man. Because he didn’t want to humiliate her, he decided to call off their engagement quietly. (Question: What hinders having empathy for others?)

Matthew 1:20-24

As he was thinking about this, an angel from the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife, because the child she carries was conceived by the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you will call him, Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Now all of this took place so that what the Lord had spoken through the prophet would be fulfilled: Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, And they will call him, Emmanuel. (Emmanuel means “God with us.”) When Joseph woke up, he did just as an angel from God commanded and took Mary as his wife. (Question: How has taking time to make a decision changed how you handled a situation?)

Carol         The First Nowell          (In Person Only)

Luke 2:8-14

Nearby shepherds were living in the fields, guarding their sheep at night. The Lord’s angel stood before them, the Lord’s glory shone around them, and they were terrified. The angel said, “Don’t be afraid! Look! I bring good news to you – wonderful, joyous news for all people. Your savior is born today in David’s city. He is Christ the Lord. This is a sign for you: you will find a newborn baby wrapped snugly and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great assembly of the heavenly forces was with the angel praising God. They said, “Glory to God in heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors.” (Question: What is it about Jesus that makes you want to know more?)

Luke 2:15

When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” (Question: How do you decide what is worth your time to understand more fully?)

Carol        Go, Tell It on the Mountain         (In Person Only)

Luke 2:16-20

They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child. Everyone who heard it was amazed at what the shepherds told them. Mary committed these things to memory and considered them carefully. The shepherds returned home, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen. Everything happened just as they had been told. (Question: What are the memories you hold onto and go over in your mind the most? Why?)

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of “O Come, All Ye Faithful”

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant; O come ye; O come ye to Bethlehem! Come, and behold him, born the King of angels! O Come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord!

True God from true God, Light from light eternal, born of a virgin, a mortal he comes; very God, begotten not created! O Come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord!

Sing, choirs of angels; sing in exultation; sing, all ye citizens of heaven above! Glory to God, all glory in the highest! O Come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord!

Yea, Lord, we greet the, born this happy morning; Jesus, to thee be all glory given; Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing! O Come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him; O come, let us adore him, Christ, the Lord!

Carol       O Come, All Ye Faithful         (In Person Only)

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

Benediction

Closing Carol      Hark! The Herald Angels Sing      (In Person Only)

Hymn List

107 Awake! Awake, and Greet the New Morn

110 Love Has Come

119 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

133 O Come, All Ye Faithful

136 Go, Tell It on the Mountain

147 The First Nowell

Christmas Eve Services

Dec 19th @ 5pm

Dec 24th @ 7pm

Sunday, December 26th Worship is Online Only (No in person worship this day)

Dec 26th - Theme: How does Jesus change our reactions?

Jan 2nd–Theme: The Birth that Gives us Purpose

Sunday, December 12, 2021 - Finding Our Confidence (in Joy)

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story - Finding Our Confidence (in Joy)

Hymn         My Soul Cries Out with a Joyful Shout      (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Lighting of the Advent Candle (Hope, Peace, & Joy)

Prayer for God’s Presence

Luke 1:26-29                           Common English Bible Translation

When Elizabeth was six months pregnant, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a city in Galilee, to a virgin who was engaged to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David’s house. The virgin’s name was Mary. When the angel came to her, he said, “Rejoice, favored one! The Lord is with you!” She was confused by these words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. (Question: When is it hardest in your life to rejoice?)

Carol    Angels We Have Heard on High   (In Person Only)

Luke 1:30-34

The angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Mary. God is honoring you. Look! You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great and he will be called the Son of the Most Hight. The Lord God will give him the throne of David his father. He will rule over Jacob’s house forever, and there will be no end to his kingdom.” Then Mary said to the angel, “How will this happen since I haven’t had sexual relations with a man?” (Question: What are the surprises in life that have been challenging? How did you respond?)

Hymn  O Come, O Come, Emmanuel   (In Person Only)

Luke 1:35-39

The angel replied, “The Holy Spirit will come over you and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore, the one who is to be born will be holy. He will be called God’s Son. Look, even in her old age, your relative Elizabeth has conceived a son. This woman who was labeled ‘unable to conceive’ is now six months pregnant. Nothing is impossible for God.” Then Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let it be with me just as you have said.” Then the angel left her. Mary got up and hurried to a city in the Judean highlands. (Question: How have you experienced God in challenging moments of your life?)

Luke 1:40-45

Mary entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. With a loud voice she blurted out, “God has blessed you above all women, and he has blessed the child you carry. Why do I have this honor, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb jumped for joy. Happy is she who believed that the Lord would fulfill the promises he made to her.” (Question: How have you shared joy with others?)

Carol  Joy to the World       (In Person Only)

Luke 1:46-55

Mary said, “With all my heart I glorify the Lord! In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my savior. He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant. Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored because the mighty one has done great things for me. Holy is his name. He shows mercy to everyone, from one generation to the next, who honors him as God. He has shown strength with his arm. He has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations. He has pulled the powerful down from their thrones and lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away empty-handed. He has come to the aid of his servant Israel, remembering his mercy, just as he promised to our ancestors, to Abraham and to Abraham’s descendants forever.” (Question: How do you hold onto joy?)

Reflection Together     (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of “Silent Night”

Silent night, holy night! All is calm, all is bright ‘round yon virgin mother and child! Holy Infant, so tender and mild, sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight; glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing “Alleluia: Christ the Savior is born; Christ the Savior is born!”

Silent night, holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light radiant beams from thy holy face, with the dawn of redeeming grace, Jesus, Lord, at they birth, Jesus, Lord, at thy birth.

Silent night, holy night! Wondrous star, lend thy light; with the angels let us sing Alleluia to our King: Christ the Savior is born; Christ the Savior is born.

Carol       Silent Night         (In Person Only)

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

Benediction

Closing Carol      Good Christian Friends, Rejoice      (In Person Only)

Hymn List

88 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

100 My Soul Cries Out with a Joyful Shout

113 Angels We Have Heard on High

122 Silent Night, Holy Night!

132 Good Christian Friends, Rejoice

134 Joy to the World

Advent Series November 28th – December 19th

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story

Dec 19th – Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

            Carol: O Come, All Ye Faithful

Christmas Eve Services

Dec 19th @ 5pm

Dec 24th @ 7pm

Sunday, December 26th Worship is Online Only (No in person worship this day)

Sunday, December 5, 2021 - Discovering Our Purpose (in Peace)

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story - Discovering Our Purpose (in Peace)

Hymn         People, Look East      (In Person Only)

Welcome

Lighting of the Advent Candle (Hope & Peace)

Prayer for God’s Presence

Matthew 2:1-6                           Common English Bible Translation

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in the territory of Judea during the rule of King Herod, magi came from the east to Jerusalem. They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.” When King Herod heard this, he was troubled, and everyone in Jerusalem was troubled with him. He gathered all the chief priests and the legal experts and asked them where the Christ was to be born. They said, “In Bethlehem, of Judea, for this is what the prophet wrote: You, Bethlehem, land of Judah, by no means are you least among the rulers of Judah, because from you will come one who governs, who will shepherd my people Israel.” (Question: What are the things that trouble you that maybe shouldn’t be troubling?)

Carol      There’s a Star in the East      (In Person Only)

Matthew 2:7-9

Then Herod secretly called for the magi and found out for them the time when the star had first appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search carefully for the child. When you’ve found him, report to me so that I too may go and honor him.” When they heard the king, thy went; and look, the star they had seen in the east went ahead of them until it stood over the place where the child was. (Question: Have you ever been asked to do something that made you uncomfortable? Why did it make you uncomfortable?)

Matthew 2:10-12

When they saw the star, they were filled with joy. They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him. Then they opened their treasure chests and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Because they were warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they went back to their own country by another route. (Question: How have you held onto peace for yourself even when situations make it difficult?)

Carol          We Three Kings of Orient Are      (In Person Only)

Matthew 2:13-15

When the magi had departed, an angel from the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Get up. Take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod will soon search for the child in order to kill him.” Joseph got up and, during the night, took the child and his mother to Egypt. He stayed there until Herod died. This fulfilled what the Lord had spoken through the prophet: I have called my son out of Egypt. (Question: Have you ever been nervous about how things are going to work out yet still had peace in a decision being made?)

Carol   What Star Is This, with Beams So Bright   (In Person Only)

Matthew 2:19-23

After King Herod died, an angel from the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. “Get up,” the angel said, “and take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel. Those who were trying to kill the child are dead.” Joseph got up, took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus ruled over Judea in place of his father Herod, Joseph was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he went to the area of Galilee. He settled in a city called Nazareth so that what was spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled: He will be called a Nazarene. (Question: Have you ever felt like you were in the right place at the right time?)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of “Away in a Manger”

Away in a manger, no crib for his bed, the little Lord Jesus laid down his sweet head. The stars in the bright sky looked down where he lay, the little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing; the poor baby wakes, but little Lord Jesus, no crying he makes. I love thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky, and stay by my side until morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask thee to stay close by me forever and love me, I pray. Bless all the dear children in thy tender care, and fit us for heaven to live with thee there.

Carol       Away in a Manger         (In Person Only)

The Lord’s Supper

Invitation

Prayer of Thanksgiving 

Words of Institution

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

Benediction

Closing Carol      Sing of God Made Manifest      (In Person Only)

Hymn List

105 People, Look East

115 Away in a Manger

135 There’s a Star in the East

151 We Three Kings of Orient Are

152 What Star Is This, with Beams So Bright

156 Sing of God Made Manifest

Advent Series November 28th – December 19th

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story

Dec 12th – Finding Our Confidence (in Joy)

            Carol: Silent Night

Dec 19th – Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

            Carol: O Come, All Ye Faithful

Christmas Eve Services

Dec 19th @ 5pm

Dec 24th @ 7pm

Sunday, December 26th Worship is Online Only (No in person worship this day)

Sunday, November 28, 2021 - Finding Ourselves in Jesus' Story

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story - Understanding Our Limits (in Hope)

Hymn         Prepare the Way, O Zion      (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Lighting of the Advent Candle (Hope)

Prayer for God’s Presence

Luke 1:5-12                           Common English Bible Translation

During the rule of King Herod of Judea there was a priest named Zechariah who belonged to the priestly division of Abijah. His wife Elizabeth was a descendant of Aaron. They were both righteous before God, blameless in their observance of all the Lord’s commandments and regulations. They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to become pregnant and they both were very old. One day Zechariah was serving as a priest before God because his priestly division was on duty. Following the custom of priestly service, he was chosen by lottery to go into the Lord’s sanctuary and burn incense. All the people who gathered to worship were praying outside during this hour of incense offering. An angel from the Lord appeared to him, standing to the right of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw the angel, he was startled and overcome with fear. (Question: Have you ever had a fearful moment turn into something amazing?)

Luke 1:13-18

The angel said, “Don’t be afraid, Zechariah. Your prayers have been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will give birth to your son and you must name him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many people will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the Lord’s eyes. He must not drink wine and liquor. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before his birth. He will bring many Israelites back to the Lord their God. He will go forth before the Lord, equipped with the spirit and power of Elijah. He will turn the hearts of fathers back to their children, and he will turn the disobedient to righteous patterns of thinking. He will make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure of this? My wife and I are very old.” (Question: What is your initial reaction when something doesn’t make sense?)

Hymn       O Lord, How Shall I Meet You   (In Person Only)

Luke 1:19-23

The angel replied, “I am Gabriel. I stand in God’s presence. I was sent to speak to you and to bring this good news to you. Know this: What I have spoken will come true at the proper time. But because you didn’t believe, you will remain silent, unable to speak until the day when these things happen.” Meanwhile, the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they wondered why he was in the sanctuary for such a long time. When he came out, he was unable to speak to them. They realized he had seen a vision in the temple, for he gestured to them and couldn’t speak. When he completed the days of his priestly service, he returned home. (Question: What happens when you are pushed to your limits in life?) 

Luke 1:24-25, 57-60

Afterward, his wife Elizabeth became pregnant. She kept to herself for five months, saying, “This is the Lord’s doing. He has shown his favor to me by removing my disgrace among other people.” When the time came for Elizabeth to have her child, she gave birth to a boy. Her neighbors and relatives celebrated with her because they had heard that the Lord had shown her great mercy. On the eighth day, it came time to circumcise the child. They wanted to name him Zechariah because that was his father’s name. But his mother replied, “No, his name will be John.” (Question: Where do you easily and not so easily draw boundaries in your life with others?)

Hymn      I Danced in the Morning       (In Person Only)

Luke 1:61-66

They said to her, “None of your relatives have that name.” Then they began gesturing to his father to see what he wanted to call him. After asking for a tablet, he surprised everyone by writing, “His name is John.” At that moment, Zechariah was able to speak again, and he began praising God. All their neighbors were filled with awe, and everyone throughout the Judean highlands talked about what had happened. All who heard about this considered it carefully. They said, “What then will this child be?” Indeed, the Lord’s power was with him. (Question: What are the boundaries you have drawn that have resulted in living into joy?)

Reflection Together (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

  During this time let us reflect upon the words of “What Child Is This”

What child is this, who, laid to rest, on Mary’s lap is sleeping? 

Whom angels greet with anthems sweet while shepherds watch are keeping? This, this is Christ the King, whom shepherds guard and angels sing; haste, haste to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary!

Why lies he in such mean estate where ox and ass are feeding? Good Christian, fear; for sinners here the silent Word is pleading. Nails, spear, shall pierce him through; the cross be borne for me, for you. Hail, hail, the Word made flesh, the babe, the son of Mary!

So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh; come, one and all, to own him. The King of kings salvation brings; let loving hearts enthrone him. Raise, raise the song on high. The virgin sings her lullaby. Joy, joy, for Christ is born, the babe, the son of Mary!

Carol       What Child Is This         (In Person Only)

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

Benediction

Closing Hymn  Jesus, Jesus, O What a Wonderful Child  (In Person Only)

Hymn List

104 O Lord, How Shall I Meet You

106 Prepare the Way, O Zion

126 Jesus, Jesus, O What a Wonderful Child

145 What Child Is This

157 I Danced in the Morning

Advent Series November 28th – December 19th

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story

Dec 5th – Discovering Our Purpose (in Peace)

            Carol: Away in a Manger

Dec 12th – Finding Our Confidence (in Joy)

            Carol: Silent Night

Dec 19th – Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

            Carol: O Come, All Ye Faithful

Christmas Eve Services

Dec 19th @ 5pm

Dec 24th @ 7pm

Sunday, December 26th Worship is Online Only (No in person worship this day)

Sunday, November 21, 2021 - Abundant Living: Embracing Life

Theme: Abundant Living: Embracing Life

Hymn      All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name    (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Prayer for God’s Presence

2 Corinthians 9:1-4                    Common English Bible Translation

It’s unnecessary for me to write to you about this service for God’s people. I know about your willingness to help. I brag about you to the Macedonians, saying, “Greece has been ready since last year,” and your enthusiasm has motivated most of them. But I’m sending the brothers so that our bragging about you in this case won’t be empty words, and so that you can be prepared, just as I keep telling them you will be. If some Macedonians should come with me and find out that you aren’t ready, we (not to mention you) would be embarrassed as far as this project goes. (Question: How has empty promises or words impacted your relationships or how you understand others?)

Soloist

2 Corinthians 9:5-6

This is why I thought it was necessary to encourage the brothers to go to you ahead of time and arrange in advance the generous gift you have already promised. I want it to be a real gift from you. I don’t want you to feel like you are being forced to give anything. What I mean is this: the one who sows a small number of seeds will also reap a small crop, and the one who sows a generous amount of seeds will also reap a generous crop. (Question: How have you been encouraged in life to be grateful?)

2 Corinthians 9:7-9

Everyone should give whatever they have decided in their heart. They shouldn’t give with hesitation or because of pressure. God loves a cheerful giver. God has the power to provide you with more than enough of every kind of grace. That way, you will have everything you need always and in everything to provide more than enough for every kind of good work. As it is written, He scattered everywhere; he gave to the needy; his righteousness remains forever. (Question: When is it most difficult to be filled with gratitude?)

Hymn       Great God of Every Blessing      (In Person Only)

2 Corinthians 9:10-11

The one who supplies seed for planting and bread for eating will supply and multiply your seed and will increase your crop, which is righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous in every way. Such generosity produces thanksgiving to God through us. (Question: What are events, situations, things, relationships that helps you to feel like you are living an abundant life?)

2 Corinthians 9:12-14

Your ministry of this service to God’s people isn’t only fully meeting their needs but it is also multiplying in many expressions of thanksgiving to God. They will give honor to God for your obedience to your confession of Christ’s gospel. They will do this because this service provides evidence of your obedience, and because of your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone. They will also pray for you, and they will care deeply for you because of the outstanding grace that God has given to you. Thank God for his gift that words can’t describe! (Question: How do you live gratitude?)

Hymn        God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending       (In Person Only)

Reflection Together (In Person Only)

Offering Ourselves to God

      During this time let us reflect upon an excerpt from the Confession of 1967 (language has been modernized)

The new life takes shape in a community in which we know that God loves and accepts us in spite of who we are. We therefore accept ourselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace. The new life does not release us from conflict. We still have to struggle with disheartening difficulties and problems. Nevertheless, as we mature in love and faithfulness in life with Christ, we live in freedom and good cheer, bearing witness on good days and hard days, confident that the new life is pleasing to God and helpful to others.

Music       Beauty of the Earth We Gather Together      (In Person Only)

Prayer 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

Benediction

Closing Hymn    Come, Christians Join to Sing   (In Person Only)

Hymn List

263 All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name!

267 Come, Christians, Join to Sing

336 We Gather Together

694 Great God of Every Blessing

716 God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending

Advent Series November 28th – December 19th

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story

Nov 28th – Understanding Our Limits (in Hope)

            Carol: What Child Is This

Dec 5th – Discovering Our Purpose (in Peace)

            Carol: Away in a Manger

Dec 12th – Finding Our Confidence (in Joy)

            Carol: Silent Night

Dec 19th – Celebrating Our Relationships (in Love)

            Carol: O Come, All Ye Faithful

Sunday, November 14, 2021 - Abundant Living: Determining Our Worth

Theme: Abundant Living: Determining Our Worth

Hymn      Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing    (In Person Only)

Welcome

 

Prayer for Preparation

Baptism of Dennis John Sierens II                    (In Person Only)

Parents: Janna and Dennis Sierens

  Godparents: Kristina Berry and Ed Boguszewski

Presentation

Renunciations

Thanksgiving Over the Water 

Baptism

Welcome

Hymn      God of Great and God of Small        (In Person Only)  

Prayer for God’s Presence

God of Wisdom, may we be inspired this day by the teachings of Jesus to live into your transformative power. Amen.

Matthew 10:5-10                           Common English Bible Translation

Jesus sent these twelve out and commanded them, “Don’t go among the Gentiles or into a Samaritan city. Go instead to the lost sheep, the people of Israel. As you go, make this announcement: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with skin diseases, and throw out demons. You received without having to pay. Therefore, give without demanding payment. Workers deserve to be fed, so don’t gather gold or silver or copper coins for your money belts to take on your trips. Don’t take a backpack for the road or two shirts or sandals or a walking stick. (Question: How do you decide what you deserve to have or not?)

Matthew 10:11-15

Whatever city or village you go into, find somebody in it who is worthy and stay there until you go on your way. When you go into a house, say, ‘Peace!’ If the house is worthy, give it your blessing of peace. But if the house isn’t worthy, take back your blessing. If anyone refuses to welcome you or listen to your words, shake the dust off your feet as you leave that house or city. I assure you that it will be more bearable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah on Judgment Day than it will be for that city. (Eccl 2:3) I tried cheering myself with wine and by embracing folly – with wisdom still guiding me – until I might see what is really worth doing in the few days that human beings have under heaven. (Question: How do you determine someone else’s worth?) 

Soloist

Matthew 10:16-20

“Look, I’m sending you as sheep among wolves. Therefore, be wise as snakes and innocent as doves. Watch out for people – because they will hand you over to councils and they will beat you in their synagogues. They will haul you in front of governors and even kings because of me so that you may give your testimony to them and to the Gentiles. Whenever they hand you over, don’t worry about how to speak or what you will say, because what you can say will be given to you at that moment. You aren’t doing the talking, but the Spirit of my Father is doing the talking through you. (Question: What centers you when things are difficult?)

Matthew 10:21-25

Brothers and sister will hand each other over to be executed. A father will turn his child in. Children will defy their parents and have them executed. Everyone will hate you on account of my name. But whoever stands firm until the end will be saved. Whenever they harass you in one city, escape to the next, because I assure that you will not go through all the cities of Israel before the Human One comes. “Disciples aren’t greater than their teacher, and slaves aren’t greater than their master. It’s enough for disciples to be like their teacher and slaves like their master. If they have called the head of the house Beelzebul, it’s certain that they will call the members of his household by even worse names. (Phil 4:8) From now on, brothers and sisters, if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things: all that is true, all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise. (Question: Who and what impacts how you understand your worth?)

Hymn    I Will Call Upon the Lord    (In Person Only)

Matthew 10:26-31

“Therefore, don’t be afraid of those people because nothing is hidden that won’t be revealed, and nothing secret that won’t be brought out into the open. What I say to you in the darkness, tell in the light; and what you hear whispered, announce from the rooftops. Don’t be afraid of those who kill the body but can’t kill the soul. Instead, be afraid of the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell. Aren’t two sparrows sold for a small coin? But not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father knowing about it already. Even the hairs of your head are all counted. Don’t be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows. (Question: How does God impact your worth?)

Hymn         This Is My Father’s World        (In Person Only)

Reflection Together (In Person Only)

Let us reflect on these Words from the Apostle’s Creed (In Person Only)

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the live everlasting. Amen.

Hymn       Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying      (In Person Only)

Prayer 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

Benediction

Closing Hymn    Come! Liv in the Light!   (In Person Only)

Hymn List

19 God of Great and God of Small

370 This Is My Father’s World

469 Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying

475 Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing

621 I Will Call upon the Lord

749 Come! Live in the Light!

Sermon Series November 14th – November 21st  

Theme: Abundant Living

November 21st  – Gratitude

Advent Series November 28th – December 19th

Theme: Finding Ourselves in Jesus’ Story

Sunday, November 7, 2021 - Legacies and New Beginnings

Theme: Legacies and New Beginnings

Revelation 21:1-6