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Pass It On!
A Service for Camping Sunday
April 24th, 2022
Greeting
The grace of our Saviour Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
And also with you.
Lighting the Christ Candle
We recognize and praise God’s wonderful world just as the psalmist did in Psalm 104:24, “O Lord, how manifold are your works! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”
Introit Fires Burning
Fires burning, fires burning
Draw nearer, draw nearer
In the glowing, in the glowing
Come sing and be merry
Call to Worship
At some camps, a bell rings to signal the beginning. Let’s begin Camping Sunday the same way. (Bell Rings)
The bell is ringing.
We gather for instruction.
Let’s go to the warmth of the campfire.
Can we bring s’mores?
Of course! We will all share the warmth of God’s love!
Let’s get started!
Opening Prayer
Creator God,
We thank you for bringing us together in this place,
to celebrate the recreation, the re-creation, of enjoying the fun and community of camping.
We thank you for all the people in our lives, and especially those who have gathered with us.
We also thank you for all of creation; the hills and trees, the rocks, the water, the animals of field and forest.
We thank you for your love for us; the love that we in turn share with one another.
Open our hearts to receive your word, to learn more about creation and your love.
Guide us in your love and the spirit of creation
so that we might be examples for others to follow. Amen
Opening Hymn: “It Only Takes a Spark (Pass It On),” VU 289
It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing;
That's how it is with God's Love,
Once you've experienced it,
Your spread the love to everyone
You want to pass it on.
What a wondrous time is spring,
When all the tress are budding
The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming;
That's how it is with God's love,
Once you've experienced it.
You want to sing, it's fresh like spring,
You want to pass it on.
I wish for you my friend
This happiness that I've found;
You can depend on God
It matters not where you're bound,
I'll shout it from the mountain top
I want the world to know
The Lord of love has come to me
I want to pass it on.
Prayer of Approach:
Creator God, the spark has kindled a fire.
We gather for its warmth and light.
Your love is the warmth that fills our hearts.
Your love lights the way.
First, we experience the warmth and light of your love,
And then we pass it on.
Prayer of Confession
Dear God, we love your creation,
yet sometimes refuse to care enough for it.
We love our neighbours as you have taught us,
yet sometimes we hurt them or refuse to allow our differences to transform us.
Your love for us surrounds us in every way,
yet sometimes we fail to acknowledge it.
Out of your timeless greatness, dear God,
please keep loving and forgiving us.
Guide us to do, say, and think according to your will.
Guide us to live in respectful relationship with creation.
And when there are temptations or other examples to follow that lead us away from you,
we ask that you set us aright, yet again.
Our trust in you is complete. Amen.
Assurance of God’s Blessing:
God is the beginning, and through God all things have come into being. God is life and that life brings abundant freedom and live-giving peace for all people. God’s love shines in the most difficult times, and nothing can separate us from that love.
Hymn “What Does the Lord Require of You,” VU 701
What does the Lord require of you?
What does the Lord require of you?
Justice, kindness, walk humbly with your God;
To seek justice, and love kindness, and walk humbly with your God
Gospel Reading John 15:1–8
Herein is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
O God of Resurrection, breathe your Holy Spirit upon us now,
so that as your Word is read and preached,
we might hear, understand, and believe. Amen.
Message: ‘Camping Might Be Just What We Need!’
Life has certainly changed in the last few generations. The population balance has moved from rural to urban with less than 20% of Canadians living in rural areas. The majority of people you meet as you meander through life will know more about subways, computer technology, and Siri than how to plant and grow enough food to last the winter.
Our very bodies have changed over the millennia. Looking at drawings of ancient humans, you will see different facial structures, based partly on the fact that they did not have as large a forebrain as we do. People are taller today than they were just 150 years ago. We change and we adapt.
Yet, we wonder if the current rate of change in our techno-world is a little faster than we can handle. Many are replacing typical conversation with social media and texting. Some people see a “food source” as being the local grocery story, rarely thinking of the flowchart of activity before an item lands on a grocery shelf. And the food we buy is often a little suspect with respect to how natural it is.
When even children are being treated for stress and anxiety, and young teens turn to increasingly self-destructive behaviour, we wonder what is happening. While there is a growing interest in spirituality, formal commitment to a spiritual community is becoming less common. Can young people develop spiritual connections that provide boosts and strength for both joy and sorrow? Do young people have communities on which they can rely?
We are hyper-vigilant to care about the safety of today’s youth: the right kind of car seats, the best cribs, organic food, safety rules for school and bus, properly trained child care providers, and so on. We follow best practices for discipline and give children choices so that they feel valued. Yet we often keep them inside, inside our house, inside our cars, inside our schools… We can often keep them safely not outside.
Church camp helps to address a few gaps in our best intentions to provide for our children, youth, young adults, and people of all ages. Whether it be a church retreat, a day camp, or a week-long outdoor summer camp, church outdoor ministries/camps are providing unique experiences for people of all ages. These ministries are:
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An invitation to question everything, from the everyday to the mysterious
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Opportunities to gain personal meaning through discovering, naming, claiming, and celebrating our God-given gifts and talents
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Time to stretch our imaginations and grow our creativity
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Occasions to find meaning in community as we engage in acts of mercy and justice
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Holistic ministry that combines body, mind, and spirit
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Inclusion in a community that points toward something larger than individual concerns
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Opportunities to wonder and deepen our awareness of the environment and respect for nature
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An experience of “Sabbath” as we step away from society’s hectic way of life
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Leadership development opportunities for both staff and campers
Spending time outside used to be so common and so natural. Today, it is the subject of studies. Author Jill L. Ferguson contributed the following ideas in a 2017 online article in The Huffington Post. She said that spending time outside can prevent myopia or nearsightedness in children. It can benefit the mental health of adults and children. It encourages exercise, which then correlates to better academic achievement. And spending time outside exposes children to nature, which helps reduce stress levels. Wow—who knew?
In today’s scripture passage, Jesus compares himself to a vine, with productive, fruit-growing branches. Neither the branches nor the fruit will survive without the life-giving vine. Neither will they thrive without God. The pulsing life of our faith is the vine that encourages our good works, our understanding, and our love that encompasses God’s creation.
At church camps, campers and counsellors work to bear the following fruit: They create, play games, exercise, lead and follow. They make new friends, help others, problem-solve together, sing. They explore nature even as they interact with it. They add to their understandings of diversity, equality, fairness, and faith. They become productive, growing branches that receive sustenance from the vine of Christ’s example and guidance.
So let’s sit outside, together, around the campfire of our imagination. You will realize that the warmth you feel doesn’t come only from the fire, but also from your connections with those around you, and a growing understanding of your place in the universe. Your smiles, your songs, your thoughts become a prayer of gratitude to Creator God. And something inside you wants this to last forever. Amen
A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
We believe in God:
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Invitation to Offering
As we gather, we recognize that we are truly blessed;
to live in God’s wondrous Creation,
to have family and friends and neighbours that we can depend upon.
As God has blessed us
we, in turn, share a portion of that blessing with others,
our time, talent, and tithes,
in support of the work of God’s church and our camping mission.
The offering will now be received.
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Prayer of Dedication
Loving God,
accept the gifts of our time, talent, and tithes for the work of your church,
in this community and beyond.
We share what we have so that the warmth and light of your love will spread to everyone, and we shout from the mountaintops: Pass it on. Amen
Hymn VU 543 We Give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayers of the People
God of love, we can learn a lot from the cooperation and fun of camp. In life, as at camp, learning and challenges become stepping stones to our growing maturity. Thank you for surrounding all of us with love, guidance and forgiveness.
We turn away from you sometimes, and doubt you or stop seeking to understand your terms, as opposed to our terms. So today, dear God, our prayers for the people include ourselves and others like us who need reminders about your commitment to us.
Help us to take on a mantle of caring for all life—no matter what our differences are—so that we can make a real difference in the world. There are so many struggling for food or peace, for safety, or for the freedom to worship. We sometimes feel so helpless. Guide us to ways in which we can help those in need; open us to receive your teachings. Help us let our little lights shine by showing love to all.
Help us to accept changes in our understanding of your word that encourage deeper thinking, shifts in perspectives and understanding, which can all lead us to a stronger faith. Bless those who are struggling with physical or mental illness, those grieving losses of any kind, and those who are attempting to find honesty in relationships in social, family or work situations. God, help those who are suffering find strength in your love and feel renewed in their faith.
Humbly, we ask your blessing on these our intentions…
Together, we pray as you have taught us to pray: “Our Father…Amen”
Commissioning
Take the warmth and light represented by this fire into your lives.
Take the warmth and light of God’s love into your lives.
May the fun and faith of church camps, reside in your minds and hearts.
And…remember to pass it on.
Sung Benediction: “Go Now In Peace,” VU 964
Go now in peace, go now in peace.
May the love of God surround you everywhere, everywhere you may go.
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—David Root and Nancy Rouble, Board members for Camp McDougall in Northern Ontario
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INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT UNITED CHURCH CAMPING:
• United Church Camping is the largest denominationally based camping ministry in Canada, with over 60 camps! Some of our camps are over 100 years young!
• Over 4,000 people volunteer as staff (over half of them under the age of 18). Over 2,000 serve as paid staff (over half under 18).
• Over 6,000 people work at our camps each year. This does not include the 100s of volunteers who repair/build facilities, take part in spring clean-ups, organize/attend fundraising events, and more!
• Each summer between 20,000 and 24,000 campers attend a United Church camp.
• According to the 2009 “I Am Camp” postcard campaign, the number one reason that campers come back to a camp again and again is friendship. “Memories and friends that last a lifetime!”
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WEEKLY MESSAGE April 17, 2022 Easter Sunday
Greeting
This Easter Sunday we gather and welcome each of you as an Easter People. We are here to worship; asking God to be with us on our Easter journey, entering our hearts and minds so we may be more like God’s Son, Jesus, who lived and died and was raised again that we might have eternal life. We celebrate this morning in his name.
Lighting the Christ Candle
Radiant God, you have come into our lives in the mystery of the Resurrected Christ. Alleluia! Open our spirits that we might experience your glory. Reveal to us the mystery of the ages. Glow into the skeptical places of our souls. Dazzle us with light that transforms. Excite us with a message that kindles hope. In the name of the ever-living Christ, we pray. Amen.
Call to Worship
Christ is risen!
He is risen indeed!
God has raised Jesus from the dead.
God welcomes us into a new world filled with grace.
God gives new life and new hope.
Let us sing our alleluias with joy.
Opening Prayer
God of New Life, we stand in awe of the miracles you have poured out upon us. We witness the miracle of the turning of the seasons, of the spring pushing aside the snow to make room for flowers. We witness the miracle of love for humankind shown in Jesus’ death and resurrection, of the warmth of love melting the apathy of our hearts. We witness the miracle of the resurrection, of our liberation from the fear of judgment and of death. We cannot earn these miracles, but you have given them to us as a gift. We cannot perform these miracles ourselves, but you are faithful. You always bring about spring after winter. You always love us. You always free us from our fears. Thank you, God of New Life. May we bring these miracles into the lives of others. Amen.
*Opening Hymn VU 155 Jesus Christ Is Risen Today
Jesus Christ is risen today, hallelujah!
our triumphant holy day, hallelujah!
who did once, upon the cross, hallelujah!
suffer to redeem our loss, hallelujah!
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Hymns of praise then let us sing, hallelujah!
unto Christ, our heavenly King, hallelujah!
who endured the cross and grave, hallelujah!
sinners to redeem and save, hallelujah!
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But the pains which he endured, hallelujah!
our salvation have procured, hallelujah!
now above the sky he’s King, hallelujah!
where the angels ever sing, hallelujah!
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Sing we to our God above, hallelujah!
praise eternal as God's love, hallelujah!
praise our God, ye heavenly host, hallelujah!
praise the Son and Holy Ghost, hallelujah!
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Isaiah 65:17-25
Responsive Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
*Hymn VU 169 Good Christians All Rejoice and Sing
Good Christians all, rejoice and sing!
Now is the triumph of our King!
To all the world glad news we bring:
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
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The Lord of life is risen today!
Bring flowers of song, bedeck the way;
let every tongue rejoice and say:
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
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Praise we in songs of victory
that love, that life which cannot die,
and sing with hearts uplifted high:
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
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Your name we bless, O risen Lord,
and sing today with one accord
the life laid down, the life restored:
Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah!
Gospel Reading John 20:1-18
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praises be to God!
Prayer of Confession
God of love, you have shown that you call imperfect people; forgive us; call us to be more by your grace, than we could be on our own. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
You are risen with Christ nothing will stop you now!
In the love of Christ, we are forgiven and encouraged. In the spirit of Christ, we know God’s peace and inspiration.
God’s love will sustain you in all the days that lie ahead.
Thanks be to God! Amen.
*Hymn VU 173 Thine Is the Glory
Thine is the glory,
risen, conquering Son:
endless is the victory
thou o’er death hast won.
Angels in bright raiment
rolled the stone away,
kept the folded grave-clothes
where the body lay.
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[Refrain:]
Thine is the glory,
risen, conquering Son,
endless is the victory
thou o’er death hast won.
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Lo, Jesus meets us,
risen from the tomb!
lovingly he greets us,
scatters fear and gloom.
Let the church with gladness
hymns of triumph sing,
for the Lord now liveth:
death hath lost its sting. [Refrain]
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No more we doubt thee,
glorious Prince of life;
Life is nought without thee:
aid us in our strife;
make us more than conquerors,
through thy deathless love;
bring us safe through Jordan
to thy home above. [Refrain]
Prayer of Illumination
Ever-living God, may your Easter story become our story. May the wonder and awe of lives made whole, take hold deep in our soul. May we receive and live the miracle account of resurrection. We pray in the name of the enlivening Christ. Amen.
Message ‘The Resurrection of Jesus’
The Sunday of the Resurrection is not only the greatest day of the church year; it is also the only one that is set by the moon. Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon on or after the spring equinox. As complicated as that sounds, it makes ancient sense, since it means Easter coincides with the greening of the earth.
‘Christ has risen indeed,’ and the whole world comes to life. Sap rises in dormant trees, and trumpet lilies spill sweet smells on the air. The connection is a happy one guaranteed to renew our faith in the creative power of God.
However, spring is entirely natural. Buy a daffodil in the winter and it looks like nothing in your hands---a small onion, with its thin skin and scruffy roots. If you have any experience with bulbs, that does not worry you. You know, that you just need to wait. Come spring, the bulb escapes the earth and will explode with colour. As miraculous as it is, it is completely natural.
Resurrection, on the other hand, is entirely unnatural. When a person is buried in the ground, that is it. You do not wait around for the person to reappear so you might pick up where you left off. Not on our side of the grave anyway. We say our good-byes, and pay our respects knowing that springtime happens in a cemetery on the top of the ground and around the graves, not in them.
That is all Mary Magdalene was doing that morning---paying her respects, going to his tomb to convince herself it was all true. It was still dark, but even from a distance she knew something was wrong. She could smell damp earth, cold rock from inside. Someone had moved the stone!!! Perhaps afraid that Jesus would become a saint, afraid his tomb would become a shrine, someone had taken him away-----God knew where---was it to a steep cliff? Or to the town dump? His body was all that Mary had left, and now it too was gone.
So, Mary ran back and brought two of the others back with her, but once they had satisfied themselves that what she said was true. They left, and they left her there weeping. If they tried to lead her away, she refused them.
Even angels could not soften her resolve. The angels were there when she worked up her nerve to look inside the tomb. “Why are you weeping?” they asked her. “They have taken away my Lord,” she answered them, “and I do not know where they have laid him.”
It never occurred to Mary that they might be the culprits---but it was not as if she was thinking clearly. She was operating on automatic pilot, so that when she left the tomb, she bumped into the gardener without even seeing him. At this point the only value of the gardener to her was that he might answer her question. “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.”
Just what did she think he would do---place the body over her shoulders and she could actually carry him? This was totally unreasonable, but the gardener did not seem to mind.
Mary, he said to her, and she turned and stared at him. “Rabbouni! She cried out,” my Teacher!” “Do not hold on to me,” he cautioned her, ”because I have not yet ascended to the Father.” Now this sounds like an odd thing for him to say since there was no evidence that she was physically holding on to him in any way. But, perhaps it was what she called him, ‘My Teacher’ the old name she used to call him. Maybe he could hear it in her voice, just how much she wanted things back the way they were, familiar to her and not so frightening. Rabbouni, she called him, but that was his Friday name. Now it is Sunday---A new day and a new life.
Christ was not on his way back to her or the others. He was on the way to God. Maybe this is why the other Gospel’s accounts of the resurrection tell us not to be afraid—because new life is frightening. It is unnatural. To expect a sealed tomb and find one filled with angels, to hunt the past and discover the future, to seek a corpse and find the risen Lord---none of this is natural.
Death is natural. Loss is natural. Grief is natural. But those stones have been rolled away this happy morning, to reveal the highly unnatural truth. By the light of this day God has planted a seed of life in us that cannot be killed, and if we remember this then there is nothing we cannot do---move mountains, banish fear, love our enemies, change the world.
The only thing we cannot do is hold on to him. He has asked us--- to please not do that, because he knows we would prefer to keep him with us than let him take us where he is going. Better we should let HIM hold on to us. Better we should let HIM take us into the presence of God, who is not behind us but ahead of us---every step of the way.
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
*Hymn VU 175 This Is the Day That God Has Made
[Refrain] This is the day that God has made! Rejoice! Rejoice and be exceedingly glad!
This is the day that God has made! Rejoice! Rejoice! Hallelujah!
Christ has conquered death at last, left the tomb that held him fast!
Gone the sorrow, gone the night, dawns the morning clear and bright! [refrain]
Jesus lives who once was dead, lives forever, as he said!
Risen now our Saviour King, songs of gladness let us sing! [refrain]
*A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
God raised to say YES to life. We dance around the story, hung up on rationally dissecting it. Let us dance with the Resurrected Lord of Easter---a much more radical invitation because he invites our discipleship. Let us live as Easter people and offer our very lives to God-time, talents, lives, and money. We now offer our gifts of money for the work of this congregation and for God’s work across Canada and around the world through the Mission and Service Fund of The United Church of Canada.
*Hymn VU 543 We give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
Lord, we come today with many different feelings---
JOY that Jesus has risen from the dead
GRATITUDE that he died for our sins
HOPE for eternal life
SUPPLICATION asking your guidance in all we do
SURE, KNOWLEDGE that God’s redeeming love is with us now and forever.
We present ourselves and our gifts today with the hope they will be used to further the coming of your kingdom here and around the world. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
*Hymn VU 180 Christ Is Risen, Yes Indeed
[Refrain] Christ is rise, yes, indeed! Hallelujah!
Daughters of Jerusalem come at dawn and look for him. [refrain]
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Here’s the news an angel gives: “He was dead but now he lives.” [refrain]
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“Just remember his own word, which not long ago you heard.” [refrain]
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“Seek him not among the dead. Sing a song of joy instead.” [refrain]
Prayers of the People
In the gathering of your people, God, we find ourselves directing our focus beyond ourselves. We are reminded that you are a God who affirms our being and pushes us to face new realities. In our common sharing of the faith, we are aware of your spirit that forms and shapes us. In our expectation of your surprising future, we are open to the transforming presence of the one who confronts us in our certainty, and comforts us in our despair. As an Easter people, we know the possibility of new life that emerges from the death of hatred, and the removal of despair. May the promise of that new day dawning in our midst give energy to us all. We pray in the name of your son, Jesus.
*Hymn VU 211 Crown Him with Many Crowns
Crown him with many crowns,
the Lamb upon his throne;
hark! how the heavenly anthem drowns
all music but its own!
Awake, my soul, and sing
of him who died for thee,
and hail him as thy matchless King
through all eternity.
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Crown him the Lord of life,
who triumphed o'er the grave,
and rose victorious in the strife
for those he came to save.
His glories now we sing,
who died and rose on high,
who died eternal life to bring,
and lives that death may die.
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Crown him the Lord of peace,
whose power a sceptre sways
from pole to pole, that wars may cease,
absorbed in prayer and praise.
His reign shall know no end;
and round his piercèd feet
fair flowers of Paradise extend
their fragrance ever sweet.
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Crown him the Lord of love;
behold his hands and side,
rich wounds yet visible above,
in beauty glorified.
All hail, Redeemer, hail!
for thou hast died for me:
thy praise shall never, never fail
throughout eternity.
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Invitation
In the name of the One who said, “I am the bread of life,” I invite you to come and eat.
In the name of the One who said, “I am the true vine,” I invite you to come and drink.
In the name of the One who said, “Love one another, as I have loved, you,” I invite you to the table of Jesus the Christ.
Call to Give Thanks
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them up to God.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Thanksgiving
Hallelujah, thanks and praise, ever-lasting God, worker of wonders, maker of miracles, author of all life and giver of life eternal! Out of chaos and fear you bring beauty and hope. Out of despair and death you create courage and new life. And so, with the risen Christ, who makes all things new by the power of his resurrection, we join in the song of a new day, to sing your praise.
Hymn 480 Let Us Break Bread Together
Let us break bread together on our knees,
let us break bread together on our knees.
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[Refrain:]
When I fall down on my knees,
with my face to the rising sun,
Oh, Lord, have mercy on me.
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Let us drink wine together on our knees;
let us drink wine together on our knees. [Refrain]
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Let us praise God together on our knees;
let us praise God together on our knees. [Refrain]
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Remembering Jesus at the Table
On the night before he died, Jesus took bread, and after giving thanks to you, God, he broke it, and gave it to those who sat with him, saying: “Take, eat. This is my body, given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” “This cup is the new covenant sealed in my blood, shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this in remembrance of me.”
Prayer of Intercession
Help us to love as Christ loved. Knowing our own weakness, may we stand with all who stumble. Sharing in his suffering, may we remember all who suffer. Held in his love, may we embrace all whom the world denies. Rejoicing in his forgiveness, may we forgive all who sin against us. Let us share with Jesus in prayer saying, “Our Father… Amen.”
Gifts of God for the People of God
—Jesus the Christ, the bread of life
—Jesus the Christ, the true vine
Prayer after Communion
Life-giving God, may, we share Christ’s body, live his risen life; we, drink his cup, bring new life to others; we, whom the Spirit lights, give light to the world. Keep us firm in the hope you have set before us, so that we and all your children shall be free, and all creation will live to praise your name. Amen.
*Commissioning
Go forth, in the footsteps of the disciples. Use your knowledge of the risen Christ to bring hope to others as we await Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit. Praise and honour God in all your words and actions. Amen.
Stay well. Stay safe. Keep a song in your heart.
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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April 15, 2022 Good Friday
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Prayer of Approach
God of all days, we gather on this day of sadness and triumph, our hearts breaking and broken by the wonder of it all. And you are with us. In our waiting and our weeping, keep us willing to enter fully into the mystery and pain of this day, for by your kindness, we will find our way through it. Amen
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Introit VU 144 Were You There (vs. 1, 3)
Were you there when they crucified my Lord? (Were you there?)
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh!
Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord? (Were you there?)
Were you there when the sun refused to shine? (Were you there?)
Were you there when the sun refused to shine?
Oh!
Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when the sun refused to shine? (Were you there?)
Responsive Reading – VU 744 Psalm 22 Part One
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
A Prayer for Holy Week
God of passionate and vulnerable love,
whose body, broken on the cross
rebukes us still:
Save us, hold us, and forgive us,
that you as victor and victim
might lead us from death to life;
through Jesus, the Crucified. Amen (VU 150)
Hymn – VU 144 Were You There (vs 2)
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? (Were you there?)
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh!
Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree? (Were you there?)
Scripture – John 19: 16b – 42
This is the good news of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God.
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Reflection
It had to happen you know, it had to happen. And we need not be surprised tonight, as it is as hard as it is to be with someone who is going to die. God, give us strength to see it through.
The Bible gives us many reasons for this day, but our United Church ‘A Song of Faith’ expresses it this way:
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So filled with the Holy Spirit was he that in him people experienced the presence of God among them. We sing praise to God incarnate.
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Jesus announced the coming of God’s reign—a commonwealth not of domination but of peace, justice, and reconciliation.
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He healed the sick and fed the hungry. He forgave sins and freed those held captive by all manner of demonic powers.
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He crossed barriers of race, class, culture, and gender.
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He preached and practiced unconditional love—love of God, love of neighbour, love of friend, love of enemy—and he commanded has followers to love one another as he had loved them.
Because his witness to love was threatening, those exercising power sought to silence Jesus. He suffered abandonment and betrayal, state-sanctioned torture and execution. He was crucified.
And we who love him as best we can, have come to be with him at this time, and to hold one another in our grief.
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Let us take a time in silence to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
Prayers of the People
God of power and love, you have shown your compassion in Jesus the Christ. Guide the work of the church. Help it to persevere in faith and to proclaim your name to people everywhere.
God of power and love, your Spirit guides the church and makes it holy. Strengthen and sustain all who minister, and for all who serve the church with the gifts God gives to them. Keep them healthy and safe. Let us pray for all preparing for baptism and reaffirmation of faith, that they may respond to God’s love and grow in grace all their life. Let us pray for all those who do not know God, that the light of the Holy Spirit may awaken them to faith. We pray this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Hymn – VU 149 When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of glory died,
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.
Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
save in the death of Christ, my God:
all the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to his blood.
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See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
or thorns compose so rich a crown?
Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were a present far too small:
love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.
A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Closing Hymn – VU 586 We Shall Go Out With Hope of Resurrection
We shall go out with hope of resurrection;
we shall go out, from strength to strength go on;
we shall go out and tell our stories boldly;
tales of a love that will not let us go.
We'll sing our songs of wrongs that can be righted;
we'll dream our dream of hurts that can be healed;
we'll weave a cloth of all the world united
within the vision of new life who sets us free.
We'll give a voice to those who have not spoken;
we'll find the words for those whose lips are sealed;
we'll make the tunes for those who sing no longer,
expressive love alive in every heart.
We'll share our joy with those who are still weeping,
raise hymns of strength for hearts that break in grief,
we'll leap and dance the resurrection story
including all in circles of our love.
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Stay well. Stay safe. Keep a song in your heart.
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE April 10, 2022 Palm Sunday
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Greeting
God is with us in ways that remind us of the world around us: like a well-marked highway, God will make sure we take the proper route in life; like a familiar address, God will make us feel at home; like a loving parent, God will never leave us or forget us. The peace of Christ be with you all, on this Palm Sunday.
And also with you.
Call to Worship
Here he comes!
Who?
The Messiah! The Christ! God’s chosen One! Hosanna!
Hosanna! Hallelujah!
He’s at the gates now. He’ll be arriving any minute. Have you Palm branches ready?
Hosanna! Hallelujah!
That’s right! Here comes our king!
“Hey, ho, away we go. Riding on a donkey…” (wave palm branches)
Wait! Why is a king riding on a donkey? Why does he look so quiet in the middle of our parade? Where is his army? Has he come to save the people?
Riding on a donkey. No shouts of rebellion. No army. Just a message.
“God’s kingdom is coming and God’s kingdom is here.”
Just a message.
“Love one another as I have loved you.”
Let us worship our Servant King. (Richard Bott, Vancouver)
Opening Prayer
We praise you and bless you, ever-loving God. On this day, Jesus entered the holy city of Jerusalem and was proclaimed King by those who waved and spread palm branches along his way. Let these palm branches be for us signs of his victory. Grant that we who bear Christ’s name may walk wit him, die with him, and rise with him to new and everlasting life. In Jesus‘ name we pray. Amen.
*Opening Hymn VU 124 He Came Riding on a Donkey (waving our palm branches)
He came riding on a donkey,
he came riding into town,
slow and easy kind of lowly
he came riding with the dawn.
His disciples walked beside him,
staying close, a little shy;
not too sure where he would guide them,
onto live or on to die.
But all the morning sang his praises;
waking birds and dancing wind;
here he is, the Son of David,
riding on to take his throne.
Then the children gathered, singing
shouts of laughter, bursting cheer;
in the streets their song was ringing,
“Hosannas” filled the morning air.
Timid adults strained to see him,
caught the Spirit, joined the song;
spread their cloaks along before him,
branches flashing in the sun.
So all the city sang his praises,
waking streets and dancing crowd.
here he is, the Son of David;
our Messiah, Son of God.
In our fasting, and our feasting,
called to follow in his way;
called to walk his road to Easter,
called to live his cross today.
Hosanna to the Son of David,
hosanna in the heavens above;
Blessed is he who comes to save us,
blessed is he who brings his love.
Let us join to sing his praises;
open hearts and souls to God;
he is with us, Son of David,
God’s Messiah, Christ the Lord.
Scripture Reading Luke 19:28-40
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God!
*Hymn VU 123 Hosanna, Loud Hosanna
Hosanna, loud hosanna
the happy children sang;
through pillared court and temple
the lovely anthem rang:
to Jesus, who had blessed them,
close folded to his breast,
the children sang their praises,
the simplest and the best.
From Olivet they followed
'mid an exultant crowd,
the victory palm-branch waving,
and singing clear and loud;
the Lord of earth and heaven
rode on in lowly state,
content that little children
should on his bidding wait.
"Hosanna in the highest!"
That ancient song we sing,
for Christ is our Redeemer;
earth, let your anthems ring.
O may we ever praise him
with heart and life and voice,
and in his humble presence
eternally rejoice!
Scripture Reading Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Holy Creator, who love us so, we have followed Jesus to Jerusalem. It has been a long journey this year. Please help us receive your word today and let it bring hope to us as we continue to stumble along this last part of our Lenten path. We pray in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.
Liturgy of the Palms
Palm Sunday is a service for many moods. The whole city was going wild when Jesus rode in through the city gates of Jerusalem. The whole city was stirring and asked, ‘Who is this man?’ the crowd answered, ‘This is Jesus, the Prophet from Nazareth.’
Many were wondering if this could really be their new Kin. Some had already witnessed Christ’s power and shouted, “Blessed is the King of Israel!”
Jesus refuses to relent to the will of those who threaten his well-being. We see Jesus returning to the Jerusalem temple on the day following his triumphal entry, expelling the money changers and those who bought and sold animals for sacrifices, and at the same time proclaiming words reminiscent of the prophet of Isaiah, “My house shall be called a house of prayer; but you are making it a den of robbers.” Also, in the spirit of Isaiah he welcomes the outcasts of Israel as they crowd into the temple. They acknowledged, that Jesus is the anticipated one: “Hosanna to the Son of David!”
Next day, Jesus returns to the temple to teach, intensifying his conflict with the priests, elders and other religious leaders, critiquing their practices and suggesting that social and moral outcasts such as tax collectors and prostitutes are better suited for the kingdom of heaven than they are. In effect he opens the borders of God’s domain to all who are willing to “produce the fruits of the kingdom.” This does not sit well with the religious leaders.
When they try to discredit him by debating about the law, Jesus expounds upon the necessity of love and compassion, as an expression of God’s presence in the world.
*Hymn VU 122 All Glory, Laud and Honour
[Refrain:]
All glory, laud and honour
to you, Redeemer, King,
to whom the lips of children
made sweet hosannas ring.
You are the King of Israel,
and David’s royal Son,
now in the Lord’s name coming,
our King and blessèd one. [Refrain]
The multitude of pilgrims
with palms before you went;
our praise and prayer and anthems
before you we present: [Refrain]
To you, before your passion,
they sang their hymns of praise;
to you, now high exalted,
our melody we raise: [Refrain]
Their praises you accepted,
accept the prayers we bring,
great author of all goodness,
O good and gracious king. [Refrain]
Prayer of Confession
O Lord, as we remember your triumphant entry into Jerusalem, we remember your model of humility: no chariot, no golden laurel wreath of victorious warfare, but humbly, riding on a donkey. Forgive us when we have been proud; help us find quiet contentment in our lives and meaning in always doing your will. Give us courage this week to face the events of Good Friday, to overcome our fears and desires for self-preservation. Keep us strong when the price of discipleship is high. Forgive us our sins as we remember the price you paid for them. In the name of the blessed Trinity, God be with us, as we accompany Jesus into this difficult pain. Amen.
Liturgy of the Passion
Scripture Reading Luke 22:14—23:56
This too is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praises be to God!
In the ‘liturgy of the Passion,’ in Luke 23, we meet Jesus, not as the charismatic teacher who rode through the gates of Jerusalem on a donkey, but as the one betrayed, abandoned, and facing the inevitability of his death.
The events that unfold are troubling because of the scarcity of words from Jesus and the malevolent response from those who contrive to kill him. Discerning the crucifixion’s meaning for our lives is similarly difficult. Luke will not allow us to see it as an isolated event, but reveals a connection between Jesus’ crucifixion and his overall life and ministry. This narrative engages us in the practice of remembering, to hear Jesus’ anguished cry from the cross, in dialogue with the gospel he proclaimed, so that we might discern the efficacy of the crucifixion for our lives.
Jesus’ cry from the cross is daunting: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” These words are indelibly etched on our hearts, reminding us that we follow the crucified One, who identifies so completely with the message he proclaims.
Jesus was all but silent prior to the crucifixion and now we must remember. Perhaps his prolonged silence and painful cry from the cross was intended to call us toward a life of vocation, and to stand in solidarity with those who suffer, so anguish cries might cease today. Maybe Jesus’ cry is not his alone, but a timeless cry--- on behalf of millions who have suffered and suffer today, who have felt and do feel forsaken by God and humanity. His cry might very well have been intended to touch us at the core of our being so that we, his present-day disciples, may remember his teachings and try our best to live by them.
Remembering Jesus teaching, speaks to us of those who suffer in other lands and within our own national borders, neighbourhoods, households, and worship communities.
Remembering helps us to resist becoming preoccupied with money, position, and power, and invites us truly to notice those who cry out in our world today, “My God, my God why has thou forsaken me?”
In this Lenten Season in 2022 the Palm/Passion narrative reminds us--- of those who orchestrated Jesus’ death and how they were so preoccupied with power and the fearfulness of change that they missed the possibility of a world in which love and compassion could become a reality. So, they crucified God’s Son,’ A Great King,’ mocking and deriding or scoffing at him.
Their actions are distressing, but we learn, that to reflect on the mistakes of the past we can avoid repeating them in the present. The work of our ministries, and embodying the love of God, self, and neighbour can truly be our testament to the crucified One. The crucifixion is not simply an event to be mourned, or an entrée to the resurrection, but a reminder of the malevolence, (wishing harm on others) that happens when faithful people forget to remember that we stand with the One who has come in the name of the Lord.
Verse 50---Then Jesus cried again with a loud voice and breathed his last.
Verse 54---Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!”
God’s Son---'A Great King!’
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
*Hymn VU 133 Go to Dark Gethsemane
Go to dark Gethsemane,
you that feel the tempter's power;
your Redeemer's conflict see,
watch with him one bitter hour;
turn not from his griefs away:
learn from him to watch and pray.
See him at the judgment hall,
beaten, bound, reviled, arraigned;
see him meekly bearing all;
love to all his soul sustained.
Shun not suffering, shame, or loss;
learn from Christ to bear the cross.
Calvary's mournful mountain view;
there the Lord of glory see,
made a sacrifice for you,
dying on the accursed tree.
"It is finished," hear him cry:
*A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
All that we have, all that we are, our feasting and our fasting, we offer to God. Let us present our offerings.
*Hymn VU 543 We Give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
Dear God, bless what we offer this day and let it join in the work of peace and justice. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Palm Sunday Candle Ceremony
Our journey has taken us through the shadows toward the light.
May we see the light of Christ in our midst.
Our journey has taken us through the wilderness to the promised land.
May we see the promise of Christ in our midst.
Our journey has taken us through the daily struggles to the day of triumphal entry.
May we see the hope of Christ in our midst.
(Linda will extinguish the Christ candle.)
Through the shadows we now journey, open to the light of Christ.
Thanks be to God.
Prayers of the People
Be with us as we gather today in celebrations of the parade of Palms, Loving God. As we are caught between joy and sorrow, we must reflect on the feelings of Christ as he is betrayed by a disciple, on trial, and sentenced to die. For what? It is things that we are not accustom that cause us to let hate interfere.
Show us what it means to be faithful in our decision making, in how we live and work together, in how we reach out to others and invite them to join the journey of faith.
Christ taught us to love. We give thanks for an unconditional love regardless of how we might wander from you.
When we doubt, help us to experience, once again, the power of your healing love, the excitement of fulfilling the call in our lives, the warmth and wonder of your persistent call to us, to follow Jesus. Through our silent prayers and your power may we touch the lives of those who are ill, grieving, or lonely (silence). We ask that your love surrounds all those we have lifted up to you this morning. In the name of Jesus who taught us to pray saying, “Our Father… Amen.”
*Closing Hymn VU 325 Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation
Christ is made the sure foundation,
Christ the head and cornerstone,
chosen of the Lord, and precious,
binding all the church in one;
holy Zion's help for ever,
and its confidence alone.
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To this temple where we call you,
come, O Lord of Hosts, today;
with your faithful loving-kindness
hear your servants as they pray,
and your fullest benediction
shed within its walls alway.
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Here bestow on all your servants
what they ask of you to gain;
what they gain from you for ever
with the blessèd to retain,
and hereafter in your glory
evermore with you to reign.
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Laud and honour to the Father,
laud and honour to the Son,
laud and honour to the Spirit,
ever three and ever one,
one in mighty, and one in glory,
while unending ages run.
*Commissioning
Let us go forward with Jesus and the disciples to watch and pray as Jesus faces for us the reality of death—even death on a cross—that with him, we might know the glory of resurrection.
Stay well. Stay safe. Keep a song in your heart.
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE April 3, 2022 Lent 5
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Greeting
The grace of our Saviour Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
And Also with you.
Call to Worship
Like water to a dry riverbed,
so is your refreshing presence with us, O God.
Like the warm sun on frozen ground,
so is your hopeful presence with us, O God.
Like a child’s laughter among serious adults,
so is your joyful presence with us, O God.
Like the song of birds on an early spring day,
so we experience your freeing presence, O Most Wonderful God.
Opening Prayer
Merciful God, who loves us more than we deserve, who reaches out for us, who has gone even to the cross for us: we draw near to you in humility this morning, asking for your gracious presence, seeking the wisdom of your Word for our lives, which comes through your Incarnate Word, Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen. (Harold Wells)
*Opening Hymn VU 334 All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name
All hail the power of Jesus' name!
Let angels prostrate fall;
bring forth the royal diadem,
[Refrain:]
and crown him, crown him, crown him,
crown him Lord of all.
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O seed of Israel's chosen race
now ransomed from the fall,
hail him who saves you by his grace [Refrain]
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Crown him, you martyrs of your God,
who from his altar call:
praise him whose way of pain you trod, [Refrain]
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Let every tongue and every tribe,
responsive to the call,
to him all majesty ascribe, [Refrain]
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O that, with all the sacred throng,
we at his feet may fall;
join in the everlasting song, [Refrain]
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Isaiah 43:16-21
Responsive Psalm 126
New Testament Philippians 3:4b-14
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
*Hymn VU 234 Let Us with a Gladsome Mind
Let us with a gladsome mind
praise our God forever kind;
whose great mercies still endure,
ever faithful, ever sure.
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God, with all-commanding might,
filled the new-made world with light;
for God's mercies still endure,
ever faithful, ever sure.
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God has with a gracious eye
looked upon our misery;
for God's mercies still endure,
ever faithful, ever sure.
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All things living God does feed,
with full measure meets their need;
for God's mercies still endure,
ever faithful, ever sure.
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Let us with a gladsome mind
praise our God forever kind;
whose great mercies still endure,
ever faithful, ever sure.
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Gospel Reading John 12:1-8
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God!
Prayer of Confession
God of compassion, of judgment, of forgiveness: we pray for new life as we confess our old ways. You promise us love and peace, but in our self-doubt, we can scarcely believe it. You proclaim hope, but we want a guarantee. You call us to obedience, but we set conditions. You call us to follow, but we ask “To what end?” We profess commitment, but we cherish comfort.
Forgive us God, our reluctance to walk in the way of the cross into newness of life with Christ our Saviour.
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Assurances of Forgiveness
Know that in Christ a way home has been opened---a way home to God, to neighbour, and to self. I announce to you good news: through your faith you are forgiven and called to new life. Amen. (Peter Wyatt 1989)
Prayer of Illumination
Let us pray; God of Power and liberation, speak your word of hope to us today. Release our bonds, free us from the worries that enslave. Bring us to the land of freedom where love and mercy reign.
Message ‘Love Has Its Reasons’
How much will that cost? It doesn’t matter if I am fixing my car, buying a wedding, baby, or birthday gift, or planning a vacation, I still want to know the cost of something before I consent to purchasing. I’m sure in the community in which I live I am not alone on this thought. It is the way of thinking, in which we have been raised. What will it cost?
If it isn’t enough, we stay clear for fear of repercussions. If it is too much for our pocket-book then we say no, wait till we find a better deal, or maybe use a credit card. Can we even imagine buying a gift just because we feel like it and ignore the cost? That would be terribly wasteful…or would it?
In the Gospel of Luke, Mary anointed Jesus with costly perfume for no special reason that we are aware of, and Jesus approved. To him it was not a waste.
Most of us ear mark our money for bills, donations, necessities, and church givings. Major donors give for the impact of the gift----the tax deduction, or maybe the name recognition on the plaque. We can designate our gifts wherever, but a true gift cannot be controlled.
I learned this in a strange way when I was a young adult. I had two sisters, my parents were frugal and the necessities came first. Birthdays and Christmas gifts were pretty much as I thought they were in all Canadian homes.
One day after my parents assumed we had all become adults, they called a family conference of just them and their girls. We thought something dreadful had happened and were all there on time, braced for …we’re not sure what. Very calmly our father said, “your mother has something for you.” She handed us each a cheque and told us to have fun with it, if we did nothing more than spend it all on bubble gum. It seemed like a huge amount of money for a gift, and a crazy amount for bubble gum. I cried, my one sister tried to give hers back, and the other just sat down. We were fortunate that this happened many times in our lives when our parents were alive and each time whatever the amount of money, my mom would always say, “this is for you so you can buy bubble gum.” To this day, everyone in all three families have learned about bubble gum money.
This is a gift, just because, with no strings attached. My parents gave us something just because they wanted to give and we were to feel that they did not need a special reason. We learned to be a giving family, and the love of generosity.
After our parents died, we have since learned how often they gave a helping hand, offered something they had to someone less fortunate, or even just shared their exercise equipment with family and friends who could not afford the gym. I had friends and neighbour kids on the street who were not shy to ask my parents for a ride to work when in a pinch, or to even borrow a car for the evening. We even had friends stay with us while their parents took vacations. No one ever told me about these acts of generosity.
My sisters and I found time with our parents at the cottage, as well as a girls’ vacation with just mom, were special gifts. We learned that time was more valuable than any treasure. Because of our parents love for us and ours for them, we learned that ‘love has its reasons.’
A lot of extravagant gifts are put into the air, where they soon evaporate. A church choir labors to prepare an intricate anthem, and three minutes later it is gone. The teacher prepares a lesson, stands to deliver, and then the class is let out. We send flowers to the funeral home to honour loved ones, and many saints donate large sums of money for congregations to spend. Why do they do this because ‘love has its reasons.’
To reflect on the miracle of generosity will lead us to reflect on Jesus. Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus provides a blessed abundance. At Cana, 180 gallons of new wine were created, even more than a wedding crowd can consume. Five thousand hungry people are fed by the Sea of Galilee, with twelve baskets of left overs. After fishing all night without results, Simon Peter is instructed by Christ to cast his net on the other side of the boat. Immediately, large fish begin jumping into the net.
John tells us that Jesus is the one through whom everything was made. There is abundance wherever he is present. So, Mary generously anoints him, and Jesus tells her critics, “to leave her alone.” Generosity, breeds generosity. Judas can criticize Mary for what she has done, but this story exposes his hypocrisy. Either we love generously or we do not.
Either we are already engaged in providing for the poor, or we are secretly hoarding what might otherwise be shared.
Most of modern religion focuses on what is useful, practical, and cost effective. Concern for austerity appears when resources are slim. Yet, when it comes to the life of faith, we may find our hearts diminished if the budget is our only concern. Should we live only spend thrift lives? No. Can we justify the wasting of God’s gifts? Not really. But, before a gift can be wasted, it must be received.
Jesus is the gift of God. According to John’s Gospel, Jesus is sent into a world that did not ask for him, yet he acts entirely for its benefit. He consistently acts on his own terms, always revealing the grace and truth of God. Lazarus was raised from the dead, on Jesus’ timetable, and not in response to the wishes of Lazarus’ sisters. Similarly in the Gospel of John chapter 10: 17-18, we read how Jesus will lay down his life for his people, not because he is asked to do so, but because he chooses to give his life for us.
Let us pray; Generous God, as we journey through this season of lent, we give thanks for the wisdom in scripture. We are thankful for your inspiring words, offering us an understanding of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, so that we may have eternal life. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
*Hymn VU 149 When I Survey the Wondrous Cross
When I survey the wondrous cross
on which the Prince of glory died,
my richest gain I count but loss,
and pour contempt on all my pride.
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Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
save in the death of Christ, my God:
all the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to his blood.
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See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
or thorns compose so rich a crown?
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Were the whole realm of nature mine,
that were a present far too small:
love so amazing, so divine,
demands my soul, my life, my all.
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*A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
As Mary gave extravagantly to Jesus, may we be extravagant in our giving today.
*Hymn VU 543 We Give Thee but Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
Gracious God, accept the gifts we bring and bless our service in your name. May our voices sing your praise, our hands care for the suffering, our feet walk your paths faithfully, our hearts love you completely. All that we have is a gift from you. We offer ourselves in return, out of love for your world. We offer this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Righteous God, your ways are true, your paths are just and your laws are liberating. We give you praises and thanks that you freed people from slavery, brought them into covenant with you and with each other, and led them through the wilderness. We give you praise and thanks that in Jesus the Christ the covenant extends to the whole of creation, that all may be fulfilled in your redeeming love.
We pray for your church, gathered here and throughout the world. May we be truly repentant, truly hopeful, truly trusting in this Lenten time.
We pray for our world, caught up in violence and war, hatred and persecution, poverty and alienation. We pray that your justice may bring peace with fairness and equity. We pray that your truth may expose oppression and bring new life to those who suffer. We pray that your love may unite hearts long divided, reconciling those separated by conflict and prejudice, in our church, our community, and in our world.
Loving God, we pray for the people of our own community who are in need: those who are lonely, those who are tired, those experiencing illness, and those overwhelmed by the difficulties of living in this society. And we give thanks for those who walk beside us on our journey, whose lives are to us a blessing. Hear us as we name in our hearts those who are special to us, and those in special need…(silence)
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You have promised, Holy God, that when we pray to you, you will hear and answer. Grant us the strength of your presence; enable us to participate in answering our own prayers. All this we pray in Jesus’ name and for the sake of the world you love so much. Let us pray the prayer Jesus taught us, “Our Father…” Amen.
A Lenten Candle Ceremony
When we cling to the habits of former times, we live in despair.
When we hear the promise of a new covenant, we live in hope.
When we experience the terror of the world around us, we live in fear.
When we hear the assurance of God for us, we live in peace.
When we put the light of God under a bushel, we snuff it out.
When we let the light of God shine before us, we experience eternal truth.
(Five purple candles are extinguished.)
Through the shadows we now journey, open to the light of Christ.
Thanks be to God!
*Closing Hymn VU 642 Be Thou My Vision
Be thou my vision, O joy of my heart;
naught be all else to me, save that thou art,
thou my best thought, by day or by night,
waking or sleeping, thy presence my light.
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Be thou my wisdom, my calm in all strife;
I ever with thee, and thou in my life;
thou loving parent, thy child may I be,
thou in me dwelling, and I one with thee.
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Be thou my battle shield, sword for the fight;
be thou my dignity, thou my delight,
thou my soul's shelter, thou my high tower;
raise thou my heavenward, O power of my power.
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Riches I heed not, nor vain empty praise,
thou mine inheritance, now and always;
thou and thou only, first in my heart,
great God of heaven, my treasure thou art.
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Great God of heaven, after victory won,
may I reach heaven's joys, O bright heaven's sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
still be my vision, O ruler of all.
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*Commissioning
Go forth knowing, that though human faithfulness may falter, God’s faithfulness endures; and though human love may fail, God’s love is forever. Go forth in the name of Jesus the Christ.
Stay well. Stay safe. Keep a song in your heart.
God bless,
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE Feb.27 2022
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Transfiguration Sunday
Greeting
We give thanks to God for God’s presence in good and bad times. We listen for God’s word in our lives and our life together. May God find a welcome home among us today.
The Peace of Christ be with you.
And also with you.
Lighting the Christ Candle
Jesus, you are blindingly brilliant, glowing with light that seems to come within. Your light is a beacon for your Way of Transfiguration. Be the Light of our lives, we pray.
Call to Worship
Christ is Lord, blazing with glory,
sharing divine light with all creation.
We choose to experience that light,
to embrace the truth of glorious, divine love.
The Holy Spirit fires our imagination with awe,
transfiguring the ordinary with sublime holiness.
We come humbly to accept this gift of power,
a power rooted in self-giving.
God’s grace shines upon our souls,
lighting the mantle of our rebirth.
Praise and thanks be to God our saviour
as we worship in spirit and truth.
Opening Prayer
O God,
We worship today to refresh and to restore all that is within our hearts and minds.
Like the disciples climbing the mountain with Jesus, we come expecting nothing yet prepared to experience your love.
During this time, may we find our true selves just as Jesus’ true self was revealed on the mountain top.
May we find your wisdom and its strength, for we know that your love restores and refreshes us in mysterious ways. O God, fill us anew. Amen.
Opening Hymn VU 333 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
Love divine, all loves excelling,
joy of heaven, to earth come down,
fix in us thy humble dwelling,
all thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, thou art all compassion,
pure, unbounded love thou art;
visit us with thy salvation,
enter every trembling heart.
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Come, almighty to deliver,
let us all thy life receive;
suddenly return, and never,
nevermore thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
serve thee as thy hosts above,
pray, and praise thee, without ceasing,
glory in thy perfect love.
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Finish then thy new creation;
pure and spotless let us be;
let us see thy great salvation
perfectly restored in thee,
changed from glory into glory,
till in heaven we take our place,
till we cast our crowns before thee,
lost in wonder, love, and praise.
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Exodus 34: 29-35
Responsive Reading Psalm 99
New Testament 2 Corinthians 3:12—4:2
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
Hymn VU 559 Come, O Fount of Every Blessing
Come, thou Fount of every blessing,
tune my heart to sing thy grace;
streams of mercy, never ceasing,
call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
sung by flaming tongues above.
Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it
mount of God's redeeming love.
Here I find my greatest treasure;
hither by thy help I've come;
and I hope, by thy good pleasure,
safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger,
wandering from the fold of God;
he, to rescue me from danger,
bought me with his precious blood.
Oh, to grace how great a debtor
daily I'm constrained to be!
Let thy goodness, like a fetter,
bind my wandering heart to thee:
prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
prone to leave the God I love;
here's my heart, O take and seal it;
seal it for thy courts above.
Gospel Reading Luke 9: 28-36
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ
Praise be to God!
Prayer of Confession
Life-giver, Pain-bearer, your people wait and listen.
Declare your word of triumph,
Your word of patience, your word of love.
We are united, yet we are divided and weak.
We brood over pain, our divisions, our lack of faith. We wait for your healing. We confess to you and to each other our failure to be bold in hope, open in sharing the love we know through Jesus. (silence)
Words of Assurance (based on 2 Corinthians3:12-4:2 )
Since it is by God’s mercy that we engage in the ministry to which we are called, we do not lose heart. We dare to be bold in hope, in our living, and in sharing our faith. Accept now God’s abundant gift of grace, and be at peace.
Hymn VU 509 I, the Lord of Sea and Sky
I, the Lord of sea and sky
I have heard my people cry
All who dwell in dark and sin
My hand will save
I, who made the stars of night
I will make their darkness bright
Who will bear my light to them?
Whom shall I send?
Refrain
Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?
I have heard you calling in the night
I will go, Lord, if you lead me
I will hold your people in my heart
I, the Lord of snow and rain
I have borne my people’s pain
I have wept for love of them
They turn away
I will break their hearts of stone
Give them hearts for love alone
Who will speak my word to them
Whom shall I send? Refrain
I, the Lord of wind and flame
I will tend the poor and lame
I will set a feast for them
My hand will save
Finest bread I will provide
‘Til their hearts be satisfied
I will give my life to them
Whom shall I send? Refrain
Prayer of Illumination
O God, as we open your holy book of words written so long ago, open our senses to receive your word for us today. Amen.
Reflection
Who can talk about the Transfiguration? Neither Jesus or the three disciples who were with him talked about it. According to Luke, “They kept silent, and in those days told no one any of the things they had seen.” Don’t you wonder how Luke ever heard about it? Or did he even question the wisdom of writing it down?
The moment he did write it down, it became public property. And then all kinds of people began to spend hours surfing through this information trying to explain why so and so, and such and such happened. Guessing all the while, because this experience does not fit into this particular time and space in the life of Jesus. We just keep beating it down until it feels safe to us. We just keep analyzing it until we can say something intelligent about it.
Luke has presented us with an intensely private moment between Jesus and God. And it just happened to take place in a cloud. It is true there were witnesses. Yet in spite of the fantastic goings on, it was all they could do to stay awake. It is as if the Almighty God had sprinkled some sleeping powder over them to protect them from things they were not equipped to see. What they did see, were confusing to them and terrified them. Perhaps this is why they kept silent and told no one in those days the things which they had seen.
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I think it would be disrespectful for me to talk about it. But I can talk of the human fascination of such events. The Bible tells of: Moses and the burning bush, Jacob and the ladder full of angels, Job and the voice out of the whirlwind. They are frail doors between this world and some other brighter place where God has a presence.
Today things do not work this way for us. Most bushes do not give off the slightest bit of heat, most ladders do not have anyone’s footprints on them but our own, and most whirlwinds, speak nothing to us but ‘whoosh.’
However, many people today are in hot pursuit of God. They pray, they fast, they go on pilgrimages and they beat drums. Some follow ancient spiritual traditions and others just make things up as they go along. Some go to seminary and some go to India, one way or another they are all after an experience with the living God.
Theologian Barbara Brown Taylor is on of my favourite authors; uplifting and inspiring just when it is needed most. She often includes personal experiences which make it very easy to read. In one of her books are a few personal experiences she and her husband, Ed, had while on a vacation. They went to Ireland. Both of them believing they themselves might have descended from Druids. She and Ed believed this is that Celtic sense of place that is so appealing—of holy trees, holy wells, holy mountains—“thin places,” as the Irish call them—places where the veil between this world and the next is so sheer that it is easy to step through. If you have been there, you might be familiar with stone rings and sacred springs. There are many, and plenty are not marked. You might be walking along a country path and come to a little mossy hole full of crystal, clear water. It would be easy to think it is an ordinary watering hole if it wasn’t for a tidy ring of stones around it. They were set there, hundreds of years ago by people who recognized a ‘thin place’ right in the middle of a sheep pasture. They claim that if you can centre your being, you may be able to feel it—like freshness that drenches you as thoroughly as a shower. How it works is a complete mystery. Simply to stand near it is to experience living water.
Barbara and Ed were still in Ireland on the last Sunday of July. This particular day is known as Reek Sunday on which the Irish pay their respects to Saint Patrick by climbing the mountain that bears his name—Croagh Patrick, a 2510-foot peak in County Mayo overlooking Clew Bay—where Patrick spent 40 days praying for Ireland’s deliverance from the worship of pagan gods.
Following this he charmed all the snakes in the land to leap from this summit to their deaths, and the Emerald Isle has been free of snakes ever since. In gratitude to Saint Patrick some 30,000 people climb Saint Patrick’s Mountain every year. It is an ancient pilgrimage site—another one of those “thin places’ where the door is cracked between this world and the next.
The climb begins before dawn. People from all over Ireland arrive in the dark, picking their way through food and souvenir stands that have been set up for the event. Some carry a pilgrim staff. Many are barefoot, since that is the proper way to climb Croagh Patrick.
The climb is not easy. At first the path is mud but when the mud runs out it becomes loose sharp rocks that are guaranteed to draw blood.
Some moved quickly and in about 4 hours they had made their way up and back down. However, thousands moved along with Barbara and Ed.They observed groups of teenagers, matrons in printed dresses, mothers carrying babies,-- many offering shouts of encouragement not to give up before reaching the top.
After a couple of hours of difficult climbing, some people climbing on hands and knees, observing many cut and bloodied feet, and men in orange suits carrying people on stretchers down the mountain; the crowd became more attentive of one another. They reached out to steady another, swapped advice on which way to go, and gave up staffs to those who needed them more.
On reaching the top, they were soaked from heavy fog and standing about 15 feet from the chapel where they could see the priests in their plexiglass box, presiding over mass in immaculate white robes. The celebrant soon snapped the huge white host in half and the crowd filed by to receive an individual serving of the body of Christ.
Imagine looking at the white pressed circle in Barbara’s hand and then at the bloody feet of the person in front of her to realize which one she thought to be the real body of Christ.
For Barbara the “thin place” had done its work. The door between this world and the next had cracked open for a moment. Only the light was not all on the other side. Instead, it lit up this side where a bunch of wet, tired faces were as bright as candles. It only took ½ the time to return down the mountain. The blue, blue water of Clew Bay seemed to reach ½ way up the into the sky. The river of people flowing down the mountain seemed to be pouring into it. Near the bottom, Barbara asked a ruddy-faced teenager why he got up so early on a Sunday morning to climb Croagh Patrick. “It’s good for the soul!” he shouted, as he ran by slapping his bare feet in the mud.
To quote Barbara, “there is no shortage of epiphanies in this world. Those of us who have not yet glimpsed the full brightness of the Lord may still behold his glory, reflected all around us, as we stand within the cloud.”
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
May the gifts we give, lift the veil that separates us, from the Word in the Gospels, illuminating all of our lives with the knowledge of God’s everlasting love.
Hymn VU 543 We Give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
Generous God, bless us as we use our gifts of time, talents and monies to show your love in our congregation, our community, and our world. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us open our hearts and minds in prayer.
O God, you reach out and touch our hearts this morning. In our hymns we celebrate your loving touch for us. In your word we grow and mature and deepen our faith journey by wisdom’s touch. In prayer we relish that touch, snuggling into your embrace and hugging back in thanksgiving in the silence. (silent prayer)
While we have enjoyed the warmth, the love and the healing power of your embrace, we feel pain in our worshipping spirit as we pray for: healing of the ill; those who are walking in fear due to war in Ukraine; and for those who are struggling due to this dreadful Covid pandemic.
Hear our prayers for ourselves and for the world as we worship. (silent prayer)
Thank you for your empowering grace.
Thank you for your engaging companionship.
Thank you for your sustaining love
May the newness of Jesus’ transfiguration begin in us as we share his words he gave us to pray, saying: “Our Father…Amen.”
Hymn VU 264 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
in light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
almighty, victorious, thy great name we praise.
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Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
nor wanting, nor wasting, thou rulest in might;
thy justice like mountains high soaring above
thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love.
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To all, life thou givest, to both great and small;
in all life. thou livest, the true life of all;
we blossom and flourish, like leaves on the tree,
then wither and perish; but naught changeth thee.
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Thou reignest in glory, thou rulest in light,
thine angels adore thee, all veiling their sight;
all laud we would render, O help us to see
'tis only the splendour of light hideth thee.
Commissioning
May the God, who came into our world to shed hope in the midst of gloom and despair, enable you to bring warmth and joy into the cold of winter. Welcome God’s light: live in it each day, and be beacons of holy light in all you say and do.
Stay well. Stay safe. Keep a song in your heart.
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE Feb.20 2022
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Greeting
In the cold air the sounds of winter ring crisp and clear. We should hear God’s message crisp and clear in our hearts today. We seek what it is that we can do and who we can be; we ask that God show us where we may serve, preparing us for what lies ahead. The peace of Christ be with you.
And also with you.
Lighting the Christ Candle
We have come to know Jesus---because the innkeeper offered a stable; the Samaritan woman gave him a cup of water; two sisters laid out a meal for him; the disciples were lent a donkey; and Joseph of Arimathea provided a tomb. Generous God, we have come to know Jesus because you gave us your son, the Light of the world.
Call to Worship
Thank You God, for joining us today. Your presence blesses us.
The Spirit of God is with you and me and all around us.
Let us worship in the spirit of God.
(Gathering 21/22, Jani Francis, St. Andrew’s U.C., Indian Head, Sask.)
Opening Prayer
Loving and merciful God, your purposes are beyond our human understanding, your presence both confounds and comforts us. We seek your help to be open to all that you intend for us this day, to respond to your will with our whole selves, that we may find our rightful place in the work of your blessed enterprise and live out the mission you have for us. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Opening Hymn VU 344 How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds
How sweet the Name of Jesus sounds
in a believer's ear!
It soothes the sorrows, heals the wounds,
and drives away all fear.
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It makes the wounded spirit whole,
and calms the troubled breast;
'tis manna to the hungry soul,
and to the weary, rest.
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Dear Name! the rock on which I build,
my shield and hiding-place,
my never-failing treasury, filled
with boundless stores of grace.
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Jesus, my Shepherd, Brother, Friend,
my Prophet, Priest, and King,
my Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,
accept the praise I bring.
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The effort of my heart is weak,
and cold my warmest thought;
but when I see you whom I seek,
I'll praise you as I ought.
Prayer of Confession
God of justice and hope, you invite us to the way of life abundant. What a gift that is! Yet we find ourselves lured by the enticements of this world. We strive for possessions, privilege and power over others. We forget that these will not satisfy the deep yearnings of our souls. Forgive our foolishness and point us to the freedom of faithful living. Hear our prayer, most loving God. Amen.
Assurance of Grace
God forgives our mistakes and reaches out to meet our every need. Be assured that God, in Jesus Christ, is present in your life, offering hope and wholeness to all.
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Genesis 45:1-15
Responsive Scripture Psalm 37
Hear what the scripture is saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
Hymn VU 232 Joyful, Joyful We Adore You
Joyful, joyful, we adore you,
God of glory, life and love;
hearts unfold like flowers before you,
opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness,
drive our fear and doubt away;
giver of immortal gladness,
fill us with the light of day.
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All your works with joy surround you,
earth and heaven reflect your rays,
stars and angels sing around you,
center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain,
flowery meadow, flashing sea,
chanting bird and flowing fountain,
sound their praise eternally.
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You are giving and forgiving,
ever blessing, ever blest,
wellspring of the joy of living,
ocean depth of happy rest!
Source of grace and fount of blessing,
let your light upon us shine;
teach us how to love each other,
lift us to the joy divine.
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Mortals, join the mighty chorus
which the morning stars began;
God's own love is reigning o'er us,
joining people hand in hand.
Ever singing, march we onward,
victors in the midst of strife;
joyful music lifts us sunward
in the triumph song of life.
Gospel Reading Matthew 15:10-20
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Loving, creator God, we come to the scriptures looking for you and seeking to discover your will for us. Encourage and challenge us with a message that we are loved and we are called to be disciples, to be witnesses, and to spread your love to all people. May we find the grace and wisdom we need to do these things as we hear and reflect on these words. Amen.
Message
Jesus often says things that make us feel challenged. He challenged the disciples to do things that seem contrary to human nature.
In a world that is ‘all about me’ Jesus offers an alternative we find difficult to imagine and embody. Today who can be perfect? It is easier to be mean, hold grudges, ignore those in need. [If I give to every one who begs, I will have nothing for myself. If I turn the other cheek, I will get slapped again. If I get sued, I am hiring the best lawyer I can afford to find a loophole in my favour. If I love my enemies, I will be more persecuted or even be killed. If I am too nice, I will be seen as weak, a pushover, a doormat.]
We might not say these things out loud, but some may harbour these sentiments. For others, these feelings are justified--African Americans still suffering after slavery from race discrimination; survivors of the holocaust; Japanese with tattooed numbers of the internment from World War II; women who make less money than men even when they do the same job; when people are refused the right to marry based on sexual preferences; and when others around the world suffer at the hand of oppressors. Jesus’ call to forgive and be reconciled rings hollow and seems resigned to evil.
Jesus does state what the payoff will be—that is, to inherit the reign of God.
What do we get for loving, forgiving, being kind and gracious, and offering generosity? Jesus tells us what the outcome will be—to inherit the reign of God!
Many of us are often too suspicious of the outcome and so we resist living the values of God’s realm. Many people frequently focus on the perfection thing. Some of us spend a lifetime trying to be so perfect that we are frustrated when we are not successful.
There are two points we might consider—
First, Jesus teaches about life in God’s realm. God’s community is filled with people who think of others first.
Having been in the Girl Guide movement a good deal of my life I tend to remember Thinking Day, Scout and Guide Day is just around the corner on February 22. Think of others before yourself is part of the motto in the Guide Movement. Every decision and action carried out is for the common good. This kind of love is due to the empowering love given by God, who is love. We are able to be gracious, forgiving, hospitable, and generous because we are children of the God who showers us with abundant grace, mercy, and love.
And so, those who know God’s love can love their enemies; those who experience God’s forgiveness, can truly forgive others; those who claim God’s gift of generosity can give back to those who have little. We are able to do these things because, in Jesus, we live in the day of God’s reign.
Second, Jesus lets his listeners know that he himself embodies these values. Jesus moves from, I said, she said, he said to, “but I say to you.” We can look and listen to Jesus to understand God and God’s will for creation. Because of Jesus, God’s realm is already present and moving toward its fulfillment. Jesus calls us to be more God-like in our behaviours and motivations. The reign of God is inaugurated in the person of Jesus, and as followers, we are empowered by Jesus’ witness, to live the reign of God’s values.
How do you want people to treat you? When we follow Jesus, we want to follow his rules, because we believe Jesus’ way is a better way. He told us to treat others the same way you want them to treat you.
Jesus said that this includes those we might consider enemies.
The Joseph story is an important story of reconciliation. Genesis 45:1-2 set the stage for what follows. There is a role reversal: the brothers used their power to throw their young brother Joseph in the pit, and now he has all the power. Despite everything they have done to him, still Joseph loves his brothers and seeks reconciliation with them. Joseph echoes Psalm 37: “Trust in God and do good.” Sometimes in life, there is a moment when it is important to work toward a new relationship. God is always inviting us to risk relationship: with ourselves, with others, with creation and with God.
Perfection is less about getting things right and more about loving as God loves, and Jesus is God’s example of that love.
[This is not about choosing the right fork at the dinner table, nor does it mean attaining such divine attributes as omniscience.]
Jesus calls us to a maturity that results in more God-like behaviours and motivation. Jesus seeks neither to set impossible goals nor to shame people who cannot reach perfection. This not about our own agenda as humans, we know we are not perfect and we cannot satisfy all those around us. But, as followers of Jesus we are empowered by Jesus’ witness to live the reign of God’s values.
To be perfect as children of God is not to add pressure to already overwhelmed lives; instead, it is to assure us that we are not alone in the world and God continues to work in and through us.
Perfection is less about getting things right and more about loving as God loves, and Jesus is God’s concrete example of that love.
We are amazed by people’s capacity to do things that defy our natural instincts. For example, the survivor of a violent crime who is able to forgive her tormenter. As well as, ‘The Mother Teresa’s of the world who give selfless service to outcasts; those who live modestly so they can give to the well-being of those less fortunate; as well as those who commit themselves to random acts of kindness. We are surrounded by many examples of unselfish love and kindnesses—we need only look for them. God’s realm is already active and moving toward fulfillment.
In today’s scripture, we too are encouraged to live as sisters and brothers in God’s realm.
‘To be perfect’ is not to be taken literally, it is a promise that carries the possibility that we may love the world as God has loved us—fully, richly, abundantly, and completely.
Maybe what is most important is the challenge to live our lives of faith within the tension of, “the law and the prophets:” social justice, tempered with spiritual obedience.
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
Hymn 107 Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound
Amazing grace, How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.
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'Twas grace first taught my heart to fear
and grace my fears relieved;
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed!
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Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
'tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.
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The Lord has promised good to me,
this word my hope secures;
God will my shield and portion be
as long as life endures.
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When we've been there ten thousand years
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we'd first begun.
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A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invite
We bring our gifts today hoping that they reflect our growing faith and increasing love. They are a symbol of our offering of our lives in Christ’s service.
Hymn VU 543 We Give thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
Gracious and loving God, with hearts filled with love, and spirits committed to justice, we offer our gifts. We share our resources so that the troubled may find comfort and the despairing receive signs of hope. Bless all that we give. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us open our hearts and minds in prayer.
Tender God, your ways are beyond our knowing. Your mystery is too deep for us to fathom, yet you constantly come into our lives. Over and over again you draw us to you and invite us into your loving heart. Help us to trust your intentions for us, and connect the goodness and mercy we meet in the people around us with your will and your truth.
As your people, we yearn for your Spirit to infuse us with new life. Awaken us and shake us from that which weighs us down, enlivening our hearts so that our bones may continue to do your work in this time and place.
In a world where many live in hunger, in a time when many live in fear, in a country where many live in hope for tomorrow, but worry about the present, we seek your divine comfort. May that comfort not only calm our worried minds, but also inspire our eager hearts to be there for others.
We ask that you remember those who are grieving, giving them comfort and hope for peace in their hearts, and reminding them of your unconditional love for all who seek it.
Always mindful of your love for us, we ask that you continue to be with us as we celebrate the many blessings that we share, while discerning the vision that you have for us. We ask these things in the name of Jesus, the Light at the centre of our being and the One who raises us to new life in you, and the One who taught us to pray saying, “Our Father… Amen.”
Hymn VU 626 I Heard the Voice of Jesus
I heard the voice of Jesus say,
"Come unto me and rest;
lay down, O weary one, lay down
your head upon my breast."
I came to Jesus as I was,
weary and worn and sad;
I found in him a resting-place,
and he has made me glad.
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I heard the voice of Jesus say,
"Behold, I freely give
the living water; thirsty one,
stoop down, and drink, and live."
I came to Jesus, and I drank
of that life-giving stream;
my thirst was quenched, my soul revived,
and now I live in him.
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I heard the voice of Jesus say,
"I am this dark world's light;
look unto me, your morn shall rise;
and all your day be bright."
I looked to Jesus, and I found
in him my star, my sun;
and in that light of life I'll walk
till travelling days are done.
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Commissioning
We go forth in faith, choosing to deepen our discipleship in Jesus, choosing to open our eyes to the needs of those that are around us, choosing to put apathy aside, willing to get involved, choosing to joyfully work with others in the enterprise of faith, choosing life!
Stay safe. Stay well. Keep a song in your heart!
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE Feb. 13, 2022
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Greeting
To say that we are to be the salt of the earth, implies that we are to bring some flavour to our pastoral relationships with each other. Today as we worship in community (although physically separated) may we like salt, bring to life what would otherwise seem bland.
Lighting the Christ Candle
Jesus said, “I am the Light of the world. He who lets me lead him, will never stumble in the dark, but will have the Light of life.”
Call to Worship
Working through dreams and visions,
God calls us to this time and space.
Working through the world around us,
God calls us to action.
Working through the people we encounter,
God calls us to love.
Working through this time of worship,
God calls us to establish God’s kingdom.
Opening Prayer
God eternal who divides the day from the darkness and turns the shadow of death into the morning of new life: drive far off from us all wrong desires and unworthy thoughts; incline our hearts to keep your law and guide our feet in the way of peace. Bless us this day. Bless us well. Amen.
Opening Hymn VU 213 Rejoice, the Lord Is King
Rejoice, the Lord is King!
Your risen Lord adore!
Rejoice, give thanks and sing
and triumph evermore:
[Refrain:]
Lift up your heart, lift up your voice;
rejoice; again I say, rejoice!
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Jesus the Saviour reigns,
the God of truth and love;
when he had purged our sins,
he took his seat above. [Refrain]
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God's kingdom cannot fail;
Christ rules o'er earth and heaven;
the keys of death and hell
are to our Jesus given. [Refrain]
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Rejoice in glorious hope,
for Christ, the Judge, shall come
to glorify the saints
for their eternal home:
We then shall hear the archangel's voice;
the trump of God shall sound, rejoice!
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Isaiah 58:1-9
Responsive Reading Psalm 112
New Testament 1 Corinthians 2:1-16
Hear what the scriptures our saying to the church.
Thanks be to God!
Hymn VU 376 Spirit of the Living God
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Break me, melt me, mold me, fill me.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Gospel Reading Matthew 5:13-20
This is the Good News of Jesus the Christ!
Praise be to God!
Prayer of Confession
We are not perfect.
We fall.
You pick us up.
We stumble.
You find us a footing.
We falter.
You are our rock.
We waver.
You are our guiding light.
We break down.
You put the pieces back together.
Be there O Lord, to help us be our very best.
Words of Assurance
We have reason to rejoice.
We live in God’s world.
We have reason to spread joy.
We live in God’s world.
We have reason to share happiness.
We live in God’s world.
We have reason to celebrate.
We live in God’s world.
We live in God’s world.
Accepting, free, and beautiful.
Hymn VU 560 O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee
Master, let me walk with thee
in lowly paths of service free;
tell me thy secret, help me bear
the strain of toil, the fret of care.
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Help me the slow of heart to move
with some clear, winning word of love;
teach me the wayward feet to stay,
and guide them in the homeward way.
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Teach me thy patience; still with thee ,
in closer, dearer company,
in work that keeps faith sure and strong,
in trust that triumphs over wrong,
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in hope that sends a shining ray
far down the future's broadening way,
in peace that only thou canst give,
with thee, O Master, let me live.
Prayer of Illumination
Open our hearts to the mystery of your Word, Holy God. Help us to wisely discern the words of life and love, you are teaching us this day. Amen.
Message
The Gospel readings, for today through Transfiguration Sunday are taken from the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew’s theology, everything that is important or of great significance happens on a mountain: the Sermon on the Mount, Transfiguration, the crucifixion. Jesus is reminding his followers here that our faith must be much more than something cerebral. It has to have character, flavour; it must be seen; it must go beyond something that is abstract and theoretical. Our faith must be demonstrated and performative. We can say that we have faith, but it is in the doing, that it is made real.
After Jesus presents the eight Beatitudes, Jesus begins his sermon, making an analogy that his followers are to be like salt and light.
Jesus uses 2 metaphors to describe and prescribe who his followers for generations to come are and what they do ‘for’ and ‘in’ the world.
“You are the salt of the earth” suggests that Jesus gives his disciples a capacity to elicit goodness on the earth. Like salt, which is used to alter or enhance the tastes of food, the disciples’ capacity to elicit goodness should be of profound consequence. However, the concern for the disciples is that they may lose that capacity by forgetting that they are to disorder the status quo, by valuing those who are dispossessed, caring for those who suffer loss, seeking to do justice, showing mercy, having integrity, being peacemakers, and courageously standing for what they believe. The disciples, who do not engage in such practices, that humanize life on earth, will be like salt that has lost its taste.
“You are the light of the world,” permits us to consider the role of the disciples as ‘a gathered community.’ Light enables us to see things and is a kind of energy, that gives things colour, helps vegetation to grow, provides solar power for electricity, and can be focused for specific uses, such as laser.
Like light, the disciples as ‘a gathered community’ have an ‘umbrella like purpose’ of being the mirror that refracts God’s light so that all peoples and nations can know of God’s justice and mercy.
As ‘a gathered community’ the disciples are like light when they engage others in the world: enabling diversity (giving things colour); nurturing a healthy ecofriendly world (helping vegetation to grow); generating policies for ecojustice (providing solar power); and restoring any relationships that require such (focusing for special purposes). These are good works that will glorify God.
In verse 20 Jesus enjoins his followers in these words: “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” The righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees is concerned with observance of tradition, public displays of piety, and adherence to the law.
In verse 20, Jesus concludes his proclamation that he has come not to abolish, but to fulfill the law, the prophets, and righteousness, claims theologian Marcia Riggs (a professor at Columbia Theological Seminary, Decatur, Georgia), according to the way that Jesus interprets the law and lives by it. The righteousness of Jesus flows from his relationship with God, and in turn is the ground of Jesus’ relationship with his followers.
To say that we are to be the salt of the earth implies that we are to bring some flavour to our pastoral relationships with one another. Not only does salt make things taste good, it has an edge. It makes come alive what otherwise might seem tasteless. Sometimes salt is used to preserve food keeping it fresh for awhile. Salt is used to stimulate thirst. We can see how this image of salt might relate to ministry. Pastoral ministry is both supportive and affirming, but sometimes it needs to be challenging to a person’s behaviour.
Jesus practiced this idea of pastoral ministry. For example: Jesus accepted the rich man, but challenged him to give away his possessions. As well, Jesus accepted the woman caught in adultery, and then instructed her to sin no more.
Affirmation holds up a person’s dignity regardless of circumstance, challenge for change is the saltiness that keeps the moment alive in order to grow, both spiritually and personally. Saltiness of the challenge for change, over time becomes the preservative that keeps one alive. What was once considered as only bitter, becomes at least bittersweet.
Jesus tells his disciples that they are the light of the world and their light should not be hidden but seen. We often use this idea to encourage someone to step forward, to overcome their shyness and come out of hiding so that they might share their talents and abilities. There is another reason, to let your light shine. There is darkness in life, both external and internal.
Jesus encourages his followers to bring light to a dark and broken world. The light is the light of the Gospel and it draws all people to its warmth and radiance. We cannot bring the light of Christ to others if we are unaware of where that light needs to shine in our own hearts.
Discipleship requires us to look at the dark places within us, (what makes us sad, angry, unpleasant, argumentative). Looking within will help us understand external darkness. There is no need to fear looking in. We cannot walk with others if we do not understand darkness.
When we are salt and light for others, we are more likely to fulfill the law as Jesus suggested: “to love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and soul; and our neighbour as ourselves.”
Human righteousness is about being the salt of the earth and the light of the world. As the salt of the earth, we are disciples of Jesus when we allow our characters to be formed by God’s blessings. As the light of the world, we are followers of Jesus when we accept the covenantal blessings as a call into relationship with all persons because of what we believe. As disciples of Jesus who came ‘not’ to abolish the law and the prophets, we seek to live righteously in the way of Jesus.
Let us take time to reflect.
Thanks be to God!
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Hymn VU 506 Take My Life and Let It Be
Take my life and let it be
consecrated, all for thee;
take my moments and my days;
let them flow in ceaseless praise.
Take my hands, and let them move
at the impulse of thy love,
take my feet, and let them be
swift and purposeful for thee.
Take my lips, and let them be
filled with messages from thee;
take my intellect, and use
every power as thou shalt choose.
Take my will, and make it thine;
it shall be no longer mine;
take my heart, it is thine own;
it shall be thy royal throne.
Take my love: and I will pour
at thy feet its treasure store;
take myself, and I will be
ever, only, all for thee.
A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
The Hebrew word for ‘give’ is natan. It reads the same from left or right. And doesn’t ‘giving,’ work both ways too? We give our offering, as we have been blessed.
Hymn VU 543 We give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
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Prayer of Dedication
Loving God, we give not out of obligation, but as a response of thanksgiving to you. We give not only to keep the local church going, but to promote the mission of Jesus the Christ. We give, not just to serve the persons I need that we know, but to serve those who are needy throughout the world. We give, and you, O God, receive our gifts and remind us that this is holy money. You have blessed us, O God. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us join in prayer as the people of God. In silence time, let us add the prayers of our hearts.
Let us pray,
God of surprising wonder, whose creative love lures us into unexpected places and new experiences: we thank you for revealing your glory in Jesus the Christ, your Beloved Child, Light of the World.
You lead us to the holy mountain as witnesses, awash in the awesome light of a new day dawning. You give us vision of life as it can be lived in your community. You bless us with your Word and Spirit, and send us back to the valley to serve in your name.
We thank you, God, for those who care for us, who trust in us and love us, who take time to listen when we need to speak, who help us to grow and learn, who laugh with us and play with us, who cry with us when we are sad and scared.
May we be like that for others. Help us to be good and kind and compassionate. Teach us to treat each other with respect, to treat all creatures and the earth itself with holy care; for you make everything that’s beautiful and living good.
O God: bring your light to bear on our world in need. To those who live in fear, poverty, or oppression---be mercy, bread, and justice. To those who live in situations of violence or abuse---be reconciler, peacemaker, restorer of relationships. To those who live with illness, grief or depression---be comforter, healer, source of hope.
Our hearts reach out around the world to those who need our prayers. Our hearts reach out to those in our country who are struggling for whatever reason as the result of Covid-19 and its variants, a dreadful virus hovering over our world. In the silence of our hearts, we raise to you, those close at hand who need our prayer…silence.
Gather all for whom we pray into the warm embrace of your everlasting arms, O God, and enable us to be instruments of your peace. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Christ, who taught us to pray, “Our Father…Amen.” .
Hymn VU 481 Sent Forth by God’s Blessing
Sent forth by God’s blessing,
our true faith confessing,
the people of God from this dwelling take leave.
The supper is ended.
Oh, now be extended
the fruits of this service in all who believe.
The seed of Christ’s teaching,
receptive souls reaching,
shall blossom in action for God and for all.
God’s grace did invite us,
God’s to work for the kingdom and answer its call.
With praise and thanksgiving
to God ever-living,
the tasks of our ev’ryday life we will face
our faith ever sharing,
in love ever caring,
embracing God’s children, of each tribe and race.
With your feast you feed us,
with your light now lead us;
unite us as one in this life that we share.
Then may all the living
with praise and thanksgiving
give honor to Christ and his name that we bear.
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Commissioning
May the Holy God inspire you,
may the peaceful God enfold you,
may the compassionate God heal you,
may the pilgrim God lead you onward.
Go forth to be God’s people in God’s world.
Stay safe. Stay well. Keep a song in your heart.
God Bless
Rev. Janet
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WEEKLY MESSAGE Feb. 6, 2022 Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Greeting II Thess. 3:18
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
And also with you.
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Lighting the Christ Candle
As we light the Christ candle to signal peace and goodwill to all on earth,
let us remember all who yearn for a word from God,
and all who gaze into the night sky in longing and in hope,
listening for an angel song.
May the flame of God’s eternal light find a welcome in every spirit this night.
Call to Worship
Let us sing and pray in God’s presence.
Praise be to God!
For God has created the world and called it good.
Praise be to God!
In Christ, God has redeemed the world and defeated the powers of death.
Praise be to God!
The Holy Spirit is at work in the world, calling us to follow Jesus.
All praise and glory to God, Holy One and Holy Three!
Opening Prayer
God ever creating, ever loving, ever leading:
your presence is peace when we are frantic;
your Word is truth when we face deception;
your Spirit offers freedom when we are paralyzed by fear.
You give purpose in confusing times;
You call for justice when the world settles for inequality.
For all that you are, all that you have been, and all that you will be,
we worship you as the Source of Life,
the Promise of Redemption,
and the Spirit of Love in Action,
One God, now and always.
Opening Hymn VU 315 Holy, Holy, Holy
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to thee;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore thee;
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
cherubim and seraphim falling down before thee,
which were, and art, and evermore shalt be.
Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide thee,
though the eye made blind by sin thy glory may not see,
only thou art holy; there is none beside thee,
perfect in power, in love, and purity.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All thy works shall praise thy name in earth and sky and sea;
holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty,
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
Prayer of Confession
We come before you, O God, as people who have not always lived up to your will for our lives. At times we have carved out our own habits and lifestyles, and built them on the dubious foundations of self-interest. Lacking in imagination, trust and courage, we can feel unworthy in your presence to speak. We may feel ill-prepared or unequipped to do things. Forgive us our lack of trust in you and grant us courage to follow you, for you are our hope and salvation. Amen.
Assurance of Grace
God forgives us as we speak, and is already showing us the way that we should go. Look and listen, trust in the word of Jesus Christ and be saved!
Thanks be to God! Amen.
Prayer of Illumination
Speak to us, O Lord, as you open to us the Scriptures
and interpret them to us for this day. Amen.
Scripture Readings
Hebrew Scripture Isaiah 6.1-6 (9-13)
Responsive Reading Psalm 138
New Testament 1 Corinthians 15.1-11
Hear what the scriptures say to the church.
Thanks be to God!
Hymn VU 675 Will Your Anchor Hold
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life?
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife,
when the strong tides lift and the cables strain,
will your anchor drift or firm remain?
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[Refrain:]
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
grounded firm and deep in the Saviour’s love!
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It will surely hold in the straits of fear,
when the breakers tell and the reef is near;
though the tempest rave and the wild winds blow,
not an angry wave shall our bark o'erflow? [Refrain]
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It will surely hold in the floods of death,
when the waters cold chill our latest breath;
on the rising tide you can never fail
while our hopes abide within the veil. [Refrain]
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When our eyes behold, through the gathering night,
the city of gold, our harbour bright,
we shall anchor fast by the heavenly shore,
with the storms all past for evermore. [Refrain]
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Gospel Reading Luke 5.1-11
Here is the Good News of Jesus the Christ.
Praise be to God!
Message A Surprising Catch
Encounter with God precedes calling by God. It is an old story often repeated. God chooses unlikely ones, whose sense of unworthiness yields to the response, “here I am.” Miracles and ministry follow where trust overrides scepticism. Simon Peter sets aside his need to be in control in order to be opened to, and by, God’s word that assures: we need not fear.
Focus Scripture: Luke 5:1–11
The fishing community and culture of the Galilean coastal region form the “between the lines” context for this passage. By some accounts (for example, in the book Sea Fire by Irene Martin), no less than eight of Jesus’ disciples fished for a living. Matthew’s gospel reveals that Jesus made his home in Capernaum, a fishing village on the lake’s northwest shore. The one who invites fishers to follow was already known to them. Jesus had witnessed their life. Now Jesus calls them to a ministry of witness.
Surprise first enters the story through Jesus’ command to set out the nets again. Several types of fishing nets were (and still are) used, depending on conditions. The net Jesus tells them to let down is a trammel net, a net commonly used in nighttime fishing. It was the wrong type to use in daytime, as its web could be easily avoided by the fish.
Luke is by no means finished with surprise. It is surprising that these fishers do things that warrant their scepticism – it is the wrong time of day; it is the wrong type of net. Yet, they follow Jesus’ words. Surprise comes next in the miraculous catch of fish, to be sure. But surprise also comes when the captain of this boat, Simon Peter, admits his wrongdoing before the crew. Jesus responds to this confession with both assurance (“do not be afraid”) and commission (“you will be catching people”). Jesus’ interest resides not in guilt but in transformation – turning and following in the way of Jesus.
The way that Simon follows Jesus’ directions initially, and then makes such a confession in the presence of the other fishers, reveals that a new captain now directs this vessel and its workers. The concluding verse no longer surprises, for the following had already begun. It should be noted that a parallel to this story occurs in John 21:1-11, following Jesus’ resurrection. In that narrative of Simon Peter’s restoration, the call to follow in Luke 5 is renewed.
Each reading this week explores how God’s word calls individuals and whole communities to faith and renewal. Isaiah 6:1–8, (9–13) recounts Isaiah’s experience of “seeing” God on a throne in the temple. Standing in the presence of God’s holiness evokes despair from the prophet. Yet God responds with healing, call, and a commission that engages the prophet with the whole people of Israel. Psalm 138 celebrates how God has responded to the
psalmist’s devotion with “strength of soul.” The psalmist brings God’s word to bear on kings, lowly ones, and enemies alike.
Paul’s message of resurrection is summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:1–11. It is a message attested to by this list of witnesses. It is a message Paul has been entrusted with by the grace of God. This list of those who witness to the resurrected Jesus aims to stir trust in the message within the text’s readers and listeners.
God’s unlikely choices transform those who respond to God’s surprising words. There can be risk in hearing and following such words. We may wonder what makes us deserving. But there is also grace, when we hear in God’s word the gifts of setting fear aside and taking on new life. When have you had to trust God’s call in some situation that made you skeptical? In what ways have you experienced God’s word as call to ministry and as grace that makes response possible?
REFLECTION
Holy One, we are sometimes afraid to hear or heed your word. We fear change in our routines. We fear finding what we do not expect – in others, in ourselves, in you. Take away our fear, God. Catch us by surprise with your grace. Amen.
Taken from Seasons of the Spirt 2006
A New Creed
We are not alone,
we live in God’s world.
who has created and is creating,
who has come in Jesus,
the Word made flesh
to reconcile and make new,
who works in us and others
by the Spirit.
We trust in God.
We are called to be the Church:
to celebrate God’s presence,
to live with respect in Creation,
to love and serve others,
to seek justice and resist evil,
to proclaim Jesus, crucified and risen,
our judge and our hope.
In life, in death, in life beyond death,
God is with us.
We are not alone.
Thanks be to God.
Offering Invitation
Today we honour the work of Mission and Service. Its partnerships and service take our gifts into places of deep need around the world and in our own country.
With God’s blessing, our offering truly makes a difference, touching lives with God’s love and mercy in Jesus’ name.
Hymn VU 543 We Give Thee But Thine Own
We give thee but thine own,
whate’er the gift may be:
all that we have is thine alone,
a trust, O God, from thee.
Prayer of Dedication
God of surprising generosity,
Jesus encouraged his disciples to keep fishing when they thought their nets were empty.
Encourage us to keep giving even when needs seem overwhelming and resources scarce.
We entrust our gifts to you with the faith you can surprise us and others through all they can accomplish in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hymn VU 266 Amazing Grace
Amazing grace, How sweet the sound
that saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace first taught my heart to fear
and grace my fears relieved;
how precious did that grace appear
the hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
'tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
and grace will lead me home.
The Lord has promised good to me,
this word my hope secures;
God will my shield and portion be
as long as life endures.
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When we've been there ten thousand years
bright shining as the sun,
we've no less days to sing God's praise
than when we'd first begun.
Prayers of the People
God of grace and compassion,
we bring before you the widening circles of our lives.
We lift up those closest and dearest to us
and name them before you with affection and gratitude:
Keep a silence for 15 seconds.
Thank you that your love reaches into the very depths of their needs
and gives them strength for their journeys.
Jesus, we are here for them and for you:
Jesus, we are gathered
Lord Jesus Christ, we celebrate the life of your church,
that international community of believers
whose worship and service strengthen our faith and challenge us to live what we believe.
We remember before you this day Mission and Service,
its staff and committee, and its global partners,
giving thanks for their vision, courage and compassion.
In the midst of sudden and overwhelming crises
which cry out for response throughout the world,
you work through this agency to act swiftly with mercy and hope.
We give you thanks for all that is being done in Haiti, Afghanistan and other places,
and for the long term commitment we can show to those in deepest need.
Jesus, we are here for them and for you:
Jesus, we are gathered
Spirit of healing and hope,
we remember before you the many communities and individuals
experiencing ongoing conflict and violence,
widespread drought or severe flooding,
crowded quarters in refugee compounds,
a yearning for education and a struggle for freedom.
Silence for 15 seconds
We join our prayers with those of desperate people everywhere,
trusting in your gifts of courage and resilience to grapple with these steep challenges.
In a world of so much abundance,
inspire generosity and hope among those who give and those who receive.
Jesus, we are here for them and for you,
Jesus, we are gathered
Holy and loving God,
We are in awe of your goodness.
We know in our hearts the tug of our common humanity,
as well as the boldness of your Spirit to respond to those who suffer
and make a difference wherever we can.
We offer these prayers and the unspoken prayers of our hearts
in the name of Jesus Christ, who taught us to pray together saying “Our Father…Amen”
Closing Hymn VU 567 Will You Come and Follow Me
Will you come and follow me if I but call your name?
Will you go where you don't know and never be the same?
Will you let my love be shown? Will you let my name be known
Will you let my life be grown in you and you in me?
Will you leave yourself behind if I but call your name?
Will you care for cruel and kind and never be the same?
Will you risk the hostile stare should your life attract or scare?
Will you let me answer prayer in you and you in me?
Will you let the blinded see if I but call your name?
Will you set the prisoners free and never be the same?
Will you kiss the leper clean and do such as this unseen
And admit to what I mean in you and you in me?
Will you love the "you" you hide if I but call your name?
Will you quell the fear inside and never be the same?
Will you use the faith you’ve found to reshape the world around
Through my sight and touch and sound in you and you in me?
Christ, your summons echoes true when you but call my name
Let me turn and follow you and never be the same
In Your company I'll go where Your love and footsteps show
Thus I'll move and live and grow in you and you in me
Benediction Psalm 67:1
May God be gracious to us and bless us
And make his face to shine upon us.
Sections taken from the Presbyterian Church of Canada
Seasons of the Spirt 2006
Celebrate God’s Presence
​
​
​
​
​
​